School of Health Professions

Dean: Andrew J. Butler, PhD

Associate Dean for Academic & Faculty Affairs: Melanie Hart, PhD,

Associate Dean for Research and Innovation: Ritu Aneja, PhD,

Assistant Dean for Clinical Affairs: Anthony Patterson, MSHA

The School of Health Professions delivers educational programs to prepare health personnel who will improve the services in health care and the systems through which these services are provided. In keeping with the mission of the University of Alabama at Birmingham, the resources and programs of the school are dedicated to excellence in teaching, research, and scholarly activity and to service to the institution, the community, and the professions represented by programs of the school.

Degree options in the School of Health Professions include bachelor's, master’s, and doctoral programs sponsored by five academic departments – Clinical and Diagnostic Sciences, Health Services Administration, Nutrition Sciences, Occupational Therapy, and Physical Therapy. In addition, certificate options are available in some specialized areas. The School sponsors more than 30 degree and certificate options, all of which require students to apply for and be accepted to the specific degree or certificate program.

The School of Health Professions is committed to the practice of ethical standards of conduct. School policies, procedures, and regulations reflect this commitment and are in compliance with those of the University of Alabama at Birmingham. To ensure continued practice of ethical standards, the administration and the standing committees of the school (Faculty Affairs, Academic Affairs, Student Affairs, and Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion) regularly review school policies and procedures. All research endeavors are in compliance with policies of the UAB Institutional Review Board.

SHP Mission, Vision, Values

The mission of the School of Health Professions is “To improve health care through teaching, research, and translation of discoveries into practice in partnership with the UAB community.” The School vision is, “To be recognized as the leading school of health professions – shaping the future of healthcare.” Fulfilling the mission requires faculty and staff to embrace the following organizational values:

• Accountability
• Collaboration/Cooperation
• Diversity
• Excellence
• Innovation/Creativity
• Integrity/Ethical behavior
• Open communication
• Professional behavior 

SHP Admissions

Entrance requirements for the individual educational programs of SHP vary. Persons desiring admission to a particular program should consult the appropriate section of the University Catalogs for specific entrance requirements, application process, and program information. Students who attend an institution other than UAB are encouraged to seek academic advisement from the intended program as early as possible to plan for completion of program prerequisites.

The School of Health Professions welcomes applications from all individuals who are prepared for the programs offered. All applicants must offer acceptable evidence of ability and intent to meet the academic standards specified by the particular program into which admission is desired. In addition, certain immunizations are required prior to enrollment. For specific requirements, see the UAB Student Health and Insurance Programs and UAB Immunization Policy. If accepted into a SHP program, students must complete a background check and drug screen upon admission and again prior to clinical placement. Applicants are considered regardless of race, color, religion, sex, sexual orientation, national origin, disability unrelated to program performance, disabled veteran status, or Vietnam era veteran status (see UAB Equal Opportunity Policy). Persons who have not yet decided upon a specific health career may obtain information from the:

SHP Office of Student Services and Advising
School of Health Professions Building
1716 9th Avenue South / Room 230
Telephone: (205) 934-4195