The School of Applied Studies was established on Washburn’s campus in 1983 to provide educational programs in disciplines which respond to community and state needs. The school is comprised of four departments: Allied Health; Criminal Justice & Legal Studies; Human Services; and Social Work. Degree offerings range from the associate through masters degree depending upon the department. Some departments also offer one year certificates. Washburn University provides 26 associate degree options in conjunction with Washburn Institute of Technology through the School of Applied Studies.
The School has approximately 1250 majors, awards 31% of the undergraduate and 45% of the graduate degrees (excluding the School of Law). Applied Studies is accredited by 10 external agencies, which speaks well of program quality.
Donations of any size can make a difference for the School of Applied Studies. Even small amounts given over time can accumulate to create substantial resources for the school. You will be recognized as a member of the School of Applied Studies Benton Society by making an annual gift of $1,000 or more to be used for any purpose within the school.
Learn more about the different areas within the School of Applied Studies that your gift can support...
Computed TomographyComputed Tomography (CT) Technologists are highly skilled professionals who use specialized computerized radiographic equipment to produce cross-sectional images that aid radiologists in diagnosing diseases and disorders. Our program admits Registered Radiologic Technologists and Senior level Radiographer students.
Diagnostic Medical Sonography
Medical sonography comprised of general ultrasound, vascular ultrasound and cardiac ultrasound. This field is a rewarding blend of patient care with highly sophisticated technology. Ultrasound has grown immensely in the last 25 years, and there is a great local and national demand for educated and credentialed sonographers.
Health Information TechnologyChanges in health care reimbursement and patient records are creating more and more openings for in-depth accredited medical record technicians. This field combines information management skills with an in-depth health science background. Graduates work with vital statistics, coding, medical audit, utilization review, correspondence, and record analysis. A medical records coding certificate is also offered.
Magnetic ResonanceA registered technologist employed in magnetic resonance or MR does not work with radiation energy, but generates images through the interaction of magnetic fields and radio waves with body tissues. A MR technologist provides optimal patient care while working with digital technology. All applicants must be registered or registry-eligible in Radiography, Nuclear Medicine Technology, Radiation Therapy or Sonography
Physical Therapist AssistantCertified Physical Therapist Assistants are in great demand in a variety of health care settings. Graduates of this program provide patient rehabilitation to individuals who are disabled by illness or accident, have pain or were born with a handicap, under the supervision of a Registered Physical Therapist. (PTA)

Radiologic TechnologyThis allied health specialty offers a variety of career opportunities and employment demand is projected to continue in the future. Graduates perform various diagnostic testing procedures using x-rays
Radiation Therapy Technology
This program admits only Registered Radiologic Technologists or Registered Nurses with appropriate course work. Radiation Therapists apply high energy radiation to the human body to treat disease, primarily cancer
Respiratory TherapyThe field of respiratory therapy offers an exciting, challenging and rewarding career for the future, with a strong employment outlook. Utilizing sophisticated biomedical equipment, these allied health specialists provide treatment for a variety of diseases affecting the cardiopulmonary system
Technology AdministrationThe Bachelor of Applied Science degree is designed for graduates who have completed an associate degree and wish to pursue management careers in their technical or specialized disciplines
Criminal JusticeThe Criminal Justice field provides a variety of exciting opportunities including positions such as municipal police officer, correctional officer, youth service worker, probation and parole officer and correctional counselor. Increasingly, both law enforcement and correctional agencies are requiring college educations for their personnel. Both bachelor and graduate level degrees are offered in criminal justice.
Military & Strategic StudiesThe Military and Strategic Studies area offers a Minor and to apply graduate courses to the Master of Criminal Justice. The curriculum provides a broad education in national security and national military strategy.
Legal Studies
A recent American Bar Association publication cited legal assistants as one of the fastest growing areas in the entire law field. Working under the supervision of an attorney, graduates perform such functions as investigation, legal research and writing, office management, preparing legal documents, and other duties.
Human Services
The Human Services Department offers professional training in career areas such as drug and alcohol counseling, child and youth services, mental health, gerontology and developmental disabilities. Legislation now requires a four year degree to be licensed for drug and alcohol counseling and adult home care administration.
BankingThrough cooperation with the American Institute of Banking, this program trains entry level bank personnel for a wide range of position in the banking industry. Career opportunities in the banking field are expected to continue to grow over the next few years
Office Administration
Our students use state-of-the-art computer equipment in this program
Social WorkSocial Work is a diverse profession offering a variety of career possibilities. Social Workers practice in hospitals, courts, mental health clinics, public health, welfare, children's services (child abuse, adoption, foster care, group homes), with the aging population, in family agencies, in legislation, social action, administration and social planning, and alcohol and drug counseling. Graduates are eligible for state licensure to practice at the baccalaureate level.
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