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About the College of Health

Utah Needs More Health Professionals


Utah's population continues to outpace national growth, while the number of older adults is rising rapidly. As demand for healthcare services increases, Utah is projected to need 12,000 additional clinical professionals by 2035. The College of Health is preparing the next generation of practitioners, leaders, and innovators to meet that need.

Infographic illustrating that Utah's population is growing twice as fast as the national average and its aging population is growing four times faster, driving increased demand for healthcare professionals.

Current Graduate Workforce Shortages

Utah | 2025

Profession UT Grads/yr Job Openings Shortage
Physical Therapist 152 220 -68
Occupational Therapist 28 90 -62
Speech-Language Pathologist 107 130 -23
Dietitian & Nutritionist 61 80 -19
Recreational Therapist 25 40 -15

Training Future Health Professionals


The University of Utah’s College of Health is redefining health care by shifting the focus from treating illness to helping people live healthier, more active, and resilient lives through proactive, preventive, and rehabilitative care. With innovative research and hands-on learning, the college is preparing future health professionals.


6

Departments

31

Academic Programs

2,600+ Students

Largest in Health Sciences

National Program Rankings

  • #5 Parks, Recreation & Tourism
  • #17 Recreational Therapy
  • #25 Audiology
  • #31 Occupational Therapy
  • #16 Physical Therapy
  • #20 Nutrition
  • #27 Speech-Language Pathology
  • #38 Health & Kinesiology

At a Glance


2,600+ Students

Largest in Health Sciences

20% Total Growth at the U

Driven by the College of Health

32% Enrollment Growth

At the College of Health Since 2022

Academic Programs

  • 7 Undergraduate Programs
  • 11 Master's Programs
  • 12 Doctoral Programs
  • 1 Certificate

Community Impact

  • 30+ Active Community Partners
  • 35K Community Engagement Hours
  • 57K Contacts Reached Through Community Engagement Programs

Message from the Dean


"I am honored to lead the College of Health at the University of Utah. I love learning from and working with faculty, staff, and students as we collaborate with our community partners to innovate education, advance knowledge, address disparities, and redefine the human healthspan."

Woman wearing a red jacket and round red glasses

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