Nurses operate as an integral part of an open system within the community in which the human being is perceived as a whole being with biopsychosocial and spiritual needs.
The Bachelor of Science in Nursing program at Bethlehem University was established in 1976. Its main purpose is to educate professional nurses to meet the health and nursing needs of the Palestinian people regardless of religion, gender or socio-economic background. The graduates are prepared to collaborate with other members of a health team in order to provide quality health care in the community.
Nursing and Health Sciences at BU includes the Department of Nursing and Midwifery and the Department of Physical and Occupational Therapy with a Bachelor of Science degrees in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy.
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Nursing Major
Emad has just completed his first year as a nursing student at Bethlehem University. He lives in a refugee camp with his family. For Emad, life is difficult and it is challenging to find a job. Due to the close proximity of houses in the refugee camp, everyday life is marked by a lack of privacy. Within this environment he is still pursuing his education. Without the benefit of a scholarship, this would not be possible as there is no work for him and his father lost his job as a government official employee.
Emad sees his education at Bethlehem University as an opportunity to assist his family. With a good paying job as a nurse, he will be able to help his family leave the camp and obtain a better quality of life. He is grateful for the many donors who make this opportunity possible as it “takes a huge burden off their shoulders.”
Physical Therapy Major
Ameer is a third-year student who majors in Physical Therapy. He lives just north of Hebron, in the primarily agricultural town of Halhul which is about 11 miles southwest of Bethlehem.
As Ameer sees it, “Bethlehem university provides the best teaching staff, high practical skills, and a broad base of information to enlighten students throughout their 4-year studying journey.” Through Physical Therapy, Ameer can focus on helping people when they need it most, “physical therapy is my way in bringing the light amongst people who have lost some hope in the world.”
Upon completion of his degree, Ameer has two goals, to open a physical therapy center and a Mexican restaurant!
Medical Laboratory Sciences Major/Biology Minior
A native of Bethlehem and dedicated fourth-year student at BU, Nardine majors in Medical Laboratory Sciences with a minor in Biology. Her unwavering curiosity about the intricacies of human physiology led her to select BU’s Medical Lab Sciences program. After graduation, she is hoping to have the opportunity to apply to a Master’s Program in Genetics, as this field is critically needed in hospitals in Palestine.
Undoubtedly, these four years have been filled with both challenges and memorable moments. As she reflects upon her time at Bethlehem University, it is, “with profound gratitude, I am deeply appreciative of the opportunities and support provided during those four years. Bethlehem University will forever hold a special place in my heart as I begin a new chapter in my life. I will always cherish the memories and experiences gained at Bethlehem University.”
The Faculty of Nursing and Health Sciences at Bethlehem University seeks to admit students who have the personal qualities of care and concern for people, a willingness to learn and apply creative nursing services, as well as a commitment to practicing nursing in areas to professionally offer significant health services to patients as well as their families.
It offers its students a liberal arts education in addition to a broad range of theoretical courses necessary to prepare the student to become a competent practicing nurse, as well as serving as role models for others in health care.
John Patrick Cardinal Foley Hall was dedicated on September 6, 2021 to Nursing and Health Sciences.