Jefferson College of Health Sciences
A private health sciences college, Jefferson College of Health Sciences (JCHS) is accredited to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees by the Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. It traces its history to the Jefferson Hospital School of Nursing founded by Dr. Hugh Trout Sr. in 1914 and the Lewis-Gale School of Nursing founded by Dr. James Newtown Lewis and Dr, Sparrell Simmons Gale in 1911. These two schools combined in 1965 under the direction of the then newly-formed Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley School of Nursing. Inspired by the outcome, the Community Hospital Board of Trustees established the Community Hospital of Roanoke Valley College of Health Sciences in 1982. This first hospital-based college in Virginia eventually became the Jefferson College of Health Sciences in 2003.
The change in name was made in recognition of its roots and also because the Community Hospital has changed its name to Carilion Roanoke Community Hospital. Lewis-Gale also eventually decided to remain independent. The main college campus is located at downtown Roanoke at 920 S. Jefferson Street, Roanoke, Virginia. It includes the Reid Center, the Community Hospital, the Fralin House and the Registrar’s Office. Programs are also offered at the Roanoke Higher Education Center (RHEC).
Jefferson College of Health Sciences offers degree programs leading to Master of Science Degrees in Nursing, Occupational Therapy and Physician Assistant; Bachelor of Science Degrees in Biomedical Science, Emergency Service, Health and Exercise Science, Healthcare Management, Health Psychology and Nursing; Associate of Science Degrees in Nursing and Science; and Associate of Applied Science Degrees in Occupational Therapy Assistant, Physical Therapy Assistant and Respiratory Therapy.
Annual enrollment is approximately 1,100 while the full-time faculty members number at 70. Student/faculty ratio is 15:1. Annual tuition is approximately $ 17,740.00. Part-time undergraduate programs cost $ 515.00 per credit hour while graduate programs cost $ 545.00 to $ 560.00 per credit.
For more information about admissions, financial aid or online learning opportunities such as distance education degree programs and online classes, please contact Jefferson College of Health Sciences.
