Husson University in Maine launched a new Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences Degree for aspiring health professionals, school officials announced.

The program will have a strong emphasis on chemistry, biology and physiology and will be well suited for individuals interested in becoming a doctor of medicine, medical specialist, veterinarian, dentist, speech pathologist, radiologist or physician's assistant.

"This comprehensive undergraduate degree will give students a foundation of knowledge and essential practical experience in health science," Lynne Coy-Ogan, senior vice president for academic affairs and provost at Husson University, said in a statement. "It's the ideal program for students interested in the health science professions or going on to pursue graduate studies in medicine, public health or allied health."

Course content spans wide spectrum of scientific knowledge with a focus on the processes and physiology functions of the human body.

"Dedicated to serving the pre-professional, this cross-disciplinary program brings the latest insights to students interested in becoming the next generation of health providers," Coy-Ogan said. "The degree is a clear demonstration of our university's commitment to becoming one of the leading providers of health sciences education at the undergraduate and graduate level."

The program aims to help prepare students for "tomorrow's job opportunities," university officials said.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics' Occupational Outlook Handbook, there will be significant job opportunities for qualified medical professionals who can meet the needs of America's aging baby boomer population in the coming years.

The employment of physicians and surgeons is expected to grow 18 percent from 2012 to 2022, "faster than the average for all occupations."

Husson University has come to represent superior value in higher education.

Its Bangor campus and off-campus satellite education centers in Southern Maine, Wells and Northern Maine provide advanced knowledge in business; health and education; pharmacy studies; science and humanities; as well as communication.