Originally published on South Florida Hospital News and Healthcare Report
Located in the vibrant city of Coral Gables in Miami, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences (USAHS) is carving out a reputation as one of the premier institutions for healthcare education. With a broad range of programs emphasizing hands-on experience and innovative learning models, USAHS is preparing the next generation of healthcare professionals to excel in their fields. Dr. Gabriel Somarriba, Program Director for the Physical Therapy program and Campus Director for USAHS Miami, and Yaneisy Hurtado, a current student in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, share their perspectives on why USAHS stands out and how it supports students on their journey to successful careers.
A Comprehensive Approach to Healthcare Education
USAHS offers a variety of programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills they need to excel in the healthcare industry.
“We’re aligned through two colleges—the College of Rehabilitative Sciences and the College of Health Sciences,” says Dr. Somarriba. “In the College of Rehabilitative Sciences, you’ll find our occupational therapy, physical therapy, and speech and language pathology programs.
The College of Health Sciences offers programs like the Doctor of Education, Master’s of Health Administration, and our School of Nursing.” Additionally, USAHS provides specialized continuing education opportunities, such as orthopedic residencies and fellowships.
What sets USAHS apart, according to Dr. Somarriba, is its focus on innovation and hands-on training.
“Our Clinical Simulation Laboratories are the hallmark of our campuses,” he explains. “Students work with simulated patients and state-of-the-art equipment, replicating real-world healthcare settings. This allows our students to be prepared for clinical work even before they step into a hospital or any other setting.”
A Unique Learning Model
At USAHS, education is designed to be flexible and tailored to individual students’ needs. Dr. Somarriba emphasizes the university’s commitment to innovation in education.
“We blend digital coursework with face-to-face learning opportunities, using ed-tech tools that students will encounter in the field,” he says. This hybrid model allows students to learn at their own pace while still receiving hands-on, practical training.
Hurtado, a fourth-term student in the Doctor of Occupational Therapy program, has found this approach invaluable.
“The hands-on experience is one of the most valuable parts of the program,” she says. “Our professors are constantly asking for feedback and adjusting their teaching methods to make sure we’re learning in the best way possible. They truly care about our success.”
Student Success and Career Placement
USAHS prides itself on its strong track record of career placement for graduates. “Career support isn’t something that begins after graduation—it’s integrated into the entire program,” says Dr. Somarriba.
The university hosts on-campus and virtual career days, giving students the opportunity to connect with a network of clinical partners and potential employers. Tools like Handshake also keep students informed about job openings and career opportunities.
The diversity of opportunities available to students is a point of pride for USAHS.
“We have students who go on to open their own practices, specialize through residencies, or work in a variety of healthcare settings,” says Dr. Somarriba. “It’s incredibly rewarding to see the diversity and impact our graduates provide to the communities.”
Hurtado’s experience reflects this diversity. “I’ve had fieldwork placements at places like Rock Steady Boxing and Mercy Hospital, where I’ve worked directly with patients. It’s exciting to create intervention plans and see them in action, especially with clients dealing with conditions like Parkinson’s disease.”
Faculty and Student Support
One of the key elements that makes USAHS stand out is its dedicated faculty.
“Our faculty are deeply embedded in the community and are always at the forefront of healthcare,” says Dr. Somarriba. “Many of our faculty serve on our state board and present their scholarly work at national and international conferences, while bringing back the latest developments in the profession to integrate into our curriculum.”
Hurtado adds that this support is invaluable. “I’ve never experienced a school where the faculty care as much as they do here,” she says. “Each professor goes above and beyond to make sure we’re learning not just for the exam, but for our careers.”
USAHS also values diversity, with over 40% of its faculty identifying as non-white and 73% as women. The student body reflects this diversity as well, with 54% identifying as non-white and 72% as female. “This diversity allows us to provide a rich learning environment that prepares students to serve diverse populations,” adds Dr. Somarriba.
Why Choose USAHS?
With its commitment to innovation, hands-on learning, and strong career development and placement support, the University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences offers students a unique opportunity to thrive in the healthcare field.
“Our goal is to prepare healthcare practitioners who are ready to lead and innovate,” says Dr. Somarriba.
For students like Hurtado, the decision to enroll at USAHS has been life-changing. “I would tell any prospective student to take advantage of every opportunity this school provides,” she says. “Whether you’re interested in pediatrics, neuro, or anything in between, USAHS offers the tools and support you need to succeed.”
If you’re considering a career in healthcare and want to be part of a community that prioritizes innovation, diversity, and student success, USAHS Miami may be the perfect place for you.
For more information, visit www.usa.edu.
