Public Health, B.S.

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health program is comprised of evidence-based approaches to address health challenges across communities and populations. The Public Health program explores strategies for preventing disease, prolonging life and improving the health of communities. The curriculum combines multidisciplinary approaches from medicine, social sciences, and public policy. Graduates are prepared for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, healthcare systems, and international health organizations, working to improve population health through prevention, education, and intervention programs. The Bachelor of Science in Public Health will prepare students for careers that require strong bachelor’s level preparation as well as graduate programs in public health.

Students choose one of the following public health concentrations:

1. Epidemiology Concentration Students will acquire knowledge of the role epidemiology has in a healthcare and public health setting. Students will gain a strong understanding of statistical concepts involved in biological processes and apply these concepts towards improving the health of diverse populations.
2. Health Communication and Policy Concentration Students will acquire knowledge on the intersection of effective health messaging and policy development to influence public health outcomes. This specialized area prepares students to translate complex health information into accessible content and develop policies that address public health challenges.
3. Health Informatics Concentration Students will acquire knowledge on how to manage, analyze, and utilize healthcare data and information systems to improve patient care, healthcare operations, and clinical decision-making.

All students completing an internship must successfully pass a background check and drug test before the internship is approved. Forms are provided by program personnel.

Program Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of all program requirements, graduates will be able to:

1. Identify socioeconomic, behavioral, biological, environmental, and other health determinants that contribute to health and social inequities. 
2. Compare the fundamental characteristics and organizational structures of the US health system to systems in other countries.
3. Evaluate the efficacy of culturally responsive interventions for disease prevention and health and wellness promotion across the life span.
4. Integrate legal, ethical, economic, and regulatory dimensions in public health policy analysis.
5. Analyze the impact of local, state, and federal legislation, regulations, and standards on public health practice.
6. Evaluate data sources used in public health.
7. Apply the principles of leadership, health communication, and data analyses to guide decision making in community health initiatives.

Graduation Requirements

Students must complete all the general graduation requirements as stated in the catalog.