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The BS degree program in public health teaches students to develop and apply knowledge from multiple disciplines for the promotion and protection of the health of the human population. This degree is designed to appeal to students interested in populations of people (rather than an individual's health), preparing the students with skills in the five core areas of public health, namely:
- behavior science and health education
- biostatistics
- environmental health
- epidemiology
- health services administration
The required internship component of the program, POP 444: Population Health Field Experience, allows students to gain practical experience in public health professions.
Graduates typically work as public health practitioners who are competent to plan, implement, evaluate and monitor public health functions and activities in a variety of settings. They are prepared to fill various positions in public and community health as well as pursue further education through graduate study, including a master's degree in public health.
At A Glance
Public Health, BS
- Offered by: College of Health Solutions
- Location: Downtown
- First Required Math Course: MAT 117 - College Algebra
- Math Intensity: Moderate
Required Courses
A major map outlines a major's critical requirements, courses, and optimal course sequence and aids students in remaining on track to graduation.
While circumstances vary between students and their paths towards graduation (utilizing placement testing to fulfill required math or foreign language courses, fulfilling multiple General Studies requirements with one course, etc.), completing the courses listed in a major map fulfills all of the requirements for graduation.
Application requirements
All students are required to meet general university admission requirements:
Affording college
Scholarships
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Financial Aid
ASU has many financial aid options. Almost everyone, regardless
of income, can qualify for some form of financial aid. In fact,
more than 70 percent of all ASU students receive some form of
financial assistance every year.
Career outlook
Graduates of this program qualify for entry-level positions in public health education, sanitation and environmental control, public health administration, health promotion and similar areas. Employment opportunities are available within national, state or local health departments and in community clinics, community or private advocacy groups, health education programs and nonprofit organizations.
Popular positions include:
- community health workers --- liaise as front-line public health worker (requires a deep understanding of a served community) with community officials and health services to improve the quality and cultural competence of health care service delivery to the community or to vulnerable groups such as children, veterans and the homeless
- environmental specialists --- investigate potential environmental health and food risks, advise the community on how to reduce these risk, and implement public health projects
- health educators --- teach people about behaviors that promote wellness, and develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities
- occupational health and safety specialists --- analyze many types of work environments and procedures, inspect workplaces for adherence to regulations regarding safety, health and the environment, and design programs to help prevent injuries and diseases in workers
- program managers --- plan, direct and coordinate public health programs and initiatives within communities
Example careers
Students who complete this degree program may be prepared for the following careers. Advanced degrees or certifications may be required for academic or clinical positions. Career examples include but are not limited to:
| Career | *growth | *median salary |
|---|---|---|
| Social and Human Service Assistants | 16.4% | $33,120 |
| Biostatisticians | 33.8% | $84,060 |
| Community Health Workers | 18.1% | $38,370 |
| Community and Social Service Specialists, All Other | 13.2% | $41,570 |
| Environmental Science and Protection Technicians, Including Health | 12.1% | $45,490 |
| Epidemiologists | 8.8% | $69,660 |
| Occupational Health and Safety Specialists | 8.1% | $71,780 |
* Data obtained from the Occupational Information Network (O*NET) under sponsorship of the U.S. Department of Labor/Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
- Bright Outlook
- Green Occupation