Public health practitioners reduce the incidence of communicable disease and occupational illness among the public with sanitation, safety and disease mitigation practices. This degree is for students interested in working at state, local and territorial health departments where responsibilities could include injury prevention; communicable disease control; advising the public; planning public programs; regulating health standards in businesses, hospitals and public spaces; and coordinating screening services.
The BS in public health teaches students the scientific foundation of public health by focusing on public health domains, namely:
- environmental health
- ethical and cultural appropriateness in public health practice
- infectious disease control
- national and local sanitation intervention implementation
- occupational health and safety
- urban and rural health procedures, statutes and regulations
An internship gives students practical experience in public health professions. Students are prepared for public health careers and graduate study in areas such as public health, population health and science of health care delivery.
At A Glance
Public Health, BS
- Offered by: College of Health Solutions
- Location: Downtown
- First Required Math Course: MAT 142 - College Mathematics
- 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
Find and apply for relevant scholarships.
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 with officials to improve the quality and cultural competence of health care service delivery to the community or to vulnerable groups.
- environmental specialists: Investigate environmental health and food risks, advise the community on risk reduction and implement public health projects.
- occupational health and safety specialists: Inspect workplaces for adherence to regulations and design programs for injury and illness prevention.
- public health educators: Develop and implement strategies to improve the health of individuals and communities.
- sanitarians: Observe facilities to ensure minimal disease spread, develop protocols for hygiene and monitor the handling of waste.
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