Public Health
Overview
The Public Health major equips students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve community health and well-being. Students learn about the various determinants of health, including social, economic, and environmental factors, and how these elements interact to influence public health outcomes. Key study areas include epidemiology, health policy, biostatistics, environmental health, and health education. Through coursework and practical experiences, students develop essential skills such as active listening, effective communication, and social perceptiveness, which are crucial for engaging with diverse populations and addressing health disparities. Graduates of this program can pursue careers as Health Education Specialists, who earn an average salary of $63,000 per year with a projected job growth of 5%, or as Community Health Workers, with an average salary of $51,030 per year and a 7% growth rate. These roles emphasize the importance of education and community engagement in promoting health awareness and preventive measures. Overall, a degree in Public Health prepares students to make a significant impact in their communities by advocating for healthier lifestyles and policies.
Source: O*NET Database — U.S. Department of Labor
Career Paths & Salaries
Salary data from Bureau of Labor Statistics (last updated: February 2026)
Top Required Skills
Core Knowledge Areas
Frequently Asked Questions
What job opportunities are available for Public Health graduates?
Public Health graduates can work as Health Education Specialists or Community Health Workers. Health Education Specialists earn about $63,000 per year with an expected growth of 5%. Community Health Workers earn about $51,030 per year with an expected growth of 7%.
What essential skills should I acquire in the Public Health major?
Essential skills to acquire include active listening, writing, speaking, social perceptiveness, learning strategies, active learning, and reading comprehension.
How can I improve my job prospects after graduation?
You can improve your prospects by acquiring necessary skills such as active listening and effective communication, as well as participating in internships or volunteering in public health fields.
What are the current trends in the field of public health?
Current trends in public health include a focus on disease prevention, promoting health awareness, and developing new strategies to improve community health.
Are there opportunities for graduate studies after obtaining a bachelor's degree in public health?
Yes, Public Health graduates can pursue graduate studies in fields such as public health, health administration, or health sciences, which opens up more job opportunities.
Education Level
Data Source
Data from O*NET 30.2 Database (U.S. Dept. of Labor, February 2026) and Bureau of Labor Statistics salary data.