The need for qualified public health workers is on the rise. A bachelor's in public health degree can prepare you for a career in critically important areas like population health, disease prevention, and emergency response.
You can help the people around you make better choices as a health education specialist or health educator. No matter your goals, the right bachelor's in public health program is key to ensure you have the skills that employers want.
Check out our ranking of the nation's best bachelor's in public health degree programs, as well as a career overview and information on how to choose the right program for you.
Popular Online Public Health Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
The Best Bachelor's in Public Health Programs and Schools
How do Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs Work?
Degree seekers can complete a bachelor's in public health degree entirely online, on campus, or a mix of both. The typical curriculum requires 120-126 credits and includes general education coursework and specialized training. Key concepts covered include biostatistics, health disparities, epidemiology, public health law, and ethics. You can further tailor your education with various elective courses.
Some schools offer a track such as healthcare administration, or courses designed to prepare enrollees to achieve a specific certification, such as the Certified Health Education Specialist Exam. Internships and similar projects provide real-world experience and opportunities to network with prospective employers.
How long will it take to finish the degree? That all depends on factors such as program requirements, enrollment status, and any prior credits you may have accrued. (Make sure your program is properly accredited; otherwise, your credits may not be eligible to transfer.)
Applying to a Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Program
If a bachelor's in public health degree is right for you, it's time to send out applications.
The first step is to visit your program's website to find specific application requirements. Degree completion programs admit transfer students with prior credits and/or prerequisite coursework. Application fee is required at many schools.
- Admission Materials: Application, official school transcripts, SAT or ACT scores (optional for many programs), personal statement, and essay/writing sample.
- GPA Requirement: 2.5-3.0 high school GPA; 2.0-2.7 for transfer credits
Why Is Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Program Accreditation Important?
All programs on this ranking hold accreditations that ensure they meet high academic standards. The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is recognized by the U.S. Department of Education as the accrediting body for undergraduate and graduate public health degrees.
Some employers, including government agencies, will only hire graduates from CEPH-accredited programs. Others do not require but still prefer these candidates. Getting admitted into a master of public health program may also require a CEPH-accredited bachelor's in public health degree.
Review CEPH's list of accredited schools and programs on the organization's website.
Frequently Asked Questions About Bachelor's in Public Health Degree Programs
Yes, if you believe your skills and interests align with the profession. A bachelor's in public health degree can give you access to high-growth jobs that make a big impact in communities. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), public health careers such as community health worker and health education specialist will grow 14% and 7% between 2022-2032, respectively. ZipRecruiter estimates that the average public health worker's salary is $79,657 as of May 2024.
