Internships, Career Opportunities and Graduate Competencies
The field of public health is extremely broad and encompasses a variety of careers. Upon completion of the program, students are qualified for graduate studies and/or leadership roles in many public and private organizations. These organizations may include hospital outreach programs, community health centers, community-based nonprofit organizations, public and private corporations, foundations, workplaces, schools, colleges and local, state and federal public health agencies.
The demand for public health professionals continues to rise in response to global concerns such as bioterrorism, pandemics, HIV/AIDS and environmental issues. Rising insurance costs and increased awareness of health and wellness have also generated corporate and government support for prevention and education programs in areas such as diet, diabetes and tobacco use. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers is expected to grow by 11% by 2028 — much faster than the average for other occupations.