Bachelor of Science in Public Health
The B.S. in Public Health - Health Promotion and Practice degree program is designed for students primarily interested in the improvement of health and prevention of disease and disability. The mission of the public health program is to provide students with high-quality undergraduate education through knowledge, discovery, experiential learning, collaboration and the translation of health education into practice, health promotion programs, policy and research to improve the well-being and health of diverse populations.
The program focuses on:
- Identifying social and behavioral determinants of health;
- Developing and evaluating interventions and policies leading to the improvement of population health;
- Advocating for policy development and programmatic change;
- Investigating and trending diseases from the community level to the national level; and
- Preparing professionals for leadership positions in advocacy and public health service.
Upon completion of the program, students will be well-qualified for graduate studies and/or fulfilling careers in public and private organizations.
Public health students have the opportunity to travel abroad during breaks at the University. These students pictured traveled to Chiang Mai, Thailand, and provided health education to the children.
Public Health is an inherently multi-disciplinary area of study. For example, core quantitative disciplines such as epidemiology and biostatistics are essential for analysis of the broad impact of health problems, allowing us to look beyond individuals to entire populations. And, because preventing disease is at the heart of public health, the program includes the social science for a better understanding of health-related behaviors and their societal influences.
Sample Courses
- Introduction to Public Health
- Public Health Disaster Preparedness and Emergency Response
- Global Disparities in Environmental Health
- Principles of Epidemiology in Exercise and Public Health
- Qualitative Research Methods
- Public Health Management and Leadership
- Health Policy and Social Change
Although there are several required and recommended courses for the public health major, students still have flexibility in the curriculum to take courses of special interest. For instance, students may wish to pursue additional coursework in adolescent health, women’s health, gerontology, biology, environmental science, criminology, international and cultural studies, urban studies, Latin American studies, psychology, sociology, communication or research methods. View UT's online catalog for requirements and courses.
Research
The Public health field is research and data-driven. Excellent research skills are fundamental to analyzing the broad impact of health problems. Students are encouraged to work with faculty on research or conduct their own.
Public health students have the opportunity to work with faculty and other students to conduct novel research in their field of interest.
Students gain valuable experiences in presenting their research at local and national conferences.
Internships
All public health majors must complete an internship. Internships allow students to apply their studies to real-world problems. You can read more about internships and what you can do with a degree in public health on the Career Opportunities and Graduate Competencies page.
Community Service
Many public health students take the opportunity to volunteer with community-based public health agencies. Service projects have included assisting various agencies such as DACCO (Drug Abuse Comprehensive Coordinating Office) with the development, execution and evaluation of alcohol reduction strategies and the American Lung Association with programmatic needs. Students also participate in community health fairs, conducting respiratory and other health screenings.
Participating in Live Well UT gives students practical experience in addressing public health needs through program planning, implementation and evaluation. Some of the initiatives include:
Rx Factor: educates students on the consequences of prescription drug abuse
Breathe Easy UT: tobacco/smoking/ vaping peer education program
Watch Your BAC: alcohol abuse reduction program that encourages students to lower their risk if they choose to drink alcohol
FOODS (Focusing on Optimal Dietetics for Students): promotes healthy habits through balanced living and proper nutrition
SASS (Safe and Sexy Spartans): educates students on sexual health and making safe and healthy decisions
EPC (Environmental Protection Coalition): engages in environmental conservation and advocacy
Active Minds: focuses on mental health and mental wellness
Students who successfully complete the necessary coursework are eligible to sit for the national certification exam to become a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). The CHES designation after a health educator’s name is one indication of professional competency and commitment to continued professional development. The exam covers subjects such as public health program planning, implementation, administration and evaluation.
