What is Public Health?
Public health focuses on community health intervention and prevention. Public health professionals learn about and prioritize significant health issues in a community and create interventions to improve health outcomes. Professionals work in various settings such as governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, work-site wellness programs, schools, etc. The average salary for public health professionals in the U.S. is $72,000.
This emphasis is for those students pursuing a degree in public health working in patient care. It will prepare students for entry-level clinical positions and professional careers as physicians, dentists, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, audiologists, and optometrists. Students interested in this emphasis should meet with academic advising to discuss a specific process and detailed schedule of classes.
Watch this video to learn more about public health.
This emphasis is for those students pursuing a degree in public health working in patient care. It will prepare students for entry-level clinical positions and professional careers as physicians, dentists, physician assistants, physical therapists, occupational therapists, chiropractors, audiologists, and optometrists. Students interested in this emphasis should meet with academic advising to discuss a specific process and detailed schedule of classes.
Watch this video to learn more about public health.
"I do not intend to have a degree that sits nicely framed on my wall. I intend to have a degree that works hard and changes lives. We need these experiences and these people just as much as they need us. To anyone who wishes to do something like this in the future: Do it."
KIRSTEN M.,
BYU-I GRADUATE
Find out if this degree is right for you!
Watch expert advice on how to succeed in this major + career options
Highlighted Career Paths
Graduates with a degree in Health Science with an emphasis in health science have a wide array of rewarding careers before them. Check out some of the top careers students get with this degree or explore more career options in I-Plan.
Physician's Assistant
A physician assistant or physician associate is a mid-level healthcare provider. In North America, PAs may diagnose illnesses, develop and manage treatment plans, prescribe medications, and serve as principal healthcare providers. PAs are required in many states to have a direct agreement with a physician.
Physical Therapist
Physical therapists help injured, or ill people improve movement and manage pain. They are often essential to preventive care, rehabilitation, and treatment for patients with chronic conditions, illnesses, or injuries.
Chiropractor
A chiropractor is trained to ensure your body functions optimally by using spinal manipulations to relieve joint and muscle pain. These spinal adjustments will increase blood flow and nerve conductivity to the joints and muscles experiencing pain.
Getting Started in this degree
If you are interested in Health Science with an emphasis in epidemiology, start with one of the following major-specific courses
Related Majors
Professionals working in the public health field focus on preventing, promoting, and protecting populations from poor health outcomes and emerging public health threats.
Healthcare Administration is an exciting and rewarding career path that allows individuals to lead the “business side” of healthcare. This includes improving the operational, strategic, financial, and clinical performance of healthcare provider organizations.