Public health is an interdisciplinary subject that focuses on developing methods for the prevention and eradication of diseases. It also seeks to identify other factors that endanger society’s well being, such as environmental and socioeconomic issues. Public health experts then work to devise solutions for these underlying social problems on local, state, national and global levels.
What Is a Master’s in Public Health?
A master’s in public health is a multidisciplinary graduate-level degree whose curriculum incorporates concepts from disparate academic fields such as biology, statistics, political science, sociology, history, medicine, law and social policy, environmental science, business management and economics, among others. Public health weaves these subjects together to prepare students for futures in government, healthcare organizations, academia, consulting and professional services firms, educational institutions and systems, NGOs and a wide variety of other employment paths.
What Are the Prerequisites for a Masters in Public Health?
Obtaining a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university is a prerequisite for a master’s in public health students. Beyond that, while some background in one or more of the areas listed above will no doubt be useful in public health graduate courses, there are no specific academic requirements. If you intend to pursue a career in public health, choose an undergraduate major you enjoy, and that may
What Courses Will I Take in a Master’s in Public Health Program?
The coursework you will complete to obtain your master’s in public health will include a core of required courses including introduction to public health, statistical methods, health economics, public health policy, organizational behavior, management, public health research methods, environmental health, a practicum and a capstone course in which students are required to compose a lengthy written essay or thesis based on original research.
Many master’s in public health students choose to pursue dual degrees in fields such as law, medicine, nursing, business administration, health administration, social work, pharmacy, statistics, dentistry, physical therapy, economics or epidemiology. The option of combining a master’s in public health with another graduate or professional degree allows you to add value to your education and bring a unique, public health-oriented perspective to your employers throughout your career.
Conclusion
The lack of specific prerequisites for a masters in public health make it a degree that is attainable for anyone who has a bachelor’s degree from an accredited postsecondary institution, a passion for helping other people and a commitment to fostering social progress. The only true prerequisite for a master’s in public health – aside from a bachelor’s degree, of course – is an open mind with the ability to think critically and devise creative solutions to problems that are presented. If you fit this description, do not delay the application process a second longer. Find a program that interests you and take the first step toward your exciting new career today!
Further reading: Top 10 Best Online Masters in Public Health Degree Programs
Sources
