Public Health


Undergraduate Major, Undergraduate Minor, Accelerated Pathway

School of Nursing and Health Sciences

4-Year Degree

Professor teaching class to students sitting in rows and using their laptops

The Public Health Program at Westminster University

Studying public health starts in the classroom, but its impact extends far beyond. That’s why our undergrads aren’t studying communities’ health on the sidelines. They’re taking the lead in research projects on role of climate change on pollution inversions and birth defects. They’re going on community-engaged learning trips to understand the healthcare needs of rural indigenous populations. They’re completing internships at places like the International Rescue Committee.

We Know Public Health Can't be Contained in a Textbook

To truly make the world a healthier place for schoolchildren, solve public health problems before they start, or impact global communities, you need a unique kind of program.

Combine investigative science, on-the-ground community service, and rich research opportunities to prepare you for the vast possibilities in public health.

Who the Public Health Program Is For

If you’re ready to learn about the powerful role that social sciences, humanities, and arts play in understanding the health of communities and populations, then you’re ready for a career in public health. Our Public Health program gives each student a big-picture view that goes beyond standard coursework.

sample public health courses

  • PUBH-210: Infectious and Chronic Diseases
  • PUBH-250: Global Health
  • PUBH-320: Environmental Health
  • PUBH-330: Health Promotion and Education

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Our Faculty

Han Kim, PhD
Professor

John Contreras, II
Professor

Colette McAfee, PhD
Associate Professor - MPH

Rachel Myrer
Assistant Professor

 

liberal education courses

You must complete the WCore program or join the Honors College (and complete requirements) to fulfill your liberal education credits.

"I promised myself I will someday become a health care provider and ensure that no patient experiences the pain of not understanding their diagnosis. I am dedicated to providing patient-centered care, as seen by my mentor, to all of my patients, especially those who are medically underserved.”

Read the Story

Anisa Dahir

 

Anisa Dahir

’21

Accelerated Programs and Partnerships

Students in the public health program can complete a Master of Public Health at Westminster in an additional 10-months. You'll build their theoretical and practical application of public health concepts through rigorous course work, practicum placements in the community, and capstone research. Faculty work closely with you in a close-knit environment to build necessary public heath skills and prepare you for the public health workforce. The Master of Public Health program builds on the foundations established during your undergraduate program. Additionally, you'll have interview and application fees removed from the application process.

Learn more about accelerated program and partnerships

What Are the Key Benefits of the Public Health Program?

We Open Doors—Literally

That’s why on any given day, a professor’s open door might lead you to a spontaneous discussion with a handful of classmates.

Prepare for a Lifetime of Making a Difference

Gain experience educating children on healthy lifestyles, researching environmental toxins, or fighting for safe workplace environments.

Public Health + MPH-10

To enhance your career in public health, Westminster offers a Master of Public Health that you can complete in 10 months. This master's degree will build on the foundational skills learned in the undergraduate public health. Graduates from the undergraduate Public Health program will have an easy time transitioning to the MPH-10 program. In addition, students can take advantage of the Westminster Alumni Scholarship you can take advantage of.

Public Health Career Opportunities

Most students are offered jobs before graduation, and all are employed within 3 months.

  • Graduates who go straight into the workforce are prepared for high-level public health work for local entities, community organizations, and nonprofits.
  • Many students also go on to graduate work in top health programs like Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Tulane, and Emory. You can even find them entering medical school, PA school, and law school.

student success

With a Westminster Public Health degree, our alumni are

  • Participating in globally significant research projects
  • Making a difference in public health research at organizations like the World Health Organization
  • Helping to address pressing issues and illnesses that matter today

Potential Employers

  • American Heart Association 
  • Huntsman Cancer Institute

Tuition and Aid

There's No Better Investment Than You

Westminster University knows you want an education where you matter—a place that will serve as a launchpad for a successful career and a meaningful life. Westminster will work with you individually through every step of the financial aid process. From scholarships to grants and loans, Westminster helps you make it happen.

With the highest percentage of students who complete one or more internships in the state, Westminster students hit the ground running with real-world experience. Plus, 90% of students were either employed or attending graduate school within 5 months of graduating. With a Westminster degree, you don't have to choose between a successful career and a fulfilling life.

Learn About Tuition

You’ll be automatically considered for scholarship and grant opportunities.

In addition to general merit scholarships, other scholarship programs are available to support you throughout your time at Westminster.

Check Out Scholarships

Your tuition, fully paid

All students should have the ability to explore their passions. Westminster University is proud to cover the cost of tuition for qualifying students through the Westminster Commitment.

Learn About the Westminster Commitment