BA in Public Health

NA On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Memphis

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Memphis is designed for students passionate about improving community health and well-being. This program is ideal for those who want to make a difference in public health policy, education, and research, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address health disparities and promote healthier lifestyles.

Curriculum Structure:

In the first year, students will lay a solid foundation in public health principles through courses such as "Introduction to Public Health" and "Health Behavior." These courses introduce key concepts in health promotion and disease prevention, preparing students for more advanced topics in subsequent years.

During the second year, students delve deeper into the field with courses like "Epidemiology" and "Environmental Health." Here, they will learn about the distribution and determinants of health-related states and events, as well as the impact of environmental factors on public health, enhancing their analytical and critical thinking skills.

In the third year, students focus on specialized areas of public health through courses such as "Health Policy" and "Global Health." This year emphasizes the importance of policy-making and international health issues, allowing students to understand the broader context of public health challenges and solutions.

In the final year, students engage in practical experiences and capstone projects, taking courses like "Public Health Practicum" and "Program Planning and Evaluation." This hands-on approach enables students to apply their knowledge in real-world settings, preparing them for successful careers in public health.

Focus Areas: Health Promotion, Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Global Health, Health Policy

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking in public health issues, effective communication skills, understanding of health disparities, ability to design and evaluate health programs

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring it meets high educational standards.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Memphis is recognized for its strong employability outcomes, consistently ranking well in national surveys for graduate employment rates in public health fields.

For more information about the BA in Public Health program, please visit [University of Memphis Public Health Program](https://www.memphis.edu/publichealth).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Memphis, the BA in Public Health program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills in the field. Students engage in a variety of experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world challenges in public health. The program emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and problem-solving through various projects and internships, ensuring that graduates are well-equipped to make a difference in their communities.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available to Public Health students at the University of Memphis:

- Internships: Students have the chance to participate in internships with local health departments, non-profit organizations, and healthcare facilities, allowing them to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a staple of the curriculum, where students work together to tackle public health issues, conduct research, and develop community health initiatives.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to local health organizations and community health events, providing students with insights into the practical applications of public health theories.

- Digital Tools: Students gain proficiency in essential software such as SPSS for statistical analysis and GIS for mapping and analyzing public health data.

- Research Laboratories: The university offers access to state-of-the-art research facilities where students can engage in public health research, working alongside faculty on various projects.

- Libraries and Resources: The University of Memphis boasts extensive library resources, including access to databases and journals specific to public health, which are invaluable for research and study.

- Community Engagement: Students are encouraged to participate in community service projects, enhancing their understanding of public health challenges and solutions in diverse populations.

- Public Health Institute: The university hosts the Center for Community Health, which focuses on research and outreach, providing students with opportunities to engage in impactful public health initiatives.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also prepare you for a successful career in public health. If you're ready to take the next step in your education and make a difference in the world, consider applying to the BA in Public Health program at the University of Memphis. For more information on the facilities and resources available, you can visit [this link](https://www.memphis.edu/facilities).

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a BA in Public Health at the University of Memphis opens the door to a variety of rewarding career paths. Graduates often find themselves in roles such as Public Health Educator, Epidemiologist, Health Policy Analyst, or Community Health Coordinator. These positions not only contribute to the well-being of communities but also offer a strong job outlook and competitive salaries:

- University Services: The University of Memphis provides robust career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events specifically tailored for public health students. The Office of Career Services also connects students with internships and job placements in the field.

- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, public health professionals can expect a median salary of around $70,000, with job growth projected to be much faster than average over the next decade. The University of Memphis boasts a high employment rate for graduates, with many securing positions within six months of graduation.

- University–Industry Partnerships: The University has established partnerships with local health departments, hospitals, and non-profit organizations, providing students with hands-on experience and networking opportunities that can lead to job placements after graduation.

- Long-term Accreditation Value: The BA in Public Health is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring that your degree meets high standards and is recognized nationally, which can enhance your employability.

- Graduation Outcomes: The program has a strong track record, with over 90% of graduates reporting satisfaction with their education and career readiness, making them competitive candidates in the job market.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BA in Public Health, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) or a related graduate degree. This advanced education can open doors to leadership roles in public health, research positions, or specialized areas such as global health or health administration. The University of Memphis offers graduate programs that build on your undergraduate knowledge and prepare you for even greater impact in the field.

Choosing to study Public Health at the University of Memphis is not just about earning a degree; it's about making a difference in the world while preparing for a fulfilling career.