BA in Public Health

NA On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Nebraska Medical Center

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center 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 practice, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to address health disparities and promote health equity.

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 and Health Education." These courses introduce students to the core concepts of public health, including the social determinants of health and the importance of health promotion strategies.

During the second year, students delve deeper into the field with courses like "Epidemiology" and "Biostatistics." Here, they will learn how to analyze health data and understand disease patterns, which are crucial for developing effective public health interventions.

In the third year, students will explore specialized topics through courses such as "Environmental Health" and "Global Health." This year emphasizes the impact of environmental factors on health and the importance of global health initiatives, preparing students for diverse challenges in public health.

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

Focus Areas: Community Health, Epidemiology, Health Policy, Global Health

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking, data analysis, health communication, program evaluation, and policy development

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 Nebraska Medical Center consistently ranks highly in employability, with graduates well-prepared for careers in public health and related fields.

For more information about the BA in Public Health program, please visit [University of Nebraska Medical Center](https://www.unmc.edu).

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC), the Bachelor of Arts 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. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in learning that goes beyond the classroom.

Here are some key components of the experiential learning opportunities available in the BA in Public Health program:

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

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a staple of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as students tackle public health issues together.

- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to various health organizations and community health initiatives, providing students with insights into public health practices and policies.

- Research Laboratories: Students can access specialized laboratories for research, where they can engage in projects that contribute to the understanding of public health challenges.

- Digital Tools: The curriculum incorporates the use of software such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for mapping health data, as well as statistical software for data analysis, equipping students with essential technical skills.

- Libraries and Resources: The McGoogan Health Sciences Library offers extensive resources, including access to databases, journals, and research materials that support students' academic and professional pursuits.

- Public Health Institutes: UNMC hosts various institutes focused on public health research and education, providing students with opportunities to learn from experts and participate in cutting-edge projects.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your education but also prepare you for a successful career in public health. If you're ready to take the next step in your academic journey, consider applying to the BA in Public Health program at UNMC. For more information on the facilities and resources available, you can visit the official facilities list [here](https://www.unmc.edu/facilities).

Progression & Future Opportunities

The BA in Public Health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center (UNMC) prepares graduates for a variety of impactful careers in the health sector. With a strong foundation in public health principles, graduates often find themselves in roles such as Health Educator, Public Health Analyst, and Community Health Coordinator. The demand for skilled professionals in this field is growing, making this degree a valuable investment in your future:

- University Services: UNMC offers dedicated career services, including resume workshops, interview preparation, and networking events with industry professionals to help you secure internships and job placements.
- Employment Stats and Salary Figures: According to recent data, graduates from UNMC's Public Health program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average salary for public health professionals in Nebraska ranges from $50,000 to $70,000, depending on the role and experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNMC has established partnerships with local health departments, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers, providing students with real-world experience and job opportunities through internships and collaborative projects.
- Long-term Accreditation Value: The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring that your degree meets high educational standards and is recognized nationally.
- Graduation Outcomes: Over 90% of graduates report being employed or continuing their education within six months of graduation, showcasing the program's effectiveness in preparing students for the workforce.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BA in Public Health, you can pursue advanced degrees such as a Master of Public Health (MPH) or a Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH). These programs will deepen your expertise and open doors to leadership roles in public health policy, research, and administration. Additionally, many graduates choose to specialize further in areas like epidemiology, global health, or health policy, enhancing their career prospects and impact in the field.

Choosing to study Public Health at UNMC is not just about earning a degree; it's about making a difference in communities and shaping the future of health care. Your journey starts here!