BA in Public Health

NA On Campus Bachelors Program

University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center

Program Overview

The Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences 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 research, 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 a diverse range of public health challenges.

In the 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: Health Promotion, Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Global Health, Health Policy

Learning Outcomes: Critical thinking in public health issues, data analysis and interpretation, effective communication in health contexts, and the ability to design and evaluate public health programs.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation): The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring that it meets the highest standards of public health education.

Reputation (Employability Rankings): The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center consistently ranks highly in employability, with graduates well-prepared for careers in various public health sectors, as reflected in national rankings by QS and other reputable sources.

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

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, 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 have access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources that enhance their learning and prepare them for real-world challenges. The program emphasizes experiential learning through various opportunities, allowing students to apply theoretical knowledge in practical settings.

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

- Internships: Students can participate in internships with local health departments, non-profit organizations, and healthcare facilities, gaining valuable experience and networking opportunities.
- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and problem-solving skills as students tackle real public health issues.
- Field Trips: The program includes field trips to health organizations and community health initiatives, providing insights into public health practices and policies.
- Research Laboratories: Students have access to dedicated research labs where they can engage in public health research, working alongside faculty on various projects.
- Digital Tools: The curriculum incorporates software tools such as GIS (Geographic Information Systems) for spatial analysis and data visualization, essential for public health research and planning.
- Libraries and Resources: The university's extensive library system offers a wealth of resources, including access to public health journals, databases, and research materials.
- Centers and Institutes: Students can benefit from the expertise of various centers and institutes focused on public health, such as the Center for Health Policy and the Center for American Indian Health.

These experiential learning opportunities not only enhance your academic experience but also equip you with the skills and knowledge needed to make a meaningful impact in the field of public health. For more information on the facilities available at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center, you can visit the official facilities list [here](https://www.ouhsc.edu/facilities).

Consider applying to the BA in Public Health program and take the first step toward a rewarding career in public health!

Progression & Future Opportunities

Pursuing a Bachelor of Arts in Public Health at the University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center 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.

Here’s how the University of Oklahoma supports your journey toward a successful career in public health:

- Career Services: The university provides dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you stand out in the job market.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from the Public Health program have a high employment rate, with many securing jobs within six months of graduation. The average starting salary for public health graduates in Oklahoma is around $50,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: The University of Oklahoma has established partnerships with local health departments, non-profit organizations, and healthcare providers, offering students valuable internship opportunities and real-world experience.
- Accreditation: 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: The program boasts a strong graduation rate, with many students going on to make significant impacts in their communities and beyond.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your BA in Public Health, you can choose to further your education by pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) or even a Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH). These advanced degrees will deepen your expertise and open up even more leadership opportunities in the field, allowing you to specialize in areas such as global health, health policy, or environmental health.

The University of Oklahoma Health Sciences Center is committed to your success, both during your studies and in your future career. By choosing this program, you’re not just earning a degree; you’re investing in a future where you can make a real difference in public health.