A public health degree will allow you to apply a population-level approach to protecting and promoting safety and health. USI’s Health Services degree with a specialty in public health will provide you with a foundation of ways to safeguard the public’s health. If you want to better understand what safety and health issues are most common in your community and the world, and how to deal with these issues on a broad scale, this degree is for you. If you enjoy conducting research, understanding how diseases and epidemics form, how to prevent those diseases and epidemics with broad implications, and working with other people on health improvement or creating policy, consider this degree.
Improving the health of communities can be done by better understanding how to prevent injuries, understanding diseases and how to promote healthier lifestyles. Conducting research, providing comprehensive education, policy development, and program administration and evaluation are core knowledge and skills necessary for assuring public health.
To apply to the University of Southern Indiana (USI) for undergraduate enrollment:
Once USI has processed your application, transcript(s) and scores (if needed), a decision will be made by Undergraduate Admissions and you will receive a notification.
Upon acceptance to USI, you'll receive detailed information about next steps, including orientation, registration and housing.
There is a secondary application process to be accepted into the Bachelor of Science in Health Services Public Health Specialty Track. Students may declare the major upon entering the university or complete a change of major form at any point in time.
If pursuing the Public Health Specialty Track:
The job outlook for someone majoring in health services with a focus on public health is generally positive. Public health is a diverse field that encompasses a wide range of careers aimed at improving the health and well-being of communities and populations.
According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers, for example, is projected to grow from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. This growth is driven by efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people about healthy behaviors and encouraging wellness.
Additionally, the COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the importance of public health and is likely to lead to increased funding and attention to public health efforts in the future. This could create even more opportunities for individuals with a background in health services and a focus on public health.
*income information provided by O*NET Online. Occupation opportunities vary by region and experience.
The University of Southern Indiana is committed to making college accessible to those wishing to further their education by providing numerous scholarships, grants, and financial aid options to assist students in managing tuition expenses.