BS(Hons) Public Health

The BS(Hons) Public Health program at Western Washington University is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of public health. The program covers a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and health promotion. Students will gain hands-on experience through internships and practical projects, preparing them for careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, or private industry. The program is taught by experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, providing students with a high-quality education. With a strong focus on practical applications and real-world problems, this program will equip students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in the field of public health.

Additional Information

The BS(Hons) Public Health program at Western Washington University is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Graduates of the program are eligible to sit for the Certified in Public Health (CPH) examination. The program also offers a variety of specializations, including Global Health, Community Health, and Health Promotion.

Discover the Unique Advantages of Western Washington University's Public Health Program

Western Washington University is an ideal location for students interested in public health due to its proximity to Seattle and the Pacific Northwest, which provides ample opportunities for hands-on learning and experience. The university's Small Group Interview (SGI) program allows students to engage in small group discussions with faculty members and peers, providing a more personalized and interactive learning experience. Additionally, the university's location in Bellingham provides a unique blend of urban and natural environments, offering students a diverse range of experiences and opportunities for experiential learning.

The Public Health degree consists of two to three years of course work in Health Education and supporting areas. This includes required course work in both content and process-oriented Public Health courses, Social Sciences (Anthropology, Psychology, and Sociology), Biological and Physical Sciences (Anatomy and Physiology, Exercise Physiology, and Chemistry) and other electives that complement a student’s interests and professional needs.

Why Consider a Public Health Major?

Public Health professionals engage in epidemiological analysis, assess population and community needs for health interventions; plan, implement and administer health education strategies, interventions and programs; conduct evaluation and research; serve as a health education resource; and communicate and advocate for the general health of the public. Effective Public Health is ecological in its approach. When planning the focus of interventions, public health professionals consider all factors that contribute to health and disease: individual behavior; group dynamics; environmental conditions; economics; politics, laws and policies; culture, ethnicity, and gender; and the availability, accessibility, and quality of health services.

Students who are accepted into the Public Health major explore the biological, social, environmental, and individual determinants of health. The curriculum is based on the skills and competencies identified by Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) and the National Commission on Health Education Credentialing, Inc. Eligible students are encouraged to take the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam after graduation. The program is rigorous and CEPH accredited. Faculty members emphasize diverse hands-onP projects and community outreach. At the end of the program, a full-time internship (40 hours per week for 10 weeks) in a public health setting is required.

The Public Health major is appropriate for students who want to work in community, public, and global health; health communication; governmental and non-profit agencies and organizations; medical care settings; worksite wellness programs; and college and university student service health education programs. It can also serve as a preparatory program for graduate or post-baccalaureate study in Public Health and related areas.

Academic Requirements for freshman students:

The admission requirements for undergraduate courses are given as follows:

• Completed application form

• Academic Transcripts(certified english translations if necessary)

• Relevant High school degree/Grade Report/Certificates

• SAT or ACT Scores (Optional)

• A cumulative GPA of 2.0

• Personal Statement or essay

• One letter of recommendation

• List of extracurricular activities(if any)

• Portfolio

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