Published On: June 4, 2025

Is Public Health a Good Career? Benefits and Opportunities

Is public health a good career? If you’re looking for a field where you can make a tangible impact on communities, shape health policies, and work on the frontlines of disease prevention, the answer is a resounding yes. Public health professionals tackle everything from pandemic response to community wellness programs, ensuring healthier lives for individuals and populations alike. With the rising demand for healthcare professionals, this career path offers job security, diverse opportunities, and the chance to create lasting change.

As global health challenges increase, so does the need for skilled public health experts. Whether you’re interested in epidemiology, health education, or policy development, a strong academic foundation is key. At SCU, our Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) program provides the knowledge and flexibility needed to prepare for a rewarding career in public health.

SCU’s BSHS: The Foundation for a Meaningful Public Health Career

Public health is a dynamic and growing field that needs professionals who are ready to make a difference. At SCU, our Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) program provides the education and flexibility to help students launch careers in health education, community wellness, and public health leadership.

With an online, transfer-friendly curriculum and specialized concentrations, our program equips students with the knowledge and skills needed for public health careers. Whether you’re interested in health promotion, policy, or education, SCU helps you gain the right foundation for a future in public health.

Public Health 101: What It Is and Why It Matters

Public health isn’t about treating individual patients—it’s about protecting entire communities. From disease prevention to health education, public health professionals work behind the scenes to ensure safer environments, healthier lifestyles, and stronger healthcare policies. Their work directly impacts how we respond to crises, promote wellness, and prevent future health threats.

Unlike clinical healthcare, which focuses on diagnosing and treating illnesses, public health aims to stop problems before they start. Whether it’s tracking infectious diseases, designing vaccination programs, or advocating for better nutrition, public health plays a crucial role in keeping populations safe and thriving.

Focus Areas of Public Health

Epidemiology & Disease Control: Experts analyze data, track outbreaks, and develop strategies to contain infectious diseases like COVID-19 or influenza.
Health Promotion & Education: Encouraging healthier behaviors—whether through anti-smoking campaigns, mental health awareness, or fitness initiatives.
Policy & Advocacy: Shaping health laws, improving access to care, and ensuring policies support long-term community well-being.
Environmental & Global Health: Addressing issues like pollution, climate change, and sanitation that directly impact health on a global scale.

Public health operates at the intersection of science, education, and policy, ensuring that entire populations—not just individuals—benefit from healthier living conditions.

Benefits of a Public Health Career

Strong Job Growth & Demand

The public health sector is experiencing significant growth, driven by global health challenges and an aging population. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, healthcare occupations are projected to grow much faster than the average for all occupations from 2023 to 2033, with about 1.9 million openings each year.

For instance, epidemiologists, who study disease patterns, are expected to see a 19% employment increase from 2023 to 2033.

Diverse Career Paths & Specializations

Public health offers a variety of career options across multiple sectors. Professionals can work in government agencies like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the World Health Organization (WHO), non-profits such as UNICEF or the Red Cross, healthcare systems, and research institutions. A public health graduate might find themselves in roles ranging from community health education to epidemiology or policy analysis.

Embarking on a public health career means contributing to the greater good while enjoying a dynamic and rewarding professional journey.

A Career in Public Health: Is It Right for You?

Public health is a career for those who want to make a difference—not just for individuals, but for entire communities. It’s about prevention, advocacy, and education rather than direct patient care, making it a great fit for people who are passionate about health but prefer working beyond the exam room.

If you’re interested in solving big-picture health challenges, crafting policies, or educating communities, public health might be the perfect career for you. But what does it take to succeed in this field? Let’s explore the key skills and qualities that help public health professionals thrive.

Skills Needed for Public Health Careers

Public health professionals tackle complex health issues using a combination of critical thinking, research, and communication skills. Some of the most valuable skills in this field include:

Critical Thinking & Problem-Solving: Analyzing health data, evaluating risks, and creating effective interventions.
Communication Skills: Whether educating communities or writing public health policies, strong communication is essential.
Data Analysis & Research: Understanding disease patterns, conducting studies, and measuring the impact of public health programs.
Cultural Competence & Empathy: Working with diverse populations requires sensitivity, adaptability, and respect for different backgrounds.

Who Thrives in Public Health?

Public health is a great fit for individuals who are passionate about healthcare and whole health promotion. It attracts advocates, researchers, and educators—people who want to address health challenges at a systemic level and better patient care via their initiatives.

If you enjoy policy-making, research, or community outreach, public health provides endless opportunities to create real change. Whether you’re developing health initiatives, responding to crises, or shaping policies, a career in public health can be both fulfilling and impactful.

How to Get Started in Public Health (And Thrive)

A career in public health offers the chance to make a widespread impact—whether through disease prevention, health education, or policy development. But where do you start? From education to certifications, there are key steps to entering this rewarding and growing field.

If you’re interested in improving community health, shaping public policy, or working on global health initiatives, now is the time to build your foundation.

Education & Degree Requirements

Most public health careers begin with a bachelor’s degree in Health Sciences, Public Health, or a related field. This degree provides the necessary foundation in epidemiology, health policy, and disease prevention.

For those aiming for higher-level positions—such as epidemiologists, health policy analysts, or public health consultants—a Master of Public Health (MPH) is often required. The BSHS sets you up for future graduate degree pursuits in everything from Biostatistics, Occupational Therapy and Nursing, to Nursing and Medicine.

Gaining Experience Through Internships & Volunteering

One of the best ways to stand out in public health is through hands-on experience. Internships and volunteer work provide real-world exposure and networking opportunities. Some great places to gain experience include:

Local health departments working on community wellness initiatives.
Nonprofit organizations like the Red Cross, WHO, and CDC programs focused on public health projects.
University research projects tackling epidemiology, health disparities, and policy analysis.

These experiences not only strengthen your resume but also help you build essential skills in public health practice.

Earning Certifications to Boost Your Career

Certifications can set you apart in the job market by showcasing specialized expertise. Some valuable certifications include:

Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®): Ideal for those focused on health education and wellness programs.
Certified in Public Health (CPH): Demonstrates mastery of core public health principles and is beneficial for leadership roles.

With the right education, experience, and credentials, you can step confidently into a fulfilling career in public health. Whether you’re interested in local health initiatives or global disease prevention, there’s a growing need for skilled professionals ready to make a difference.

Why SCU?

We designed our BSHS program to prepare students for public health and healthcare careers through a well-rounded, flexible education. Our curriculum covers core public health principles while allowing students to customize their studies with specialized concentrations in health promotion, education, and advocacy.

Fully online format: Study from anywhere, full-time or part-time.
Transfer-friendly curriculum: Apply prior coursework and accelerate degree completion.
Career-focused coursework: Learn about disease prevention, health equity, and community health strategies.

SCU Concentrations for Public Health Careers

We offer targeted concentrations that help students build expertise in key areas of public health. Whether you’re interested in health education, wellness promotion, or community advocacy, these concentrations provide specialized knowledge and credentials that can enhance career opportunities and strengthen graduate school applications.

Health Education – CHES® Preparation:
This concentration prepares students to take the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) exam, a widely recognized credential in public health education. It’s ideal for those who want to work in community health programs, wellness coaching, and public health advocacy.
Health Promotion:
Students in this concentration gain foundational knowledge in preventive healthcare, wellness strategies, and integrative health approaches. It’s a great fit for those looking to work in community outreach, corporate wellness, or population health initiatives.

Interested in more? Explore more concentrations here!

Flexible Learning & Career Support

We know that many students balance school with work and family responsibilities, which is why our BSHS program is designed for flexibility.

Two courses per term for better focus and deeper comprehension.
Full-time and part-time study options so students can gain public health experience while earning their degree.
Expert faculty and career support to help students prepare for internships and job opportunities in public health.

Fixed-Rate Tuition & Scholarships

Pursuing a degree shouldn’t come with financial uncertainty. At SCU, we offer a Fixed-Rate Tuition Guarantee, meaning tuition costs won’t increase while you complete your program.

Transparent tuition rates—no hidden fees or surprise costs.
Multiple scholarship opportunities available to eligible students to help make education more affordable.

SCU’s BSHS program is designed to help students build meaningful careers in public health while providing flexibility, affordability, and real-world career preparation. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to advance, we’re here to support your journey.

Join the Next Generation of Public Health Leaders

Public health isn’t just a career—it’s a commitment to improving lives on a broad scale. If you’ve ever wondered, “is public health a good career?”, the answer is a resounding yes. With opportunities in medicine, education, policy, epidemiology, and community health, this field offers diverse, impactful, and fulfilling career paths. As the demand for public health professionals continues to rise, now is the perfect time to enter this growing industry.

If you’re ready to take the next step, our Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (BSHS) program can provide the education and flexibility you need to succeed. Explore admissions requirements, and start your journey toward a meaningful public health career today. Apply now and make a difference.

FAQs

What can you do with a degree in public health?

Public health graduates work in epidemiology, health education, policy, and environmental health. Careers range from community health specialists to global health advocates, all focusing on preventing disease and improving health outcomes at the population level.

Is public health a good career for job security?

Yes! Public health careers are in high demand, with jobs growing due to emerging health threats, chronic disease management, and global health challenges. Government agencies, nonprofits, and healthcare organizations are always looking for skilled public health professionals.

Do I need a master’s degree to work in public health?

Not necessarily! Many entry-level public health roles only require a bachelor’s degree. However, a Master of Public Health (MPH) can open doors to leadership, research, and specialized positions in epidemiology or policy.

Does SCU’s BSHS program prepare students for public health certifications?

Yes! Our Health Education concentration prepares students to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES®) exam, a valuable certification for those pursuing health promotion and education careers.

Can I study public health online while working?

Absolutely! Our BSHS program is fully online and designed for working students, offering full-time and part-time options so you can balance education with your career or personal commitments.