A Bachelor of Science in Public Health is designed to prepare students for careers focused on improving the health and well-being of populations, communities, and individuals through prevention, education, and policy.
This comprehensive degree combines scientific knowledge with practical skills to address complex health challenges facing society today.
What is a Bachelor of Science in Public Health?
Public health is the science of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized community efforts. A Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH or BS Public Health) provides students with foundational knowledge and skills to work in various health-related settings, from government agencies to nonprofit organizations, healthcare systems, and community health centers.
Unlike healthcare administration or clinical healthcare programs, public health focuses on population-level interventions, health education, disease prevention, environmental health, and health policy. The field addresses the social determinants of health and works to eliminate health disparities across different populations.
What to Expect from Public Health BS Programs
Program Structure and Delivery
Most Public Health bachelor’s programs require 120-180 credit hours and can be completed in approximately 3-4 years of full-time study. Programs are offered in multiple formats:
- 100% online programs with flexible scheduling
- Hybrid programs combining online and on-campus components
- Traditional on-campus programs with classroom and field experiences
- Accelerated programs allowing faster completion
- Part-time options designed for working professionals
Key Program Features
Accreditation Excellence: Many programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring high-quality education that meets professional standards. CEPH-accredited programs are recognized as meeting the gold standard for public health education.
Hands-On Learning: Programs emphasize experiential learning through:
- Internships and practicum experiences (typically 360+ hours)
- Community-based projects addressing real health challenges
- Capstone projects applying knowledge to practical problems
- Field work in public health settings
Interdisciplinary Approach: Public health education integrates knowledge from multiple disciplines including:
- Biological and life sciences
- Social and behavioral sciences
- Environmental sciences
- Policy and management
- Statistics and research methods
Professional Certification Preparation: Many programs prepare students for professional certifications including:
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
- Certified in Public Health (CPH)
- Certified Wellness Practitioner (CWP)
Comprehensive Curriculum: What You’ll Study
Core Public Health Foundation
Fundamentals of Public Health:
- Introduction to Public Health principles and practice
- History and philosophy of public health
- Public health systems and infrastructure
- Global health perspectives
- Public health ethics and professionalism
Epidemiology:
- Principles of epidemiology
- Disease patterns and distribution
- Study design and methodology
- Infectious disease epidemiology
- Chronic disease epidemiology
- Health surveillance systems
Biostatistics and Research Methods:
- Statistical methods for health data
- Research design and methodology
- Data collection and analysis
- Health data management and visualization
- Evidence-based public health practice
- Program evaluation methods
Health Behavior and Education
Social and Behavioral Health:
- Health behavior theories and models
- Social determinants of health
- Cultural competence and health equity
- Community health assessment
- Health communication strategies
- Social marketing principles
Health Education and Promotion:
- Program planning and implementation
- Health promotion concepts and strategies
- Community organization and mobilization
- Health education methods and materials
- Workplace wellness programs
- School and community health education
Environmental and Policy Focus
Environmental Health:
- Environmental determinants of health
- Environmental hazards and risk assessment
- Air and water quality
- Food safety and sanitation
- Occupational health and safety
- Climate change and health
- Environmental justice
Health Policy and Management:
- Health policy development and analysis
- Healthcare systems and delivery
- Public health law and ethics
- Health economics and financing
- Leadership and management in public health
- Strategic planning and program management
Specialized Areas of Study
Global Health:
- International health systems
- Global disease burden
- Health disparities worldwide
- Cultural perspectives on health
- Global health governance
- International development and health
Emergency Preparedness:
- Disaster management and response
- Emergency planning and coordination
- Risk communication
- Business continuity planning
- Public health emergency response
- Community resilience
Concentration Options
Many programs offer specialized concentrations allowing students to focus their studies:
Health Education and Promotion:
- Community health education
- Program planning and evaluation
- Health behavior change interventions
- Needs assessment methodologies
- Health communication campaigns
Health Administration and Management:
- Healthcare delivery systems
- Health information management
- Quality improvement methods
- Healthcare finance and budgeting
- Human resources in healthcare
Environmental and Occupational Health:
- Industrial hygiene
- Environmental risk assessment
- Workplace safety programs
- Environmental policy analysis
- Public health preparedness
Global Health:
- International health systems
- Cross-cultural health practices
- Global health policy
- International development
- Humanitarian health response
Emergency and Disaster Management:
- Emergency response planning
- Risk assessment and communication
- Incident command systems
- Community preparedness
- Post-disaster health interventions
Practical Experience Requirements
Internship/Practicum:
- Typically 3-6 credit hours
- 120-400+ hours of field experience
- Placements in health departments, hospitals, nonprofits, or community organizations
- Supervised by qualified public health professionals
- Integration of classroom knowledge with practical application
Capstone Projects:
- Comprehensive final project demonstrating mastery
- Real-world problem-solving applications
- Research or program development focus
- Presentation to faculty and community partners
- Portfolio development for career preparation
Program Costs and Financial Considerations
Tuition Ranges by Institution Type
Public Universities (In-State):
- $218-$399 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $26,000-$48,000 (120 credits)
Public Universities (Out-of-State):
- $341-$648 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $41,000-$78,000 (120 credits)
Private Universities:
- $330-$513 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $39,600-$92,000 (120-180 credits)
Online Programs:
- $315-$455 per credit hour
- Total program cost: $37,800-$82,000 (varies by credit requirements)
Detailed Cost Examples
University of West Florida (Public, Online):
- In-state tuition: $218.98 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $26,278
University of Alabama (Public, Online):
- Distance learning rate: $399 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $47,880
Texas State University (Public, Online):
- $404 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $48,480
Southern New Hampshire University (Private, Online):
- $330 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $39,600
University of Cincinnati (Public, Online):
- Resident: $583 per credit hour
- Non-resident: $598 per credit hour
- 120 credit hours = approximately $69,960-$71,760
Walden University (Private, Online):
- $350 per quarter credit hour
- 181 quarter credits = approximately $63,350
Additional Program Costs
- Application fees: $0-$75 (many programs waive application fees)
- Technology and lab fees: $100-$500 per semester
- Books and materials: $600-$2,000 per year
- Internship/practicum costs: $200-$1,000 (background checks, transportation)
- Professional certification exam fees: $200-$400
- Graduation fees: $100-$300
Financial Aid and Cost-Saving Options
Federal Financial Aid:
- Federal Pell Grants for eligible students
- Federal student loans (subsidized and unsubsidized)
- Work-study opportunities in health-related settings
Military and Veteran Benefits:
- GI Bill benefits accepted at most institutions
- Military tuition discounts (often $231-$250 per credit)
- Yellow Ribbon Program participation
Institutional Support:
- Merit-based scholarships
- Need-based grants (like the NU Key Grant)
- Employer tuition reimbursement programs
- Professional organization scholarships
Transfer Credit Opportunities:
- Up to 90 credits may transfer from previous institutions
- Professional experience credit in some programs
- CLEP and other standardized exam credit
- Military training credit
Admission Requirements
Basic Academic Requirements
Educational Background:
- High school diploma or GED equivalent
- Minimum cumulative GPA: 2.0-2.7 (varies by institution)
- Some programs require completion of prerequisite courses
Prerequisite Coursework:
- College-level mathematics (statistics recommended)
- English composition
- Biological sciences (biology, anatomy & physiology, microbiology)
- Social sciences (psychology, sociology)
- Chemistry (for some programs)
Academic Performance Standards
GPA Requirements:
- High school GPA: 2.7+ for direct admission from high school
- College GPA: 2.0+ for transfer students with 24+ credit hours
- Some competitive programs require higher GPAs (3.0+)
Standardized Testing:
- SAT/ACT: Generally not required for adult learners or students with college credit
- Many programs have eliminated standardized test requirements
- Placement exams may be required for math and English
Application Materials
Required Documents:
- Completed online application (often no fee required)
- Official transcripts from all previously attended institutions
- High school transcripts (if less than 24 college credits completed)
Optional/Program-Specific Materials:
- Personal statement or essay (varies by program)
- Letters of recommendation (typically 2-3)
- Resume documenting relevant experience
- Interview (for competitive programs)
Transfer Student Considerations
Public Health programs are generally transfer-friendly:
Transfer Credit Policies:
- Up to 90 credit hours may transfer from accredited institutions
- Community college partnerships and articulation agreements
- Professional experience may count toward requirements
- Military training often transfers as relevant credit
Transfer Requirements:
- Minimum 2.0 cumulative GPA from all previous institutions
- Official transcripts from all colleges attended
- Course equivalency evaluated during admission process
Career Opportunities and Salary Expectations
Entry-Level Career Paths
Health Education and Promotion (Median Salary: $45,000-$65,000):
- Health Educator
- Community Health Worker
- Program Assistant
- Health Communication Specialist
- Wellness Coordinator
Public Health Analysis (Median Salary: $50,000-$70,000):
- Research Assistant
- Data Analyst
- Epidemiology Assistant
- Public Health Program Coordinator
- Policy Analyst
Environmental Health (Median Salary: $48,000-$68,000):
- Environmental Health Specialist
- Safety Specialist
- Compliance Officer
- Risk Assessment Specialist
- Public Health Inspector
Mid-Level Management Positions
Program Management (Median Salary: $65,000-$95,000):
- Public Health Program Manager
- Community Health Manager
- Disease Prevention Coordinator
- Health Promotion Manager
- Grant Program Manager
Specialized Roles (Median Salary: $60,000-$85,000):
- Epidemiologist
- Biostatistician
- Health Services Manager
- Emergency Preparedness Coordinator
- Global Health Specialist
Advanced Leadership Roles (with Experience)
Senior Management (Median Salary: $85,000-$120,000+):
- Public Health Director
- Health Department Administrator
- Policy Development Manager
- Public Health Consultant
- Chief Health Officer
Employment Settings
Government Agencies:
- Local health departments
- State health agencies
- Federal health organizations (CDC, NIH, FDA)
- Military and veterans health services
Healthcare Organizations:
- Hospitals and health systems
- Community health centers
- Managed care organizations
- Public health clinics
Community Organizations:
- Nonprofit health organizations
- Community-based organizations
- Faith-based health initiatives
- Professional health associations
Private Sector:
- Consulting firms
- Pharmaceutical companies
- Health insurance companies
- Corporate wellness programs
International Organizations:
- World Health Organization
- UNICEF and other UN agencies
- International development organizations
- Global health nonprofits
Industry Growth Projections
According to recent labor market data:
- Health educators expected to grow 7% through 2032
- Community health workers projected to grow 13% through 2032
- Medical and health services managers expected to grow 28% through 2032
- Environmental health specialists projected steady growth
- Epidemiologists expected to grow faster than average
Salary Expectations by Career Level
Recent Graduates (0-2 years experience):
- Community Health Worker: $48,000-$52,000
- Health Educator: $55,000-$65,000
- Research Assistant: $45,000-$55,000
Mid-Career (3-7 years experience):
- Health Program Manager: $70,000-$85,000
- Epidemiologist: $75,000-$95,000
- Environmental Health Specialist: $65,000-$80,000
Senior Level (8+ years experience):
- Public Health Director: $95,000-$130,000
- Health Services Manager: $85,000-$110,000
- Senior Policy Analyst: $90,000-$115,000
Choosing the Right Program
Accreditation and Quality Indicators
CEPH Accreditation: Look for programs accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, which ensures:
- Compliance with competency-based education standards
- Qualified faculty with appropriate credentials
- Adequate resources and facilities
- Strong community partnerships
- Regular program assessment and improvement
Regional Accreditation: Ensure the institution holds regional accreditation from organizations like:
- Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
- Middle States Commission on Higher Education
- New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
- Southern Association of Colleges and Schools (SACSCOC)
Program Features to Consider
Curriculum Alignment: Programs should cover essential competencies including:
- Foundational knowledge in public health core areas
- Evidence-based approaches to public health practice
- Leadership and systems thinking skills
- Communication and cultural competency
- Public health biology and human disease concepts
Faculty Expertise: Look for programs with faculty who have:
- Terminal degrees in public health or related fields (DrPH, PhD, MD/MPH)
- Current research and publication records
- Professional practice experience
- Community engagement activities
Student Support Services:
- Financial aid and scholarship support
- Academic advising and career counseling
- Internship placement assistance
- Professional development opportunities
- Alumni networking programs
Top Schools
If you’re passionate about promoting wellness, addressing health disparities, and leading community health initiatives, earning a Bachelor of Science in Public Health can open doors to a meaningful and dynamic career. The following accredited universities offer flexible, fully online programs designed for working professionals, transfer students, and first-time college learners alike.
These programs combine foundational public health knowledge with real-world applications, including fieldwork, capstone projects, and preparation for industry-recognized certifications such as the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Certified Public Health (CPH). Whether you’re looking for an accelerated path, affordable tuition, or specialized concentrations, each of these schools brings something unique to the table to help you achieve your academic and career goals in public health.
| School | Location | Credits Required | Tuition Estimate | CHES/CPH Prep | Transfer Credits Accepted | Notable Features |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Walden University | Columbia, MD | 180–181 quarter credits | $66,230 (or $46,980 with scholarship) | Yes (CHES) | Up to 135 quarter credits | Tempo Learning® option for self-paced study; no application fee, SAT/ACT, or essay required |
| National University | San Diego, CA | 180 quarter units | Varies (financial aid/scholarships available) | Yes (CHES) | Yes (min. 45 units in residence) | Monthly course starts; focus on local, national, and global public health |
| Capella University | Minneapolis, MN | 180 quarter credits | $67,571 (or $30,810 with max transfer) | Yes (CHES) | Up to 135 credits | Vila Health™ simulation; Accelerated Master’s Pathway (AMP) available |
| American Public University | Charles Town, WV | 120 semester hours | $42,000 (or less with military/APUS grants) | Not specified | Up to 90 credits | Multiple start dates; flexible course lengths (8–16 weeks); low tuition for military |
| University of Arizona | Tucson, AZ | 120 credits | Varies by residency (use tuition calculator) | Not specified | Yes | CEPH-accredited college; 6 emphasis areas; offers certificates in topics like Global Health and Substance Use |
| Oregon State University | Corvallis, OR | 180 quarter credits | $65,880 (at $366/credit) | Not specified | Yes (final 45 of 75 credits must be from OSU) | CEPH-accredited; 360-hour internship; Accelerated Master’s Platform |
| Southern New Hampshire University | Manchester, NH | 120 credits | $39,600 (as low as $9,900 with max transfer) | Not specified | Up to 90 credits | One of the lowest online tuition rates; self-paced and transfer-friendly |
| University of Cincinnati | Cincinnati, OH | 120 credits | $71,760 (based on $598/credit) | Yes (CHES possible) | Up to 90 credits | 3 customizable concentrations; integrated senior internship |
| University of Alabama | Tuscaloosa, AL | 120 credits | $47,880 | Yes (CHES/CPH) | Yes | Fully online; year-round admission; two concentrations with applied learning |
| Texas State University | San Marcos, TX | 120 credits | ~$48,480 | Yes (CHES/CPH/CWP) | Yes | Required minor; 8-week courses; flexible start dates and professional development course |
Walden University
https://www.waldenu.edu/online-bachelors-programs/bs-in-public-health
Columbia, MD
Flexible Online Curriculum With CHES Certification Preparation
Walden University’s Bachelor of Science in Public Health program is a fully online degree designed to equip students with the foundational knowledge and applied skills necessary to promote health equity and improve community wellness. The program spans 181 quarter credits in a course-based format or 180 credits via Tempo Learning®. It includes general education (46 credits), core public health coursework (80 credits), electives (50 credits), and a 5-credit capstone. Tuition is $350 per quarter credit, with a program fee of $180 per quarter, totaling approximately $66,230 before scholarships. With the Believe & Achieve Scholarship, tuition can be reduced to about $46,980. Students may transfer up to 135 quarter credits (up to 125 if residing in Virginia), making the program highly flexible and accessible.
Applied Learning and Streamlined Admissions
The curriculum integrates key areas of public health such as epidemiology, environmental health, chronic and infectious diseases, and health disparities. Students participate in applied assignments addressing real-world issues like infant mortality and global climate change. The admissions process is streamlined—there’s no application fee, SAT/ACT, or essay required. Applicants need only be 21 or older, have at least 12 quarter credits if younger than 21, or be active/veteran military members. A Health Promotion and Wellness concentration prepares students for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. Walden’s program positions graduates for roles in community health and global public health advocacy.
National University
https://www.nu.edu/degrees/healthcare-leadership/programs/bachelor-science-public-health/
San Diego, CA
Comprehensive Curriculum With Real-World Relevance
National University’s Bachelor of Science in Public Health prepares students for careers addressing community health at local, national, and international levels. The program requires completion of 180 quarter units, including 14 courses in foundational health sciences and 14 upper-division courses covering topics such as epidemiology, health promotion, environmental health, and global health. No application fee or entrance exams are required. Students must complete at least 45 units in residence at NU, and the program supports transfer students. Specializations allow students to focus on specific public health disciplines, and all students complete a capstone project to demonstrate their applied knowledge.
Career-Oriented Education With CHES Eligibility
Graduates are eligible to take the CHES exam, making this a strong choice for students seeking credentialed roles in health education. Career outcomes for graduates are promising, with median salaries ranging from $48,034 for Community Health Workers to over $109,000 for Medical and Health Services Managers, according to Lightcast data. Top employers include UnitedHealth Group, Elevance Health, and the American Heart Association. Students are taught to assess health disparities, develop and evaluate public health programs, and influence policy and behavior at multiple societal levels. Financial aid and scholarships are available to reduce tuition costs and accelerate degree completion.
Capella University
https://www.capella.edu/online-health-science-degrees/bachelors-public-health/
Minneapolis, MN
Interactive Online Learning With Accelerated Options
Capella University’s Bachelor of Science in Public Health offers a comprehensive 180-quarter-credit curriculum built around core competencies in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and public health policy. The program is delivered in the GuidedPath format, with structured 10-week quarters and weekly assignments. Tuition ranges by course level—$365 per 1000–2000 level credit and $388 per 3000–4000 level credit—plus a $125 resource kit fee. Transfer-friendly, the program accepts up to 135 credits, potentially reducing completion time and total tuition. The average total cost is about $30,810 with 135 credits transferred, and $67,571 without transfers.
Practical Skill Development and CHES-Ready Training
Students learn in an interprofessional environment with nursing and health administration peers, and gain practical skills through Capella’s unique Vila Health™ simulation. Courses like Biostatistics, Environmental Health, and Social and Behavioral Change equip students to assess, plan, and communicate public health interventions effectively. The program also offers an Accelerated Master’s Pathway (AMP), allowing students to begin master’s-level coursework and save up to $6,180 toward a Master of Public Health. Admission is simplified with no fees, tests, or essays required. Graduates are prepared for roles in community health, epidemiology, health education, and policy analysis.
American Public University
https://www.apu.apus.edu/online-bachelor-degrees/bachelor-of-science-in-public-health/
Charles Town, WV
Comprehensive Online Program Structure
American Public University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Public Health program designed for students interested in improving health outcomes in the U.S. and abroad. The program requires 120 semester hours, and students may transfer up to 90 credits. Courses begin monthly and range from 8 to 16 weeks in length, offering flexibility for working adults. Tuition is competitively priced at $350 per credit hour, with discounted rates of $250 for military members and $315 for veterans or those eligible for the APUS Opportunity Grant. Admission requires only a high school diploma or GED, and there is no application fee.
Diverse Curriculum and Career Outcomes
The curriculum includes a strong foundation in public health management, law, economics, ethics, and epidemiology, along with specialized concentrations in General Public Health, Emergency and Disaster Management, Nutrition and Wellness, and Public Health Informatics. Students also complete general education and elective requirements to support a well-rounded education. Graduates are prepared for roles such as community health workers, public health educators, health services managers, or safety technicians. Learning outcomes emphasize healthcare systems analysis, ethical decision-making, global public health awareness, and efficient healthcare management planning—skills highly valued across the public health field.
University of Arizona
https://online.arizona.edu/programs/undergraduate/online-bachelor-science-public-health-bs
Tucson, Arizona
Customizable Curriculum and Flexible Online Format
The University of Arizona offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Public Health through its Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health—the only CEPH-accredited public health school in Arizona. Designed to provide a robust understanding of public health principles and practice, this program integrates coursework with experiential fieldwork that translates classroom knowledge into real-world application. Students progress toward graduation by first achieving Advanced Standing, a non-competitive process requiring a minimum 2.0 GPA and declaration of a degree emphasis. The program includes prerequisites, general education, and major courses with flexibility to tailor the experience by choosing one of six emphasis areas such as Global Health, Environmental and Occupational Health, or One Health. Each emphasis accounts for at least 12 units of focused study.
Outcomes, Certificates, and Costs
Students must complete 120 total credit units to graduate, including upper-division electives and general education requirements. The curriculum offers certificates in specialty areas such as Addiction and Substance Use, Global Health, and Emergency Preparedness, which can fulfill elective requirements. Internships are a key component, requiring prerequisites and approval to enroll. This program equips graduates with skills in community health promotion, disease prevention, and health systems leadership. While specific tuition rates are not listed on the program page, Arizona Online typically charges per-credit tuition that can be estimated using the university’s tuition calculator. This degree prepares students for immediate employment in public health or advanced study in the field.
Oregon State University
https://ecampus.oregonstate.edu/online-degrees/undergraduate/public-health/
Corvallis, OR
Holistic Approach and Accredited Curriculum
Oregon State University’s online Bachelor of Science in Public Health is delivered through its CEPH-accredited College of Health and emphasizes improving health across the lifespan. Students explore public health from a holistic perspective, learning about health disparities, behavioral programs, and administrative aspects of health systems. The degree requires a minimum of 180 quarter credits, including OSU’s general education core, major coursework, and a 12-credit specialization in either Health Management and Policy or Health Promotion and Health Behavior. Courses cover a wide range of topics such as health data analysis, epidemiology, health policy, and disease prevention.
Support Services, Internship, and Tuition
The program requires a 360-hour internship, providing practical experience in real-world settings. OSU also offers an Accelerated Master’s Platform, allowing students to begin earning credits toward a Master of Public Health while completing their undergraduate degree. Ecampus students receive extensive support, including tutoring, success coaching, and career guidance. All online learners earn the same diploma as on-campus students. Tuition is $366 per credit for the 2024–25 academic year, and a tuition calculator is available to estimate total program costs. Transfer credits are accepted, with a minimum of 45 of the final 75 credits required to be completed at OSU to meet residency requirements.
Southern New Hampshire University
https://www.snhu.edu/online-degrees/bachelors/bs-in-public-health
Manchester, NH
Career-Focused Curriculum and Flexible Online Learning
Southern New Hampshire University offers an online Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Health designed to prepare students for impactful careers in health promotion and disease prevention. The 120-credit program is structured around key disciplines such as epidemiology, healthcare delivery systems, program planning, and population health. It includes a capstone project that integrates all major learning outcomes. SNHU’s curriculum also includes general education through “The Commons,” which fosters skills in communication, ethics, problem-solving, and cultural awareness. The program can be completed at your own pace, and students can transfer in up to 90 credits, significantly shortening time to graduation.
Affordable Tuition and Practical Outcomes
SNHU maintains one of the lowest online tuition rates at $330 per credit for standard students and $231 per credit for active-duty military and spouses. This translates to a full program cost of $39,600 before transfer credits, with the potential to reduce that to $9,900 depending on previous education. Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in public health, including health education, epidemiology, and program evaluation at the local, national, or global level. SNHU emphasizes real-world application and evidence-based strategies, making it a strong choice for students pursuing careers that create tangible health outcomes in diverse communities.
University of Cincinnati
https://online.uc.edu/undergraduate-degrees/bs-public-health/
Cincinnati, OH
Customizable Public Health Education with Real-World Training
The University of Cincinnati offers a 120-credit online Bachelor of Science in Public Health that allows students to tailor their education through three unique concentrations: Health Promotion & Education, Health Administration, and Global Health. Each concentration prepares students for specific career paths and includes courses in epidemiology, health policy, behavioral sciences, and communication. The program is designed for both first-time students and transfer students (up to 90 credits accepted), with selective admission criteria including GPA requirements and transcript submission. A senior-year internship is integrated into the curriculum, offering valuable hands-on experience before graduation.
Tuition Transparency and Comprehensive Learning Outcomes
Tuition at UC is approximately $583 per credit hour for Ohio residents and $598 for non-residents, with a full-time semester cost nearing $7,000. The university emphasizes interdisciplinary learning and practical skill-building, with expected outcomes such as designing evidence-based health programs, navigating healthcare systems, and advocating for health equity. Depending on the chosen concentration, students may also qualify to pursue certifications like the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Overall, UC’s program is ideal for those seeking a robust, versatile public health education backed by a well-rounded academic and experiential foundation.
University of Alabama
https://online.ua.edu/degrees/bachelor-of-science-with-a-major-in-public-health/
Tuscaloosa, AL
Comprehensive Online Public Health Degree
The University of Alabama offers a fully online Bachelor of Science with a major in Public Health, designed to equip students with foundational knowledge in human health, wellness promotion, and disease prevention. The 120-credit hour program includes 54 credits dedicated to the major, with students choosing between two concentrations: Health Education and Promotion or Health Professions. Key courses cover areas such as health behavior theory, epidemiology, environmental health, and health disparities. Both concentrations offer applied learning experiences, such as a community health internship or a capstone project. Students are also eligible to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) and Certified Public Health (CPH) exams upon completion. This program can serve as a stepping stone for careers in public health or further graduate study.
Accessible Admission and Affordable Tuition
Applications for this online degree are accepted year-round, and ACT/SAT scores are not required through Fall 2024. Admission requirements vary based on whether students have fewer or more than 24 college-level credits, with a minimum GPA of 2.0 for transfer eligibility. The distance learning tuition rate is $399 per credit hour, with most courses being 3 credits, bringing the estimated total tuition to approximately $47,880 (not including fees). The program also offers a variety of scholarships and grants to support students financially. With flexible scheduling, strong academic support, and career-aligned outcomes, the University of Alabama’s BS in Public Health provides a practical path for students passionate about improving community health.
Texas State University
https://online.txst.edu/degrees/undergraduate/bsph/
San Marcos, Texas
Career-Focused Online Public Health Degree
Texas State University offers a fully online Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) that prepares students to make a measurable impact on community health and wellness. The 120-credit hour program includes 42 general education credits, 33 core public health credits, elective courses, and a required minor (18–24 credit hours). Students can tailor their learning with electives in areas like health disparities, school health, substance abuse, and worksite health promotion. Courses span essential topics such as epidemiology, environmental health, health behavior theory, and public health leadership. A professional development course and optional internship further enhance students’ readiness to enter the public health field. Graduates are prepared to sit for certifications including Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES), Certified in Public Health (CPH), and Certified Wellness Practitioner (CWP).
Flexible Schedule and Affordable Tuition
The BSPH is designed with working professionals in mind, offering multiple start dates and 8-week course formats for maximum flexibility. Admission requirements include a high school diploma, official transcripts, and an online application. Tuition is competitively priced at $404 per credit hour or $1,212 per course, making the estimated total tuition around $48,480 for students completing all 120 credit hours (excluding fees). Texas State also encourages students to transfer previously earned credits to reduce overall costs. With a strong curriculum, optional internship opportunities, and certification readiness, the online BSPH at Texas State University is a practical pathway for those aiming to lead and serve in diverse public health settings.
How Long to Pay For the Degree?
Choosing an online Bachelor of Science in Public Health is an investment in a rewarding career that can make a real difference in communities. But it’s also a financial commitment. Based on an average tuition cost of $50,000 (across the programs featured above) and an average starting salary of $50,000 for public health graduates, here’s how long it would take to pay off your student loans depending on how much of your income you dedicate to repayment:
| % of Salary Used for Repayment | Annual Payment | Estimated Payoff Time |
|---|---|---|
| 5% | $2,500 | 20 years |
| 10% | $5,000 | 10 years |
| 15% | $7,500 | 6.7 years |
| 20% | $10,000 | 5 years |
These estimates assume no interest for simplicity, though actual repayment timelines may vary based on loan terms, interest rates, and your personal financial situation. With scholarships, transfer credits, and tuition discounts—especially for military students—many students can reduce the total cost and shorten their repayment period even further. By strategically choosing an affordable and flexible program, you can graduate ready to serve and lead in the public health sector without long-term financial strain.