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Aarushi
Student
Portland, Oregon
4
Questions
Asked
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1) How do you know if public health is for you? 2) Is it a low-stress job with high demand? 3) What will be the best minor option to pair up with a public health major? 4) what type of careers are there in public health?
I am a senior in high school and narrowed down to 2 possible career paths to focus on in college.
Thank you!
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5 answers
Doc Frick
Career Coach and Mentor
1616
Answers
California, CA
Updated
Doc’s Answer
Aarushi if you’re thinking about getting a degree in public health, then you might be wondering what type of degree you should go for. The great thing about getting a degree in public health — or a related field like biology or health sciences — is that any degree can set you on a pathway for success. Whether or not you continue your studies depends on what type of position you’re looking to get it.
ASSOCIATE DEGREE
An associate degree in public health is a two-year degree in which you’ll get a decent introduction to public health and what a career in this field will look like. You’ll take some of the core subjects in this area. Though most public health jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree, an associate in public health is a good opportunity to see if this is the career you want to go into, without spending too much time and money in case it ends up not being the right fit. At the very least, you’ll get some meaningful experience and may be able to land an entry-level job in public health.
BACHELOR'S DEGREE
A bachelor’s degree in public health is a four-year degree where you can explore different areas of public health, on top of building expertise and a strong understanding of how to do a job in public health. Some universities may offer both a BS in public health and a BA in public health. The former might focus more on research, epidemiology, and natural sciences, while the latter might focus more on social sciences, community health, etc. This degree will allow you to get a decent job in the public health sector, and prepare you for a graduate degree if that’s what you decide to do.
CAREERS AVAILABLE IN PUBLIC HEALTH
Now that you know how vast the public health field is, you’re probably wondering what type of career paths you can look forward to if you decide to pursue a degree in this field! There are many different types of careers available, and within these, more specific jobs to choose from.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
Environmental scientists are tasked with a range of duties, including land reclamation and developing regulations and plans to curtail air and soil pollution. Additionally, they take charge of data collection and dissemination of information to governmental bodies, businesses, and the public. While a significant number are employed by state and local governments, many also work as consultants. They work in laboratories, offices, and conduct field work.
• DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
A bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, engineering, or public health may be sufficient for certain entry-level jobs in environmental sciences (such as field analysts or research assistants). For more advanced careers, a master’s degree is often required. For those aspiring to pursue a career in environmental sciences, their curriculum should encompass foundational subjects like biology, geology, and physics, in addition to more specialized courses such as waste management, fluid mechanics, data analysis, and computer modeling. Communication and interpersonal skills can be useful to environmental scientists as many roles require individuals to explain findings to a variety of people. Additionally, analytical thinking and problem solving can be powerful tools.
COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER
The main role of this position is to talk with community members about health concerns and provide education regarding available healthcare services. They also organize community outreach programs and advocate for community and individual health needs.
• DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor's Degree in Health Education, Health Promotion or a related field is typically required.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Research assistants can conduct literature reviews, collect and analyze data related to public health, prepare materials to be submitted to foundations and grant agencies and assist researchers in conducting research related to public health.
•DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Associate degree and on-the-job training. Some positions may require a Bachelor's Degree in Public Health or a related field
ASSOCIATE DEGREE
An associate degree in public health is a two-year degree in which you’ll get a decent introduction to public health and what a career in this field will look like. You’ll take some of the core subjects in this area. Though most public health jobs typically require a bachelor’s degree, an associate in public health is a good opportunity to see if this is the career you want to go into, without spending too much time and money in case it ends up not being the right fit. At the very least, you’ll get some meaningful experience and may be able to land an entry-level job in public health.
BACHELOR'S DEGREE
A bachelor’s degree in public health is a four-year degree where you can explore different areas of public health, on top of building expertise and a strong understanding of how to do a job in public health. Some universities may offer both a BS in public health and a BA in public health. The former might focus more on research, epidemiology, and natural sciences, while the latter might focus more on social sciences, community health, etc. This degree will allow you to get a decent job in the public health sector, and prepare you for a graduate degree if that’s what you decide to do.
CAREERS AVAILABLE IN PUBLIC HEALTH
Now that you know how vast the public health field is, you’re probably wondering what type of career paths you can look forward to if you decide to pursue a degree in this field! There are many different types of careers available, and within these, more specific jobs to choose from.
ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENTIST
Environmental scientists are tasked with a range of duties, including land reclamation and developing regulations and plans to curtail air and soil pollution. Additionally, they take charge of data collection and dissemination of information to governmental bodies, businesses, and the public. While a significant number are employed by state and local governments, many also work as consultants. They work in laboratories, offices, and conduct field work.
• DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
A bachelor’s degree in environmental sciences, biology, chemistry, engineering, or public health may be sufficient for certain entry-level jobs in environmental sciences (such as field analysts or research assistants). For more advanced careers, a master’s degree is often required. For those aspiring to pursue a career in environmental sciences, their curriculum should encompass foundational subjects like biology, geology, and physics, in addition to more specialized courses such as waste management, fluid mechanics, data analysis, and computer modeling. Communication and interpersonal skills can be useful to environmental scientists as many roles require individuals to explain findings to a variety of people. Additionally, analytical thinking and problem solving can be powerful tools.
COMMUNITY HEALTH WORKER
The main role of this position is to talk with community members about health concerns and provide education regarding available healthcare services. They also organize community outreach programs and advocate for community and individual health needs.
• DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Bachelor's Degree in Health Education, Health Promotion or a related field is typically required.
RESEARCH ASSISTANT
Research assistants can conduct literature reviews, collect and analyze data related to public health, prepare materials to be submitted to foundations and grant agencies and assist researchers in conducting research related to public health.
•DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
Associate degree and on-the-job training. Some positions may require a Bachelor's Degree in Public Health or a related field
Your advice was so helpful!
Aarushi
Hakeem Ola Saka
Freelancer
73
Answers
Maryland Heights, Missouri
Updated
Hakeem Ola’s Answer
If you're passionate about improving community health and enjoy problem-solving, public health could be a great fit for you. The field offers a range of career options, from epidemiology to health education, and is in high demand. While some roles can be stressful, particularly in crisis situations, others offer a more balanced work environment. Pairing your public health major with a minor like biology, sociology, or data science can enhance your career prospects. Ultimately, public health allows you to make a meaningful impact on a broad scale, whether you're working locally or globally. Learn more on this video link:https://share.synthesia.io/04c17b9a-6378-4db5-baae-32c0ef8c0b27
I appreciate you taking the time to answer this.
Aarushi
James Constantine Frangos
Consultant Dietitian & Software Developer since 1972 => Nutrition Education => Health & Longevity => Self-Actualization.
6357
Answers
Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia
Updated
James Constantine’s Answer
Hello Aarushi!
1) How do you know if public health is for you?
Determining whether public health is the right field for you involves introspection and exploration of your interests, values, and skills. Here are some key considerations:
Interest in Health and Community: If you have a passion for improving community health outcomes, preventing disease, and promoting wellness, public health may be a good fit. Reflect on your experiences—have you volunteered in health-related settings or participated in community service projects focused on health?
Desire to Make an Impact: Public health professionals work to address systemic issues that affect population health. If you are motivated by the idea of making a difference at a community or societal level rather than just focusing on individual patient care, this field could be appealing.
Analytical Skills: Public health often involves data analysis, research, and evaluation of programs. If you enjoy working with statistics and interpreting data to inform decisions, this aspect of public health might resonate with you.
Collaboration and Communication: Public health professionals frequently collaborate with various stakeholders including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations. Strong communication skills are essential for educating the public and advocating for policies that promote health.
Adaptability: The field of public health is dynamic; it requires professionals to adapt to emerging challenges such as pandemics or environmental changes. If you thrive in changing environments and can think critically under pressure, this may indicate a good fit.
2) Is it a low-stress job with high demand?
Public health careers can vary widely in terms of stress levels depending on the specific role and work environment. Here are some factors to consider:
High Demand: The demand for public health professionals has been increasing due to growing awareness of global health issues, the need for pandemic preparedness (as highlighted by COVID-19), and ongoing challenges such as obesity, mental health crises, and environmental concerns. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many roles within public health are projected to grow faster than average over the next decade.
Stress Levels: While some positions may offer lower stress levels—such as those focused on education or policy advocacy—others can be quite demanding. For instance, roles involved in emergency response or epidemiology during outbreaks can be high-pressure situations requiring quick decision-making.
Work Environment: The stress level also depends on your work environment (government agency vs. non-profit vs. private sector) and your specific responsibilities within that role. Understanding these nuances will help gauge what kind of stress levels you might encounter.
3) What will be the best minor option to pair up with a public health major?
Choosing a minor that complements your public health major can enhance your skill set and marketability after graduation. Here are some strong options:
Health Education: This minor focuses on teaching individuals about healthy lifestyles and disease prevention strategies—skills that align closely with many public health initiatives.
Environmental Science: Given the significant impact of environmental factors on community health (e.g., pollution), this minor provides valuable insights into how environmental policies affect population well-being.
Sociology or Psychology: Understanding social behaviors or mental processes can greatly enhance your ability to design effective interventions aimed at improving community health outcomes.
Data Science or Statistics: As data-driven decision-making becomes more prevalent in public health, having strong analytical skills will make you more competitive in fields like epidemiology or biostatistics.
Ultimately, choose a minor that aligns with your career goals while also piquing your interest.
4) What type of careers are there in public health?
Public Health offers diverse career paths across various sectors. Some common careers include:
Epidemiologist: Studies patterns of diseases within populations to identify risk factors and develop strategies for prevention.
Public Health Educator: Develops programs aimed at educating communities about healthy practices.
Health Policy Analyst: Researches policies affecting healthcare access and quality; advocates for changes based on evidence.
Biostatistician: Applies statistical methods to analyze data related to public health issues.
Environmental Health Specialist: Focuses on how environmental factors impact human health; works on regulations regarding air quality, water safety, etc.
Global Health Professional: Works internationally addressing global disparities in healthcare access and disease prevention.
These roles require varying levels of education—from bachelor’s degrees for entry-level positions to master’s degrees or higher for specialized roles—and offer opportunities across government agencies, non-profits, healthcare organizations, academia, and private industry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Provides comprehensive labor market information including job outlooks for various professions within public health.
American Public Health Association
Offers resources about careers in public health along with educational pathways necessary for different roles.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A leading national public agency providing insights into current trends in public health employment needs based on ongoing research initiatives.
God Bless,
JC.
1) How do you know if public health is for you?
Determining whether public health is the right field for you involves introspection and exploration of your interests, values, and skills. Here are some key considerations:
Interest in Health and Community: If you have a passion for improving community health outcomes, preventing disease, and promoting wellness, public health may be a good fit. Reflect on your experiences—have you volunteered in health-related settings or participated in community service projects focused on health?
Desire to Make an Impact: Public health professionals work to address systemic issues that affect population health. If you are motivated by the idea of making a difference at a community or societal level rather than just focusing on individual patient care, this field could be appealing.
Analytical Skills: Public health often involves data analysis, research, and evaluation of programs. If you enjoy working with statistics and interpreting data to inform decisions, this aspect of public health might resonate with you.
Collaboration and Communication: Public health professionals frequently collaborate with various stakeholders including government agencies, non-profits, and community organizations. Strong communication skills are essential for educating the public and advocating for policies that promote health.
Adaptability: The field of public health is dynamic; it requires professionals to adapt to emerging challenges such as pandemics or environmental changes. If you thrive in changing environments and can think critically under pressure, this may indicate a good fit.
2) Is it a low-stress job with high demand?
Public health careers can vary widely in terms of stress levels depending on the specific role and work environment. Here are some factors to consider:
High Demand: The demand for public health professionals has been increasing due to growing awareness of global health issues, the need for pandemic preparedness (as highlighted by COVID-19), and ongoing challenges such as obesity, mental health crises, and environmental concerns. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), many roles within public health are projected to grow faster than average over the next decade.
Stress Levels: While some positions may offer lower stress levels—such as those focused on education or policy advocacy—others can be quite demanding. For instance, roles involved in emergency response or epidemiology during outbreaks can be high-pressure situations requiring quick decision-making.
Work Environment: The stress level also depends on your work environment (government agency vs. non-profit vs. private sector) and your specific responsibilities within that role. Understanding these nuances will help gauge what kind of stress levels you might encounter.
3) What will be the best minor option to pair up with a public health major?
Choosing a minor that complements your public health major can enhance your skill set and marketability after graduation. Here are some strong options:
Health Education: This minor focuses on teaching individuals about healthy lifestyles and disease prevention strategies—skills that align closely with many public health initiatives.
Environmental Science: Given the significant impact of environmental factors on community health (e.g., pollution), this minor provides valuable insights into how environmental policies affect population well-being.
Sociology or Psychology: Understanding social behaviors or mental processes can greatly enhance your ability to design effective interventions aimed at improving community health outcomes.
Data Science or Statistics: As data-driven decision-making becomes more prevalent in public health, having strong analytical skills will make you more competitive in fields like epidemiology or biostatistics.
Ultimately, choose a minor that aligns with your career goals while also piquing your interest.
4) What type of careers are there in public health?
Public Health offers diverse career paths across various sectors. Some common careers include:
Epidemiologist: Studies patterns of diseases within populations to identify risk factors and develop strategies for prevention.
Public Health Educator: Develops programs aimed at educating communities about healthy practices.
Health Policy Analyst: Researches policies affecting healthcare access and quality; advocates for changes based on evidence.
Biostatistician: Applies statistical methods to analyze data related to public health issues.
Environmental Health Specialist: Focuses on how environmental factors impact human health; works on regulations regarding air quality, water safety, etc.
Global Health Professional: Works internationally addressing global disparities in healthcare access and disease prevention.
These roles require varying levels of education—from bachelor’s degrees for entry-level positions to master’s degrees or higher for specialized roles—and offer opportunities across government agencies, non-profits, healthcare organizations, academia, and private industry.
Top 3 Authoritative Sources Used:
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics
Provides comprehensive labor market information including job outlooks for various professions within public health.
American Public Health Association
Offers resources about careers in public health along with educational pathways necessary for different roles.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
A leading national public agency providing insights into current trends in public health employment needs based on ongoing research initiatives.
God Bless,
JC.
This was really helpful! Thank you!
Aarushi
Jenna Venturo
Biomedical Engineering
5
Answers
Buffalo, New York
Updated
Jenna’s Answer
1) Trying out a role in public health through shadowing is a fantastic way to gauge if it's the perfect fit for you. You might want to ask yourself some key questions like, can I picture myself thriving in this field, do my passions align with this career path, and can I imagine myself happily doing this job every single day or will I yearn for something more?
2) The need for health workers is soaring. Whether the job is low stress or not really depends on you. The kind of stress you might experience can stem from factors like the workload, the work environment, and how well you take care of yourself, among other potential stress triggers.
3) An excellent minor to consider could be a branch of science like biology, chemistry, physiology, psychology, or sociology. Alternatively, you could even think about pursuing a minor in social work.
4) The field of public health offers a wide array of career paths to explore. What you choose to do with your degree is entirely based on your personal aspirations, goals, and values. These will guide you in finding the most suitable career for you.
2) The need for health workers is soaring. Whether the job is low stress or not really depends on you. The kind of stress you might experience can stem from factors like the workload, the work environment, and how well you take care of yourself, among other potential stress triggers.
3) An excellent minor to consider could be a branch of science like biology, chemistry, physiology, psychology, or sociology. Alternatively, you could even think about pursuing a minor in social work.
4) The field of public health offers a wide array of career paths to explore. What you choose to do with your degree is entirely based on your personal aspirations, goals, and values. These will guide you in finding the most suitable career for you.
Thank you for giving me advice.
Aarushi
Peter Dachille, MS Ed
Academic Advising
9
Answers
Westfield, New Jersey
Updated
Peter’s Answer
In my experience , students with your major typically tie in Sociology, Psychology, Pre-Law/Law and Policy, Business Administration/HR as a minor.
Minors, even if optional, are a great way to strengthen and broaden your major experience to work in multiple contexts of an industry. If mandatory, embrace this requirement as the opportunity to dedicate this lower-impact segment of your program, and even to use necessary electives to targeted, relevant leaning outcomes.
Minors, even if optional, are a great way to strengthen and broaden your major experience to work in multiple contexts of an industry. If mandatory, embrace this requirement as the opportunity to dedicate this lower-impact segment of your program, and even to use necessary electives to targeted, relevant leaning outcomes.
This was helpful! Thanks!
Aarushi