Public Health
Students may pursue major and minor programs offered in the Department of Kinesiology and Health Studies that will prepare them both for entry-level professional careers and graduate study in Kinesiology, Exercise Science, Athletic Training and Public Health. In addition, our curriculum prepares students for future study in the allied health professions (physical therapy, physician assistant, and occupational therapy).
Contact the Department
Kinesiology & Health Studies Department
Georgetown College
400 East College Street
Georgetown, KY 40324
Career Ideas for Public Health
| AREA | EMPLOYERS | STRATEGIES |
|---|---|---|
BEHAVIORAL SCIENCE AND HEALTH EDUCATION |
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Become familiar with grant writing techniques and grant submission procedures. Supplement curriculum with relevant coursework in social work, sociology, psychology, English, journalism, or public relations. Volunteer to gain experience and develop expertise in a particular area or organization. Learn to work well with diverse populations. Get credentialed as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES). Become involved in health programming on campus. Obtain part-time or summer job with campus health center or wellness coordinator. Develop strong public speaking and presentation skills. |
HEALTH POLICY AND ADMINISTRATION |
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Supplement undergraduate curriculum with courses in business. Earn a master’s degree in Public Health, Business, or a related field. Gain experience through internships and other work experiences. Develop strong computer and technology skills. For positions in lobbying and legislation, some will earn a law degree. Join related professional organizations and build a network of contacts. |
ENVIRONMENTAL AND OCCUPATIONAL HEALTH |
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Plan to take courses in chemistry, biology, geology and other related sciences. Learn to work well with a team of other professionals such as physicians, engineers, and scientists. Read related journals to stay abreast of new trends and legislation in the field. |
EPIDEMIOLOGY |
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Develop a solid background in the biological sciences and mathematics. Gain experience with research. Volunteer to assist professors with research or apply for summer research programs. Find a topic of interest and gain as much knowledge and experience in that area. Earn a master’s or doctoral degree in public health, epidemiology, microbiology, or a related field. |
BIOSTATISTICS |
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Hone skills and interest in mathematics and statistics. Develop strong computing and technology skills. Get involved with research and gain as much experience as possible. |
INTERNATIONAL HEALTH |
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Learn one or more foreign languages. Study or intern abroad. Learn to adapt to cultural and racial diversity. Be willing to live and work in third world nations. |
General Information
- Public health is a broad, multi-disciplinary field. Other specialties within public health include areas such as: women’s health, children’s health, nutrition, bioterrorism, gerontology, and veterinary public health.
- A bachelor’s degree opens the door for entry level opportunities in areas such as health education and promotion and environmental health.
- A master’s degree is typically required for management, administration, research, policy development, biostatistics, and epidemiology.
- A doctoral degree is required to reach the highest levels of administration or research and for university teaching positions.
- Many opportunities in public health exist with government agencies especially: The Department of Health and Human Services, Public Health Service, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, Health Resources and Services Administration, Indian Health Service, National Institutes of Health, and the Agency for Healthcare Research and Quality. Become familiar with government hiring procedures. Obtain a government internship in area of interest.
- Develop a specialty area of interest via supplemental coursework and/or work experience for greater marketability within that specific career field.
- Cultivate personal characteristics such as enthusiasm, dedication, and a positive attitude. Maintain and demonstrate a personal commitment to healthy living.
- Writing, research, and presentation skills are critical in most career fields related to public health.
- Gain experience working with diverse populations across diverse settings. Learn to work well with others individually and in groups.
Helpful Links
- American Public Health Association
- Public Health Jobs
- Association of Schools of Public Health
- American Association for Health Education
- Health Promotion Career Network
- Health Promotion Jobs
- Society for Public Health Education
- National Public Health Leadership Development Network
- National Association of Community Health Center
- National Association of County and City Health Officials
- Council on Education for Public Health
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials
Prepared by the Career Planning staff of Career Services at The University of Tennessee, Knoxville.
(2005) UTK is an EEO/AA/Title VI/Title IX/Section 504/ADA /ADEA Employer
