Key Information:
- UNC Chapel Hill and University of Michigan are top schools for a bachelor’s in Public Health.
- The best public health degree programs offer a range of specializations, including epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and biostatistics.
- Accredited programs ensure high educational standards and eligibility for various certifications and licensure, which are crucial for career advancement in public health.
- Graduates of these programs are well-prepared for careers in government agencies, healthcare organizations, non-profits, and international health organizations.
The Public Health field is incredibly diverse. From Health Education to Emergency Management Specializations, you can pick and choose from many different career options. Even if you plan on working outside the general scope of the Public Health field, having this type of degree will add depth to your resume that will allow you to work in areas where the two fields blend together. This is when it is sometimes beneficial to have a dual degree. Knowing both fields will give you a definite advantage. You are able to use what you learned from both degree programs to your fullest advantage.
A Public Health major will provide you with the skills you need to take on new challenges and responsibilities. Many people begin their career by finding an entry-level position and then basing their future employment opportunities on that. Once they begin working, however, it becomes difficult to make time to return to school to complete their education. This is where enrolling in an online Public Health degree program is so advantageous. Online courses make it easier to stay on the fast track when it comes to advancing up the ranks toward a supervisory or managerial position.
Methodology: Ranking the Best Public Health Degrees
The editors of Bachelor’s Degree Center are serious about ranking reputable, accredited colleges and universities so prospective students know what they’re getting. The programs ranked among the best public health degrees are judged according to data from IPEDS and Niche. Criteria include cost, potential salary, and student reviews.
1. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers a BS in Public Health. This program is one of the best public health degrees for undergraduate students. It includes concentrations in biostatics, environmental health sciences, health policy and management, and nutrition. UNC undergrads typically apply to their majors during sophomore year because each major requires specific prerequisites. The public health programs here are challenging but very worth the effort.
UNC Chapel Hill is a well-known school that sits on a beautiful campus. This school’s commitment to the community makes it a great place to learn about public health. The university encourages open-mindedness and asking questions, so students here learn to embrace and discuss new ideas. These facts, combined with the challenging academics, mean that students learn to take their careers and their own imaginations to the next level.
What We Like: The Gillings School of Public Health at UNC is the #1 ranked public school of public health in the US.
Degree: BS in Public Health
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill BS in Public Health
2. University of Michigan
The University of Michigan has two of the best public health degrees available: the BS in Public Health Sciences and the BA in Community and Global Public Health. Both of these programs take an interdisciplinary approach to public health topics. Students who gradate from these programs can talk about a wide variety of public health topics and enter all kinds of public health jobs. They learn not just about the scientific basis of health but how things like ethics and culture play into the field.
The University of Michigan combines old traditions with new innovations. It’s a place of challenge and exploration where students can reach their fullest potential. The school thrives in areas like science and medicine just as much as it thrives in the arts and other creative areas. This school was founded before Michigan even became a state, and it has a long history of innovation that has helped the community for years.
What We Like: The University of Michigan is the #1 ranked public university in the US, according to QS World University Rankings.
Degree: BS in Public Health Sciences or BA in Community and Global Public Health
3. Texas A&M University
Texas A&M University’s BS in Public Health exists to improve overall public health, both in Texas and in the wider world. This vision is just one reason why Texas A&M has one of the best public health degrees for today’s students. Students in this program learn about the public health issues that mean the most to Texas citizens. The practice-based program provides a lot of hands-on training for its students. Texas A&M’s public health program has been recommended both for those who want a pre-professional degree and for those who want to apply to a health-related field in graduate school.
Texas A&M is a leading school when it comes to science and technology, which makes it a great place to learn about public health and related topics. Research from A&M has produced technology for the healthcare field and beyond. This school has become home to many future scientists, doctors, and other healthcare-focused students. It’s helped the Texas community for many years. In fact, it was the state’s first public university.
What We Like: Texas A&M University has the second-largest student body in the United States, and it has the resources to support every student.
Degree: BS in Public Health
4. University of Texas at Austin
At the University of Texas at Austin, the BS in Public Health covers all of the core areas of public health. It also comes with the option to choose a specialization, which is just one of the reasons why UT Austin has one of the best public health degrees in the US. This program prepares students to take on all kinds of entry-level jobs in the field. The challenging courses help students gain what it takes to become leaders in public health as they support the Austin community, Texas, and beyond.
UT Austin is one of the largest, most renowned public research universities in the United States. It has no shortage of talent or resources, so students can rest assure that they’ll always get what they need. The big city location means lots of opportunities, both before and after graduation. It’s a great place to start a career and make connections. UT Austin uses hands-on, research-based learning, so students can gain confidence in their knowledge.
What We Like: According to US News and World Report, UT Austin is one of the top 20 public universities in the United States.
Degree: BS in Public Health
University of Texas at Austin BS in Public Health
5. University of Florida
The University of Florida offers a Bachelor of Public Health (BPH). In this program, students learn all of the core skills they need to get started in a public health career. Many people have said that UF offers one of the best public health degrees in the US. It emphasizes public health knowledge as well as the leadership and communication skills that students will need to bring their knowledge to communities. The program covers community healthcare as well as individual healthcare, so students can prepare themselves for virtually any public health situation.
The University of Florida is a research university dedicated to innovation and using discovery to help the community. Students benefit from this innovation by getting the latest tools and techniques at their fingertips in the classroom. UF’s learning approaches also provide flexibility. This school emphasizes leadership and confidence, helping students leverage their own abilities.
What We Like: UF’s freshman class of 2020 had an average GPA of 4.5.
Degree: Bachelor of Public Health (BPH)
University of Florida Bachelor of Public Health
6. University of California, San Diego
The University of California, San Diego’s BS in Public Health is all about helping communities thrive. It’s one of the best public health degrees available today. In this program, students learn how to improve public health by providing education, helping people gain better access to healthcare, and examine the biggest causes of health disparities. The program also focuses on issues such as rising healthcare costs, disease prevention, and more. This dynamic major provides a lot of meaningful experiences.
UC San Diego doesn’t just serve its own students. It also serves the wider community. For its own students, it offers challenging academics that help learners reach beyond their comfort zones and expand their horizons. It’s a top university for research and innovation. Plus, the San Diego campus provides beautiful views and access to some of the most talented faculty members in the world.
What We Like: UC San Diego is America’s top public research university for social mobility, research, and public service.
Degree: BS in Public Health
University of California, San Diego BS in Public Health
7. University of Georgia
At the University of Georgia, students can earn either a BS in Environmental Health or Health Promotion. Both programs are counted among the best public health programs in the country. The environmental health degree focuses on how a community’s surroundings can impact their health. The health promotion degree focuses on spreading awareness and education. Both programs impart the skills and knowledge that students will need to succeed in a public health career.
The University of Georgia is known as the “birthplace of public higher education in America.” It continues that tradition by meeting the academic needs of today’s students, using innovation to focus on the biggest challenges of today. This school may be old, but it’s always growing and evolving. Students here don’t just get learning opportunities. They also get hands-on experiences and chances to sharpen their leadership skills. The University of Georgia is a leader in science and technology.
What We Like: The University of Georgia has been ranked among the Top 5 universities in the United States.
Degree: BS in Environmental Health or Health Promotion
University of Georgia BS in Environmental Health or Health Promotion
8. University of California, Irvine
At the University of California, Irvine, students can earn either BS in Public Health or BA in Public Health Policy. These majors are quickly growing and evolving to meet today’s most pressing public health needs, which is one of the reasons why they are two of the best public health degrees. Courses include both core classes and specialty classes. Students can also take advantage of study abroad opportunities, so they can see public health in action around the world.
UC Irvine is the youngest member of the Association of American University. As young as it is, it’s accomplished a lot in its short time as a university. It provides the same resources and benefits as the main University of California campus. It has also produced Nobel Laureates. UC Irvine produces a lot of innovation, particularly in the areas of science and technology. Plus, its location in a thriving city means a lot of career opportunities for Irvine graduations.
What We Like: UCI is the #8 public research university in the US, according to US News and World Report.
Degree: BS in Public Health or BA in Public Health Policy
University of California, Irvine BS in Public Health or BA in Public Health Policy
9. Rutgers University
The BS in Public Health from Rutgers University is one of the best public health degrees. It prepares students for all sorts of entry-level careers in the public healthcare field. Students learn key public health topics such as disease prevention and community education. The program focuses especially on underserved communities and the health issues that impact these communities the most.
Rutgers University is unique because it thrives in both the arts and the sciences. This school is known for providing excellent education across the state of New Jersey. It’s focused especially on research. In fact, it’s a top-ranked public research university. As a result of its research and innovation, Rutgers University is raising up leaders to serve New Jersey and the rest of the world.
What We Like: Rutgers is the #1 university in the world for disability and employment research, a subject that should interest students who want to go into public health.
Degree: BS in Public Health
BS in Public Health — Rutgers University
10. University of Southern California
The University of Southern California offers two public health degrees: One is a BS in Global Health, while the other is a BS in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention. Both degrees provide a well-rounded education that focuses on all aspects of public health, and both degrees are counted amount the best public health degrees. Topics include mental health, financial circumstances, environmental health, and more. Students may also focus on specific areas of study such as HIV/AIDs prevention.
USC is a prestigious private research university. It has challenging classes, hands-on learning, and classroom innovation. This innovation has impacted health and technology around the world, which makes USC a great place for public health students. USC attracts achievers and go-getters, and it helps those achievers and go-getters make connections for after graduation.
What We Like: USC’s 2020 freshman class had 310 National Merit Scholars.
Degree: BS in Global Health, BS in Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
11. The Ohio State University
In Ohio State University’s BS in Public Health, students can focus on either Global Public Health or Epidemiology. Both programs combine many health and wellness disciplines. They help students serve communities and improve health on a community-wide scale. These public health programs are challenging, and the students in these programs get to grow and sharpen their skills. Overall, these programs help people live better, healthier lives, which is why they’re two of the best public health degrees available today.
Ohio State University is a well-respected college with a lovely campus and a thriving student community. This school challenges students and provides meaningful experiences along the way. With the help of Ohio State, many students have developed fulfilling careers. That’s because Ohio State helps turn passions into road maps for success. This school connects students to opportunities, helping them make the most of their resources.
What We Like: US News and World Report has ranked Ohio State #1 for “America’s Best Colleges” in Ohio.
Degree: BS Public Health — Global Public Health or Epidemiology
Ohio State University BS Public Health — Global Public Health or Epidemiology
12. Arizona State University
The BS in Public Health from Arizona State University focuses on reducing disease by educating communities and addressing the health issues that impact those communities the most. Students learn about all of the major public health domains, such as environmental health, disease control, sanitation intervention, and more. In this program, students prepare for their careers by participating in internships, so they get plenty of hands-on experience before graduation. This program prepares learners for a wide range of potential careers, which is part of the reason why Arizona State has one of the best public health degrees.
Arizona State University is known for its innovation, and students get to see this innovation in action in the classroom. This school is also committed to creating a thriving economy in Arizona, producing cutting-edge research, and helping students get the best education possible. Students can leadership skills and flexibility for whatever their future careers may bring. Plus, it provides hands-on experiences that help students gain career confidence.
What We Like: Times Higher Education ranks ASU #1 in the US for making a global impact. ASU has earned many other top rankings as well.
Degree: BS in Public Health
BS in Public Health — Arizona State University
13. Tulane University
The BS in Public Health from Tulane University is one of the best public health degrees. It addresses healthcare needs at a community-wide level. This program focuses on healthcare in communities of all sizes, from neighborhoods to entire countries. It teaches health on a policy level, environmental level, and more. The public health program is one of the fastest-growing programs at Tulane., attracting the attention of students from all over the country
Tulane University began as a medical college, so it has a unique history that focuses on health topics. It blends cutting-edge innovation and bold projects with a small-school feel. Tulane also requires community service from all of its students, so students can use their newly-developed career skills to give back to the community. Tulane is a leader in science fields, including public health. It’s a member of the Association of American Universities, a prestigious group with strict membership requirements.
What We Like: Tulane University is one of the top universities in the United States, according to US News and World Report.
Degree: BS in Public Health
BS in Public Health — Tulane University
14. University of Houston
The University of Houston offers a BS in Health with a Public Health concentration. This program recognizes that there’s an increased demand for public health professionals. It empowers students to view public health from multiple perspectives and impart those perspectives to communities. The program is designed to help students meet the most important healthcare needs in the world today, which is why it’s one of the best public health degrees for those who want a deeply relevant education. The program has three tracks to choose from, so students can customize their education according to their career goals.
The University of Houston thrives in many areas, including science, the arts, and more. It’s a big community of learners benefiting from an excellent education. The University of Houston has cutting edge programs and talented faculty members who help students reach their career goals. Plus, the city of Houston is a great place for students who are looking for career opportunities and networking options.
What We Like: The University of Houston is a Tier One college campus.
Degree: BS in Health — Public Health
University of Houston BS in Health with a Public Health
15. New York University
The BS in Global Public Health from New York University is one of the best public health degrees in the world. One reason is because it comes with 11 concentration options. Those concentrations include nutrition, psychology, global health and the media, and much more. In this public health program, challenging courses help students meet their career goals. Students get a solid foundation of core courses before moving into their concentrations. This program provides preparation for both entry-level jobs and graduate school.
NYU is a well-known and deeply respected university. It has its own school of public health, which means that public health students enjoy many dedicated resources. The public health programs come with all of the main benefits of going to school at NYU, including the big city location. NYU emphasizes critical thinking, leadership, and career connections. It’s the perfect place for students to take advantage of opportunities.
What We Like: NYU’s school of public health maintains top scores from US News and World Report.
Degree: BS Global Public Health — 11 concentrations
BS in Global Public Health — New York University
16. Temple University
Temple University’s BS in Public Health is one of the best public health degrees in the US. It focuses on creating interventions that help communities enjoy healthier lives. The program includes a range of topics that focus on the most pressing public health concerns. In this program, students become strategic thinkers with excellent communication skills. Students also benefit from fieldwork experience.
Temple University is a large research university with a reputation for innovation. It prepares students for fulfilling and exciting careers. Temple University’s Philadelphia location means plenty of opportunities for networking and making career connections. Temple excels in science and health topics, which is why it’s a top location for public health students.
What We Like: Temple researchers are at the forefront of many medical breakthroughs, including breakthroughs in HIV research.
Degree: BS in Public Health
Temple University BS in Public Health
17. University of South Carolina
The University of South Carolina offers a BA and a BS in Public Health. The BA focuses mostly on social and behavioral sciences, while the BS focuses mostly on the natural sciences. Generally, students choose the BA if they want to go into grad school and the BS if they want to go straight into an entry-level job. Either way, both programs rank among the best public health degrees. They both impart core knowledge and specialized skills, and combine in-classroom learning with real-world experiences.
The University of South Carolina emphasizes excellence in learning so that students can reach their fullest potential. This research school values innovation. It also imparts leadership skills so that students can stand out in their fields after graduation. This school is constantly evolving and has been evolving since it was founded over 200 years ago.
What We Like: The University of South Carolina was one of the first public schools in the nation to offer both a BA and a BS in Public Health.
Degree: BA or BS in Public Health
University of South Carolina BA and a BS in Public Health
18. University of Alabama
The BS in Public Health from the University of Alabama emphasizes promoting health practice and preventing disease. It’s one of the best public health degrees in its region. It instills skills that are transferrable across a range of settings, so students can prepare for a variety of career paths. Students may choose from a few concentration options if they want to tailor their degrees to a specific career. For example, the public health education concentration helps students develop leadership and communication skills.
The University of Alabama is a thriving community of scholars and award-winning faculty members. This school focuses both on career readiness and well-rounded academics, so students get the best of both worlds. This challenging education is worth the effort. The University of Alabama carries a passion for “building tomorrow’s legends.” It helps students harness their own passions and turn those passions into rewarding careers.
What We Like: The University of Alabama is recognized as a Very High Research Activity institution.
Degree: BS in Public Health
BS in Public Health — University of Alabama
19. University of Arizona
At the University of Arizona, students can earn either a BS or BA in Public Health. These programs, which are two of the best public health degrees in the region, focus on changing the world through health and wellness. They come with several minor and concentration options, and students can help communities by doing hands-on work as they earn their degrees. As a result, students get to actively build their careers before they graduate.
The University of Arizona is a diverse university where students bring many views and backgrounds to the table. This school is recognized for its value, and students can get a lot for their tuition dollars here. At the same time, the University of Arizona provides a challenging and worthwhile education. It also prepares students for their careers, helping them gain the tools and skills they need for success.
What We Like: The University of Arizona is one of the top 50 schools of public health in the US, according to US News and World Report.
Degree: BS or BA in Public Health
University of Arizona BS or BA in Public Health
20. Saint Louis University
Saint Louis University’s BS in Public Health is one of the best public health degrees for today’s students. It’s a science-focused degree for students who like to see the big picture. This up-to-date education focuses on today’s most important public health issues and challenges. The program includes things topic like social media and its impact on people’s health. Plus, this program is a service-based program, so students can start making a difference right away.
Saint Louis University is a Jesuit school that provides a well-rounded education. Being a Jesuit college, it provides excellent academics and a unique focus on social justice. Students are challenged in the classroom, and they get to blend faith and service into their learning experiences. Plus, Saint Louis University provides great value in its education.
What We Like: Wall Street Journal and Times Higher Education ranked Saint Louis University #6 among Catholic schools.
Degree: BS in Public Health
Saint Louis University BS in Public Health
21. Duquesne University
Duquesne University offers the only bachelor’s in public health program in Pittsburgh, PA, making it pretty important for prospective public health professionals in the area. Duquesne offers both a BS and a BA, depending on the direction students want their career to take — BS for areas like epidemiology and infectious disease, BA for focus on community health or health administration. The option of a more defined program makes Duquesne’s public health bachelor’s one of the top.
Duquesne University is one of the most respected Catholic research universities in the world. With a student body of under 10,000, Duquesne is small enough for student to feel supported and mentored, but large enough (and well-funded enough) to be highly influential in academia and on the job market.
What We Like: Duquesne is the only university founded by members of the Congregation of the Holy Spirit.
Degree: BS or BA in Public Health
Duquesne University BS or BA in Public Health
22. University of Minnesota — Duluth
The University of Minnesota — Duluth offers a BAS in Public Health. This unique degree is counted among the best public health degrees. It prepares students for a range of career options, from working in community settings to pursuing nursing school. Core health topics include nutrition, environmental health, and community health. The program emphasizes communication skills, and it provides an option for a school health education concentration.
The University of Minnesota Duluth values discovery and exploration in education. It provides preparation for the future by helping students harness their current passions and turn their long-term dreams into step-by-step plans. The Duluth campus is smaller than Minnesota’s main campus, but it does provide many of the same resources that the Minnesota campus has to offer.
What We Like: Duluth has earned high rankings for sustainability, arts education, value, and more.
Degree: BAS in Public Health
University of Minnesota — Duluth BAS in Public Health
23. Western Michigan University
Western Michigan University’s BS in Public Health focuses on preventing poor public health outcomes, including pandemics like COVID-19. Because of its contemporary and relevant approach, it’s one of the best public health degrees in the country. The program uses small classes where students get to be a part of a community and get to know their peers. The program also comes with high educational standards and top-quality career preparation.
At Western Michigan, students get the attention and personalization that they need for success. This school provides a career-focused education, and most students are employed very shortly after graduation. This school is one of the nation’s top 100 universities, and with good reason. It helps students prepare for long-term career fulfillment.
What We Like: WMU is ranked #1 in Michigan for graduate earnings.
Degree: BS in Public Health
Western Michigan University BS in Public Health
24. Winona State University
Winona State University offers BS in Public Health with three possible concentrations. It focuses on the essential, critical work of public health and helps students learn how to serve communities in the ways that are needed the most. This program is one of the best public health degrees, focuses on everything from controlling disease outbreaks to creating overall healthier environments. Students in this program enjoy the flexibility to personalize their degree options.
Winona State University boasts a high student success rate. It’s designed to get students to where they want to go. Winona State’s career-focused education empowers students to find employment quickly. Many students become employed very shortly after they graduate. Because most students at Winona State receive financial aid, they get a lot of value for their education.
What We Like: Winona State has been recognized as one of the most affordable colleges in the United States.
Degree: BS in Public Health — 3 concentrations
Winona State University BS in Public Health
25. Western Illinois University
Western Illinois University offers a BS in Public Health. As one of the best public health degrees, this program focuses on core disciplines that range from mental healthcare to epidemiology. Students may choose from several areas of concentration. The program helps students prepare for a wide range of potential careers. All students in this program complete a capstone internship, so they get the hands-on experience they need to develop confidence in their skills.
Western Illinois University helps turn raw potential into a roadmap for career success. It has a low student-to-faculty ratio, so learners get all the help and personalization they need in their educations. This school uses innovative teaching and research that focuses on a wide variety of perspectives. It values community and collaboration in learning.
What We Like: Western Illinois University is a Military-Friendly school.
Degree: BS in Public Health
Western Illinois University BS in Public Health
Why Should I Major in Public Health?
With more and more people returning to college to complete their education, enrolling in a Public Health degree is an excellent choice. It opens the door to future opportunities and will add value to the experience you are already earning. As you continue to move through your degree program, you may be offered opportunities for advancement that would not have otherwise been possible. Having a BS in Public Health will allow you to pick and choose the opportunities that best suit your career goals. It will also have a direct impact on your future earning potential.
With a Bachelor’s degree in Public Health, you can actually begin working in an entry-level position while you are still in school. Once you have your foot in the door, you can begin to look more closely at what other employment opportunities may be available. In some cases, you may be able to start your career in one area and then transition to another area that is better suited to your skills and abilities. The experience you earn in both areas will serve you well throughout your entire career.
How Do I Choose a Bachelor’s in Public Health Degree?
When choosing a Public Health degree program, you will have to take a variety of things into consideration. Understanding your needs and finding a college or university that will offer you what you need to succeed is extremely important. The course material must be of the highest quality if you expect to be able to work within this complicated field. While the field itself is quite diverse in terms of specializations, each specialization is highly focused and very detailed in terms of the type of information that is offered. If you have an idea of what area you want to specialize in, choosing your degree program becomes much easier. If not, take the general courses first and then begin to explore your options.
CAPH accreditation criteria are also an essential component for this type of educational program. Accreditation ensures that the course material meets or exceeds the standards for a chosen industry. CAPH accreditation is required for Public Health occupations that must include a certification. Accreditation is beneficial for several reasons. Not only do students have access to the most up-to-date and accurate course materials, the material is also certified to be the most in-depth and informative.
The choice between online and on-campus degree programs is also something you have to consider. On-campus degrees are restrictive when it comes to time management. A full class schedule can take up most of your time and make it hard to work a full-time job. An online degree program is rather flexible and will allow you to work full-time and also carry a full class schedule. There is no commute time and you are able to study when it is convenient. This allows you to fully commit to your courses without cutting time from your family or other obligations.
Personal choice is also important. Don’t choose a degree program that you don’t like. Look for a Bachelor’s in Public Health degree program that will give you what you need. You should also enjoy taking the classes. It may be hard work, but if you don’t enjoy learning, the courses will be boring and you may not complete your degree. Choose a school and degree program that works for you. That is the best way for you to look forward to completing your goals and moving forward with your career.
Related Rankings:
15 Best Online Bachelor’s in Public Health
