Public Health Administration

Public Health Administration at Indiana University Bloomington is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the field of public health. This program offers a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from health sciences, management, policy, and community health to equip graduates with the skills necessary to address complex public health challenges. Students will explore core topics such as epidemiology, health services management, health policy analysis, ethical considerations in public health, and strategies for disease prevention and health promotion. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, providing opportunities for internships, research projects, and collaboration with public health organizations.

Through a combination of classroom instruction and experiential learning, students develop critical thinking, communication, and leadership skills vital for effective public health administration. The program also focuses on the social determinants of health and health disparities, fostering a commitment to equity and community engagement. Graduates are prepared for diverse careers in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, and private sector companies that require expertise in public health management and policy implementation. The program is designed to be flexible, offering both full-time and part-time options to accommodate the needs of working professionals. With experienced faculty members who are experts in their fields, students gain insights into current public health issues and innovative solutions. Overall, the Public Health Administration program at Indiana University Bloomington strives to produce competent, compassionate leaders capable of making a positive impact on community health and well-being.

MPH Degree Common Course Requirements (22 credits)

Complete each of the following public health core courses (15 cr.):

• SPH-B 589 Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health (3 cr.)
• SPH-E 651 Epidemiology (3 cr.)
• SPH-P 510 Organization and Administration of Public Health Programs (3 cr.)
• SPH-Q 501 Introduction to Statistics in Public Health (3 cr.)
• SPH-V 541 Environmental Health (3 cr.)

Complete each of the following required public health courses. (7 cr.):

• SPH-P 696 Field Experience in Public Health (4 cr.) (prerequisite: GPA of at least 3.0)
• SPH-P 698 MPH Culminating Experience (3 cr.)

Public Health Administration Concentration (21 credits)

Complete each of the following courses. (12 cr.):

• SPH-H 562 Health Program Evaluation (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 661 Legal Issues in Health Promotion (3 cr.) or SPH-R 544 Legal Aspects of Recreation Administration (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 662 Acquiring and Managing External Funds for Health & Human Services (3 cr.)
• SPH-X 561 Finance and Budgeting (3 cr.)

Complete nine credits of graduate-level electives selected in consultation with the student's advisor. (9 cr.):

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health Administration at Indiana University Bloomington requires students to complete a total of approximately 120 credit hours to graduate. The program encompasses a comprehensive curriculum designed to prepare students for leadership roles in public health organizations, agencies, and communities. Core coursework includes foundational classes such as Introduction to Public Health, Health Policy and Management, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, and Health Education. Students are also required to undertake courses in ethics, health law, and health promotion strategies to develop a well-rounded understanding of public health issues.

In addition to the core courses, students must complete a series of electives that allow them to specialize in areas such as health administration, community health, or global health. Practical experience is emphasized through internships and community engagement projects, which provide real-world exposure and professional skill development. The program also includes a capstone project or thesis that requires students to research and analyze a current public health problem, proposing evidence-based solutions.

Students must meet university-wide academic standards, including maintaining a minimum GPA of 2.0, and must satisfy general education requirements covering communication, quantitative reasoning, and diversity. The program encourages interdisciplinary learning, often involving courses from Business, Sociology, and Political Science departments to enhance students' administrative and leadership capabilities. Graduates of the program are expected to demonstrate competencies in public health sciences, management, communication, and ethical decision-making. Continuous updating of course materials ensures alignment with current public health priorities and policies. Overall, the program aims to produce competent public health administrators equipped to improve community health outcomes and adapt to evolving public health challenges.

Scholarships

• Merit-based Graduate Assistantships
• Global Education
• Need-based scholarships
• Graduate Student Federal Work-Study (GFWS) 
• School of Public Health - Bloomington Awards and Scholarships

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health Administration at Indiana University Bloomington is designed to prepare students for leadership and management roles within the public health sector. The program provides a comprehensive curriculum that combines coursework in health policy, health services administration, epidemiology, biostatistics, and community health. Students gain knowledge of the organizational, financial, and legal aspects of public health agencies and organizations, enabling them to effectively oversee public health programs and initiatives. The program emphasizes the development of analytical, communication, and problem-solving skills necessary for addressing complex health issues at the community, state, and national levels. Students have opportunities for experiential learning through internships, research projects, and collaborations with local health organizations, which enhance their practical understanding of public health administration. The faculty members are experienced professionals and researchers dedicated to mentoring students and advancing public health knowledge. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to pursue careers in public health departments, non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, and policy-making bodies. They may also continue their education in graduate and professional schools in public health, health administration, or related fields. Indiana University's commitment to diversity and inclusion is reflected in its efforts to prepare students to work effectively with diverse populations and address health disparities. The program aims to produce graduates who are not only skilled administrators but also advocates for health equity and social justice in healthcare provision. Overall, the Public Health Administration program at Indiana University Bloomington offers a rigorous academic experience grounded in real-world applications, preparing students to make meaningful contributions to public health and community well-being.