Public Health

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health at the University of Utah provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the core principles and practices essential to improving community health and well-being. This program is designed to prepare students for diverse careers in public health, including roles in health education, health policy, epidemiology, environmental health, and health administration. Throughout their studies, students will explore key topics such as disease prevention, health disparities, health communication, biostatistics, environmental health sciences, and social determinants of health. The curriculum combines foundational coursework with practical experiences, equipping graduates with the analytical, leadership, and communication skills necessary to address complex public health challenges.

Students will have opportunities to engage in research projects, community-based learning, and internships with local health organizations, government agencies, and nonprofit entities. This experiential learning component aims to foster real-world understanding and professional connections that enhance career readiness. The program emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach, integrating knowledge from biological sciences, behavioral sciences, policy analysis, and environmental studies to develop well-rounded public health professionals.

Graduates of the program are prepared to pursue advanced education or certification in public health or related fields, or to enter the workforce directly in positions aimed at improving health outcomes for diverse populations. The University of Utah's public health program benefits from faculty expertise, state-of-the-art facilities, and strong ties to local and global health initiatives, ensuring students receive a rigorous education aligned with current public health needs. Whether students aim to work in community health programs, governmental agencies, or health advocacy organizations, this program offers the foundational knowledge and practical skills necessary to make a positive impact on community health and public policy.

The following courses comprise the MPH curriculum for a total of 45 credit hours. Courses are listed in recommended order (though they do not have to be taken in this order).

Required Courses: 24 credits

First fall semester

First spring semester

Second fall semester

Electives: 15 total credits 

All electives must be pre-approved by advisor or committee chair

Total: 45 credit hours

• Earned an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university with at least a cumulative 3.0 GPA
• Taken a math course in college algebra (Math 1050) or higher and earned a B grade or better
• Graduate Record Examination (GRE)
• Online application ApplyYourself
• All unofficial transcripts must be uploaded (even if the University of Utah already has them and even if you attended the U) Send official transcripts to the University of Utah Admission office directly
• Three (3) letters of recommendation - There is no specific format for recommendation letters
• Statement of Purpose/Personal Statement - not to exceed 500 words
• Sample of publications - when available
• GRE - Department Code 0617, School Code 4853. The GRE is required for candidates without a terminal degree (M.D. or PhD) earned in the United States. GRE scores expire after five years.

International applicants:

• The TOFEL is also required.  It expires after two years from the date test is taken.
• Please note an in-person interview may be required
• Faculty Mentor - Applicants must have an initial faculty mentor from the Division of Public Health before their application is reviewed by the Admissions Committee.
  • Applicants should review the faculty members and their research projects on the Division’s website and contact those with whom they have similar interests.
  • If the faculty mentor agrees, they need to email the academic advisor to notify them of their approval.

The University of Utah offers a range of financing options for students pursuing the Bachelor of Science in Public Health. Students are encouraged to apply for federal financial aid through the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which is the primary source of need-based grants, loans, and work-study opportunities. The university's Office of Financial Aid provides detailed counseling and assistance to help students navigate the application process and identify suitable financial resources. Scholarships specific to public health students are also available, including both merit-based and need-based awards. These scholarships can be obtained through departmental nominations, university-wide competitions, or external organizations partnered with the university.

In addition to scholarships and federal aid, many students finance their studies through state grants and private loans. The Utah State Office of Higher Education administers state grant programs that can supplement federal aid, especially for Utah residents. Part-time employment opportunities on campus are available, enabling students to earn income while studying, and the university’s work-study program supports students with financial need. Furthermore, some students may qualify for tuition payment plans that allow them to spread out their payments over the semester or year, easing financial pressure.

International students seeking a public health degree have different options, including specific scholarships for international students, sponsorships, or institutional aid, although these are more limited. Prospective students are advised to contact the university’s financial aid office directly to receive individualized guidance, including eligibility criteria, application deadlines, and documentation requirements. In general, financing a public health degree at the University of Utah involves a combination of federal aid, scholarships, work opportunities, and personal savings, with the university providing comprehensive support to help students access these resources.

The University of Utah offers a comprehensive program in Public Health that prepares students to address complex health issues affecting diverse populations. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, integrating principles from epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, biostatistics, and behavioral science to develop well-rounded public health professionals. Students in this program gain a solid foundation in core public health concepts, learning to assess community health needs, design interventions, and evaluate program effectiveness. The curriculum includes coursework in research methods, health promotion, disease prevention, and health equity.

Students have access to modern laboratories and community-based learning opportunities that enhance practical skills and real-world experience. The program encourages research and innovation, with faculty involved in cutting-edge projects addressing public health challenges like infectious diseases, chronic illnesses, health disparities, and environmental impacts. Partnerships with local health departments, hospitals, and community organizations provide students exceptional internship opportunities, fostering hands-on learning and professional development.

The university's public health program also offers specializations or concentrations in areas such as environmental health, epidemiology, health policy and management, and behavioral health. Graduates of the program are equipped to pursue careers in public health agencies, non-profit organizations, research institutions, healthcare systems, and governmental bodies. Students are trained to become leaders who can implement effective health policies, promote health equity, and improve community well-being.

The program is committed to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion, ensuring that students can serve and advocate for populations with varied backgrounds and needs. The University of Utah provides generous financial aid packages, scholarships, and support services to assist students throughout their educational journey. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to continue their education in graduate or professional schools or to enter the workforce directly, making meaningful contributions to public health locally, nationally, and globally.