Explore a Degree in Public Health Studies at Elon

A degree in public health studies at Elon equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle today’s most pressing health challenges. Our graduates are prepared for diverse careers in public health or further education in related fields.

What is Public Health?

Public health focuses on protecting and improving the health of communities. A degree in public health studies from Elon prepares students to enter field and address global health concerns such as:

  • Infectious diseases, including AIDS, avian flu, and COVID-19
  • Chronic conditions like obesity, diabetes, and heart disease
  • Violence, injury prevention, and health disparities

Public health emphasizes preventive care, equitable access to healthcare, and solutions to improve well-being at local, national, and global levels.

Why Choose a Degree in Public Health Studies at Elon?

Elon’s Department of Public Health Studies provides an interdisciplinary approach to understanding health determinants and interventions. Students engage with population health frameworks and research methods to develop solutions for real-world health challenges.

A Curriculum That Prepares You For Success

A major in public health at Elon includes 28 credit hours of core coursework, covering:

  • Epidemiology – Understanding disease patterns and public health interventions
  • Research Methods and Statistics – Analyzing health data and evidence-based decision-making

Interdisciplinary Focal Areas

Students can choose a specialization in one of two interdisciplinary focal areas:

  • Socio-cultural context of health: Examining how social, economic, and cultural factors influence health
  • Mathematical and biological aspects of health and illness: Integrating quantitative and life sciences perspectives in public health research

This flexibility allows many students to double major in a complementary discipline.

Hands-On Learning and Career Preparation

A degree in public health studies at Elon University provides extensive experiential learning opportunities.

  • Community- and field-based projects: Students engage with local communities to analyze and address public health concerns
  • Public health practicum: A three-week full-time immersive experience during winter or summer terms

Careers in Public Health

Graduates with a degree in public health studies pursue careers in fields such as:

  • Epidemiology and disease prevention
  • Health policy and administration
  • Global and community health
  • Environmental health and occupational safety
  • Health education and promotion

Whether seeking a career in public health or planning for graduate studies, a degree in public health studies at Elon prepares students to make a meaningful impact in healthcare and beyond.

Public Health Studies News