Public health is everywhere and in everything, so the field lends itself to my need for change and new challenges. - Tovah Foss, alumni

Throughout the world, people are in greater need of public health professionals than at any time since the beginning of the 20th century. Public Health problems include infectious diseases such as HIV/AIDS, West Nile Virus, and SARS; bioterrorism, environmental and toxic waste hazards; population health problems; and the affordability, accessibility, and quality of healthcare.

These issues and others are global, national, and local front-page health problems. SPCHS provides professionals in the field, and those new to public health, an opportunity to further their education and skills.

SPCHS aims to graduate practitioners and researchers who are competent to address the unique challenges resulting from the intersection of rural and global public health issues.

What is Public Health?

Public health practitioners work to solve the world's most pressing health problems.  They focus on preventing disease by promoting a healthier lifestyle, implement educational programs, develop policies, administer services, conduct research, and regulate health systems as a way to achieve these goals.

What does public health encompass?

Public health practitioners work to improve the health of individuals and communities both locally and globally.  They confront health issues such as controlling infectious disease and reducing environmental hazards.  They also work to develop applications in prevention programs to improve health

What impact does public health have on our lives?

Public health impacts our lives by creating healthier communities, reducing the impact of natural disasters and global epidemics and addressing health disparities

What types of careers are available in the field of public health?

Public Health encompass a wide variety of careers: Epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health administration, community health, and preparedness or preventive medicine.