The major at Gannon University combines a foundation in health-related courses, sciences, humanities and social sciences with courses in one or more departments. In addition to the major requirements students will select a concentration track that will build on their personal and career goals and interests. There are three concentration tracks:

The health education/communication/community health track prepares students to pursue careers as health educators. Health educators are professionals who design, conduct and evaluate activities that help improve the health of all people.

The science track is designed for students who desire a broad, strong foundation in the core sciences that also incorporates health-related courses. Students in this track may use elective credits to complete requirements for pre-health professional programs or to prepare to enter graduate programs in health sciences/public health that require a strong science focus. 

The healthcare with management track is designed for students who want to focus their efforts on the business/management side of health care. This track is desirable for students who want to move into staff and administrative positions in the healthcare industry or to continue with graduate education in business or management.

You Will Achieve

Public health program graduates are employed everywhere in health care including: hospitals, health care management organizations, state and county health departments, non-profit organizations, nursing homes, community-based wellness programs, school districts and healthcare accrediting agencies. The public health field offers a wide range of career options.

As professionals, public health alumni work in a variety of capacities to:

• improve access to and advocate for health care for communities.

• prevent and treat substance abuse.

• assure the safety of our food supply.

• contain the spread of infectious diseases.

• deliver smoking cessation programs.

Among the many position titles for public health professionals are: epidemiologist, wellness programs director,  health administrator, health educator, geriatric care manager, school health coordinator, community health worker, lab technician, health education consultant, diabetes educator or community school leader.

The student who pursues a post-baccalaureate degree may enter graduate schools to prepare for careers as a physician, healthcare manager, medical scientist, public health advisor pharmacist, etc.

You Will Earn

Salaries in the field vary depending on the location and type of organization.

• community school leaders: $58,000

• health educators: $42,000

• health service managers: $88,000

• medical scientists: $76,000