The department is committed to preparing students to understand and critically analyze public health issues, to recognize the importance of health disparities, and to understand the local, national and global dimensions of public health issues. The department also fosters intellectual curiosity and creativity in problem solving to effectively address public health challenges in communities and populations, and aims to provide a foundation of core health knowledge enhanced by interdisciplinary study to promote health at all levels for all people.?

The BS in health studies is a general program that prepares students with the health knowledge and skills necessary to understand and navigate the U.S. healthcare system, to be an informed consumer of health information, and to critically assess personal health behavior, health status, and associated health risks.? The health studies program is ideal for those who want to learn more about health and wellness, but who do not wish to pursue preparation in a specific health profession such as public health, health education, or nursing.