5 Benefits of Earning a BS in Public Health

1. Job Security

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 16% from 2016 to 2026, much faster than the average for all occupations.¹ This increase in demand for public health professionals is driven by ongoing efforts to improve health outcomes and lower healthcare costs by educating people on healthy behaviors and how to use available healthcare services. Though health educators who obtain a certification can improve their job prospects as they advance in their career, a bachelor’s degree in a relevant field—like a BS in Public Health—is required for most roles.

2. A Variety of Roles

One of the most desirable aspects of pursuing a public health career is the variety of professions that exist within the field. Organizations of all kinds—including hospitals, health departments, child healthcare facilities, and clinics—are looking to find ways to improve quality of care and health outcomes while reducing costs. This means that when you earn your bachelor’s in public health, you will have the opportunity to find a role in the field that aligns with your interests and goals.

3. Helping Others

Like most people in helping professions, individuals who are drawn to the field of public health have a passion to serve and improve community welfare. That’s why one of the most rewarding benefits for public health professionals is knowing that they are making a lasting impression and effecting positive social change. Many public health workers are actively involved in local communities, educating the public and bringing health awareness to underserved populations. Because of this connection to and focus on others, professionals can often see the impact of their work.

4. Improving Global Health

The reach of public health professionals often extends beyond the local community level. In fact, individuals who serve in the field can have a global presence by guiding international programs and public policy aimed toward improving health in developing nations. A career in public health gives you the opportunity to improve health for populations far and wide by addressing global health crises or working on worldwide policy initiatives.

5. Personal Satisfaction

To put it simply, as with any achievement, the level of personal satisfaction experienced when you complete your bachelor’s in public health is unmatched. Earning your degree in a field focused on improving health outcomes is an accomplishment that impacts everyone for the better. Positioning yourself for a successful career in public health will fill you with a sense of pride as you make a difference in the lives of others.