Choosing a career in public health is more than just a professional decision; it's a personal one.
Whether you want to improve access to clean water, educate communities on nutrition, prevent the next global outbreak, or advocate for health equity, a degree in public health opens doors to careers that truly matter.
But what exactly can you do with a public health degree? This guide will help you explore the many directions your career can take, what kind of salary and job growth to expect, and how the University of Cincinnati can help you turn your goals into meaningful work.
Public health focuses on preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting health through organized efforts at the local, national, and global levels. That could mean:
- Investigating disease outbreaks
- Promoting healthy behaviors in communities
- Analyzing health data to shape policy
- Tackling environmental hazards
As a public health professional, you're not just supporting one patient; you're protecting entire populations. That's powerful.
There's no single route through public health, and that's the beauty of it. Depending on your interests and education level, there are many roles you can step into. Below are some of the most popular and growing career paths.
- Studies disease patterns and outbreaks to protect public health.
- Often works in government or research settings.
- Requires: Master's in Public Health (MPH) or related degree
- Median salary: $78,520
- Next step: Explore government roles through the CDC Careers page.
- Connects people with healthcare resources and provides education.
- Works directly with underserved populations.
- Requires: Bachelor's in Public Health or relevant experience
- Median salary: $48,000
- Next step: Learn more about this career path at the American Public Health Association.
- Designs and implements programs to teach healthy behaviors.
- Often works in schools, hospitals or nonprofits.
- Requires: Bachelor's or MPH
- Median salary: $59,990
- Next step: Read the full career profile on health educators on the Bureau of Labor Statistics site.
- Investigates environmental hazards and works to protect natural resources and public safety.
- Requires: Bachelor's or Master's degree
- Median salary: $76,480
- Next step: Check out job resources for this career path at the National Environmental Health Association.
- Analyzes public health data to make policy or healthcare recommendations.
- Requires: Master's or PhD in Biostatistics
- Median salary: $96,280
- Next step: Explore biostatistics career paths and internships at This is Public Health.
- Works with international organizations to address health issues in developing countries.
- Requires: MPH with global health emphasis or related graduate degree
- Next step: Explore international job opportunities via the World Health Organization Careers page.
Different public health jobs require different education levels. Here's how to choose the degree that aligns with your goals:
A bachelor's in public health is ideal for entry-level roles and gaining hands-on experience. Graduates often work in:
- Health education
- Community outreach
- Case management
- Wellness program coordination
This degree provides a strong foundation and opens doors to graduate programs or internal advancement with public health organizations.
An MPH is the most common path to specialized or leadership roles in public health. With this degree, you can pursue careers in:
- Epidemiology
- Global health
- Biostatistics
- Health policy
- Environmental and occupational health
Many MPH programs allow you to specialize and offer internship experiences that prepare you for the real world.
If you're interested in academic research, top-level policy, or teaching, a doctoral degree can help you reach those goals. Most students pursue these degrees after gaining years of experience in the field.
Public health professionals earn competitive salaries, especially in specialized or advanced roles.
Keep in mind: Location, experience and education level all impact your salary. But public health careers offer strong earning potential and room for advancement.
Short answer: Yes. Public health careers are in high demand and that trend isn't slowing down. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics:
- Health services manager jobs are projected to grow 28% by 2032.
- Epidemiologist roles are projected to grow by 27%.
- Health education positions are expected to grow 7%, faster than average.
With global health challenges increasing, from pandemics to climate change, public health professionals are more vital than ever.
At UC, you won't be navigating this path alone. Our hands-on experiences, personalized advising, and community connections will prepare you for life after graduation.
Explore UC resources designed to support your goals:
- UC Public Health Program: Get info on courses, concentrations, and faculty.
- UC Career Studio: Meet with a coach, build your resume, or explore internship options.
- Explore real-world opportunities: Apply your public health knowledge through hands-on experiences at local partners like Cincinnati Children's, The Health Collaborative, and more.
Many students also engage with campus orgs, volunteer in the community, or get involved in research all of which help build a strong resume.
A public health degree is more than a credential; it's a pathway to change lives. Whether you're drawn to global health, community wellness, environmental safety, or policy reform, your work will matter.
So the next time you ask yourself, "What can I do with a public health degree?" remember, the possibilities aren't just wide. They're meaningful.
Take the next step by scheduling a meeting with a career coach or exploring internship programs. Your future in public health starts now.
