Public Health

Major | Minor

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Why Study Public Health at Goshen College?

Student using syringe for nursing class

As a public health major or minor at Goshen College, you’ll explore the social, behavioral, environmental and biological factors that impact health outcomes in communities around the world. This interdisciplinary program housed in the new state-of-the-art Center for Nursing and Public Health blends coursework in biology, sociology, psychology and global studies—giving you a well-rounded foundation in the science and practice of public health.

You’ll learn how to promote health equity, address disparities, and improve community wellness through prevention and education. Our public health program is closely connected to Goshen College’s flagship nursing program and other health-related majors, offering opportunities for collaboration and interdisciplinary research. Whether you plan to work in community health, epidemiology or health policy—or pursue graduate study in public health, medicine or healthcare administration—Goshen College will prepare you to make a meaningful impact.

  • 91%
    of classes have fewer than 30 students
  • 93%
    of graduates are employed, in grad school, or in service within a year
  • 50%
    of students study abroad through our hands-on learning programs

    Career Paths

    With a public health degree from Goshen College, you’ll be prepared for careers such as:

    • Public Health Educator
    • Epidemiologist
    • Community Health Worker
    • Health Policy Analyst
    • Global Health Specialist
    • Environmental Health Coordinator
    • Nonprofit Program Manager

    Graduates may also pursue advanced degrees in public health, health sciences, medicine, social work, or healthcare administration.

     

    Credits and Requirements

    The public health major and minor offer a variety of interdisciplinary courses and electives, plus a required internship or research project.

    Course Catalog

    Hands-On Learning Opportunities

    At Goshen College, hands-on learning is a cornerstone of the public health program. You’ll engage in meaningful community-based projects, internships, and research focused on population health and wellness. Examples include:

    • Internship placements with Goshen Health, local nonprofits, and public service organizations
    • Community research initiatives through the Center for Community Engagement
    • Study abroad opportunities that explore global health issues in diverse cultural contexts
    • Collaborative research on food systems, environmental health, and health disparities

    Your experiences will help you build skills in advocacy, outreach, data collection, and program evaluation—essential tools for public health practitioners.

    Scholarships

    While there are no public health-specific scholarships, all students are encouraged to apply for Goshen College’s robust financial aid offerings.

    Explore more of our scholarships

    Facilities & Resources

    You’ll learn and conduct research in modern science labs, community health clinics, and real-world environments—including the college’s partnerships with local health organizations. Opportunities to work with faculty mentors on research and service-learning projects abound.

    Faculty

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