Public Health

Public health is the science and art of promoting health, preventing disease and injury, and prolonging life through organized efforts of society. The public health major emphasizes problem-solving skills, critical thinking, practical application, career exploration and an understanding of both clinical- and population-based ethics. Early in the program, students will build a strong foundation of knowledge in the natural and social sciences and become familiar with cultural and socioeconomic differences among populations. Further study will provide the knowledge and skills needed to identify evidence-based techniques for disease prevention and promotion of health, both at home and from a global perspective.

Career Profile

The Community and Population Health Area of Emphasis prepares students for entry into social science-based and public health graduate programs. The Public Health Sciences Area of Emphasis prepares students for entry into graduate programs in public health sciences or clinical professional degree programs.

The public health program also prepares graduates for entry-level public health positions in a wide array of agencies involved in public and private health, including local, regional and state health departments, consulting and advocacy organizations, healthcare organizations and government agencies.

English Proficiency Requirements

All applicants whose first language is not English must provide proof of English language proficiency. WVU accepts either the TOEFL or the IELTS for this purpose. Learn more about our English language proficiency requirements.

Accreditation Information

WVU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.

The WVU School of Public Health is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The B.S. in Public Health degree is part of this accredited unit.