

The Bachelor of Science in Community Health and Public Health offers a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for careers in promoting health, preventing disease and improving quality of life at local, national and global levels. The curriculum integrates core public health principles with practical approaches to community health, epidemiology, health policy and health education. Students gain the ability to assess health needs, design and implement interventions, and evaluate outcomes using evidence-based methods and critical thinking skills. The program emphasizes ethical practice, cultural sensitivity and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring graduates are well-equipped to address diverse public health challenges.
Over five years, students engage in coursework and experiential learning that explores topics such as biostatistics, environmental health, community program planning and global health issues. The program fosters analytical and communication skills, enabling students to interpret data, inform policy decisions and implement effective health strategies. Through applied projects, fieldwork and research initiatives, learners develop practical expertise alongside theoretical knowledge. By the final year, graduates demonstrate professional competency and leadership readiness, positioning them to pursue careers in public health organizations, governmental agencies, research institutions or advanced studies in health-related fields.
Year 1 - Foundations in Community and Public Health
• Introduction to Public Health
• Human Biology and Anatomy
• Principles of Health and Wellness
• Academic Writing and Research Methods
Year 2 - Core Concepts in Health and Society
• Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Environmental Health
• Health Policy and Management
• Community Health Assessment
Year 3 - Applied Public Health Practices
• Health Promotion and Education
• Global Health Perspectives
• Behavioral and Social Determinants of Health
• Elective Modules in Public Health
Year 4 - Advanced Public Health Analysis
• Program Planning and Evaluation
• Health Data Analysis
• Public Health Law and Ethics
• Research Methods in Public Health
Year 5 - Capstone and Professional Practice
• Community Health Practicum
• Independent Research Project
• Public Health Seminar
• Leadership and Policy Development in Health
Graduates of this program are prepared for diverse roles in public health, community health and healthcare management. Career opportunities include positions in governmental health agencies, nonprofit organizations, research institutions, hospital systems and international health organizations, where professionals design, implement and evaluate health programs. Graduates may also pursue careers in health education, policy analysis, epidemiology and program management. The program equips students with the analytical, leadership and practical skills needed to address public health challenges, work effectively in multidisciplinary teams and advance community well-being. This foundation also supports further studies in public health, epidemiology or healthcare administration.
This program is ideal for students seeking a rigorous and applied education in public and community health. Learners develop analytical skills, program planning expertise, ethical decision-making and research competence, enabling them to design and evaluate effective health interventions. The five year structure allows students to build a solid foundation in core public health knowledge while gaining practical experience through fieldwork, projects and applied research. By combining theory, practice and leadership development, the program prepares graduates to excel in professional roles, influence health policy and contribute meaningfully to improving population health locally and globally.
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States