

The Public Health Bachelor of Science program at the University of North Carolina prepares students to tackle pressing health challenges through a multidisciplinary approach. With a curriculum rooted in biology, epidemiology, health policy, and behavioral sciences, the program offers students a thorough understanding of how health is shaped by individual, community, and environmental factors. Students gain a foundational grasp of disease prevention, health promotion, and evidence-based public health strategies. Through lectures, labs, and field experience, learners build the skills needed to critically evaluate public health data and design interventions that make a meaningful impact.
Beyond core scientific knowledge, students explore the social and structural determinants of health, including issues such as healthcare access, global health disparities, and environmental health risks. The program emphasizes practical applications by integrating real-world case studies, collaborative projects, and service-learning. Faculty support and access to health organizations allow students to gain hands-on experience in community health settings. By graduation, students are equipped to understand and influence public health systems, policy development, and community well-being with both scientific insight and social responsibility.
Year 1 – Introduction to Public Health and Sciences
• Foundations of Public Health
• Principles of Biology
• College Writing and Communication
• Introduction to Statistics
• General Education Electives
Year 2 – Epidemiology and Human Health Systems
• Introduction to Epidemiology
• Health and Human Behavior
• Medical Sociology
• Environmental Health
• Health Data Analysis
Year 3 – Policy and Program Implementation
• Health Policy and Administration
• Program Planning and Evaluation
• Global Health Perspectives
• Public Health Research Methods
• Elective in Urban or Global Health
Year 4 – Specialization and Capstone Experience
• Capstone in Public Health Practice
• Internship or Field Practicum
• Public Health Ethics
• Seminar in Population Health
• Elective in Health Informatics or Advocacy
Graduates of this program are well-prepared to enter a diverse range of fields focused on population health and well-being. Career paths include roles such as epidemiology assistant, health educator, policy analyst, and community health coordinator, in organizations like public health departments, non-profits, research institutes, hospitals, and international NGOs. Alumni may work on health policy reforms, disease prevention initiatives, maternal and child health programs, or environmental health campaigns. Some pursue roles in global health organizations or begin careers in data analysis, healthcare consulting, or public health communication. The program also offers a strong foundation for graduate study in public health, health administration, or epidemiology, supporting students aiming for leadership in public health strategy, advocacy, or research.
This program is ideal for students who want to make a tangible difference in population health and social well-being. With its emphasis on scientific inquiry, practical skills, and community engagement, the program allows students to address real-world health issues through interdisciplinary knowledge. The University of North Carolina offers access to faculty experts, research initiatives, and field-based learning opportunities, helping students apply theory to meaningful action. Whether your goal is to reduce health disparities, design policy solutions, or engage in global health advocacy, this degree provides the tools and mindset necessary for impact. The curriculum is both comprehensive and flexible, allowing students to tailor their learning to areas such as epidemiology, global health, or health policy, all while developing a strong foundation in critical thinking, collaboration, and ethical decision-making.
Phone: +1 (919) 966-3621
Email: unchelp@admissions.unc.edu
Address: Jackson Hall, 174 Country Club Road, Chapel Hill, NC 27514, USA