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Whether your goal is conducting epidemiological research, educating the public about current health topics, or becoming an environmental health specialist, WCU’s online Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) program and Master of Public Health (MPH) program help you develop and hone the skills needed to make a difference.

If you’re interested in pursuing a career in public health, review the information below.

Various Public Health Jobs

A public health degree can help prepare you for a variety of jobs, including community health, epidemiology, and health education.

Community Health Workers implement programs and advocate for those who may have limited access to health resources and social services. Their aim is to promote wellness within their communities by helping people adopt healthier behaviors.

Epidemiologists are public health workers who investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury. Typically, epidemiologists need at least a master’s degree in public health or a related field to enter the occupation.

Health Education Specialists can work in a variety of settings, including hospitals, nonprofit organizations, and government agencies, developing programs that teach people about conditions affecting their well-being.

Top Public Health Professional Qualities

The top qualities of public health professionals will depend on the nature of the role.

Community Health Worker Qualities

• Communication skills – must be able to clearly convey information in health-related materials to those they serve and in written proposals for programs and funding
• Cultural sensitivity – must be respectful of the communities they serve and be understanding of their concerns
• Instructional skills – often lead programs and facilitate discussions with clients
• Interpersonal skills – must be good listeners and be empathetic in responding to the needs of the diverse communities they serve
• Problem-solving skills – must think creatively about the best ways to serve their clients such as adapting program planning according to budgets or community needs

Epidemiologist Qualities

• Communication skills – must use speaking and writing skills to inform officials and the public about health risks as well as convey information effectively to other health workers
• Critical-thinking skills – must be able to consider a variety of resources in responding to a public health problem or health-related emergency
• Detail oriented – must be precise and accurate in moving from observation and interview to conclusions
• Leadership skills – may direct staff in research or in investigating a disease as well as assign work and evaluate staff performances
• Math and statistical skills – may need to use large databases and statistical computer programs to analyze data from the results of studies and surveys

Health Education Specialist Qualities

• Analytical skills – collect and evaluate data to determine the needs of the people they serve
• Communication skills – must be able to clearly convey information in health-related materials and in written proposals for programs and funding
• Instructional skills – often lead programs, teach classes, and facilitate discussion with clients and families.
• Interpersonal skills – must be good listeners and be empathetic in responding to the needs of the people they serve
• Problem-solving skills – must think creatively about improving the health of the community as well as solve problems that arise in planning programs, such as budget constraints or evolving community needs

For more, see these Bureau of Labor Statistics Occupational Profiles:

When existing health programs are overburdened, some communities may require additional assistance. A public health volunteer or a group of volunteers can provide them with the assistance they require. At the same time, populations that do not already have medical programs may work with volunteers to establish them, making their communities more self-sufficient overall.