Careers in Public Health
Useful Links
A child in Ghana receives an immunization shot.
The demand for qualified professionals is increasing in many areas of the public health field. Emerging infectious diseases and disasters are posing new challenges and threats. As a result, the need for public health services is growing.
According to the Occupational Outlook Handbook: 2008-2009 edition, the areas of health education and health services policy and administration are expected to grow faster than average.
Epidemiologists with a doctorate degree will experience employment growth as a result of the expansion in research related to illnesses such as AIDS, cancer, and avian influenza, along with growing treatment problems such as antibiotic resistance.
Public health professionals in the areas of environmental health, biostatistics, and nutrition are expected to see average job growth which accounts for the replacement rate for workers retiring from their occupations.
Changes in Demographics Increase Demand
The demographic trends in Minnesota and around the nation could result in opportunity for students pursuing a degree in public health. In order for state and federal health agencies, private laboratories, research institutes, and hospitals to carry out their missions and head off a potential workforce shortage crisis, they must recruit and retain young, talented, passionate public health professionals that represent diverse populations.
In summary, if you are thinking about pursuing a career in public health, the occupational outlook is positive. Click on the links to the right and explore the field, view profiles of former SPH graduates, and find a career path that might be appropriate for your skills and interests. View survey results from our graduates to see some of the places our graduates are employed.