Public Health
Promote healthy lifestyles across diverse communities and populations.
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Public Health, B.S. Overview
The 100% online bachelor’s degree in public health from the University of West Florida will give you a unique skill set to respond to modern public health problems with innovative and practical solutions. Public health needs are growing across the globe, which means the need for qualified, credentialed public health professionals is also expanding.
Through the online public health bachelor’s degree, you’ll have the opportunity to develop advanced skills in population health needs assessment and analysis of health equity and disparities across populations. Our program can help you gain the necessary competencies for employment at the local, state, national and international levels.
The online B.S. in Public Health from the University of West Florida will empower you to enter industries in government, corporate settings, nonprofit organizations and healthcare providers. Or you can graduate prepared for advanced study.
The online B.S. in Public Health follows guidelines established by the Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH). As a result, you will engage in relevant topics:
- Content knowledge in the core areas of public health to promote health across diverse communities
- Plan, implement and evaluate health programs and initiatives
- Workplace hazards and the significance of effective management in occupational health and safety initiatives
- How public health practices function within the United States legal system
- Epidemiology and how the spread of disease affects different populations
- Public health responses to structural, technological and natural disasters
- The U.S. healthcare system from a public health perspective
Candidates for The Online Public Health Program Include:
- Students seeking careers in promoting public health initiatives across an array of industries
- Students aiming to advance their careers in community-based engagement
- Students wishing to pursue graduate study in public health in the future
Learning Outcomes
- Locate problem areas related to public health and critically address them to benefit community members
- Promote public health initiatives that analyze and incorporate public health information to improve population health
- Manage projects that support team collaboration toward community health-based outcomes
- Apply ethical public health knowledge that complies with regulatory requirements laid out in the field of public health
Courses and Requirements
The online Bachelor of Science in Public Health consists of 120 credit hours. Of those, 60 hours are dedicated to General Education requirements, while the other 60 hours are focused on core, major-specific credits.
Students must satisfy 60 credit hours of general education requirements. The general education requirements are the basic studies that provide students with a broad educational foundation and are essential requirements for all baccalaureate degree programs. Included in the general education requirements are subjects in communication, mathematics, social sciences, humanities, natural sciences, multicultural studies and lower-level electives.
Common Prerequisites (14 credit hours)
These courses are common prerequisites for the online public health degree and can be used to fulfill general education requirements.
- BSC 1085+L - Anatomy and Physiology I (+Lab)
4 Credit Hours
Anatomy and Physiology I (+Lab)
General introduction to form and function of the human body. Review of basic anatomical/physiological attributes of integumentary, skeletal, muscular, nervous and sensory organ systems. Designed for students with little or no previous anatomy or physiology experience. Meets general education requirement in natural sciences. Lab focuses on anatomical dissection and experimental physiology exercises that enhance understanding of human form and function. Exercises parallel topics presented in the lecture series. Material and supply fee will be assessed.
- BSC 1086+L - Anatomy and Physiology II (+Lab)
4 Credit Hours
Anatomy and Physiology II (+Lab)
Continuation of Anatomy and Physiology I. Reviews basic anatomical/physiological attributes of endocrine, cardiopulmonary, digestive, reproductive and immune systems. Meets general education requirement in natural sciences. Lab focuses on anatomical dissections and experimental physiology exercises that enhance understanding of human form and function. Exercises parallel topics presented in the lecture series. Material and supply fee will be assessed.
- PSY 2012 - General Psychology
3 Credit Hours
General Psychology
A survey of methods, theories and body of knowledge of contemporary psychology, including such topics as learning, motivation, sensation and perception, development, thinking, personality, social behavior, psychological adjustment and methods of therapy. Meets general education requirement in social sciences.
- STA 2023 - Elements of Statistics
3 Credit Hours
Elements of Statistics
This course covers descriptive statistics, elementary probability theory and basic statistical procedures, estimation and inference. In addition to provide basic concepts in the mentioned areas it prepares the student for other more advanced statistical courses that are necessary for research. Meets general education requirement in mathematics. Meets Gordon Rule applied mathematics requirement. Prerequisite: MAC 1105 OR MAC 1105C OR MAT 1033 OR MGF 1106 OR MGF 1107 OR 22 ACT Math OR 520 SAT Math OR 123.
- BSC 1085+L - Anatomy and Physiology I (+Lab)
Choose 3 courses of the following:
- PHC 2082 - Informatics and Your Health
3 Credit Hours
Informatics and Your Health
Multidisciplinary exploration of the nature of information: how it is represented, processed, shared, preserved and protected in tools and applications directly linked to your health and the health of our planet. Identifies enduring principles; examines impacts on individuals and society; provides practice with a variety of digital technologies and data collection strategies; addresses interpreting results of and concerns in human subject research. This course helps students develop integral professional and technical skills, including presentation of ideas through written and verbal communication, within an informatics framework. Students will have the opportunity to focus on a particular technology company or issue as a mechanism for developing critical thinking and teamwork skills.
- HSC 2100 - Personal Health
3 Credit Hours
Personal Health
Provides information on personal health issues from which students may base current and future decisions regarding their health and wellness. To promote an environment where effective decision-making skills can be acquired through structured group interaction.
- HUN 2201 - Fundamentals of Human Nutrition
3 Credit Hours
Fundamentals of Human Nutrition
This course explores the fundamentals of nutrition with emphasizes on the biochemical and physiological mechanisms of digestion, absorption, metabolic pathways, energy requirements and nutritional status. It provides students with an understanding of nutrients and their roles in the body while examining current issues in food science. In addition, emphasizes are placed on a promotion of growth and health by examining weight control, disease prevention, food safety and planning a healthy diet.
- HSC 2622 - Introduction to Global Health Sciences
3 Credit Hours
Introduction to Global Health Sciences
This health sciences course considers the influence of factors such as access to healthcare, biology, infectious diseases, societal status, culture, the environment and the management of healthcare resources, on the well-being of people around the globe. The course will also examine the role of equity, social justice and ethics in healthcare. Case studies demonstrating how various actors have cooperated across national borders to solve problems like pandemics, healthcare access challenges and disease eradication will be analyzed. Students will integrate ideas from different disciplines to identify problems affecting society in the international context. Meets multicultural requirement.
- PHC 2082 - Informatics and Your Health
- HSC 3032 - Foundations in Health Education
3 Credit Hours
Foundations in Health Education
Explores the philosophy and principles that provide the foundations of health education as an academic discipline and as a profession. Emphasis will focus on health education in our society, theoretical basis, settings, ethical issues, current issues, marketing, planning and the future outlook in the field.
- HSA 3111 - Understanding U.S. Healthcare
3 Credit Hours
Understanding U.S. Healthcare
This course provides an orientation to the characteristics and foundation of the U.S. healthcare system including a review of health professionals, technology, financing and reimbursement, delivery systems, vulnerable populations, process improvement and health policy.
- HSC 3510 - Data Analysis in the Health Sciences
3 Credit Hours
Data Analysis in the Health Sciences
This course focuses on the application of computer technology and software in conducting analysis of data, including how to retrieve, clean, organize and analyze data using computational methods, as well as report findings using existing general purpose software. Additionally, students will acquire skills in data presentation through using tables, charts and written reports. Prerequisite: STA 2023.
- PHC 4101 - Essentials of Public Health
3 Credit Hours
Essentials of Public Health
Course teaches basic terms and definitions of public health and the factors leading to disease causation as well as disease prevention. Students study programs and policies that effect healthcare in a positive manner and apply basic principles of scientific reasoning with the use of available data and information. Topics introduced serve as a basis for enhancing the participants' ability to critically evaluate current trends in healthcare and develop programs and policies in an analytical manner.
- PHC 4109 - Diseases in Human Populations
3 Credit Hours
Diseases in Human Populations
An overview of scientific principles of public health and their application to public health problems with significant state, national and international impact. It is recommended that students have at least one semester of a college science such as biology or a comparable course before enrolling.
- HSC 4211 - Human Environmental Health
3 Credit Hours
Human Environmental Health
An online course with an overview of major environmental issues facing society at the dawn of the 21st century. Ecological concerns will be matched with specific elements related to personal and community health, emphasizing the interrelatedness of the two and conveying an awareness of how current environmental issues directly affect your own life.
- HSC 4730 - Research Methods and Evaluation in Health Promotion
3 Credit Hours
Research Methods and Evaluation in Health Promotion
A comprehensive analysis and application of research methods and evaluation for health education and promotion practices. Students will establish or advance their understanding of research and evaluation in health promotion through critical exploration of terminology, ethical considerations and methodology. Quantitative, qualitative and mixed research methods will be explored and applied. Students will be provided with opportunities for practical application of evaluation design and implementation. Data will be analyzed, interpreted and presented paralleling current health promotion professional practices.
- HSC 4500 - Epidemiology
3 Credit Hours
Epidemiology
A study of the factors determining and influencing the frequency, distribution and causes of diseases and other events that impact the health and safety of the human population. Programs and strategies to prevent and control such events and diseases will be explored.
- HSC 4300 - Changing Health Behaviors
3 Credit Hours
Changing Health Behaviors
Designed to acquaint students with a general theory of behavior, guide them through exercises for developing skills in self-analysis and provide information on how to achieve individual behavior change goals. Students will learn techniques for developing community-based health behavior change programs and employ coping skills for personal problem-solving.
- HSA 4191 - Health Information Systems
3 Credit Hours
Health Information Systems
Provides an overview of various health information such as patient care, clinical decision support, disease and demographic surveillance, imaging and simulation, and safety and environmental assessment. Fundamentals of proposing, reporting and refereeing evaluation studies are covered. Legal and ethical issues related to training, security, confidentiality and the use of informed consent are also addressed. Working knowledge of how to use personal computers, including knowledge of word processing, spreadsheet packages and internet searching.
- MCB 4276 - Epidemiology of Infectious Disease
3 Credit Hours
Epidemiology of Infectious Disease
The basic principles of epidemiology as they apply to infectious disease and the impact of infectious disease on human civilization will be addressed. The causes and distribution of current epidemics of infectious disease, including newly emerging and reemerging diseases and the approaches being applied to defeat these diseases will be discussed. Offered concurrently with MCB 5273; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- BUL 4602 - Legal Fundamentals of Healthcare
3 Credit Hours
Legal Fundamentals of Healthcare
This course provides an overview of laws most affecting healthcare practices. The legal basis for government involvement in healthcare is examined with an analysis of the laws controlling the provision of healthcare industry and professional regulations. This course provides an in-depth overview of healthcare law, allowing students to acquire skills to confirm their actions to legal requirements and ethically analyze daily healthcare situations.
Choose one of the following:
- PHC 4140 - Public Health Planning and Analysis
3 Credit Hours
Public Health Planning and Analysis
This course introduces students to the history of public health, the structure of the public health system and the various sectors of public health practice, in order to gain an understanding of the complex factors that determine the health status of a community. Lectures will draw from the public health field but also related disciplines such as behavioral sciences, healthcare management, medical ethics and social work. National, state and local level practices will be analyzed, as well as the role that law and government play in the public's health. The course is also intended to simulate student interest in other public health courses and program offerings. Graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- HSC 4581 - Health Promotion and Planning
3 Credit Hours
Health Promotion and Planning
Practical application of theory, models, principles and practices of health promotion, planning and implementation. Experiential activity includes creating a health promotion program incorporating: developing and administering a needs assessment, applying a behavioral and environmental assessment, writing goals and measurable objectives, marketing the program, presenting the health program and evaluating the program.
Choose one of the following:
- PHC 4940 - Public Health Capstone
3 Credit Hours
Public Health Capstone
- HSC 4910 - Senior Capstone Experience in Health Promotion
1-6 Credit Hours
Senior Capstone Experience in Health Promotion
This capstone experience for Health Promotion majors provides opportunities for students to put theory into practice through active participation and class participation. Students are supervised by practitioners in health promotion. Departmental permission will be required. Prerequisite: HSC 4581
- HSC 3032 - Foundations in Health Education
Students must select up to 15-18 credit hours from the following courses based on career interests. Students interested in completing the National Commission of Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) certification should consider the courses indicated for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. Students should discuss their professional goals with their advisor and public health faculty before selecting elective courses.
- HSC 4584 - Health Promotion Strategies and Funding
3 Credit Hours
Health Promotion Strategies and Funding
(Recommended for CHES exam) This course will explore, develop, analyze and apply strategies to promote health in communities. Emphasis will be placed on community organization, coalition building, curriculum development, communication theory and technology, social marketing, mass media and ecological models. Students will conduct a critical analysis of interventions that implement each strategy through systematic analysis of public health literature. Grant funding strategies will be addressed.
- BSC 4434 - Bioinformatics and Data Science
3 Credit Hours
Bioinformatics and Data Science
(Recommended for students interested in Public Health graduate education) This course explores concepts and practical applications in bioinformatics. It covers essential topics such as data organization, representing and reasoning about sequence data, simple data mining strategies and ethical protocols for data collection. Students will learn how to apply data science principles to biological and clinical problems to effectively work with large data sets, format data and design applications to help visualize, analyze, interpret and communicate the resulting insights in ways that advance science. Offered concurrently with BSC 5459; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- STA 4173 - Biostatistics
3 Credit Hours
Biostatistics
(Recommended for students interested in Public Health graduate education) A second course in statistics for students in the Biological Sciences. Topics covered include analysis of variance, regression analysis, nonparametric statistics and contingency tables. Offered concurrently with STA 5176; graduate students will be assigned additional work. Meets Gordon Rule Applied Mathematics Requirement. Prerequisite: STA 2023
- PHC 4363 - Occupational Safety and Health in the Health Care Environment
3 Credit Hours
Occupational Safety and Health in the Health Care Environment
A multidisciplinary approach to the study of occupational safety and health in health care with researcher and practitioner perspectives. Programs and applications to health care. Common worker safety hazards and controls are reviewed and safety improvement strategies are presented. Teaches recognition of safety and hazards in health care, relevant safety and health standards requirements and identification and implementation of safety improvement initiatives. Permission is required. Offered concurrently with PHC 5351; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- HSC 4583 - Theoretical Foundations of Health Promotion and Planning
3 Credit Hours
Theoretical Foundations of Health Promotion and Planning
(Recommended for CHES exam) A comprehensive overview and analysis of theory, models, principles and practices of health education and promotion planning and implementation. Topics for discussion include health promotion and a framework for planning, social assessment and participatory planning, epidemiological assessment, behavioral and environmental assessment, educational and ecological assessment, administrative and policy assessment, evaluation and applications in community, occupational, school and health care settings.
- HSC 4633 - Current Issues in Health Promotion
3 Credit Hours
Current Issues in Health Promotion
(Recommended for CHES exam) A study of current and emerging health issues affecting communities on a local and global level. Health promotion programs, approaches and measures will be examined. Emphasis will be placed on the environment, health care, behavioral health, lifestyle factors, social determinants of health and communicable diseases. This course is designed to provide a comprehensive overview of fundamental research tools, methods and concepts for assessing health promotion issues.
- PHC 4340 - Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
3 Credit Hours
Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
An online multidisciplinary approach to the study of industrial hygiene intended for a wide range of health-related professionals. Recognition, evaluation and control of environmental or occupational hazards. Insight into the management of occupational health hazards and diseases that can be leveraged in a professional practice. Offered concurrently with PHC 5356; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- BSC 4854 - Bioterrorism
3 Credit Hours
Bioterrorism
Biological weapons employed against man (emphasis), animals and plants will be discussed during the semester. The major biological agents targeted for use as weapons against humans will be dealt with in detail including the various clinical forms induced by exposure to the agents, prophylaxis and treatment for the resulting diseases and the primary routes of dissemination of the agents studied. The class will cover the potential for biowarfare/bioterrorist acts, how destruction is produced and what countries/groups have access to sufficient bioagent or the capacity for producing large quantities of biological agents for use as a weapon. Wargames in which bioagents are employed, including casualty estimates and socioeconomic impact will be discussed and played out. Government preparedness to deal with biowarfare/bioterrorism will be addressed with emphasis on plans for surveillance and response. Offered concurrently with BSC 5856; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- HSC 4404 - Medical Disaster Management
3 Credit Hours
Medical Disaster Management
Introduces students to facets of natural and technological disasters while integrating public health research designs and practices. Class lectures and discussions utilize recent and historical case studies as a basis for developing the critical thinking and leadership skills needed by healthcare professionals in crisis situations. International, domestic and regional settings are addressed, as well as the social, economic and political aspects of disaster planning, preparedness, and mitigation. Basic public health concepts and methodologies as they relate to course material. Permission is required.
- HSC 4572 - Nutrition and Health
3 Credit Hours
Nutrition and Health
A study of the principles of nutrition science as applied to daily living. Topics include the six major nutrients; carbohydrates, lipids, proteins, vitamins, minerals and water. The course also examines nutrition standards, Dietary Guidelines, digestive process, energy balance, nutrition controversies and health educator's scope of practice related to nutrition education and counseling. Previous courses in nutrition, anatomy, physiology, physiology or biology are highly recommended. A Material and Supply Fee will be assessed.
- HSC 4143 - Drugs in Society
3 Credit Hours
Drugs in Society
Provides students with knowledge of the use and abuse of drugs in American contemporary society. Emphasis on the physiological, psychological and sociological effects of drug use and abuse on personal and community health. Concepts of prevention, education and control will be covered. A Material and Supply Fee will be assessed.
- HSC 4133 - Health Aspects of Human Sexuality
3 Credit Hours
Health Aspects of Human Sexuality
A study of physical, mental, emotional, social and psychological phases of human sexuality as they are affected by male and female relationships. Emphasize a holistic perspective on sexuality. Lectures by the instructor and experts from the community will provide an overview of the major issues in sexuality. Assigned readings will provide detailed information. Group activities and individual assignments will provide opportunities for personal analysis and growth with regard to a wide variety of topics.
- GEY 4001 - Gerontology
3 Credit Hours
Gerontology
This course addresses the biological impacts of the aging process on the older adult; it enhances the knowledge and understanding of biological changes associated with aging in humans and their manifestations for healthcare professionals who work with older adults; it addresses many biopsychosocial issues older adults may face in society today and in the future.
- HSA 3551 - Health Ethics and Professionalism
3 Credit Hours
Health Ethics and Professionalism
This course includes an overview of ethical issues facing today's healthcare practitioners in addressing clinical and administrative decision-making. This course will also focus on the importance of professionalism and effective communication skills in dealing with healthcare consumers and other medical professionals in the healthcare industry.
- PHC 4464 - Understanding Health Equity and Health Disparities
3 Credit Hours
Understanding Health Equity and Health Disparities
This course introduces students to social determinants of health, health equity, and health disparities in the United States. This course provides students with an overview of the societal impacts of racism, poverty, and inequity and the ways these constructs are contributing to health disparities among individuals and communities. Students will explore sources of data for health disparities analysis. The course further explores the role of major national stakeholders and programs addressing social determinants of health contributing to disparities and implementing evidence-based strategies for eliminating health inequalities.
- PHC 4341 - Fundamentals of Occupational Safety and Health
3 Credit Hours
Fundamentals of Occupational Safety and Health
Concerns worker protection and serves as a prerequisite for advanced study of hazards and work settings. Development and management of occupational safety and health programs, resolution of safety and health issues and improvement of safety performance. Introduction to safety and health fields, overview of loss control information and analysis, specific safety and health programs and program implementation and maintenance. Offered concurrently with PHC 5355; graduate students will be assigned additional work.
- HSC 4104 - Health Aspects of Stress Management
3 Credit Hours
Health Aspects of Stress Management
A study of physiological, psychological, and sociological aspects of stress as related to overall health. Anger, fear, and depression and their underlying mechanisms related to the stress response on health and disease will be examined. Emphasis is on identification of stressors, methods of prevention, and coping strategies. Group activities and individual assignments provide opportunities for personal analysis.
- HSC 4584 - Health Promotion Strategies and Funding
Admission Requirements
Acceptance to the University does not constitute admission to the upper-division public health degree. Students entering UWF or declaring a major in public health will automatically be placed in a pending status until they meet the requirements for admission.
To be considered for admission into UWF’s online public health program, you must:
- Have a cumulative GPA of 2.5 in all previously attempted college work
- Be at the level of a sophomore or higher
Students will not be admitted to the program less than one week before the beginning of the term in which they have applied. No more than 24% of the program requirements for this degree may be in traditional business subjects. Students must consult with the BSPH academic advisor for courses which may satisfy both the General Education requirements and common prerequisites.
Not all states authorize online programs. If you reside outside of Florida you will want to check the status of your state’s acceptance of this program: https://uwf.edu/offices/registrar/registration/distance-learning-state-authorization/
This program will not meet immigration requirements for students holding an F1 or J1 Visa to maintain status. Contact the International Student Office for further information.
How to Apply
To apply for the bachelor’s in public health online program, you first need to submit an application for undergraduate admission (plus a $30 application fee) and be accepted for admission into University of West Florida. In addition, you must:
- Submit official transcripts from all institutions previously attended whose accrediting agency is included on the list of UWF-approved accrediting agencies
- Submit ACT or SAT scores
- Complete the residency application form for tuition purposes
- Complete the bachelor’s in public health application form
Have questions about this program or the admissions process? Connect with one of our knowledgeable enrollment counselors.
Costs & Financial Aid
| Component | Cost | Total* |
|---|---|---|
| In-State Tuition | $218.98 per credit hour | $26,277.60 |
| In-State Tuition with Maximum Transfer Credits (Up to 90) | $218.98 per credit hour | $6,569.40 |
| Full Out-of-State Tuition | $648.37 per credit hour | $77,804.40 |
| 75% Out-of-State Tuition Waiver | $341.67 per credit hour | $41,000.40 |
Tuition waivers cover up to 75% of the non-resident portion of your tuition and are available to non-Florida residents (including international students) admitted to online programs and registered for online courses in active pursuit of that degree or certificate. You must pay all other assessed tuition and fees. Review Tuition Waiver Information to learn more.
Time to completion varies by student, depending on individual progress and credits transferred, if applicable. Fees are charged per semester unless otherwise noted. This program takes up to approximately 48 months to complete, depending on transfer credits. For a personalized estimate of time to completion, call an enrollment advisor at 844.372.9390 or request information.
Refer to UWF Cost of Attendance Estimates and Financial Literacy for more information on UWF costs and financial aid.
* Tuition and fees are subject to change.
Alabama Differential Out-of-State Tuition
Residents of Alabama are eligible for Alabama Differential Tuition, a reduced out-of-state tuition rate. For more information and to verify residency status for tuition purposes, new undergraduate students should contact the Office of Undergraduate Admissions and new graduate students should contact the Graduate School. Current enrolled students should contact the Office of the Registrar.
Active Duty Military
All active-duty members of the U.S. military who are residing or are stationed outside the state of Florida shall have all (100%) out-of-state fees waived by the university. Contact the Military & Veterans Resource Center to apply for the Active Duty Military Out-of-State Waiver.
UWF Short-Term Financial Assistance
The University of West Florida provides eligible students with an alternative to paying the full amount of tuition at the beginning of each term in the form of an installment payment plan or a short-term loan.
Military Students
UWF proudly serves active duty U.S. military members and veterans. As UWF has been a participant of the Yellow Ribbon Program since 2011, you could be eligible to receive free tuition with your military benefits.
See How We Can Serve YouFinancial Aid
Funding your college education should not empty your wallet. We offer various financial aid options for our online students, including loans, scholarships and grants for degree-seeking students.
Learn More About Financial AidCareer Outcomes
After you finish the online B.S. in Public Health from the University of West Florida, you’ll be able to enter a variety of public health positions at local, community-based, state and federal agencies.
* Salary and job outlook information from the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Health Educators and Community Health Workers
As a community health worker and educator, you would actively educate your community about wellness strategies and behaviors to improve their health. In this role, you may collect data and analyze the conditions of the community and population you serve. You’ll be able to apply an informed, science and data-backed public health framework that ultimately benefits community health. Health educators and community health workers earned an average salary of $48,860 in 2021, and positions in the field are expected to increase by 12% from 2021 to 2031.
Environmental Health Scientists and Specialists
Environmental health scientists and specialists apply a research-oriented approach to solve contemporary public health problems within organizational or population/community settings. From a public health perspective, you would engage with other scientists to protect human health from environmental factors while promoting community health. Environmental scientists and specialists earned a median annual salary of $76,530 in 2021, and these positions are expected to grow by 5% from 2021 to 2031.