Community Health Major

The major in community health prepares students for careers in healthcare, public policy, community education, and much more. Graduates understand both macro and micro perspectives of health within communities.

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Why should I study community health?

Graduates of the community health major are qualified for a variety of careers and employed in entry-level positions in a variety of settings such as family planning agencies, nonprofit agencies, state and federal health agencies, schools, and community health centers. Depending on the setting, your responsibilities may vary. You may be responsible for data collection and analysis to determine community needs, planning, implementing, and evaluating programs, or teaching in community health settings. You will have the opportunity to learn beyond the classroom via practicums and internships.

Completion of the community health major establishes eligibility to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) examination. This exam measures the possession, application, and interpretation of knowledge essential to the practice of community health/health education. The CHES certification is a national standard for health education practice.

What can I do with this degree?

Your academic experience will include courses in a variety of disciplines, preparing you for a wide range of careers. Alumni may immediately enter the field while others go on to earn graduate degrees at universities across the country.

Community health educators or specialists
Health & Wellness Educator
Director of Volunteers
Health Administrator
Hospital or medical clinic staff
Senior Healthcare Facility Staff
Community Service Agency Director
Community Services Specialist
Health Programs Outreach Specialist
Health Officer
Case Manager
Employee Wellness Coordinator
Health Program Director
Prevention Specialist
Public Health Social Work

Advanced Education may be required:

Health Administration & Management
Health Education
Public Health
Nutrition
Occupational Therapy
Physician Assistant
Physical Therapy
Epidemiology
Environmental Health
Counseling

General Industry Employers:

City, County & State Government
Corporations
Departments of Health
Health Clubs
Health Maintenance Organizations
Hospitals & Clinics
Insurance Companies
K-12 Schools
Non-Profit Organizations
Universities & Colleges

What skills will I develop?

Critical thinking
Collaboration
Cross-cultural and interpersonal communication
Research Skills
Methods for teaching health topics
Leadership skills
Integration of Christian faith with the study of health and wellness
Addressing the whole person of those in your care
Seeing the big picture of sociological and environmental issues that impact community wellbeing

You’ll also have the opportunity to participate in the R.E.A.L. Experience—a program specifically designed to help you gain the relevant, hands-on experience employers desire—so that when you graduate, you’ll be as impressive in practice as you are on paper.

What unique experiences or opportunities will I have?

During your internship, you'll gain entry into the practice of community health through working in a clinic, community education, social work agency, non-profit organization, or other location that provides the hands-on experience.
Besides a required internship, courses will include field experiences that expose you to a variety of career opportunities.
Service-learning opportunities through your classes or co-curriculars will enrich your studies, preparing you before you leave Bethel.