Written by: HADP Staff
Last Updated: February 16, 2021
Earning a public health bachelor's degree, either online or in a traditional campus-based format, prepares graduates for rewarding employment in diverse sectors such as community health organizations, hospitals and outpatient clinics, social service agencies, and government departments. The bachelor of public health, which typically takes four years to complete, also establishes the academic foundation for earning a master's in this field, resulting in broader career options with higher salaries.
The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) projects a 15% rate of job growth for all healthcare occupations from 2019 to 2029. This increase could add approximately 2.4 million jobs to the U.S. economy, including many in the public health arena. The public health field requires professionals with specialized training to deal with an array of healthcare challenges including epidemic and disease prevention and management, emergency preparedness, and health research and policy analysis.
The flexible schedules and affordability offered by online programs appeal to many students considering a public health career while managing personal or work responsibilities. Check out the list of programs below for more information.
View ranking methodology here.
#35 – University of Kentucky – Lexington, Kentucky
Bachelor of Public Health (BPH)
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Net Price: $19,361/year
The College of Public Health at the University of Kentucky offers the affordable bachelor's in public health program. It's the only professional undergraduate program of its kind in the state. Unique electives are available in sexual health, tobacco and the public's health, preparing for apocalyptic events, and public health through popular film. While there is no internship requirement, students are encouraged to gain hands-on experience through volunteer work or employment.
#34 – University of California – Berkeley, California
Bachelor of Arts, Public Health
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Net Price: $18,178/year
The affordable bachelor's of public health program at the University of California Berkeley is designed primarily for students planning to attend graduate school in public health. Admission is highly competitive. Students apply to the program at the end of their sophomore year for admission to the program in the fall. A hands-on capstone course is one of the program's highlights. Options change each semester to reflect the rapidly changing field of public health.
#33 – Kent State University – Kent, Ohio
Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH)
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Net Price: $18,156
Kent State University features a top affordable public health bachelor's degree program. It has concentrations in:
-Allied Health
Several options are available online, making this a great choice for students unable to travel to campus. Through a dynamic multifaceted curriculum, students learn about public health issues facing the U.S. and abroad, environmental concerns, and infectious diseases.
#32 – University of Missouri – Columbia, Missouri
Bachelor of Health Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $17,762/year
The top affordable bachelor's in public health at the University of Missouri is a 120 credit hour program. The core curricula aligns with the accreditation standards of the Council on Education for Public Health. Students are encouraged to pursue either a minor or a certification due to the multidisciplinary nature of the field. Coursework covers areas like:
-diversity
-health promotion planning
-health care management
-epidemiology
#31 – University of Maryland – College Park, Maryland
Bachelor of Science, Public Health Science
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Net Price: $17,241/year
The School of Public Health at the University of Maryland features an affordable top online bachelor's in public health with a robust curriculum. Students will understand how to recognize and address public health issues at a variety of levels. It's ideal for students who plan to go into medicine or pharmacy as well as students who plan to continue on to master's studies in a variety of disciplines. A culminating public health capstone gives students the chance to showcase their skills and abilities, gaining valuable experience.
#30 – University of Louisville – Louisville, Kentucky
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $17,008/year
The University of Louisville features both a BS and BA degree in public health. The BS degree is designed for students focused on public health practice. The BA degree is for students with liberal arts interests. Unique to the University of Louisville is a Public Health Living Learning Community that brings public health students together for courses, programming, and community connections. Graduates are prepared for positions in:
-public health
-public policy
-health education
-health research
-environmental health.
#29 – University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Sciences
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Net Price: $16,408/year
The University of Michigan offers affordable bachelor's in public health sciences. It's designed for students who plan to continue on to graduate level study in public health or continue their education in medicine, dentistry, nursing, or social work. Students gain an understanding of public health issues like:
-environmental toxins
-tobacco use
-food shortage
-bioterrorism
-antimicrobial resistance.
The affordable public health bachelor's degree at the University of Michigan will prepare students for the rapidly changing field of public health.
#28 – University of Nevada – Reno, Nevada
Bachelor of Science in Community Health Sciences-Public Health
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Net Price: $16,230/year
This bachelor's in community health sciences is a unique program with a concentration in public health for students who want to work in both private and public settings. Unique electives are available in:
-toxic communities
-exercise physiology
-medical anthropology
-injury and violence prevention
-public health and aging.
During the final year, students complete a supervised field experience in a health and wellness setting, gaining valuable hands on experience.
#27 – University at Buffalo – Buffalo, New York
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $16,120/year
The School of Public Health and Health Professions at the University at Buffalo is an interdisciplinary program that provides students with knowledge in areas like:
-health systems
-health communication
-project implementation
-health policy.
The public health major is 41 credits of coursework including a capstone project in modern public health problems and solutions.
#26 – SUNY at Albany – Albany, New York
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $16,100/year
SUNY at Albany features an affordable bachelor's in public health program. It's for students who want to learn multidisciplinary approaches to disease prevention and promote general wellness. This competitive program is a great choice for students who want to continue on to graduate study. Coursework covers:
-global environmental issues
-biostatistics
-epidemiology
-healthy communities.
An evidence-based public health capstone project serves as the culminating experience.
#25 – University of Arizona – Tucson, Arizona
Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health
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Net Price: $15,758/year
The affordable bachelor's in public health program at the University of Arizona is available in both an on-campus and online format. Known for its community-based research, the UA Zuckerman College of Public Health provides students with the opportunity to engage in research and be involved in the community. Students interested in environmental health can pursue an accelerated five-year bachelor's to master's in public health.
#24 – University of Hawaii – Manoa, Hawaii
Bachelor of Arts degree in Public Health
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Net Price: $15,479/year
The Office of Public Health Studies at the University of Hawai'i offers an affordable public health bachelor's degree. It's designed to prepare students for a variety of careers in public health. Students can declare public health as their major by direct admission, transferring, or earn a concurrent degree in public health alongside another degree at UHM. The major is comprised of 42 credit hours and includes coursework in:
-epidemiology
-social behavioral health
-global health
-public health issues in Hawai'i.
Students complete a public health allied learning experience and a capstone project to complete their degree.
#23 – Georgia State University – Atlanta, Georgia
Bachelor Of Science In Public Health
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Net Price: $15,350/year
Georgia State University features an innovative affordable bachelor's in public health program focused on urban and global health issues. Public health courses are available in:
-epidemiology
-environmental health
-communications
-informatics
-chronic and infectious diseases.
Students can participate in study abroad opportunities, an undergraduate public health club, the Georgia Public Health Association, and the American Public Health Association.
#22 – University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
Bachelor of Public Health
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Net Price: $15,283/year
The University of Florida's College of Public Health and Health Professions features a top affordable bachelor's in public health. It's designed for students who want to prepare for an advanced degree in public health or a related field. This limited access program is competitive and students need to apply for admission during their sophomore year. Faculty are experts in their field. They share their knowledge and experience with students to help to make a difference in public health.
#21 – Montclair State University – Montclair, New Jersey
BS in Public Health with concentration in Community Health Education
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Net Price: $15,224/year
Montclair State University features an affordable bachelor's in public health program. It has a concentration in either community health education or health systems administration and policy. Students will gain a global perspective in public health that prepares them to work in a variety of settings including:
-hospitals
-non-profits
-community clinics.
#20 – Southern Illinois University – Edwardsville, Illinois
BS in Public Health
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Net Price: $15,090/year
The affordable bachelor's in public health from Southern Illinois University is an interdisciplinary program. It meets the standards set by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) standards. Students can choose to earn their Middle School Health Endorsement or their High School Health Endorsement. The program is heavily focused on service learning, with opportunities for internships and community partnerships.
#19 – University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
BS/BA in Public Health
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Net Price: $14,845/year
The University of Iowa has public health programs that meet the needs of those interested in liberal arts or biomedical sciences. Both degree programs share a solid foundational public health core before branching out into degree specific coursework. Students complete a capstone experience at the end of the program, allowing them to apply their public health knowledge and skills.
#18 – University of North Carolina – Charlotte, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $14,811/year
The motto of the affordable bachelor's in public health program at the University of North Carolina is "Healthy People. Healthy Places. Healthy Communities." Students learn to become leaders in the public health field by working in a variety of settings and with diverse populations. Major courses are available in:
-healthcare administration
-research
-comparative healthcare systems
-program planning.
Students finish both an internship and capstone experience to complete their degree.
#17 – William Paterson University – Wayne, New Jersey
Bachelor's in Public Health-General Track
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Net Price: $14,779/year
The Department of Public Health at William Paterson University features an affordable top public health bachelor's degree with a focus on improving the health of the general public. Students take coursework from a variety of areas including:
-behavioral sciences
-environmental health
-epidemiology.
Unique elective course offerings are available in LGBTQ health, reproductive rights, nutrition, and health management. Students complete an internship in public health to gain valuable hands-on training.
#16 – East Tennessee State University – Johnson City, Tennessee
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $13,926/year
The innovative bachelor's in public health program at East Tennessee State University features concentrations in both community health and health administration. The program has been revamped to include more hands-on learning opportunities including a semester-long internship. This affordable bachelor's in public health is CEPH accredited. It's one of the most established programs in the country.
#15 – University of North Florida – Jacksonville, Florida
Bachelor of Science in Health, Public Health (BSH)
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Net Price: $13,524/year
The University of North Florida's Brooks College of Health features a bachelor's in public health program with a minor in health education. Coursework covers areas like:
-public health education strategies
-planning and evaluating public health programs
-public health research.
An internship provides students with valuable public health field experience. Graduates will have the knowledge and skills needed to become Certified Health Education Specialists.
#14 – East Carolina University – Greenville, North Carolina
Bachelor of Science Degree in Public Health Studies
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Net Price: $13,327/year
The College of Health and Human Performance at East Carolina University features a bachelor's in public health studies. It includes concentrations in community health education, pre-health professions, and worksite health promotion. Most students complete a 12 semester hour internship experience supervised by an Internship Coordinator. All coursework is delivered face-to-face, taught by expert level faculty. Graduates of this top affordable bachelor's in public health work in:
-hospitals
-clinics
-schools
-government offices
-businesses.
#13 – San Diego State University – San Diego, California
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $13,363/year
The top affordable bachelor's in public health program at San Diego State University gives students broad public health knowledge. Coursework covers traditional areas of public health like:
-epidemiology
-environmental health
-health services administration
-behavioral science.
Students explore each of these areas using real-world examples to prepare them for graduate study or entry level employment opportunities. Public health student organizations like The Public Health Initiative and Students 4 Public Health keep students actively engaged in the field while earning their degree.
#12 – Eastern Kentucky State University – Richmond, Kentucky
B.S. in Public Health, Community Health Concentration
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Net Price: $12,659/year
Eastern Kentucky University features the longest standing CEPH accredited bachelor's of public health program in the state. There are two distinct programs including the Community Health Concentration and the Pre-Professional Concentration. Faculty are heavily involved in the field. They hold leadership positions, publish their work, and make national presentations. Seniors can complete an internship to gain valuable field experience. Graduates are ready to sit for the CHES exam to earn their certification as Certified Health Education Specialists.
#11 – Rutgers University – Newark, New Jersey
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $12,020/year
The Edward J. Bloustein School of Planning and Public Policy at Rutgers University features an affordable CEPH accredited bachelor's in public health program. It prepares students for a variety of career paths. Students have the unique opportunity to earn specialized credentials while completing their degree including:
-the Health Disparities Certificate
-the Public Health Advocacy/Education Certificate
-the Public Health Management Certificate
-the Public Health Preparedness Certificate
All students complete a professional practice internship experience working in a public health setting.
#10 – University of Illinois at Chicago – Chicago, Illinois
Bachelor of Arts in Public Health
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Net Price: $11,884/year
The University of Illinois at Chicago features a junior entry bachelor's in public health program. It's for students who are interested in public health at the community level. Students will study topics like:
-health equity and health disparities
-health systems
-health policy
-ecologies of health and modern life
-health literacy.
Students have the opportunity to complete a public health fieldwork experience and an advanced project in public health to master their skills.
#9 – Western Kentucky University – Bowling Green, Kentucky
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $11,817/year
Western Kentucky University features an affordable bachelor's in public health program with a concentration in health education or environmental health. Students can be admitted to the program after they have completed 30 credit hour and met the prerequisites. One of the program's highlights is an internship at a site that is of interest to the student. No minor or second major is required. However, students can add a minor in health education, occupational heath and promotion, or worksite health promotion to meet their professional goals.
#8 – University of South Florida – Tampa, Florida
Bachelor's in Public Health
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Net Price: $11,766/year
The University of South Florida offers the first BPH degree in an accredited College of Public Health in Florida. This affordable bachelor's in public health program features courses in:
-workforce and leadership development
-epidemiology
-biostatistics
-U.S. healthcare.
Specializations are available in nutrition, infection control, health education, environmental and occupational health, and global health. Students can add more value to their degree by participating in student organizations including the Undergraduate Public Health Student Association or the Pre-Med American Medical Student Association.
#7 – University of Nebraska – Omaha, Nebraska
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $11,727/year
The bachelor's in public health program at the University of Nebraska is rich with hands-on learning opportunities. Unique electives like applied nutrition and drug awareness make students aware of the latest trends and behaviors in key public health areas. All students complete a semester long internship experience in a community agency in an area of public health of interest to the student. Graduates have gone on to work for the American Red Cross, the Multiple Sclerosis Society, and the Federal Government.
#6 – Appalachian State University – Boone, North Carolina
Public Health BS
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Net Price: $10,473/year
Appalachian State University features an affordable bachelor's in public health program. It prepares students for a variety of certifications including:
-the Certified Health Education Specialist
-Health Coaching
-Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist Certification.
Students complete a 320 hour internship experience in a public or community health agency, hospital, or non-profit. Students must declare a minor in their main health interest or work with an advisor to choose guided electives in their area of interest. Students have access to advising, career development services, and a Public Health Club which keeps them engaged in community activities.
#5 – New Mexico State University – Las Cruces, New Mexico
Bachelor in Public Health
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Net Price: $9,449/year
The CEPH accredited affordable bachelor's in public health program at New Mexico State University is a 120 credit hour program with the option to choose a minor. Coursework is offered in:
-program planning
-disease prevention
-computer applications in health education
-problems in health education.
Graduates are prepared to work in a variety of public health settings including hospitals, school districts, and NGOs.
#4 – University of Washington – Seattle, Washington
BA in Public Health
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Net Price: $9,443/year
The School of Public Health at the University of Washington features an innovative bachelor's in public health with a focus on global health. This 180 credit hour program can be completed as either a Bachelor of Arts or a Bachelor of Science. Students are encouraged to participate in experiential learning opportunities to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world problems. UW integrates experiential learning into the classroom, research, study abroad opportunities, and internship experiences. Graduates are well prepared for entry level public health positions or for graduate school.
#3 – California State University – San Bernardino, California
Bachelor's in Public Health Education
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Net Price: $8,704/year
California State University San Bernardino features an affordable bachelor's in public health program. It prepares students to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist national examination. Faculty use innovative teaching strategies to keep students engaged throughout the program. Through interdisciplinary collaboration, students gain an understanding of public health across a variety of areas. Coursework covers areas like:
-statistics
-human sexuality
-environmental health
-nutrition
-evaluation
#2 – West Virginia University – Institute, West Virginia
Bachelor of Science in Public Health
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Net Price: $7,370/year
Students don't need to sacrifice quality when seeking an affordable bachelor's in public health. West Virginia University gives students three areas of emphasis to choose from including:
-Public Health Sciences
-Community and Population Health
-Patient Navigation.
Unlike many other programs that admit students for their junior year, WVU admits first-time freshman directly into the program for a full four-year experience.
#1 – California State University – Northridge, California
B.S. in Public Health
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Net Price: $5,958/year
The most affordable bachelor's in public health program make our list is at California State University Northridge. Students will learn to successfully plan, implement, and evaluate a variety of human service programs by public health core and elective course offerings. Students can take courses in:
-human behavior
-community health action
-program evaluation
-public health issues.
All students complete an academic internship to gain hands on experience.
Applying to an Affordable Online Bachelor's in Public Health Program
In general, public health bachelor's degree online programs require a high school or GED diploma. Most applications also request the following:
- Transcripts: Students should have official transcripts from previously attended schools forwarded with their application. The more selective programs may require a 3.0 GPA or above.
- Standardized test scores: Some schools establish minimum scores on the ACT or SAT exam. International students should expect to submit TOEFL scores as documentation of English proficiency.
- Letters of recommendation: Students should request recommendations from high school teachers or advisors who can speak directly to their abilities. Applicants already employed in public health should submit letters from their work supervisors.
- Statement of purpose/essay/resume: Most applications require a written summation describing educational goals, career aspirations, and work and volunteer experiences. Some programs require at least one year of public health work experience or give preference to applicants who can document public health employment or volunteer service.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I be a nurse with a public health degree?
Public health nurses must first acquire their registered nurse (RN) license after graduating from an accredited nursing diploma, associate, or bachelor of nursing program and passing the National Council Licensure Examination, commonly known as the NCLEX-RN exam. RNs with at least five years of public health experience may obtain the certification in public health from the National Board of Public Health Examiners.
What is accreditation and why is it important?
The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) serves as the only national accrediting agency for public health schools as well as public health programs outside schools of public health. Recognized by the U.S. Department of Education, CEPH accreditation ensures that undergraduate and graduate public health programs have met academic and professional standards of quality.
Is a degree in public health worth it?
The BLS projects that healthcare jobs could grow over the next decade at a much faster rate than any other type of occupation. A public health degree trains graduates to enter an array of expanding and lucrative careers in research, policy analysis, and education. The demand for specialized public health professionals continues to rise in fields, such as community health and social services and healthcare promotion and communication.
What can I do with a bachelor's degree in public health?
A bachelor's in public health opens up countless career possibilities in clinical and nonclinical roles, in the nonprofit and private sector, and in local or international settings. Graduates may work as community health managers, epidemiologists, and public health officers. Opportunities continue to expand in the fields of emergency preparedness and disaster planning, coordinating with first responders in military and law enforcement agencies.