Exploring the Benefits of Pursuing a Bachelors in Public Health
Public health has been at the forefront of global conversations for over a year now. The COVID-19 pandemic has demonstrated the importance of strengthening public health systems across the world. It has also shed light on the essential role of public health professionals. As a result, there has been a marked increase in interest in pursuing a degree in public health. In this article, we will explore the benefits of a Bachelor’s in Public Health (BPH) and why pursuing this degree can be a smart career move.
What is Public Health?
Public health is an interdisciplinary field that is focused on promoting and improving the health of populations. It involves studying the causes and effects of diseases and injuries in large groups of people, identifying risk factors, and developing strategies to prevent them.
Why Pursue a BPH?
Studying public health at the undergraduate level can prepare you for a wide variety of career paths. Here are some benefits of pursuing a BPH:
1. Wide Range of Career Opportunities
The field of public health is vast, and pursuing a BPH degree can open up exciting career opportunities for you. You can work in government organizations, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, schools, and other public and private sector organizations.
2. Making a Positive Difference
Public health professionals work to improve the well-being of communities and populations. Pursuing a BPH degree can provide you with the skills and knowledge necessary to work towards creating a healthier and safer world.
3. Lucrative Salaries
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the median annual wage for health educators and community health workers, two professions within the public health field, was $48,140 in May 2020. Pursuing a BPH degree can help you command a higher salary in your career, allowing you to contribute to your financial stability.
4. Personal Satisfaction
Working in public health can provide a sense of personal satisfaction that comes from knowing that you are contributing to the greater good. You will be working to solve real-world health problems and positively impacting communities.
Skills Gained Through Pursuing a BPH
Pursuing a BPH degree can equip you with skills that are in demand in several different industries. Here are some key skills you will gain:
1. Critical Thinking
Public health professionals need to be critical thinkers who can analyze data and identify trends. Pursuing a BPH degree can help you develop these skills, giving you the ability to approach problems with a logical and informed mindset.
2. Interpersonal Skills
Public health professionals need to be able to work effectively with people from a wide variety of backgrounds. Pursuing a BPH degree can provide you with the opportunity to develop your communication and teamwork skills, making you more adept at building relationships with others.
3. Data Analysis
Data analysis is an essential skill in the field of public health. Pursuing a BPH degree can provide you with the skills necessary to collect, analyze, and interpret data to inform public health decisions.
The Bottom Line
Pursuing a BPH degree can be an excellent career move, providing many personal and professional benefits. With a BPH degree, you can help make a real difference in people’s lives and work towards creating a healthier world for all.
