Public Health, B.S.
The Bachelor of Science in Public Health program at St. Francis College prepares students for advanced studies in public health, the health professions, occupational therapy, physical therapy, medical careers, pharmacy careers, nursing, and more. Public Health students develop the competencies and skills necessary for positions in a variety of professional settings such as local, state, and federal health and social service agencies and non-governmental and voluntary health organizations, health care, and private industry.
This program has been designed to provide opportunities for SFC students to work with underserved communities. The major supplements interest in adding a minor to a course of study in the college, and it will enable students to enter into the healthcare profession better prepared to serve their communities in providing healthcare to all.
Underlying the focused, outcomes-driven curriculum is SFC’s robust General Education Program, which is the cornerstone of SFC and affirms its mission to graduate educated, well-rounded individuals who enter the workforce and work to change and culturally diversify the world.
CAREER OPPORTUNITIES
While many health promotion students undertake graduate training in public health and community health, they also find rewarding careers in local, state and national community health agencies, city and state government agencies, hospitals, schools, nursing homes and more. Other students pursue professional training or advanced degrees in fields such as physical therapy, occupational therapy, medicine or nursing.
CENTERED AROUND STUDENT SUCCESS
Learning is augmented at SFC through hands-on experiences, such as service learning and internships at national health organizations including as the American Cancer Society, local community health organizations like Rivington House, and medical settings such as Brooklyn Medical Group and Methodist Hospital.
Additionally, all students receive the enhanced Terrier 360 system of wrap-around support from day one to after graduation. Within the robust support, students gain in-depth insight and guidance to academic, internship, and career path options via the Center for Student Success, Center for Career Exploration, and Center for Learning and Leadership.
HONORS PROGRAM AND HONOR SOCIETIES
Qualified students seeking an additional academic challenge can participate in the St. Francis Honors Program, where students participate in a series of small, intensive seminars, trips, and other activities that lead toward a senior thesis.
The College is also home to 15 national honor societies and its own Duns Scotus Honors Society which recognizes students for their academic and community achievements.
CURRICULUM
PUBLIC HEALTH B.S. | 122 CREDITS
Professional core courses are designed to help students develop skills in planning, implementation, and evaluation in the context of health services and programs. Students must complete an internship during their senior year in a setting related to the degree and their interests. Example internship sites include the American Heart Association, the American Red Cross, hospitals, nursing homes, fitness centers, work site health education programs, and substance abuse prevention centers.
ADMISSION INFORMATION
Students can apply for undergraduate admission with no fee using the SFC App or Common App. Applications are accepted on a rolling basis.