Why Public Health Careers Are in High Demand—and How LAPU Prepares You

Why Public Health Careers Matter Now More Than Ever

The Impact of Global Health Challenges

In an era marked by pandemics, chronic disease, and the rising effects of climate change, the importance of a public health career has never been more evident. From developing vaccine strategies to implementing large-scale health initiatives, public health professionals play a vital role in protecting society. With threats like cancer, emerging pollutants, and mental health crises impacting communities worldwide, professionals in this field serve as the front line of prevention, education, and support.

Expanding Roles in Community Health and Prevention

Modern public health goes far beyond hospital walls. Today’s careers encompass health promotion, mental health advocacy, substance abuse prevention, and community health worker roles that meet people where they are. Whether you’re conducting risk assessment, promoting nutrition, or addressing social determinants of health, this field allows you to directly influence well-being and health equity in diverse populations. The workforce demand is rising, and organizations in both the public and private sector are investing in population-based approaches.

Job Security in a Rapidly Growing Industry

According to the American Public Health Association, the demand for skilled professionals in epidemiology, environmental health, health policy, and emergency management is growing significantly. Career paths in this sector offer long-term stability, especially in areas like occupational safety and health, health administration, and policy analysis. In fact, roles in public health jobs, department of health jobs, and global health jobs are expected to increase sharply over the next decade. A public health degree not only provides a meaningful career—it ensures employability in a dynamic, resilient field.

What You Can Do with a Public Health Career

Health Education and Wellness Promotion

Health educators and nutritionists play a key role in preventing disease before it starts. By focusing on behavior change, education, and health promotion, these professionals create wellness campaigns that improve individual and community outcomes. Whether you're teaching stress management, supporting dietary changes, or creating outreach programs, this career path combines science with heart.

Epidemiology and Disease Surveillance

As an epidemiologist, you'll study patterns, causes, and impacts of disease to inform public health decisions. Through data analysis, biostatistics, and evidence-based research, you’ll help mitigate risks and prevent future outbreaks. Entry-level roles in epidemiology and clinical research coordination are increasingly available, especially for those holding a bachelor’s degree and planning to pursue an MPH or even a doctor of philosophy in public health.

Public Health Policy and Advocacy

Working in health policy and management, professionals influence how healthcare is delivered and accessed. Whether you're developing public health policies, performing policy analysis, or advocating for legislative reform, this career allows you to shape systemic change. Opportunities abound in government healthcare jobs, nonprofit organizations, and international advocacy groups like the Peace Corps.

Emergency Preparedness and Disaster Response

Professionals trained in emergency management and public safety are essential in times of crisis. Whether responding to natural disasters, disease outbreaks, or bioterrorism threats, these roles require quick thinking, technology fluency, and a strong understanding of informatics and public systems. LAPU’s online public health education supports this career by emphasizing critical information, strategy, and response planning.

Environmental and Occupational Health

Protecting the environment means protecting health. Roles in environmental science as well as occupational safety and health focus on controlling exposures to pollutants, ensuring safe work environments, and mitigating the health impacts of climate change. These professionals work across industries—from local government to global corporations—to safeguard public well-being and prevent environmental hazards from becoming health crises.

What You’ll Learn in LAPU’s Public Health Program

Core Courses in Epidemiology, Biostatistics, and Health Policy

LAPU’s public health programs offer a comprehensive curriculum that includes essential courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy. These foundational subjects give students a deep understanding of how to measure, interpret, and influence health outcomes across communities. You'll also learn how public health policies are developed, implemented, and evaluated at local, national, and global levels.

Training in Community Health, Health Education, and Ethics

Through courses in community health, psychology, education, and ethics, students build a practical and theoretical foundation for serving diverse populations. Whether you plan to become a community health worker, pursue social work, or lead public health initiatives, LAPU’s focus on education and service equips you to communicate effectively, assess needs, and design interventions that make a lasting impact.

Skills in Communication, Leadership, and Data Analysis

Today’s public health professionals need to be both leaders and analysts. LAPU students develop key skills in communication, management, leadership, and data analysis. You’ll also gain fluency in informatics, health information management, and digital technology used in health systems. These competencies support diverse careers—from global health response to public health administration.

How LAPU Prepares You for a Successful Public Health Career

100% Online Format for Maximum Flexibility

Designed for busy adults, LAPU’s online public health degree provides ultimate flexibility without sacrificing quality. Whether you’re managing work, family, or other responsibilities, you can access lectures, assignments, and feedback from anywhere (in any of our authorized states) with an internet connection. This format ensures accessibility while supporting time management and career advancement.

Real-World Faculty with Public Health Expertise

You’ll learn from experienced health professionals and scientists who have worked in roles across the healthcare spectrum—including medicine, research, policy, and emergency management. LAPU’s professors bring a real-world lens to classroom instruction, helping you apply what you learn in ways that are immediately relevant to today’s public health careers.

Career and Graduate School Pathways

LAPU’s program isn’t just a degree—it’s a launchpad. Whether you plan to apply to a Bachelor’s or Master’s in Public Health, or pursue a career in the field, LAPU provides academic advising and career guidance every step of the way. You’ll graduate prepared for opportunities such as entry level epidemiology jobs or even government healthcare jobs.

Purpose and Service in Public Health

Making a Difference Through Community Engagement

Public health is deeply rooted in community service. At LAPU, students are encouraged to engage with the world around them—through service-learning projects, local initiatives, and internships that promote health literacy, equity, and access. You’ll graduate not only with technical knowledge but also a sense of purpose and responsibility to contribute to public well-being.

Ethical Leadership Grounded in Faith and Compassion

As a faith-based university, LAPU integrates Christian values into every aspect of the learning experience. Courses emphasize ethical leadership, compassion, and integrity—core principles that prepare students to serve with excellence in diverse settings. Whether working in a hospital, nonprofit, or government agency, you'll be guided by a strong moral compass grounded in your values.

Conclusion

A public health career offers more than job stability—it offers a chance to improve lives, communities, and global health outcomes. With a degree from Los Angeles Pacific University, you’ll be equipped with the knowledge, skills, and ethical grounding to lead in one of the world’s most impactful fields. From disease prevention to policy analysis, LAPU prepares you to serve with skill and compassion.

Ready to Make a Difference? Start Your Public Health Career with LAPU Today

If you’re ready to pursue a career that combines service, science, and societal impact, LAPU is here to help. With a flexible online public health degree, expert faculty, and a mission-driven environment, we’ll help you take the first step toward a meaningful future in public health.

Request information, speak with an advisor, or begin your application today. Your journey to a purpose-filled public health career starts now—with LAPU by your side.

FAQs (Frequently Asked Questions)

Are LAPU’s Bachelor of Public Health and Master of Public Health programs fully online?

Yes, both programs are 100% online and designed to offer flexibility and accessibility for working professionals and adult learners.

What types of jobs can I get with a public health degree?

Graduates can pursue careers in health education, epidemiology, policy analysis, emergency management, environmental health, public health administration, and more. Many go on to roles in department of health jobs and global health jobs.

How long does it take to earn a public health degree?

Most students complete their Bachelor of Public Health in about four years. However, those with transfer credits or an accelerated schedule may finish sooner.

Can I use this degree to apply for a master’s in public health (MPH)?

Absolutely. LAPU’s public health degree provides the foundational coursework needed for admission into MPH degree programs, master of science in public health, and other graduate tracks.

Does LAPU accept transfer credits for this program?

Yes, LAPU is transfer-friendly and accepts transfer credits from accredited colleges and universities, helping students reduce cost and time to completion. You can reach out to LAPU directly here if you have any questions in regard to transfer credits.