South Dakota State University

The Community and Public Health degree is designed to prepare students to use program planning, policy analysis, and education to change the conditions and the systems that affect the health of people. The program provides students with the skills necessary to collect and analyze health data, to identify and plan for health needs, to implement and evaluate health programs that encourage healthy lifestyles, and to advocate for better health policy. The curriculum engages students in thinking critically about creative solutions to health problems and recognizing that health is related to many issues, including genetics, environment, personal choices and behaviors. Community and Public Health professionals work in health care agencies, public health departments, public interest groups, and research organizations that have an interest in improving the health and quality of life of others.

Majoring in Community and Public Health is an excellent foundation for students to apply to various graduate and professional programs, which may include public health, health care administration, counseling, occupational therapy, physical therapy, medical school, physician’s assistant school, and chiropractor school.