Washburn University Launches New Program to Prepare Public Health Professionals

Diagnosing and addressing needs in the workforce is the catalyst behind a new public health program at Washburn University. Beginning this fall, students may pursue several education options in public health from certificates to a bachelor’s degree.

Offered completely online, the offerings provide flexibility to students who wish to enter the public health field or advance in their current careers. Full-time or part-time schedules are available. Options include a Bachelor of Health Science degree in public health, a minor in public health, a certificate in public health and a public health advanced certificate.

“Washburn’s allied health department is excited to offer this new program, which provides graduates with great opportunities in such a quality and diverse profession as public health,” said Mark Kohls, allied health department chair and physical therapy assistant program director, Washburn University.  “Occupations in this field are not only rewarding but in high demand with projections for substantial growth at all levels – local, regional and national. Washburn looks forward to helping fill this need by preparing public health leaders who will make positive change in their communities.”

Public health promotes and protects the health of people and the communities where they live, learn, work and play. The field is experiencing a workforce shortage, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), due to workers retiring or leaving for the public sector. Demand for workers, however, remains high, especially in the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic.  BLS predicts job growth of up to 25% by the year 2031. Kansas public health officials welcome the availability of more trained professionals.

“Kansas Department of Health and Environment (KDHE) could not be more pleased that Washburn University is adding an additional public health program to our state which will provide a public health degree as well as a certificate program. These new options will assist in growing the public health workforce which will lead to improving the health and safety of individuals and their communities which aligns with the mission of KDHE. We look forward to partnering and assisting Washburn with their program moving forward,” said Ashley Goss, deputy secretary for public health, KDHE.

Public health is one of the fastest-growing fields in the country. Research indicates more than 60% of public health graduates move directly into a career in areas such as health promotion and education, community health, emergency management, environmental health, public policy and administration, social and behavioral health as well as epidemiology research.

Learn more about Washburn University’s public health education opportunities by calling (785) 670.2170 or going to Public Health | Washburn University.