Start Here. Go Anywhere in Public Health.
Want to help people and solve real-world health problems? At Belmont, you’ll study topics like disease prevention and health policy, work closely with faculty who care about your success, and team up with students from all kinds of fields. You’ll also get hands-on experience through a 400-hour internship that fits your goals. By graduation, you’ll be ready to step into a career—or grad school—and start making an impact in your community and beyond.
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Prime Location: Nashville, TN
Studying Public Health in Nashville offers unmatched opportunities in one of the nation’s leading health care hubs. Located in the heart of downtown, students learn firsthand why “place matters” in public health:
- Nashville is home to over 500 healthcare companies, including HCA Healthcare, Vanderbilt University Medical Center, and Community Health Systems, providing abundant internship and job opportunities.
- Strong connections with the Tennessee Department of Health, Metro Public Health Department, and nonprofit organizations allow for hands-on learning, professional development, and networking.
- Nashville metro area’s mix of urban, suburban, and rural populations provides students with exposure to a wide range of public health challenges and solutions.
- Students have the opportunity to attend and present at the Tennessee Public Health Association (TPHA) Conference, and other national events/conferences.
What You'll Learn
As a public health major at Belmont, you will receive a broad foundation in science with courses in biology and chemistry coupled with foundational courses in public health like environmental health, global health, and health policy. You will examine broader factors at play in population health, such social determinants of health, epidemiology, and biostatistics.
You can choose up to 21 hours of electives across the curriculum, giving you the chance to explore everything from philosophy to international politics or prepare you for medical school.
Program Details
Curriculum
To major in public health, you will complete a total of 128 credit hours:
- BELL core requirements: 51 hours
- Major requirements: 48 hours
- Major fieldwork: 9 hours
- General electives: 20 hours
Courses You'll Take
- CEM 1010 Chemistry
The goal of the course is to help students understand the chemistry behind important societal issues and the consequences of actions aimed at addressing the issues. After laying the necessary chemical foundation, the course will focus on topics such as foods, fuels, consumer goods, environmental materials, and the physical materials of our bodies - BPH 1010 Foundations of Public Health
This course familiarizes students with the field of public health, including the history and current practices. Major cultural, social, economic, organizational, and environmental factors influencing public health issues and practices at the local, state, national, and international levels will be presented. Public health Core Functions and Essential Services will be explored, and students will gain an understanding of public health as a broad area of work that applies the benefits of current biomedical, environmental, social, and behavioral knowledge to promote the health status of populations. - BPH 2010 Social Determinants of Health
This 1-3 hour, seminar course is designed to introduce and stimulate discussion about existing and emerging public health issues. This course may be taken at any time but may be particularly useful early in the curriculum for students interested in exploring career alternatives in core areas of public health practice and research. - BPH 2100 Current Issues in Public Health
This 1-3 hour, seminar course is designed to introduce and stimulate discussion about existing and emerging public health issues. This course may be taken at any time but may be particularly useful early in the curriculum for students interested in exploring career alternatives in core areas of public health practice and research. - BPH 2240 Health Communications
This course explores the interpersonal, group, organizational, and public communication processes that shape beliefs, decisions and behavior regarding health, sickness, and health care. Attitudes and actions of various participants in health communication, including citizens, health professionals, and those engaged in the public debate of health issues will be explored. - SWK 2250 Human Behavior and Social Environment I
This course examines the biological, psychological, and social development of the individual at different lifespan stages. Students learn about human behavior from the perspective of developmental milestones as well as environmental, societal and cultural issues and contexts. - BPH 3010 Global Health
Students in this course will develop an understanding of key concepts, tools and frameworks for studying global health with a focus on global disease burden, health determinants and disparities, health policy and stakeholders and challenges of global health interventions. The importance of understanding and addressing global health through multidisciplinary frameworks of the natural sciences, social-behavioral sciences, humanities, and policy will be explored. - BPH 3020 Population Health
This course examines the way health care delivery systems, public health agencies, community-based organizations and other elements work together to develop, deliver and evaluate effectiveness of interventions to improve health outcomes at local, national and global levels. Three broad content areas will be explored: infectious disease, chronic disease and environmental health. - BPH 3100 Introduction to Epidemiology
This course introduces the student to principles of epidemiology and their application to disease surveillance, control of infectious and chronic diseases, and health services/health policy. Students will learn about basic research designs and tools used by epidemiologists to explore relationships between cause and effect and effectiveness of interventions to prevent, contain or cure disease. - BPH 3200 Fundamentals of Environmental Health
This course explores the relationship of people and their environment, how it affects physical and mental well-being and what they can do to influence the quality of the environment and to enhance the protection of their health. Environmental factors that influence transmission of communicable diseases and hazards due to exposure to chemical and physical materials in our environment will be examined. - BPH 3210 Scientific Inquiry
This course provides a basic introduction to research including theoretical foundations and fundamental protocols. The course enrolls students majoring in health professions, the social sciences, humanities and natural and physical sciences. Students will explore research methodologies and learn how to write a research proposal including identification of a study topic, generation of a hypothesis, formulation of inquiry questions, organizing a literature review, and selecting a research design. Practical use of the proposal as a plan to facilitate a research project and dissemination of findings will be examined. - BPH 4015 Capstone
This course is designed as a culminating experience to allow students to integrate, synthesize and apply knowledge developed throughout the academic program. Options for completing this experience may include a public service internship, working directly with a faculty member to complete an independent research project and paper or an approved study abroad experience in a public health practice setting. - BPH 4100 Introduction to Health Policy
This course provides a framework for understanding the social, political and economic dimensions of health policy and offers the student an opportunity to explore various ways in which the government impacts health and the provision of health care. Issues of accessibility, cost and quality of health care; food, water and environmental safety; and the right to make decisions about our health and health care will be explored. Topical areas may include the Affordable Care Act and policies governing environmental health, pharmaceutical, injury prevention, aging, long-term care, etc. - BPH 4200 Fundamentals of Health Economics
This course will guide students to understand how economic principles apply to the market for health care. Topics of study will include cost-benefit analysis, the market for insurance, the pharmaceutical industry, the private markets for physicians and hospital services, and the potential roles for government in healthcare. The course will include a brief survey of alternate healthcare delivery systems and models for reform. - BPH 4300 Program Planning and Evaluation
Students will gain a basic understanding of public health programming including assessment, design, planning, implementation and evaluation. Given the importance of public health planning and evaluation occurring within the context of interdisciplinary teams, students in this course will also discuss and practice skills for building effective teams and accomplishing individual and group objectives through team work - Public Health Fieldwork I, II & III (BPH 2000, BPH 3000, BPH 4000)
Fieldwork experience connects skills and knowledge acquired in the classroom with public health practice. Fieldwork can enable the student to develop and improve communication skills, develop and practice project management and problem-solving skills using public health methods, principles and techniques. Using hands-on public health practice opportunities, students can explore career options and create their own networks with other public health professionals. Complete 9 credit hours of Fieldwork.
Get involved and explore your passions beyond the classroom. As a public health major at Belmont, you’ll have abundant opportunities to network, make your voice heard and learn more about careers in the field. For example:
- Travel abroad to work with practicing professionals, learn about cultural differences and explore the impact of health policies on individuals and communities.
- Join the Public Health Student Association and get to know classmates who share your interests.
- Voice your opinions in monthly meetings of the Public Health Book Club.
- Hear from distinguished guest speakers as part of our Coffee and Careers Series.
Outcomes & Alumni Success
Graduates of Belmont’s Department of Public Health are making an impact in diverse healthcare and public health settings. Alumni have secured roles as epidemiologists with state health departments, consultants for healthcare organizations, and analysts in nonprofit and policy sectors.
Many public health majors pursue the pre-health track and have continued into medical school, physician assistant (PA) programs, and accelerated MSN programs at top institutions. Whether entering the workforce or continuing their education, our graduates are equipped with the skills and experience to improve health outcomes and advance public health initiatives.
Committed to Your Success
We are dedicated to preparing students for meaningful careers through hands-on experiences and professional development opportunities. Students benefit from career services provided by the Office of Career & Professional Development (OCPD), job fairs, networking events, and mentoring from faculty with real-world public health experience. We bring in nationally renowned speakers as guest lecturers and adjunct professors, exposing students to cutting-edge public health issues and leadership insights. Additionally, students participate in field trips to public health organizations and are actively supported in attending the Tennessee Public Health Association (TPHA) Conference, where they can network with professionals and present their work. Our department chair is a former President of TPHA, further strengthening our students’ access to state-level public health networks.
97% of College of Pharmacy & Health Science graduates are employed, pursuing continuing education, or enlisted in the military within 6 months of graduation and 97% of employed graduates are in positions that align with their short or long term career goals.
Learn more about Career & Professional Development at Belmont
Student & Alumni Testimonials
Octavia Forrest
Public Health
Fellow | Tennessee Department of Health
“The Public Health department here at Belmont University is one of the best communities I could have ever asked for. From mentor-mentee relationships to community-building activities, this program has helped me gain an immense amount of knowledge and secure several credible positions, both during and post-undergraduate. Public Health is everything we see and do, the possibilities for impact are endless. As an intern and now a fellow with the Tennessee Department of Health I have consistently used concepts and skills learned in Population Health, Scientific Inquiry, Current Issues, Program Planning and Evaluation, Epidemiology, and many more. I would highly recommend a major or minor in Public Health, but if you are set to major/minor in something else, I definitely recommend taking a Public Health course. It will truly be an eye-opener and so much fun!”
Aly Powers
Public Health
Doctor of Medicine and Master of Public Health Student | James H. Quillen College of Medicine and College of Public Health at East Tennessee State University
“Belmont equipped me with invaluable public health skills to promote health for all as a future physician. My public health education, research and field experience at Belmont unveiled my passion for the intersection of public health and medicine to reduce health inequities through personalized care. This foundation has enabled me to address the broad sociocultural contexts impacting individual and population health in my medical career. I will forever cherish my time at Belmont for fostering my resilience and drive that will carry me through the rest of my life and medical career. As a Bruin for Life, I strive to use the gifts I gained from Belmont to serve as a guiding light for others in the same way that Belmont was a guiding light for me.”
Alex Hamm
Public Health Major with Pre-Health Emphasis
Hershey, PA
“Being a public health major has given me incredible opportunities to explore diverse fields within public health, engage in meaningful research, and give back to the community. The supportive faculty genuinely care about each student's success, both academically and personally. Through hands-on experiences and coursework, I have been able to discover my passions and develop skills that will help me make a real impact in the world. Belmont's public health program has truly prepared me for the future, and I am grateful for the knowledge and connections I've gained.”
Claire Stephens
Public Health Major with Pre-Health Emphasis
San Diego, CA
“Belmont's public health program has been transformative in my life. I have known that I wanted to be a physician assistant for a long time but had many hesitations about majoring in something like biology or chemistry. While those disciplines are wonderful, I knew that Belmont's public health department would equip me with the skills to be a population health-focused practitioner once a day who could truly listen to and understand patients. Studying public health has been the greatest way I've prepared for PA school, and the faculty in our program has empowered me to achieve those goals and given me opportunities surrounding what I am passionate about. The dedication of the faculty and the broad scope of public health has been my favorite part of my pre-health journey.”
Tanner Smalling
Public Health Major
Pursuing Master of Public Health at Emory University
“Belmont University has provided me with excellent support and opportunities. From the experience of the professors in the public health program to the diverse opportunities afforded to me. My time here is characterized by immense growth intellectually, professionally, and spiritually. The public health curriculum prepared me to excel academically at the undergraduate and graduate levels. The faculty were always there to guide, expand my horizons, and prepared me to succeed. By pushing me to reach out to get an internship created at Vanderbilt University Medical Center’s Infectious Disease Division and helping conduct important research, applying to graduate programs, or finding connections in the public health workforce. During my tenure, I was blessed to be extremely involved in student life and the community. Whether the community was the local Nashville area or a rural county in East Tennessee that needed a community health assessment. The public health program has provided me with knowledge, skills, and lifelong mentorship that prepared me to succeed in every endeavor that I have set my mind to. From getting my Master in Public Health at Emory’s Rollins School of Public Health to whatever comes next!”
Career Possibilities
A degree in Public Health opens doors to diverse career opportunities in healthcare, government, nonprofit organizations, and research institutions. Graduates find opportunities in diverse settings, including public health agencies, hospitals, consulting firms, and nonprofit organizations. Many also choose to further their education by pursuing advanced degrees in medicine, nursing, or health administration.
Manages health care organizations, ensuring effective operations and quality patient care.
Conducts research on disease patterns, outbreaks, and public health trends.
Evaluates health policies, programs, and data to inform decision-making.
Works with hospitals, insurance companies, and organizations to improve healthcare delivery.
Analyzes and advocates for policies that promote public health initiatives.
Monitors environmental factors affecting public health and safety.
Designs and implements educational programs to promote health and wellness.
Learn from the Best
The Department of Public Health offers students the opportunity to learn from faculty with extensive experience in epidemiology, community and behavioral health, biostatistics, and public health policy. Our faculty bring backgrounds in governmental public health, military health research, and nonprofit leadership, equipping students with both academic knowledge and real-world application. With expertise in areas such as infectious disease surveillance, health disparities, and program evaluation, our faculty ensure students are prepared to tackle today’s most pressing public health challenges. Join us to learn from the best and become a leader in public health.
Emmanuel Akowuah
Email: emmanuel.akowuah@belmont.edu
Office Location: JCM 437
Laurie Gavilo-Lane
Email: laurie.gavilolane@belmont.edu
Office Location: Jack C. Massey Center 439
Frecia Gonzalez
Office Location: JMC 450
Marquinta Harvey
Email: marquinta.harvey@belmont.edu
Office Location: FCOM 6104
Christian Williams
Email: christian.williams@belmont.edu
Office Location: JCM 438
Frequently Asked Questions
A degree in Public Health prepares students for diverse careers in healthcare, government agencies, nonprofits, and research institutions. Graduates work as epidemiologists, health educators, policy analysts, healthcare consultants, health educators, and more. Many also pursue advanced degrees in medicine, nursing, public health, or healthcare administration.
Students gain practical experience through internships, service-learning projects, and research opportunities. The program also offers field trips to public health agencies, guest lectures from nationally renowned experts, and opportunities to attend professional conferences like the Tennessee Public Health Association (TPHA) Conference, where students can network and present their work.
Yes! Many students in the program follow a pre-health track and successfully continue into medical school and PA programs. Others, pursue MPH degrees at some of the top programs in the Nation. The curriculum provides a strong foundation in population health, health care systems, and disease prevention, making students competitive applicants for advanced degrees.
If you’re passionate about direct patient care in clinical settings like hospitals and clinics, nursing might be a great fit. However, if you're interested in preventing diseases, improving community health, and shaping health policies, Public Health offers a broader approach to health care that impacts populations rather than individual patients. Many students who start with an interest in health care but aren't sure about nursing find Public Health to be a fulfilling path that still allows them to make a meaningful impact. Additionally, some Public Health graduates go on to pursue accelerated nursing programs (MSN) or careers in healthcare administration, blending both fields. Faculty advisors can help you explore your interests and find the best path for your career goals.
Students interested in First-Year or Transfer admissions can apply through the University’s admissions website. Students have the option to apply through the Belmont Application, Common Application or Apply Coalition with SCOIR. Students will also need to submit official transcripts, a school counselor recommendation/school report and a $50 application fee. Belmont is test optional, so applicants can submit their ACT or SAT scores if they’d like them considered.
Learn more about applying as a First-Year Student
Yes! Belmont University offers scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study opportunities to help students finance their education. Students are encouraged to complete the FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) by Belmont's February 15 priority deadline to maximize their potential financial aid.
Learn more about First-Year Tuition & Financial Aid
Contact Us
College of Pharmacy & Health Sciences
Linda Arce
Senior Admissions Coordinator
615.460.5193
Email Linda
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