Public Health at NIU
Bachelor of Science
Better health today means a better world tomorrow.
Stopping the spread of disease. Treating substance abuse. Cleaning up environmental contamination. Public health professionals have a big impact on people and communities. By majoring in this important field, you'll gain the knowledge, planning and information handling skills to improve health and well-being in a variety of settings.
I have decided to major in public health along with completing the prerequisites for a physician assistant program. While it took me a while to decide which specific health care profession I wanted to pursue, I feel extremely confident and excited about my decision.”
Find Public Health Scholarships
Learn Close to Home
This program is also available at the University Center at McHenry County College.
Did You Know?
You can live with students who share your interests in our Health Professions House. You’ll benefit from academic support, networking and more.
What Can I Do With a Public Health Degree From NIU?
Your degree will prepare you for a range of health- and service-related careers. You can enhance the well-being of people and communities by managing programs, conducting research, providing outreach services and more.
Top skills reported by alumni:
Top fields alumni work in:
Fast-track Your Graduate Degree
Prepare for leadership roles in health promotion and management with our accelerated B.S. in public health and Master of Public Health (MPH) program.
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Top employers include:
Job titles include:
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What to Expect as a Public Health Major at NIU
As you learn about improving health and wellness, you'll have access to research and internship opportunities. You can also get involved with our health-related student organizations.
You can choose an emphasis to focus your studies:
- Environment and health
- General public health
- Health administration
- Health promotion
How We’ll Help You Succeed
Apply for free and we’ll automatically consider you for a renewable merit scholarship.
Pursue your bachelor's degree at an exceptional value with our affordable tuition and fees.
Get access to career support resources like assessments, leadership courses and resume/cover letter support.
Apply to NIU

First-year Students
(Freshman)
High School GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ACT/SAT SCORES
We think your high school GPA is a better predictor of your success.

Transfer Students
ALL COLLEGES GPA
2.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed general NIU admission.
ALL COLLEGES GPA
3.0 or higher?
You're guaranteed a
renewable merit scholarship.