It’s National Public Health Week, and it’s worth noting that health education specialists and community health workers are two in-demand professions, with jobs in the sector projected to grow by 12% by 2031 – much higher than the average growth rate for all occupations – according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
However, these two careers are only a couple of the potential pathways individuals can pursue with an online master’s in public health with Georgia State.
Learn more about a few of the many opportunities with this list:
Health education specialist: Also known as health educators, these specialists work with individuals and communities, along with private and public organizations, to develop programs that teach people about conditions that affect well-being and promote health. Individuals in this career field can work at hospitals, nonprofits, schools, businesses and elsewhere. The average salary of a health education specialist is $64,930, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Community health worker: Community health workers help patients and their families navigate the world of community services and other resources while promoting healthy behaviors. With a goal of improving patient care and outcomes, community health workers often work with lower-income individuals and those with larger needs. They work in a variety of private, public and clinical settings with an average salary of $47,780 per year, according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.
Public health administrator: Public health administrators deal with population health, creating plans that improve public health like disease testing or programs that encourage physical wellness. These individuals often run health information organizations, so communication, budgeting, hiring and other skills are useful. Public health administrators make an average of $59,146 per year, according to Zippia, and these individuals can work for hospitals, insurance companies, government organizations and non-profits.
Public health researcher: Public health researchers conduct various types of studies, collect data, interview community members, analyze findings and other roles to propose public health agendas and policies. Public health researchers strive to gain a better perspective or public health, both at the individual and family level, in order to better inform the public. They often make an average annual salary of $61,765, and individuals in this profession can grow in management and senior management, promotions that come with pay raises.
Epidemiologist: A career that has gained visibility since the COVID-19 pandemic, epidemiologists look for the causes of diseases or illnesses. After identifying the cause of a disease, epidemiologists determine others who may be at risk and figure out how to stop the spread and future outbreaks. Epidemiologists often work for federal or state governments or schools and universities and have an average annual salary of $86,740 according to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Individuals in this field can also work for industries such as pharmaceutical and medicine manufacturing and specialty hospitals.
About the Program
Georgia State Online’s Master of Public Health (MPH) degree with a concentration in Health Promotion and Behavior (HPMB) is available completely online in as little as four semesters, while part-time students can complete the program in 7 semesters. Courses in the 42-credit hour program of study integrate theory, practice and research to help students learn methods of promoting health and well-being in the community and how to assist with the implementation of healthy behaviors on an individual and community scale.
The HPMB concentration gives students the skills and tools to implement healthy behaviors on an individual and community level. With no Graduate Record Examination (GRE) required, students are able to apply immediately and get a start in their careers in public health.
Want to learn more about the Online Master of Public Health Program? Talk to enrollment coaches LaToya and Moisés 404-413-4393 or [email protected], or talk to admissions at 404-413-1452 or [email protected].