New accelerated program to meet needs of students and region’s workforce
Slippery Rock University is fast-tracking careers in public health to meet the pace and demand for health care jobs in the region.
In response to the 10% growth expected between 2020-30 in public health-related occupations within 150 miles of campus and overall increase in demand for public health professionals, SRU is launching a new accelerated degree pathway. Starting in Fall 2026, students at SRU can earn their Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Health in one of two concentrations in just five years with a 3+2 pathway.
TWO CONCENTRATIONS FOR SUCCESS
Fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health, SRU’s existing, 42-credit Master of Public Health program can be completed 100% online. The new pathway will provide further efficiencies to save students time and money to optimize their college journey from bachelor’s to master’s degree completion.
The MPH program includes two career-focused concentrations tailored to students’ interests:
- Health Promotion and Wellness, with curriculum focused on evidence-based practices that address social determinants of health and protecting vulnerable populations. Students will learn how to implement disease prevention and intervention strategies and forge strong partnerships that enhance community health. This concentration is ideal for future health education specialists, research associates, public health educators, public information officers or wellness program directors.
- Environmental and Occupational Health, with curriculum that emphasizes practical applications of government, regulatory and global agencies that achieve healthy workplaces and other communities. Students will learn how to champion safety measures, evaluate risks and mitigate environmental and workplace hazards. This concentration is ideal for those aspiring to become air pollution analysts, disaster management specialists, environmental health scientists, environmental toxicologists, environmental health consultants, water protection specialists or industrial hygienists.
ADVANCED CAREER PREPARATION
Following a practitioner-based approach, the program offers students advanced training and a capstone experience with an opportunity to develop relevant skills in applied settings, such as agencies, clinics and hospitals that include Women for Health Environment, Allegheny County Health Department, Allegheny Health Network and the Department of Veteran Affairs. Graduates will be prepared to take the Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) examination or the National Board of Public Health Examiner’s Certified Public Health (CPH) examination and on track for the Certified Industrial Hygiene examination.
“This is an ideal program for students who want to make a difference and benefit from a rewarding career in public health,” said Adelle Williams, professor of public health sciences and department chair. “Our faculty understand the needs of the health care industry and the talent and skills that employers desire, all while providing students the attention and experiences they need to land good jobs and grow successful careers that shape the future of public health.”
HIGH IMPACT, LOW COST
The 3+2 accelerated pathway is designed for students who are poised to enter emerging career fields that advance community and population health. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, health care-related professions account for 18 of the 30 fastest-growing occupations.
As a public university whose mission is providing the highest quality education at the lowest possible cost, SRU is committed to meeting the economic needs of students and the region’s workforce. SRU’s annual tuition is $7,994 for in-state students, which is among the most affordable four-year options in Pennsylvania. The total estimated cost per year is $23,306 for full-time undergraduate Pennsylvania residents, when include tuition, fees, room and board.
More information about SRU’s public health programs is available on the University’s website.
