Jackson State Universty, the historically Black educational institution in Mississippi, has announced that it will now offer a bachelor’s degree program in public health. In a study conducted by the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, the employment of public health services managers is projected to increase by 18 percent over the next several years. Employment for health educators and community health workers will increase by 11 percent.
In addition to receiving theoretical training, students will also receive tangible experience within the field by engaging in real case studies and research alongside supervising faculty. Upon graduation, public health undergraduates can assume entry and middle-level positions as community health planners, first responders, epidemiologists, public policymakers, public health physicians, public health nurses, and occupational and safety professionals.
“Jackson State University’s faculty partnered with external stakeholders in the design of an academic program meeting the demands of a changing health landscape. The result is a degree program embracing workforce needs. Our graduates will be ready to reimagine public health and consider the impact of data on the promotion of health outcomes.” said Alisa Mosley, provost and senor vice presdent for academic affairs at Jackson State University. “The workforce needs in the public health industry continue to outpace the supply of professionals entering the market, particularly among those equipped to address health disparities. We’re ready to meet the demand and train a diverse cadre of competent professionals to address the complexity of public health.”
