University of Vermont

What you'll study

The programme delivers a broad foundation across human biology, epidemiology, health policy and health behaviour alongside practical skills in assessment, data analysis and programme planning. Core topics typically include anatomy and physiology, introductory and advanced epidemiology, biostatistics, research methods, health promotion and disease prevention, health systems and policy, and ethics in health care. Students often choose electives in global health, environmental health, mental health, and social determinants of health to tailor their studies to specific interests.

Learning is delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, lab work and field-based learning. Most students complete a practicum or community-based internship and a senior capstone or research project that integrates classroom learning with applied experience in a clinical, public health or community setting.

Entry requirements

Admission requires a high school diploma or equivalent and a competitive academic record. Applicants are expected to have completed preparations in mathematics and the natural sciences; courses such as biology and chemistry are particularly recommended. The university considers applicants holistically, taking into account academic performance, personal statement, extracurricular activities and letters of recommendation. Some students enter via transfer from community colleges or related programmes; transfer applicants should submit college transcripts and meet prerequisite course expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a variety of roles in health-related sectors. Common entry-level careers include public health practitioner, community health worker, health educator, clinical research coordinator, programme analyst, and positions in health promotion and disease prevention. The degree also provides a strong foundation for advanced study—graduates frequently progress to professional programmes in medicine, nursing, physician assistant studies, physical therapy, public health (MPH), health administration or clinical research.

Many students gain practical experience through internships and placements that help build professional networks with hospitals, public health departments, non-governmental organisations and research centres, supporting a smooth transition into the workforce or graduate study.

Why study at University of Vermont

Studying health at the University of Vermont offers access to interdisciplinary teaching and applied learning opportunities embedded within a research-active university that partners with the regional health system. Students benefit from hands-on practicum placements, faculty engaged in community and population health research, and interprofessional learning with students from nursing and allied health disciplines. The Burlington location provides ready access to community organisations, public health agencies and outdoor living that supports wellbeing and experiential learning in environmental and rural health contexts.

Smaller class sizes, active faculty mentorship and opportunities for undergraduate research and fieldwork make the programme well suited to students who want both rigorous academic preparation and practical experience in health science and services.