Lewis University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public‑health training with specialised coursework in veterinary epidemiology, infectious disease ecology and zoonoses. You will learn the principles of epidemiology and biostatistics, disease surveillance, outbreak investigation and risk assessment alongside laboratory and field techniques relevant to animal and environmental health.

• Core public health topics: introduction to public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and health promotion.
• Veterinary and One Health modules: zoonotic diseases, animal population health, veterinary public health principles, ecology of infectious diseases and One Health frameworks.
• Laboratory and field skills: diagnostic methods, sample collection and handling, molecular detection basics, biosafety, geographic information systems (GIS) for disease mapping and spatial analysis.
• Applied practice: outbreak investigation techniques, surveillance system design, food safety and inspection methods, risk communication and emergency preparedness.
• Capstone and experiential learning: a supervised practicum or internship with public health departments, veterinary clinics, diagnostic laboratories or non‑governmental organisations, plus a research or applied capstone project addressing a real health problem.

Entry requirements

Successful applicants will typically have completed a recognised secondary school qualification. Entry is competitive and assessed on academic achievement and relevant experience.

• Secondary school certificate with strong grades in science subjects, particularly biology and chemistry.
• Recommended preparation: prior coursework in biology, chemistry and mathematics (including algebra or statistics) is advantageous.
• Some applicants may be asked to provide a personal statement describing interest in public health and veterinary issues; relevant volunteer or work experience with animals, clinics, shelters or laboratories is beneficial.
• Where applicable, mature applicants with professional experience in animal care, laboratory work or public health may be considered.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that apply public‑health principles to animal and human populations. Many pursue employment directly after the degree, while others progress to postgraduate study (for example in epidemiology, veterinary medicine, public health or laboratory sciences) to expand career options.

• Veterinary public health technician or specialist in local and state health departments
• Outbreak investigator / field epidemiology assistant
• Food safety and inspection officer in government or industry
• Diagnostic laboratory technologist or research assistant in animal health labs
• One Health programme coordinator for NGOs, international agencies or community organisations
• Further study pathways: DVM, MPH, MSc in epidemiology or related research programmes

Why study at Lewis University

Lewis offers a student‑centred learning environment with small class sizes and faculty who combine public health, veterinary and laboratory experience. The university emphasises experiential education, so students benefit from practicum placements, field exercises and applied capstone projects that build practical skills employers value.

Located within reach of a major metropolitan area, the programme gives access to public health agencies, veterinary clinics, diagnostic laboratories and community partners for internships and collaborative projects. The curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary One Health thinking, preparing graduates to work at the intersection of animal, human and environmental health.