Georgia Southern University

What you'll study

This undergraduate programme combines core public health foundations with specialised coursework in epidemiology and animal-related health issues. Core public health modules cover biostatistics, epidemiologic methods, environmental and occupational health, health policy and health promotion. Veterinary epidemiology and public health specialism introduces topics such as zoonotic diseases, disease ecology, surveillance systems, outbreak investigation, laboratory basics and One Health principles that link human, animal and environmental health.

• Foundations: introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, public health ethics, health systems and health communication.
• Veterinary/public health specialism: zoonoses and infectious disease transmission, animal population health, biosecurity and biosurveillance, diagnostic sampling and laboratory methods, wildlife disease ecology.
• Skills and methods: research methods, data analysis, geographic information systems (GIS) for disease mapping, risk assessment and outbreak investigation practicum.
• Applied learning: capstone or practicum placement with public health agencies, veterinary services or research groups to gain hands-on experience in surveillance, outreach and field investigations.

Entry requirements

Applicants for the Bachelor of Science in Public Health are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent. Typical preparation includes strong performance in biology, chemistry and mathematics at secondary level. Admissions consider overall academic record and any relevant extracurricular experience such as volunteer work with animal or health organisations.

• Recommended preparation: high school courses in biology, chemistry and algebra; college preparatory curriculum.
• Standardised tests: follow Georgia Southern's current policy regarding SAT/ACT submission; check the university for the most up-to-date guidance.
• International applicants: proof of English language proficiency is required, usually via recognised tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, unless exempt under university rules.
• Transfer students: credit evaluation and prerequisite completion will be considered; relevant community college coursework in biology, chemistry or statistics can be applied toward the degree.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that intersect human and animal health and support disease prevention, surveillance and control. Entry-level positions often build practical experience before specialised graduate training is pursued for advanced epidemiology roles.

• Public health technician and disease surveillance specialist with local, state or federal health departments.
• Animal health technician, biosecurity officer or field investigator for agricultural agencies, veterinary services or animal health companies.
• Research assistant or laboratory support roles in academic, government or private research settings focused on zoonoses and infectious diseases.
• Positions in non-governmental organisations, international health bodies or wildlife conservation programmes that require One Health expertise.
• Typical postgraduate pathways include master's or doctoral training in epidemiology, veterinary public health, infectious disease or public health practice for those aiming to become veterinary epidemiologists or senior public health scientists.

Why study at Georgia Southern University

Georgia Southern offers a student-focused environment with opportunities for hands-on learning through practicum placements and community partnerships across the region. The university emphasises applied public health education, supportive faculty mentoring, and cross-disciplinary collaboration that links campus resources to local and state public and animal health agencies.

Students benefit from campus laboratories, field practicum options, undergraduate research opportunities and access to professional networks that support internships and employment in public health, veterinary services and related sectors.