Why now is a great time to major in public health: Your path to creating change starts here
If you’re considering a public health major—or simply wondering what you can do to make a difference—you’re not alone. As the Senior Director of Undergraduate Education at the University of Michigan School of Public Health, I hear these questions often: Is public health the right choice? Is now a good time to take that step?
Let’s talk about why the answer is a resounding “yes.”
Michigan Public Health: Many paths to making a difference
We often say that public health is everywhere—it touches many of today’s most pressing health and environmental challenges, and plays a role in a wide range of fields from medicine, to law, to policy. No matter where your interests or career goals lie, building a foundation in public health will enrich your student experience and provide a springboard to a purposeful future.
At the University of Michigan, undergraduate students have the unique opportunity to learn about public health from expert faculty at one of the top-ranked schools in the U.S.
Not sure where to start? Take an introductory public health course like PUBHLTH 200 which is open to all University of Michigan undergraduate students. Or, if you’re ready for career-defining impact, apply to one of our upper-level major programs and join a community making real change.
Whether you take just one course or join our bachelor’s degree program, the skills and perspective you gain will last a lifetime.
What can you do with a public health degree?
The skills you develop here—like data analysis, program design, and critical thinking—translate across job sectors. Our alumni drive change at nonprofits, hospitals, consulting firms, insurance companies, universities, research firms, pharmaceutical and biotech firms, and local and national government organizations. Many go on in their careers to support and lead health research, advocate for public health in their communities, drive evidence based health policies, and become prevention-oriented healthcare professionals.
Year after year our graduates show impressive career results. 94% of our 2024 undergraduate graduates are employed or pursuing an advanced degree. Furthermore, 97% report satisfaction or high satisfaction with their post-graduation placement.
Our degree is a career investment, and one that opens doors everywhere. Learn more about our alumni outcomes and career services support at Michigan Public Health.
Why public health, and why now?
Recent policy changes and funding shifts have implications across many job sectors, including public health. But public health is built for agility, and professionals in the field thrive through innovation, preparedness, and adaptability. We also know that health and health care challenges continue to grow—in the United States and around the world—and the demand for professionals with skills to prevent, treat, and tackle health challenges will be critically needed in the years to come.
Young professionals today want meaningful work, community engagement, and flexibility. Public health offers all of this, plus strong mentorship, partnership opportunities, and diverse job sector options. Our students make a difference locally and globally, learning to listen, lead, and build trust through open dialogue and scientific rigor. At Michigan Public Health, our life-changing mission remains: improving health and equity for all by leading with collaboration, research, and inclusive community-building.
Now is an exciting time to pursue public health. I hope you will join us.
Ready to take the next step?
Sign up to receive emails from Michigan Public Health including more information about our undergraduate programs, application tips, event notices, and deadline reminders.
With growing demand for public health expertise, we’re expanding access to our bachelor’s degree program. We welcome diverse applicants from all backgrounds—whether you’re a U-M student on Ann Arbor campus or joining us from another institution. Learn more about applying here.
If you’re curious, connect with our admissions team—we’re happy to answer questions and help you find your path.
Because the world needs public health solutions more than ever, your story starts now!
About the Author
Emily Youatt
Senior Director of Undergraduate Education
Clinical Associate Professor, Health Behavior & Health Equity
University of Michigan School of Public Health
