Undergraduate Program FAQs
I am a prospective freshman (current high school senior) interested in applying to the program, can I apply now?
- Yes! Prospective college freshmen may apply for preferred admissions. First-year applicants to the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA) may indicate their interest in the School of Public Health by selecting "School of Public Health" in the Preferred Admission section of the Common App. This allows students an expedited path and guaranteed place in one of the School of Public Health’s bachelor degree programs, provided they meet the required academic standards during their first two years at U-M.
- However, if you miss the opportunity for preferred admissions when applying to the University of Michigan, there is also the option to apply to major in public health during your sophomore year at U-M as a cross-campus transfer student.
What do you look for in applicants to Michigan Public Health?
- Overall we are looking for students who are well rounded in academic and extracurricular activities, are engaged in their communities, demonstrate leadership skills, and have strong writing and communication skills. We look for students who will pursue a range of career and educational options across multiple disciplines.
I've completed the prerequisite courses, what else should I take?
- Competitive applicants will have completed a diverse array of coursework. Admitted students commonly complete coursework in: anthropology, biology, earth and environmental sciences, economics, history, psychology, sociology, or women's and gender studies.
Do I have to complete the prerequisite courses by the time of my application?
- All students complete six prerequisite courses as part of their public health degree. While you do not need to finish these courses before applying, we encourage students to take some of them in advance to support a smoother transition into the program. We advise students interested in earning a public health degree to take PUBHLTH 200 and STATS 250 as early in your academic career as possible.
Can I pursue a dual degree?
- Yes, as of November 2020 students in the undergraduate public health program may pursue a dual degree with the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts or the Ross School of Business. Visit the dual degree page for more information.
Can I complete the prerequisites for medical, dental, nursing, or other health professional schools while majoring in public health?
- Yes. Many public health students pursue careers in health professions. The undergraduate programs provide flexibility that allows students to complete the prerequisite courses for professional schools alongside their public health major requirements.
- Because prerequisite requirements vary by professional school and program, we encourage students to work closely with their academic advisor to develop a personalized academic plan.
Can I pursue a minor?
- Yes, undergraduate public health students may pursue a minor in the College of Literature, Science, and the Arts (LSA), College of Engineering, the Stephen M. Ross School of Business, the School of Art and Design, the School of Education, the School of Information, the School of Music, Theatre and Dance, and the Taubman College of Architecture and Urban Planning. They may also elect a minor in Community Action and Social Change (CASC).
Is there a public health minor?
- No, we currently do not have a minor in Public Health. However, you are free to take as many undergraduate courses in public health as you would like, even if your major is not public health.
Can I take undergraduate courses in the School of Public Health even if I'm not a public health major?
- Yes! We welcome students from across campus to take our undergraduate classes. Some classes require non-SPH students to fill out a Google form to request access to enroll. To indicate interest in enrolling in a course, please complete this brief form.
Can students in this program study abroad?
- Yes, students may study abroad but must do so in the spring/summer terms or the winter term of senior year due to the cadence of required courses. Visit our study abroad page for more information and resources.
Ready to Apply?
Start with our Admissions page to learn about specific degree application deadlines
and requirements.
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Questions?
For more information about the undergraduate programs, admissions process, or to request
an appointment, contact our admissions and advising team at [email protected].
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