Gettysburg College’s Public Health Policy major provides students with a comprehensive, interdisciplinary foundation in the fields of public health and public policy. Through public health coursework, such as epidemiology, environmental health, and global health, and public policy coursework, such as health organizations, social determinants of health, and policy analysis, students explore the systemic causes of population-level health issues and develop the skills to design, analyze, evaluate, and advocate for effective policy solutions. In an era marked by pandemics, chronic disease epidemics, and environmental concerns, this program prepares graduates to address these pressing challenges from multiple perspectives and make a tangible impact on public health.
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Why study Public Health Policy at Gettysburg?
The public health policy major offers a unique opportunity for students to build a strong foundation in both public health and public policy. By studying these two fields, students will be equipped to understand the complexities of population health and learn the tools to develop and analyze policies that promote health equity. The collaboration between our Health Sciences and Public Policy departments offers students a distinctive learning experience that prepares them to work at the intersection of both disciplines. With access to small class sizes, close faculty mentorship, and experiential learning opportunities like internships and fieldwork, Gettysburg students are equipped with both the theoretical knowledge and practical skills needed to impact the field of public health policy in transformative ways.
Students engage in experiential learning through internships, applied research, and a capstone project, with opportunities to collaborate with the Center for Public Service and the Eisenhower Institute. Many also gain hands-on experience in Washington, D.C. and international settings. Many students pursue graduate education in public health, public policy, administration, law and other related fields.
Curriculum
The Public Health Policy major at Gettysburg College offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to analyze and shape health policy. Through coursework in public health, policy analysis, and research methods, students develop a deep understanding of how policies impact health outcomes at local, national, and global levels.
Students begin with Public Health (PHP-120), an essential course that introduces the core disciplines of public health, including epidemiology, environmental health, and health behavior. This course provides a foundational understanding of public health systems and the factors influencing population health. As they advance, students take Health Organizations and Policy (PHP-222), which examines how governmental, non-governmental, and private organizations interact to implement public health policies. By studying real-world case studies, students learn how policy decisions shape healthcare access and outcomes.
To refine their analytical skills, students enroll in Advanced Public Policy Analysis (PHP-305), an intensive course that challenges them to assess complex policy issues and develop evidence-based recommendations. Through hands-on research projects, students produce professional policy reports that address current public health concerns.
The program culminates in a capstone experience where students apply their learning in a real-world setting. With a strong foundation in public health and policy, graduates are prepared to pursue careers in health advocacy, government, and policy research or continue their studies in graduate programs.
For a full overview of major requirements, view the Public Health Policy Major Checklist.
Why major in Public Health Policy?
Majoring in Public Health Policy at Gettysburg College equips students with the knowledge and skills to tackle pressing health challenges and drive meaningful change. By exploring the intersection of health, policy, and society, students learn how to analyze complex public health issues, advocate for effective policies, and improve health outcomes on a local and global scale. The interdisciplinary nature of the program ensures that graduates are well-prepared for careers in government, healthcare administration, advocacy, and research, as well as for advanced study in public health or policy-related fields.
Graduates enjoy careers in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, think tanks, healthcare institutions, pharmaceutical companies, advocacy groups, and the private sector, positioning them as leaders in shaping public health policy and improving community well-being.
Take the next step toward a career in public health policy. Apply now or request more information to learn how Gettysburg College can prepare you for a future of impact and leadership in public health.