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?
By studying Public Health Policy you’ll gain insight into the complexities of population health, and learn how to analyze and develop policies that improve health equity in society. As a Public Health Policy major, you’ll collaborate with both our Health Sciences and Public Policy departments and benefit from a distinctive learning experience that includes opportunities through the Eisenhower Institute, Center for Public Service, and hands-on experiences in Washington D.C. and abroad. With our small class sizes, faculty mentorships, fieldwork and internships, you’ll enjoy A Consequential Education that is uniquely Gettysburg.
Curriculum
The Public Health Policy curriculum is an interdisciplinary program designed and delivered jointly by the Health Sciences and Public Policy departments. From the introductory course on Public Health, through our comprehensive Public Policy Capstone Experience, we’ll equip you to understand the factors that influence how public policies are implemented, and evaluated. The program emphasizes evidence-based approaches and ethical considerations with real-world applications, to prepare you for meaningful careers.
The curriculum is designed to be flexible and expansive, encouraging students to tailor their studies while developing practical skills in research, communication, and policy analysis. Whether paired with another major or pursued independently, Public Health Policy at Gettysburg opens doors to a wide array of career paths. Graduates go on to work in public health agencies, policy think tanks, non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, and international NGOs. Many also pursue advanced degrees in public health, law, medicine, or health administration.
How to Get Started with the Public Health Policy Major?
First-year students interested in exploring this major can begin by taking PHP 120 Public Health which is offered in both semesters and fulfills the First Year Data and Society requirement. PHP majors must also take an introductory biology class (BIO 111 or BIO 102). BIO 111 Introductory Biology for Life Sciences is offered in the fall semester and BIO 102 Contemporary Topics in Biology: Biological Basis of Disease is offered in the Spring. Students may also consider taking PHP Introduction to Public Policy (offered in fall and spring semesters) and PHP 222 Health Organizations and Policy (offered in fall semester). For advising help, contact Dr. Amy Dailey or Dr. Anne Douds.
For a full overview of major requirements, view the Public Health Policy Major Checklist.
Why Major in Public Health Policy at Gettysburg?
What truly sets Gettysburg apart is the opportunity to engage beyond the classroom. Through the Eisenhower Institute’s Health & Society program, students gain hands-on policy experience in Washington, D.C., directly interacting with professionals shaping the future of public health. Many students also participate in community-based projects through the Center for Public Service, applying classroom knowledge to help meet local health needs and making a tangible impact in real time.
A Public Health Policy degree from Gettysburg College means you’ll have the knowledge and skills to tackle today’s pressing health challenges. With exciting careers that await you in healthcare administration, research, government, and advocacy, you’ll Do Great Work and make a difference 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.