The study of public health focuses on community-based, organized efforts to prevent disease, prolong life and promote healthy environments and lifestyles. The primary focus is on community health, which emphasizes health education and promotion, and assumes community to be an essential determinant of health and the central element of an effective public health practice.

The Associate in Science in Public Health Science for Transfer (AS-T) degree is designed as a pathway for students who plan to complete a bachelor’s degree in Public Health Science or similar major at a California State University (CSU) campus. Students completing this degree are guaranteed admission to the CSU system, but not to a particular campus or major.

With the completion of this program, students will demonstrate knowledge of the basic research methods in public health, knowledge of the major theoretical and philosophical trends in public health, knowledge of the major primary sources in various public health areas, critical analysis and problem solving skills, and effective writing ability.

An Associate in Science Transfer degree in Public Health Science may be earned by completing 60 semester units of CSU transferrable coursework, including the major requirements and CSU or IGETC GE-breadth requirements, with a minimum overall grade point average (GPA) of 2.0. Students must complete all courses required for the major with a minimum grade of C.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of this program, students will be able to:

- Demonstrate knowledge of biological systems, chemistry and psychology as related to health issues.

- Demonstrate an understanding of the mechanisms of disease.

- Demonstrate knowledge of healthy lifestyles that will promote a longer and more healthful life.

- Evaluate health and effective public health practices.

Career Opportunities:

Public health practitioners address a broad array of health care activities, including: health education and promotion, health assessment and policy development. They work in many issue areas and on many programs, including: immunization, nutrition, smoking cessation, substance abuse, health inspection, and the promotion of hazard-free environments. Career opportunities include health promotion and education programs, research, policymaking, teaching, consulting, and health administration. Careers are available in both the public and private sectors and in organizations of all sizes.