Facebook Pixel Department of Public Health | Western Kentucky University
Department of Public Health

Department of Public Health

Apply Now

  1. WKU
  2. CHHS
  3. Public Health

The Department of Public Health at Western Kentucky University

Our mission is to prepare highly competent public health practitioners through instruction, research, and service, and to enhance the health status and quality of life of diverse populations in local, state, national, and global communities.

The public health programs at Western Kentucky University prepare students to face the challenges of existing and emerging health concerns, locally and globally, and enable students to apply critical thinking skills to address and resolve these complex health issues. Public health is a field that offers a wide array of job opportunities to suit a variety of interests and skills. Whether you are interested in managing data and crunching numbers, conducting research or working with people, there is a place for you in this field. Public health is ideal for individuals who gain satisfaction knowing that they are working to improve the lives of others.

At WKU, students learn from expert faculty. All public health faculty hold top academic credentials and professional qualifications in public health and related disciplines. We also recognize there is much we can learn from those who are health practitioners. By combining industry knowledge with academic credentials, students learn firsthand from practicing public health experts, attorneys, environmental health specialists, emergency managers, and healthcare administrators with many years of experience in public health, environmental health, and the healthcare industry.

 

Apply Now

public health students

 

MAJORS

Environmental and Occupational Health Science, Bachelor of Science (548P, 548)

  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The undergraduate degree program in environmental and occupational health science prepares the graduating student for entry level careers of environmental compliance and protection, occupational safety and health, environmental health and safety, and environmental science. Numerous jobs are available with government agencies, environmental consulting firms, industries, local governments, and non-profit organizations. Courses in the program are focused on basic sciences, environmental science, occupational safety and health, and environmental health. Requirements of the program develop the application of basic scientific principles to the solution of environmental and occupational problems that prepare students for diverse career opportunities.

Program Requirements (70 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Required Courses 

Course List
ENV 120Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health3
ENV 221Safety and Health Standards, Codes, and Regulations3
ENV 280Introduction to Environmental Science3
ENV 321Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene3
ENV 323Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene Laboratory1
ENV 360Air Pollution Control3
ENV 365Air Pollution Control Laboratory1
ENV 380Principles of Environmental Toxicology3
ENV 410Water Treatment Processes3
ENV 411Water Treatment Processes Laboratory1
ENV 423Safety Program Management3
ENV 460Environmental Management3
ENV 474Environmental Risk Assessment3
ENV 480Hazardous and Solid Waste Management3
ENV 486Senior Environmental Health Seminar1
ENV 491Internship in Environmental, Health, and Safety3
PH 383Biostatistics in the Health Sciences3
PH 384Introduction to Epidemiology3
PH 385Environmental Health3
CHEM 107Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry3
CHEM 108Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry Laboratory1
BIOL 207General Microbiology3
BIOL 208General Microbiology Laboratory1
PHYS 231Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I3
PHYS 232Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I1
Select nine hours of advisor consent electives from the following list:9
ENV 322
Physical Hazards Recognition and Control I
ENV 375
Introduction to Water Resources
ENV 475
Selected Topics in Env
ENV 485
Practical Experiences in Environmental and Occupational Health Science
ENV 495
Environmental Measurement
ENV 402
Worksite Health Promotion
PH 456
Independent Study in Health and Safety
MFGE 310
Safety in Industry
Total Hours70

Additional Courses 

Course List
COMM 145Fundamentals of Public Speaking and Communication3
ECON 202Principles of Economics (Micro)3
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab		4
CHEM 105Fundamentals of General Chemistry3
CHEM 106Fundamentals of General Chemistry Laboratory1
CHEM 116Introduction to College Chemistry3
MATH 116College Algebra3
MATH 117Trigonometry3
GEOL 111The Earth3
Total Hours26

Some of these required courses also fulfill the Colonnade subject area requirements.

All courses listed above require a minimum grade of “C.”

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
COMM 1453ENG 1003
MATH 1163HIST 101 or HIST 1023
ENV 2803ENV 1203
CHEM 1163CHEM 105
& CHEM 106		4
GEOL 1113ECON 2023
 15 16
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 2003Colonnade - Connections (Local to Global)3
Colonnade - Connections (Systems)3World Language (if needed)3
Colonnade - Arts & Humanities3BIOL 207
& BIOL 208		4
MATH 1173Colonnade - Connections (Social & Cultural)3
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		4CHEM 107
& CHEM 108		4
 16 14
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232		4ENV Major Elective3
ENG 3003ENV 321
& ENV 323		4
ENV 2213ENV 3803
PH 3833PH 3843
PH 3853ENV 3223
 16 16
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENV 410
& ENV 411		4ENV 4743
ENV 4233ENV 360
& ENV 365		4
ENV 4603ENV 4913
ENV 4803ENV Major Elective3
 ENV 4861
 13 14
Total Hours 120

Health Care Administration, Bachelor of Science (559P, 559)

  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The undergraduate degree program in health care administration prepares the student for administrative positions in various types of health care facilities and agencies, such as acute care, long term care, group medical practices, managed care organizations, health insurance agencies, public health agencies, clinics, and health related organizations such as manufacturing, marketing and consulting.

Program Requirements (73 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Course List
Required Courses
HCA 120Health Literacy for Consumers3
Select one of the following:3
HCA 247
Contemporary Healthcare Issues
PH 447
Human Values and the Health Sciences
PHIL 322
Biomedical Ethics
PHIL 323
Social Ethics
MGT 305
Ethics and Critical Thinking
SWRK 433
Ethical Issues and Dilemmas in Social Work
HCA 340Health Care Organization and Management3
HCA 342Human Resources Management for Healthcare Managers3
HCA 343Quality Management for Healthcare3
or HCA 353 Quality and Patient Safety in Long-Term Care
HCA 344Health Systems Management3
HCA 345Long-Term Care Administration3
HCA 346Ambulatory Care Administration3
or HCA 355 Nursing Facility Administration
HCA 347International Comparisons of Health Care Systems3
or PH 410 Global Perspectives on Population Health
ACCT 220Principles of Financial Accounting3
or HIM 252 Healthcare Payment Systems
HCA 383Management Applications in Healthcare1
HCA 440Health Economics (or any 300 level or higher economics course)3
Select one of the following:3
HCA 441
Legal Aspects / Health Care
MGT 200
Legal Environment of Business
MGT 301
Business Law
HIM 225
Legal Issues in Health Information Management
HCA 442Principles and Methods of Health Planning3
HCA 445Health Care Finance3
HCA 446Health Care Informatics3
HCA 447Information Systems Laboratory1
HCA 448Health Care Analysis and Evaluation3
HCA 449Internship in Health Care Administration3
FIN 330Principles of Finance3
or HCA 401 Fundamentals of Health Care Financial Management
Select one of the following:3
PH 383
Biostatistics in the Health Sciences
MATH 183
Introductory Statistics
SOCL 300
Social Statistics
AH/HIM 290Medical Terminology2
Select two 3-hour HCA electives with permission of advisor6
Total Hours67

Additional Courses

In addition to meeting the Colonnade requirements, students pursuing the health care administration curriculum must take the following:

Course List
ECON 202Principles of Economics (Micro)3
or ECON 203 Principles of Economics (Macro)
Select one of the following:3-6
BIOL 131
Human Anatomy and Physiology
PH 100
& PH 381
Personal & Public Health
and Public and Community Health
PH 384
Introduction to Epidemiology
Total Hours6-9

Some of these required courses fulfill Colonnade subject area requirements. Requirements for admission (reference number 559): 30 hours including the above courses with overall GPA of 2.5 or better.  (ECON 202 or ECON 203 and one of the following options BIOL 131; PH 100 & PH 381; or PH 384).

All courses listed above require a minimum grade of “C” (both prerequisites and core courses).

Students will not be allowed to enroll in 400-level HCA classes until they are fully admitted into the HCA program.

Requirements for degree completion: 67 hours of program courses with an overall GPA of 2.5 or better.

Finish in Four Plans

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours 
ENG 1003HIST 101 or HIST 1023 
Colonnade - Arts & Humanities3ENG 2003 
Colonnade - Quantitative Reasoning3COMM 1453 
Colonnade - Natural & Physical Science (Not Biology)3BIOL 131 or PH 1003-4 
HCA 1203PH 383, MATH 183, or SOCL 3003 
 15 15-16 
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours 
ECON 202 or ECON 2033AH 290 or HIM 2902 
ENG 3003ACCT 220 or HIM 2523 
PH 381 or PH 384 (only if PH 100 is taken)3World Language or General Elective3 
Connections - Social & Cultural3General Elective3 
General Elective or Natural & Physical Science (if BIOL 131 not taken)3Connections - Systems3 
 15 14 
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours 
HCA 3403FIN 330 or HCA 4013 
HCA Elective 3HCA 3453 
Connections - Local to Global3HCA 3443 
HCA 3831HCA 3423 
PH 447, HCA 247, PHIL 322, PHIL 323, MGT 305, or SWRK 4333HCA 4463 
 HCA 4471 
 13 16 
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHoursSummerHours
HCA 343 or HCA 3533HCA 4453HCA 449 - Internship in HCA3
HCA 441, MGT 200, MGT 301, or HIM 2253HCA 347 or PH 4103 
HCA 3463HCA 4423 
HCA 440 (or upper-level ECON course)3HCA 4483 
HCA Elective3General Elective 2 
 15 14 3
Total Hours 120-121

Health Information Management, Bachelor of Science (529P, 529)

  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The Health Information Management bachelor degree program is accredited by Commission on Accreditation for Health Informatics and Information Management Education (CAHIIM)*. Graduates of the program are eligible to take the American Health Information Management Association’s (AHIMA)** certification examination for the designation of Registered Health Information Administrator (RHIA).

The major in health information management is designed to prepare the graduate HIM professional with skills and competencies in health data management, data analytics and informatics, information governance, privacy and security, compliance, clinical documentation improvement, revenue cycle management, medical coding, health information technology management and administrative and clinical work flow. Students will focus on operations management essential to ensuring an accurate and complete medical record and cost effective information processing.

A student's application to the baccalaureate degree program will be considered following:

  • Admission to WKU;
  • Earning grade of C or higher in introductory course, HIM 100: Health Data Content and Structure (or equivalent course or departmental exam) OR following successful completion of an associate degree in Health Information Management or Health Information Technology;
  • Submitting a criminal background check; and
  • Earning an overall GPA of 2.0.

Students are required to have professional liability insurance coverage prior to accessing health information and / or professional practice experience. Prior to participating in any professional practice experience (PPE) students are also required to provide a recent criminal background check, current immunization records and results of a current drug screen. At selected health care institutions, there may be additional certifications, training seminars, or other requirements that a student must meet in order to be eligible for training at the chosen facility. It is the responsibility of the student to ensure that all institutional requirements are met prior to participation in the PPE. Students may be responsible in part or in full for any costs incurred to meet such requirements. Policies, standards and requirements should be obtained directly from the program office or at http://www.wku.edu/healthinformationmanagement.

Program Requirements (61-64 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

This program requires a minimum of 120 hours and includes 61-64 hours for the HIM major; Colonnade courses must be completed in consultation with advisor and HIM courses completed with a grade of “C” or higher. Courses for transfer students and graduates from HIM and HIT programs will be accepted as substitutions for equivalent HIM courses.  Departmental examinations are available for the following courses: HIM 100, HIM 230, HIM 250, HIM 251, HIM 252, AH 290/HIM 290, HIM 291, and HIM 292.

Students not achieving a satisfactory score (70% or above) on the department examination(s) must complete the corresponding course(s). National specialty certifications and / or training may be considered as evidence of mastery of course content in specific courses.

Course List
HIM 100Health Data Content and Structure4
HIM 225Legal Issues in Health Information Management2
HIM 230Computer Systems and Applications in Health Information Management3
HIM 252Healthcare Payment Systems3
AH/HIM 290Medical Terminology2
HIM 291Advanced Medical Terminolgy2
HIM 292Pharmacology and Laboratory Diagnostics2
HIM 330Electronic Health Record Systems3
HIM 350Health Informatics Research3
HIM 353Management of Clinical Classification Systems3
HIM 421Health Information Leadership and Management3
HIM 422Clinical Evaluation and Outcomes3
HIM 430Health Data Management and Analytics3
HIM 450Application & Analysis of HIM Theory3
HIM 495Capstone Professional Practice Experience3-6
PH 383Biostatistics in the Health Sciences3
or MATH 183 Introductory Statistics
or SOCL 300 Social Statistics
BDAN 305Data Modeling and Analysis3
BIOL 131Human Anatomy and Physiology4
BDAN 250Introduction to Analytics3
Select 6 credit hours of the following:6
BDAN 310
Business Data Analytics
BDAN 320
Web Analytics
BDAN 330
Structured Data Analysis
BDAN 350
Data Management
BDAN 410
DSS Analysis and Design
BDAN 420
Predictive Modeling
BDAN 430
Data Visualization
BDAN 440
Special Topics - Analytics & Information Systems
DATA 301
Big Data with its Applications
CIS 320
Personal Technologies with Artificial Intelligence
CIS 321
Emerging Technologies with Artificial Intelligence
Total Hours61-64

*CAHIIM                        
233 North Michigan Avenue, 21st Floor        
Chicago, IL 60601-5800                
info@CAHIIM.org                
https:// www.cahiim.org                                                            

**AHIMA
233 North Michigan Avenue, Suite 2150
Chicago, IL 60601-5800
(312) 233-1100
https://www. ahima.org

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 1003COMM 1453
HIM 1004ENG 2003
HIM 290 or AH 2902HIST 101 or HIST 1023
Colonnade - Quantitative Reasoning3HIM 2912
General Elective3BIOL 1314
 15 15
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
HIM 2252HIM 2303
HIM 2922HIM 2523
Colonnade - Arts & Humanities 3Colonnade - Natural & Physical Science3
BDAN 3053PH 383, MATH 183, or SOCL 3003
Colonnade - Social & Behavioral3General Elective3
 13 15
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
HIM 3303HIM 4213
HIM 3533HIM 4223
HIM 3503General Elective3
BDAN 2503Restricted Elective (BDAN 310, BDAN 320, BDAN 330, BDAN 350, BDAN 410, BDAN 420, BDAN 430, BDAN 440, CIS 320, CIS 321, DATA 301)3
Connections - Systems3ENG 3003
 Connections - Local to Global3
 15 18
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
HIM 4303HIM 4953-6
HIM 4503General Elective3
Connections - Social & Cultural3General Elective3
General Elective3General Elective3
Restricted Elective (BDAN 310, BDAN 320, BDAN 330, BDAN 350, BDAN 410, BDAN 420, BDAN 430, BDAN 440, CIS 320, CIS 321, DATA 301)3General Elective3
 15 15-18
Total Hours 121-124

Health Sciences, Bachelor of Science (564)

  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The major in Health Sciences, requires 58-68 health sciences credit hours, including a required concentration ranging from 21-27 hours. The Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences is designed for students who are interested in pursuing a health and human services related career. The program is an interdisciplinary program with three primary purposes:

  1. Allowing students with a general interest in Health Sciences to pursue a B.S. while obtaining a concentration in a specific area of Health and Human Services.
  2. Permitting students to prepare for post-graduate or professional health sciences programs.
  3. Providing an option for students with a health-related associate degree or appropriate Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in a focused health area who wish to continue their education.

Concentrations

  • Health Sciences Allied Health (AHAH)
  • Preparatory Health Science (APHS)
  • Health Services, Leadership & Management (ASLM)

Students pursuing the major are required to select one of the following concentrations: Preparatory Health Sciences, Health Services Leadership and Management, or Health Sciences Allied Health building on an Associate Degree or appropriate Military Occupational Specialty (MOS) in a focused health field (approved by the health science advisor). Students who transfer to WKU with an applied associate degree (e.g., Associate of Applied Science) from a health-related program and students with an appropriate MOS with American Council of Education (ACE) approved military credit receive a 12-hour waiver from the overall upper-level course requirement for the health science major; these students will need 23 hours in the major upper-division hour requirement. 

Students must earn a “C” or better in each course in the major. Additionally, in accordance with university policy, an overall grade point average of 2.0 or better must be attained upon completion of required curriculum.

Program Requirements (58-68 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

Health Sciences Core 

Course List
HMD 211Human Nutrition3
PSY/PSYS 100Introduction to Psychology3
or PSY/PSYS 220 Introduction to Lifespan Developmental Psychology
or PSY/PSYS 440 Abnormal Psychology
Select one of the following:3-4
BIOL 113
General Biology
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121
Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab
BIOL 131
Human Anatomy and Physiology
Select one of the following:3-4
CHEM 105
& CHEM 106
Fundamentals of General Chemistry
and Fundamentals of General Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 109
Chemistry for the Health Sciences
CHEM 116
Introduction to College Chemistry
PHYS course
AH/HIM 290Medical Terminology2
Select one of the following:3
PE 310
Kinesiology
PE 311
Exercise Physiology
PE 313
Motor Development
PH 390
Wellness and Fitness Assessment
NURS 335
Health Assessment
MKT 220
Basic Marketing Concepts
MKT 321
Consumer Behavior
MKT 323
Services Marketing
PR 255
Fundamentals of Public Relations
PH 381Public and Community Health3
Select one of the following:3
PH 383
Biostatistics in the Health Sciences
SOCL 300
Social Statistics
BIOL 382
Introductory Biostatistics
STAT 301
Introductory Probability and Applied Statistics
PSY/PSYS 313
Statistics in Psychology
MATH 183
Introductory Statistics
PH 384Introduction to Epidemiology3
Select one of the following:3
PH 447
Human Values and the Health Sciences
FACS 312
Professional Ethics for Family Life
PHIL 322
Biomedical Ethics
PHIL 323
Social Ethics
MGT 305
Ethics and Critical Thinking
SWRK 433
Ethical Issues and Dilemmas in Social Work
LEAD 330
Leadership Ethics and Decision-Making
HCA 340Health Care Organization and Management3
Select one of the following:3-4
HCA 446
& HCA 447
Health Care Informatics
and Information Systems Laboratory
BDAN 305
Data Modeling and Analysis
CIS 321
Emerging Technologies with Artificial Intelligence
HIM 330
Electronic Health Record Systems
Select one of the following:2-3
HCA 441
Legal Aspects / Health Care
HIM 225
Legal Issues in Health Information Management
MGT 200
Legal Environment of Business
MGT 301
Business Law
Total Hours37-41

One of the below-mentioned concentrations is required:

Preparatory Health Sciences Concentration

Course List
Select 24-27 hours of the following courses:24-27
Biology:
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121
Biological Concepts: Cells Metabolism and Genetics
and Biological Concepts: Cells, Metabolism, and Genetics Lab 1
BIOL 122
& BIOL 123
Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology
and Biological Concepts: Evolution, Diversity, and Ecology Lab
BIOL 131
Human Anatomy and Physiology 1
BIOL 207
& BIOL 208
General Microbiology
and General Microbiology Laboratory
BIOL 224
& BIOL 225
Animal Biology and Diversity
and Animal Biology and Diversity Lab 1
BIOL 231
Advanced Human Anatomy and Physiology
Chemistry:
CHEM 107
& CHEM 108
Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry
and Fundamentals of Organic Chemistry Laboratory
CHEM 116
Introduction to College Chemistry 1
CHEM 120
& CHEM 121
College Chemistry I
and College Chemistry I Laboratory
CHEM 222
& CHEM 223
College Chemistry II
and College Chemistry II Laboratory
CHEM 304
Biochemistry for the Health Sciences
CHEM 340
& CHEM 341
Organic Chemistry I
and Organic Chemistry Laboratory I
CHEM 342
& CHEM 343
Organic Chemistry II
and Organic Chemistry II Laboratory
Health Information Management:
HIM 291
Advanced Medical Terminolgy
HIM 292
Pharmacology and Laboratory Diagnostics
Hospitality Management and Dietetics:
HMD 360
Advanced Nutrition
HMD 361
Life Stage Nutrition
Math:
MATH 117
Trigonometry
MATH 136
Calculus I
Nursing:
NURS 324
Pathophysiology for Nursing
NURS 337
Health Promotion and Disease Prevention
NURS 343
Mental Health Nursing
NURS 415
Complementary Health Care
Psychological Sciences:
PSYS 160
Introduction to Biopsychology
Public Health:
PH 365
Human Sexuality
PH 464
Women’s Health
PH 468
Sexuality Education
Physics:
PHYS 201
College Physics I 1
PHYS 231
& PHYS 232
Introduction to Physics and Biophysics I
and Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics I 1
PHYS 233
& PHYS 332
Laboratory for Physics and Biophysics II
and Introduction to Physics and Biophysics II 1
PHYS 255
& PHYS 256
University Physics I
and University Physics I Lab 1
Total Hours24-27
1

Unduplicated.

Health Services Leadership & Management Concentration

Course List
Select 24-27 hours from the following:24-27
Counselor Education:
CNS 110
Human Relations
CNS 432
Helping Skills
Communication:
COMM 348
Interpersonal Communication
Exercise Science:
EXS 455
Exercise and Aging
Family and Consumer Sciences:
FACS 310
Management of Family Resources
FACS 311
Family Relations
FACS 395
Child and Family Stress
FACS 491
Seminar in Family Economics
FACS 497
Family Home Visiting
Finance:
FIN 161
Personal Finance
Gerontology:
GERO 100
Introduction to the Aging Experience
GERO 461
Person-Centered Dementia Management
Health Care Administration:
HCA 345
Long-Term Care Administration
HCA 347
International Comparisons of Health Care Systems
HCA 353
Quality and Patient Safety in Long-Term Care
HCA 446
& HCA 447
Health Care Informatics
and Information Systems Laboratory
Health Information Management:
HIM 100
Health Data Content and Structure
HIM 252
Healthcare Payment Systems
HIM 291
Advanced Medical Terminolgy
HIM 292
Pharmacology and Laboratory Diagnostics
Hospitality Management and Dietetics:
HMD 360
Advanced Nutrition
HMD 367
Nutrition in Aging
HMD 368
Dietary and Herbal Supplements
Interdisciplinary Studies:
IDST 369
Career Related Field Experience
IDST 390
Applications of Interdisciplinary Studies
IDST 395
Investigative Methods in Interdisciplinary Studies
Leadership:
LEAD 200
Introduction to Leadership Studies
LEAD 300
Leadership Theory and Application
LEAD 325
Leading Change
LEAD 330
Leadership Ethics and Decision-Making 1
Management:
MGT 200
Legal Environment of Business 1
MGT 301
Business Law 1
MGT 305
Ethics and Critical Thinking 1
MGT 333
Management of Nonprofit Organizations
Public Health:
PH 100
Personal & Public Health
PH 165
Drug Abuse
PH 261
Foundations of Public Health Education
PH 365
Human Sexuality
PH 410
Global Perspectives on Population Health
PH 443
Health and Aging
PH 444
Death, Dying and Bereavement
PH 464
Women’s Health
PH 467
Drug Abuse Education
PH 468
Sexuality Education
Psychological Sciences:
PSYS 333
Cognitive Psychology
PSYS 423
Psychology of Adult Life and Aging
PSY/PSYS 440
Abnormal Psychology
Sociology:
SOCL 342
Aging in Society
SOCL 440
Sociology of Health and Illness
Special Education:
SPED 200
The Culture of Disability
Social Work:
SWRK 101
Foundations of Human Services
SWRK 300
Diversity and Social Welfare
SWRK 330
Human Behavior in the Social Environment
SWRK 326
Services for the Older American
SWRK 357
Case Management
SWRK 375
Social Work Practice I
SWRK 437
Military Social Work
Other courses with advisor approval
Total Hours24-27
1

Unduplicated.

Health Sciences Allied Health Concentration– (Health Related A.S. / A.A. / A.A.S.  or MOS to Health Sciences Allied Health B.S. Concentration)

An associate degree in a focused health area or an appropriate military occupational specialty (MOS) in a focused health area with American Council of Education (ACE) approved military credit may fulfill the concentration requirement with the approval of a Health Sciences academic advisor. Students with a completed A.A. or A.S. degree from a KCTCS college will be considered to have completed the WKU Colonnade general education requirements. Twenty-one credit hours is required within the concentration.

In addition to completing the Health Sciences core, students need to fulfill all other appropriate major and degree requirements.

Finish in Four Plans

 Health Sciences Preparatory Concentration

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 1003COMM 1453
HIM 290 or AH 2902HIST 101 or HIST 1023
PSY 220, PSYS 220, PSY 100, or PSYS 1003Colonnade: Arts & Humanities3
MATH 1163Major/Minor/Elective OR World Language (if needed)3
BIOL 120
& BIOL 121		4Major/Minor/Elective3
 15 15
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 2003Major/Minor/Elective3
HMD 2113Major/Minor/Elective3
CHEM 109 or CHEM 1163-4Major/Minor/Elective3
Colonnade: Connections (Social & Cultural)3ENG 3003
Major/Minor/Elective3PH 383, SOCL 300, BIOL 382, STAT 301, PSY 313, PSYS 313, or MATH 1833
 15-16 15
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PE 310, PE 311, PE 313, PH 390, NURS 335, MKT 220, MKT 323, or PR 2553HCA 441, MGT 200, MGT 301, or HIM 2252-3
PH 3813HCA 3403
PH 3843Major/Minor/Elective3
Major/Minor/Elective3Major/Minor/Elective3
Colonnade: Connections (Local to Global)3Major/Minor/Elective3
 15 14-15
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PH 447, HCA 247, PHIL 322, MGT 305, or SWRK 4333HCA 446
& HCA 447
, BDAN 305, or CIS 321
3-4
Major/Minor/Elective3Major/Minor/Elective3
Major/Minor/Elective3Major/Minor/Elective3
Major/Minor/Elective3Major/Minor/Elective3
Major/Minor/Elective3Major/Minor/Elective3
 15 15-16
Total Hours 119-122

 Health Sciences Allied Health Concentration

The Health Sciences Allied Health concentration is designed for students who have earned an associate degree in a focused health area or an appropriate military occupational specialty (MOS) in a focused health area with American Council of Education (ACE) approved military credit.  In addition to completing the Health Sciences core, students need to fulfill all other appropriate major and degree requirements.  Students should consult with an advisor in planning their four-year degree program. 

While working on the Health related Associate degree at KCTCS or WKU, students are encouraged to complete the following courses as a foundation for the Health Sciences major. KCTCS Courses: i) NFS 101; ii. (PSY 110 or PSY 223); iii. (MATH 146 or 150 or higher); iv. (CHE 130 or 140 or PHY ***); v. (AHS 115 or CLA 131); and vi. (BIO 112/1121/1122/1123/1124, or BIO 114/115, or BIO 150/151, or BIO 135 or 137 or 139).   Corresponding WKU Courses, if not completed at KCTCS:  i. HMD 211; ii. (PSY 100 or PSYS 100); iii. (MATH 109 or MATH 116 or higher); iv. (CHEM 105/CHEM 106, or CHEM 109, or CHEM 116, or PHYS ***); v. (HIM 290 or AH 290); and (BIOL 113 or BIOL 120/BIOL 121 or BIOL 131). WKU Associate Degree seeking students are also encouraged to complete ENG 100 (FW-1) and Arts & Humanities (E-AH) in the first two years.

Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PE 310, PE 311, PE 313, or PH 3903PH 383, SOCL 300, BIOL 382, STAT 301, PSY 313, PSYS 313, or MATH 1833
PH 3813HCA 3403
Upper Level Elective/Major/Minor9Upper Level Elective/Major/Minor9
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
HCA 441, MGT 200, MGT 301, or HIM 2252-3HCA 446
& HCA 447
, BDAN 305, or CIS 321
3-4
PH 3843PH 447, HCA 247, PHIL 322, PHIL 323, MGT 305, or SWRK 4333
Upper Level Elective/Major/Minor9Upper Level Elective/Major/Minor9
 14-15 15-16
Total Hours 59-61

 Health Services Leadership and Management Concentration

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 1003COMM 1453
HIM 290 or AH 2902HIST 101 or HIST 1023
PSY 220, PSYS 220, PSY 100, or PSYS 1003Colonnade - Arts & Humanities3
MATH 1163Major/Minor/Elective or World Language (if needed)3
BIOL 1133Major/Minor/Elective3
BIOL 1141 
 15 15
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 2003Major/Minor/Elective9
HMD 2113ENG 3003
CHEM 1053PH 383, SOCL 300, BIOL 382, STAT 301, PSY 313, PSYS 313, or MATH 1833
CHEM 1061 
Connections - Social & Cultural3 
Major/Minor/Elective3 
 16 15
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PE 310, PE 313, PH 390, MKT 220, MKT 321, MKT 323, or PR 2553HCA 441, MGT 200, MGT 301, or HIM 2252-3
PH 3813HCA 3403
PH 3843Major/Minor/Elective9
Major/Minor/Elective3 
Connections - Local to Global3 
 15 14-15
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PH 447, HCA 247, PHIL 322, PHIL 323, MGT 305, or SWRK 4333HCA 446
& HCA 447
, BDAN 305, or CIS 321
3-4
Major/Minor/Elective12Major/Minor/Elective12
 15 15-16
Total Hours 120-122

Public Health, Bachelor of Science (521P, 521)

  • Undergraduate
  • Bachelor of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The Bachelor of Science in Public Health is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Graduates are prepared to use their skills in a variety of government agencies, hospitals and other facilities of the health care system, community mental health agencies, employee health programs in business and industry, student health services on college campuses, and many non-profit health agencies and communities. Many students choose to pursue advanced degrees in public health, and this is strongly encouraged.

Program Requirements (70 hours)

A baccalaureate degree requires a minimum of 120 unduplicated semester hours. More information can be found at www.wku.edu/registrar/degree_certification.php.

Students who began WKU in the Fall 2014 and thereafter should review the Colonnade requirements located at: https://www.wku.edu/colonnade/colonnaderequirements.php.

The program in public health consists of a core of 30 credit hours of coursework, 28 credit hours of other required courses, and 12 hours of electives for a total of 70 hours in the major.

Course List
Core Courses
PH 261Foundations of Public Health Education3
PH 381Public and Community Health3
PH 384Introduction to Epidemiology3
PH 385Environmental Health3
PH 410Global Perspectives on Population Health3
PH 412Health Disparities and Health Equity3
PH 484Community Organization for Health Education3
PH 485Fundamentals of Public Health Planning3
PH 488Public Health Senior Seminar3
PH 490Internship3
Total Hours30
Course List
Additional Required Courses
BIOL 131Human Anatomy and Physiology4
BIOL 207
& BIOL 208		General Microbiology
and General Microbiology Laboratory		4
CHEM 109Chemistry for the Health Sciences4
MATH 109General Mathematics3
or MATH 115 Applied College Algebra
or higher level math course
PH 100Personal & Public Health3
PH 383Biostatistics in the Health Sciences3
SFTY 171Safety and First Aid1
COMM 145Fundamentals of Public Speaking and Communication3
Select one of the following courses:3
PSY/PSYS 100
Introduction to Psychology
PSY/PSYS 220
Introduction to Lifespan Developmental Psychology
SOCL 100
Introductory Sociology
Total Hours28
Course List
Electives
Select 12 hours of the following courses: 112
BIOL 315
Ecology
CHEM 330
Quantitative Analysis
ENV 280
Introduction to Environmental Science
ENV 321
Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene
ENV 323
Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene Laboratory
ENV 360
Air Pollution Control
ENV 365
Air Pollution Control Laboratory
ENV 375
Introduction to Water Resources
ENV 380
Principles of Environmental Toxicology
ENV 410
Water Treatment Processes
ENV 411
Water Treatment Processes Laboratory
ENV 430
Radiological Health
ENV 460
Environmental Management
ENV 474
Environmental Risk Assessment
ENV 480
Hazardous and Solid Waste Management
ENV 490
Food Safety
GEOG 310
Global Hydrology
AH/HIM 290
Medical Terminology
SFTY 270
General Safety
HMD 211
Human Nutrition
HCA 340
Health Care Organization and Management
HCA 347
International Comparisons of Health Care Systems
HCA 459
Global Health Service-Learning Practicum
LEAD 200
Introduction to Leadership Studies
LEAD 300
Leadership Theory and Application
LEAD 325
Leading Change
LEAD 330
Leadership Ethics and Decision-Making
PH 365
Human Sexuality
PH 382
Peer Health Education
PH 390
Wellness and Fitness Assessment
ENV 402
Worksite Health Promotion
PH 443
Health and Aging
PH 444
Death, Dying and Bereavement
PH 447
Human Values and the Health Sciences
PH 456
Independent Study in Health and Safety
PH 464
Women’s Health
PH 467
Drug Abuse Education
PH 468
Sexuality Education
PH 483
Administration of Public Health Programs
PS 338
Government and Ethics
SOCL 250
Systems of Social Inequality
SOCL 260
Race and Ethnic Relations
SOCL 360
The Community in Rural and Urban Settings
SOCL 362
Social Institutions: Race, Class, and Gender
SOCL 375
Diversity in American Society
SOCL 376
Sociology of Globalization
STAT 330
Introduction to Statistical Software
SWRK 101
Foundations of Human Services
Total Hours12
1

Six of these hours must be upper division.

Requirements for Admission to Public Health (reference number 521)

30 hours including the following courses with an overall GPA of 2.3 or better:

Course List
BIOL 131Human Anatomy and Physiology4
CHEM 109Chemistry for the Health Sciences4
COMM 145Fundamentals of Public Speaking and Communication3
PH 100Personal & Public Health3
Select one of the following:3
PSY/PSYS 100
Introduction to Psychology
PSY/PSYS 220
Introduction to Lifespan Developmental Psychology
SOCL 100
Introductory Sociology
Select 13 additional hours13
Total Hours30

Finish in Four Plans

Finish in Four Plan

First Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PH 1003PSY 100, PSYS 100, PSY 220, PSYS 220, or SOCL 1003
PH 2613COMM 1453
ENG 1003MATH 109 or MATH 1153
BIOL 1314CHEM 1094
Colonnade: Arts & Humanities3ENG 2003
 16 16
Second Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PH 3813PH 3833
BIOL 207
& BIOL 208		4Connections - Local to Global3
HIST 101 or HIST 1023SFTY 1711
Connections - Social and Cultural3General Elective (CIS 141 suggested)3
World Language or General Elective3PH Elective (See advisor)3
 Elective3
 16 16
Third Year
FallHoursSpringHours
ENG 3003PH 3843
PH 4103PH 4843
PH 3853PH Elective (see advisor)3
PH Elective (see advisor)3Elective3
Elective3Elective3
 15 15
Fourth Year
FallHoursSpringHours
PH 4123PH 4903
PH 4853PH 4883
PH Elective3PH Elective (see advisor)3
Connections - Systems3Elective3
Elective2 
 14 12
Total Hours 120

 

MINORS

Health Care Administration, Minor (386)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Program Requirements (23 hours)

The minor in health care administration requires a minimum of 23 semester hours. This minor is compatible with various majors such as business, social and behavioral sciences, allied health, nursing, communication, journalism, public health, and etc.

Course List
HCA 340Health Care Organization and Management3
HCA 344Health Systems Management3
HCA 440Health Economics3
HCA 441Legal Aspects / Health Care3
HCA 442Principles and Methods of Health Planning3
AH 290Medical Terminology2
HCA 345Long-Term Care Administration3
or HCA 346 Ambulatory Care Administration
PH 447Human Values and the Health Sciences3
Total Hours23

In addition, students must complete MGT 210 and ECON 202, as prerequisites to the above required courses. All courses in the minor (including MGT 210 and ECON 202) must be completed with a minimum grade of “C." Students pursuing this minor must have approval from a health care administration advisor.

Health Education, Minor (389)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Program Requirements (23 hours)

The minor in health education requires a minimum of 23 semester hours. This minor provides a basic foundation for students desiring preparation in health promotion and disease prevention. The minor in health education may be used in combination with many majors to enhance student’s career opportunities and as preparation for graduate study in a variety of health disciplines. Completion of the minor along with a teaching certifiable major leads to certification in health education. 

Course List
BIOL 131Human Anatomy and Physiology4
SFTY 171Safety and First Aid1
PH 261Foundations of Public Health Education3
PH 365Human Sexuality3
PH 381Public and Community Health3
PH 461Comprehensive School Health Program3
PH 467Drug Abuse Education3
Select one of the following (with approval of the academic advisor):3
PH 385
Environmental Health
PH 456
Independent Study in Health and Safety
PH 463
Consumer Health
PH 465
Health and Safety in the Elementary School
HMD 211
Human Nutrition
Total Hours23

Students utilizing the minor in health education for teacher certification must complete SEC 483, Teaching Health, and LTCY 497 as required support courses. All courses in the minor must be completed with a minimum grade of “C."

 

CERTIFICATES

Environmental Health, Certificate (1743)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

This 21 credit hour certificate program will equip graduates with public health protection skills for program design, implementation and the evaluation of policies and practices to assist in preventing or deducting environmental hazards on individuals and communities.

Program Requirements (21 hours)

Course List
Required Courses:
PH 280Introduction to Environmental Science3
or ENV 280 Introduction to Environmental Science
PH 385Environmental Health3
ENV 360Air Pollution Control3
ENV 380Principles of Environmental Toxicology3
ENV 410Water Treatment Processes3
ENV 460Environmental Management3
ENV 480Hazardous and Solid Waste Management3
Total Hours21

Some required courses may have pre-requisites that help fulfill Colonnade requirements. These prerequisites include CHEM 105/CHEM 106, CHEM 107/CHEM 108 and MATH 118 or higher.

Health Education and Promotion, Certificate (1741)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

This certificate program in Health Education and Promotion is designed to improve students' skills in program design, implementation and evaluation in diverse settings. Graduates from the program may pursue employment opportunities such as community/public health educators, employee wellness managers, health coaches and community health workers.

Program Requirements (21 hours)

This 21 credit hour certificate program is designed to improve students’ skills in program design, implementation and evaluation in diverse settings.

Course List
PH 383Biostatistics in the Health Sciences3
PH 384Introduction to Epidemiology3
PH 390Wellness and Fitness Assessment3
ENV 402Worksite Health Promotion3
PH 483Administration of Public Health Programs3
PH 484Community Organization for Health Education3
PH 485Fundamentals of Public Health Planning3
Total Hours21

Some required courses have prerequisites that help fulfill Colonnade requirements. These prerequisites include BIOL 131, HMD 211, MATH 109 or MATH 115 or higher and CPR certification.

Health Informatics, Certificate (1740)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The certificate in Health Informatics is multidisciplinary and is designed to prepare health profession students with the introductory skills and knowledge needed for electronic health records usability, interoperability and data exchange, meeting meaningful use initiatives, improving clinical workflow, and analyzing data to improve overall health care delivery and outcomes through the use of health information technology.

Courses for the certificate may also meet the requirements for other degree programs. 

Program Requirements (19-22 hours)

Course List
BDAN 305Data Modeling and Analysis3
HIM 230Computer Systems and Applications in Health Information Management3
BDAN 250Introduction to Analytics3
BDAN 330Structured Data Analysis3
HIM 330Electronic Health Record Systems3
HIM 430Health Data Management and Analytics3
Select 1-4 hours of the following:1-4
HIM 100
Health Data Content and Structure
DH 100
Introduction to Dental Hygiene
HCA 340
Health Care Organization and Management
CD 280
Introduction to Communication Sciences and Disorders
Other health care introductory class as approved by Health Informatics Certificate Advisor
Total Hours19-22

Long-Term Care Administration, Certificate (1717)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

When students complete the LTCA Certificate Program in combination with the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration and NAB accreditation internship requirements, they will be graduating from a NAB Academic Accreditation Program - one of less than 15 in the United States!  Find out more information about NAB academic approval by visiting www.nabweb.org .

Why a LTCA Certificate?

This certificate is an excellent addition to aspiring leaders in nursing, finance, accounting, social work, dietetics, management, healthcare and information technology. As career opportunities in long term care continue to grow, there is a greater demand than ever for individuals with some preparation for leadership roles in long term care organizations. As you advance your career and experience, the LTCA Certificate Program will help prepare you for many roles in long term care, with just a few of those listed below:

Dietitian, Director of Social Services, Clinical Nurse Consultant, Director of Nursing, MDS Coordinator, Executive Director, Chief Financial Officer, Nursing Home Administrator, Director of Information Technology, Accounting Manager, Home Health, Business Office Manager, Dietary Manager, Health Informatics 

Program Requirements (15 hours)

The long-term care administration certificate, in conjunction with the undergraduate degree program in Health Care Administration is accredited through the National Association of Long Term Care Administrators Board (NAB). The certificate in conjunction with the undergraduate degree program in health care administration prepares students for careers in both long-term care administration and other adult care services. It follows a cohort model with students being enrolled every fall term. 

Course List
HCA 345Long-Term Care Administration3
HCA 355Nursing Facility Administration3
HCA 353Quality and Patient Safety in Long-Term Care3
GERO 100Introduction to the Aging Experience3
PH 443Health and Aging3
Total Hours15

Occupational Safety & Health, Certificate (1705)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The certificate program in Occupational Safety & Health requires 15 hours and is designed to provide training for careers focused on the protection of human health from occupational hazards in the built and natural environments. Courses will require application of basic Occupational Safety and Health Administration (OSHA) principles and challenges, which will prepare students for diverse opportunities in safety and health, environmental management, and business careers. 

Program Requirements (15 hours)

Course List
ENV 120Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health3
ENV 221Safety and Health Standards, Codes, and Regulations3
ENV 321Fundamentals of Industrial Hygiene3
ENV 322Physical Hazards Recognition and Control I3
ENV 423Safety Program Management3
Total Hours15

Public Health, Certificate (1742)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

This 18 credit hour certificate program is designed to provide core public health concepts and skills to students and professionals in the public health field and other health-related areas. This program will also increase students’ knowledge and skills in public health competencies.

Program Requirements (18 hours)

Course List
Required Courses:
PH 100Personal & Public Health3
PH 381Public and Community Health3
PH 383Biostatistics in the Health Sciences3
PH 384Introduction to Epidemiology3
PH 385Environmental Health3
PH 483Administration of Public Health Programs3
Total Hours18

Some required courses may have pre-requisites that help fulfill Colonnade requirements. These pre-requisites include MATH 109 or MATH 115 or higher, 3 hours of CHEM and 3 hours of BIOL.

Worksite Health Promotion, Certificate (1707)

  • Undergraduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

Program Objectives:
  1. Utilize effective communication techniques with employees and employers including the benefits and consequences of various lifestyle behaviors.
  2. Design a worksite health promotion program which will encompass all aspects of health program planning including:  Needs assessment, Program planning design, Effective implementation of programs, Evaluation of program for quality and effectiveness
  3. Provide worksite opportunities for focused training in disease prevention and health promotion for a healthy and productive working population
  4. Demonstrate to management the importance of a supportive environment for successful worksite wellness.

Program Requirements (15 hours)

The certificate program in Worksite Health Promotion requires 15 semester hours and is designed to provide training for students and professionals who have an interest in developing worksite health promotion programs in the private sector. This certificate program will provide a comprehensive skill base for assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of health promotion programs in a worksite environment. 

Course List
ENV 120Introduction to Occupational Safety and Health3
HMD 211Human Nutrition3
PH 100Personal & Public Health3
PH 261Foundations of Public Health Education3
ENV 402Worksite Health Promotion3
Total Hours15

 

GRADUATE PROGRAMS

Environmental and Occupational Health Science (0473)

  • Graduate
  • Master of Science
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The graduate program in Environmental and Occupational Health Science is designed to provide graduate education for careers focused on the protection of human health and prevention of health hazards in occupational and natural environments.  A key component of the program is to understand how exposure to environmental and occupational hazards occurs, and discovering ways to reduce and control the risk of exposure.  This interdisciplinary field focuses on environmental hazards to human health, assessment of exposures, mechanisms of environmental response, control of risks associated with environmental hazards, and improving occupational health.  Program requirements will provide students a foundation of advanced studies that will increase their skills and knowledge for protecting human health and the environment.  This program is designed for working professionals and students desiring opportunities with industry, consulting firms, government agencies, and other environmental and occupational health science professions.

The Master of Science in Environmental and Occupational Health Science is accredited by the National Environmental Health Science and Protection Accreditation Council (EHAC). The program is also designated as Qualified Academic Program by the Board of Certified Safety Professionals (BCSP). This provides graduates the opportunity to apply with BCSP for Graduate Safety Professional (GSP) designation. 

Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP)

The Master of Science (MS) in Environmental and Occupational Health (EOHS) degree offers a Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP) which provides academically outstanding students the opportunity to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree in an accelerated timeframe. Contact the graduate program coordinator for additional information.

This JUMP program allows students to start working toward their MS in EOHS (REF: 0473) while completing their Bachelor of Science degree in Environmental and Occupational Health Science (REF: 548), Bachelor of Science in Public Health (REF: 521), and Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (REF: 564). Undergraduate students admitted into JUMP may take graduate courses that count toward both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Up to 12 credit hours can be double-counted toward both degrees, and up to 15 hours of graduate courses can be taken while a student is completing the undergraduate degree. The key benefit of the JUMP program is that it allows students to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe.

To be considered for admission to the JUMP program to earn a BS and MS in EOHS in an accelerated timeframe, a student must meet the following requirements: 1) be an undergraduate student in BS in EOHS (Ref: 548), BS in PH (Ref: 521), or BS in HS (Ref:  564), 2) have completed at least 60 hours total, with at least 24 hours earned at WKU, 3) have 15 or more credit hours remaining to complete the bachelor’s degree, and 4) have a minimum 3.25 overall GPA.  Student must maintain a 3.0 cumulative graduate GPA.

Program Admission

In addition to Graduate Studies admission requirements, admission requires the equivalent of an undergraduate major in environmental health science and occupational health and safety including supporting courses in science and mathematics. Exceptions may be made for students with undergraduate degrees in other disciplines; however, additional courses may be required.

Admission may be granted to applicants who fulfill one of the following conditions: 1) Completion of the Occupational Safety and Health graduate certificate with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; OR 2) Minimum cumulative GPA of 2.75 or greater on a baccalaureate degree or equivalent international degree; OR 3) Minimum GPA of 3.0 on a degree higher than baccalaureate or equivalent international degree. 

Program Requirements (36 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
EOHS 502Health Promotion in the Workplace3
EOHS 550Principles of Occupational Safety and Health3
EOHS 560Environmental Management3
EOHS 570Industrial Hygiene3
EOHS 572Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology3
EOHS 577Environmental Toxicology3
PH 520Biostatistics for Public Health3
PH 584Principles of Environmental Health3
Electives
Select 6 hours (thesis option students) or 9 hours (applied practice experience option students) from the following: 16-9
EOHS Electives
EOHS 510
Watershed Management and Science
EOHS 571
Air Quality Management
EOHS 580
Solid and Hazardous Wastes
EOHS 595
Public Health Management of Disasters
PH 501
Research Methods
PH 530
Selected Topics/Independent Study
PH 581
Applied Methods in Public Health Practice/Field Epidemiology
PH 582
Epidemiology
PH 620
Advanced Biostatistics
PH 630
Advanced Epidemiology
Workplace Health Promotion Electives
EOHS 503
Health Assessment in Workplace
PH 575
Program Planning in Public Health Practice
PH 576
Public Health Education and Communication Techniques
PH 587
Health Behavior Theory
Culminating Experience
PH 599Thesis Research/Writing (6 hrs)3-6
or EOHS 546 Environmental & Occupational Health Science Internship
or EOHS 598 Capstone in Environmental and Occupational Health
Total Hours36
1

Courses may be selected from the list above or from other disciplines, given that the course is pertinent to the program of study.  The graduate advisor must approve all elective courses. 

Health Administration (153)

  • Graduate
  • Master of Health Administration
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The Master of Health Administration (MHA) degree program prepares graduates for administrative and managerial positions in different types of healthcare facilities and agencies including acute care, long-term care, group medical practices, managed care organizations, public health agencies, clinics, and health-related organizations such as pharmaceutical companies, medical equipment providers, and health care consulting firms.

The 36 credit-hour MHA program emphasizes applied and integrative learning based on professional competencies with the option of choosing a defined program focus area using electives.

MHA students will choose one 3-credit hour culminating experience and two 3-credit hour electives. A comprehensive exam assessment is required for all MHA seeking students.

Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP)

The Master of Health Administration (MHA) program’s Joint Undergraduate-Master’s Degree Program (JUMP) at WKU allows academically outstanding students to start working toward a MHA (REF: 153) while completing either the Bachelor of Science in Health Sciences (REF: 564) or the Bachelor of Science in Health Care Administration (REF: 559).  Up to 12 credit hours can be double-counted toward both degrees, and up to 15 hours of graduate courses can be taken while a student is completing the undergraduate degree. The key benefit of the JUMP program is that it allows students to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe. For more information, see the MHA program admission requirements or contact the MHA Program Coordinator.

 

Applicants to the Master of Health Administration (MHA) program may receive full admission if they hold a baccalaureate degree or higher from a regionally accredited institution of higher education. A minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 3.0 or higher is required on their baccalaureate degree, along with a statement of intent (minimum of 1 page, and no more than 2 pages) sent to the graduate program coordinator (Dr. Gregory Ellis-Griffith: gregory.ellis-griffith@wku.edu).  Applicants with two or more years of work experience require a minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or higher on their baccalaureate degree.

Conditional Admission: If a student does not meet all university and program admission requirements but the academic program’s review of the student’s record indicates the likelihood of success, the student may be granted conditional admission by the Associate Provost for Research and Graduate Education upon the recommendation of the program. 

• Application and Graduate Studies Fees. Apply through: Graduate Admissions

Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP)

The Master of Health Administration (MHA) program’s Joint Undergraduate-Master’s Degree Program (JUMP) at WKU allows academically outstanding students to complete undergraduate and graduate degrees in an accelerated timeline by permitting a limited number of graduate credit hours to be double-counted toward both degrees. MHA JUMP students may complete up to twelve (12) graduate hours to be counted on both the undergraduate and graduate transcripts.

To be considered for admission to the MHA JUMP program, a student must meet the following requirements:

  • Be an undergraduate student in one of the following majors: Health Sciences (564), Health Care Administration (559).
  • A minimum of 60 credit hours earned and 15 or more credit hours remaining to complete the undergraduate degree.
  • A minimum of 24 undergraduate hours earned at WKU.
  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.25 for individuals earning their first baccalaureate degree.
  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 for individuals earning their second baccalaureate degree.
  • A letter of support from the applicant's undergraduate academic advisor or undergraduate program coordinator submitted to the MHA graduate program coordinator.
  • Approval of MHA Program Coordinator.

For questions or more information, contact the MHA Program Coordinator (Dr. Gregory Ellis-Griffith: gregory.ellis-griffith@wku.edu).

 
 
 

Degree Requirements (36 hours)

Course List
Required Courses (30 hours)
HCA 540Health Care Organization and Management3
HCA 541Strategic Management & Marketing of Health Services3
HCA 545Managerial Finance for Health Services3
HCA 547Global and Comparative Health Systems3
HCA 551Healthcare Jurisprudence and Quality3
HCA 555Healthcare Leadership and Change Management3
HCA 564Health Systems Informatics3
HCA 574Decision Making in Health Care3
HCA 586Health Economics & Policy3
Culminating Experience (3 hours, select one) 3
HCA 530
Independent Investigation in Health Care Administration
HCA 546
Graduate Internship
HCA 559
Global Health Service-Learning Practicum
PH 599
Thesis Research/Writing (Thesis Option )
Electives (6 hours, select two)6
HCA 542
Health Care Human Resources Administration
HCA 543
Health Care Quality and Accountability
HCA 544
Health Systems Design for Sustainable Practices
HCA 556
Ambulatory and Long-Term Care Management
HCA 571
Managed Care
HCA 572
Special Topics in Health Services
EOHS 550
Principles of Occupational Safety and Health
EOHS 572
Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology
PH 520
Biostatistics for Public Health
PH 580
Public Health Foundations and Practice
PH 582
Epidemiology
PH 583
Public Health Administration
PH 584
Principles of Environmental Health
PH 585
Global Health
PH 587
Health Behavior Theory
LEAD 500
Effective Leadership Studies
LEAD 515
Leading an Adaptive Organization
LEAD 520
Collaborative Team Leadership
Total Hours36
*Other elective courses may be chosen with advisor approval. 1

Public Health (152)

  • Graduate
  • MPH
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The Master of Public Health (MPH) is a professional practice degree that prepares students for a wide range of health professions. The 42 credit-hour program, accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), is offered on WKU’s campus and in a fully online format. Beyond the required core courses, MPH students work in partnership with their advisor to select electives and tailor a program that meets their professional and academic goals related to public health. The MPH program is competency-based and focuses on applied and integrative learning.  Students are required to successfully complete and defend a capstone project, which could include a thesis, prior to graduation.

Program Admission

In addition to the criteria set forth by Graduate Studies, applicants must meet one the following criteria to be fully admitted into the MPH program:

  • cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on 4.0 scale from a regionally-accredited US institution of higher education; OR
  • cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 2.75 on 4.0 scale from a regionally-accredited US institution of higher education AND a minimum of three years of professional public health experience; OR
  • current enrollment in a regionally-accredited US medical school or doctoral program; OR
  • graduation from a regionally-accredited US medical school, master's, or doctoral program; OR
  • completion of a WKU graduate certificate with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

Applicants who do not meet any of these criteria may be admitted conditionally into the MPH program.

All Applicants must submit the following:

  1. Written personal statement 
  2. Resume or Curriculum Vitae
  3. Contact information for at least two professional references

Program Requirements (42 hours)

Course List
Required Core
PH 520Biostatistics for Public Health3
or PH 620 Advanced Biostatistics
PH 575Program Planning in Public Health Practice3
PH 578Health Inequities3
PH 580Public Health Foundations and Practice3
PH 581Applied Methods in Public Health Practice/Field Epidemiology3
PH 582Epidemiology3
PH 584Principles of Environmental Health3
PH 548Community Organizing in Public Health3
PH 587Health Behavior Theory3
PH 591Health Program Evaluation3
Electives
Advisor approved electives including:12
BDAN/BA 513
Contemporary Business Analytics
BDAN 515
Data Management
BDAN 517
Predictive Analytics
BDAN 519
Visualization and Decision Making
MGT 510
Advanced Organizational Behavior
ECON 511
Applied Managerial Economics
MKT 517
Advanced Marketing
MGT 560
Contemporary Human Resources Management
MGT 576
Supply Chain Management
MGT 583
Procurement Management
Any 600-level course
Total Hours42

Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP)

The Master of Public Health program offers a Joint Undergraduate Master's Program (JUMP) which provides academically outstanding students the opportunity to complete both an undergraduate and graduate degree in an accelerated timeframe. Contact the graduate program coordinator for additional information.

This JUMP program allows students to start working toward their MPH while completing their Bachelor of Science degree in Public Health, Health Sciences, or Environmental and Occupational Health Science. Undergraduate students admitted into JUMP may take graduate courses that count toward both undergraduate and graduate degrees. Up to 12 credit hours can be double counted toward both degrees, and up to 15 hours of graduate courses can be taken while a student is completing the undergraduate degree. The key benefit of the JUMP program is that it allows students to earn a bachelor’s and a master’s degree in an accelerated timeframe.

To be considered for admission to the JUMP program to earn a BS and a MPH in

an accelerated timeframe, a student must meet the following requirements:

  • Be an undergraduate student in the major of Public Health, Health Sciences, or Environmental and Occupational Health Science in the department of Public Health.
  • A minimum of 60 credit hours earned and 15 or more credit hours remaining to complete the undergraduate degree.
  • A minimum of 24 undergraduate hours earned at WKU.
  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.25 for individuals earning their first baccalaureate degree.
  • A minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.00 for individuals earning their second baccalaureate degree.

Epidemiology (1751)

  • Graduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

Epidemiology, as defined by the World Health Organization, is the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related states or events in specified populations, and the application of this study to the control of health problems. This graduate certificate develops competencies in epidemiology, including those related to disease measurement and distribution, outbreak investigations, prevention and control, and applied analytical methods in public health.

Program Admission

Graduate Studies Admission

Please refer to the admission section of this catalog for Graduate Studies admission requirements.

Program Requirements (12 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
PH 581Applied Methods in Public Health Practice/Field Epidemiology3
PH 582Epidemiology3
PH 630Advanced Epidemiology3
Elective
Select 3 hours from the following: 13
PH 620
Advanced Biostatistics
EOHS 572
Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology
PH 631
Contemporary Topics in Epidemiology (Proposal Submitted)
Total Hours12
1

Other electives may be selected with advisor approval.

Global Health Administration (1735)

  • Graduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

This program is designed to prepare students with a broad understanding of global health engagement in health administration, health policy, health systems, and service delivery.

WKU Graduate School admission requirements, with no additional program requirements:

  1. Baccalaureate degree or higher, or equivalent international degree, from a regionally accredited institution of higher education.
  2. Minimum cumulative grade point average (GPA) of 2.75 or greater on baccalaureate degree or equivalent international degree or minimum GPA of 3.0 on a degree higher than a baccalaureate or equivalent international degree.
  3. Evidence of English proficiency (international students only)

Program Requirements (9 hours)

Course List
Required Courses (6 hours)
HCA 547Global and Comparative Health Systems3
HCA 559Global Health Service-Learning Practicum3
Elective (Choose one of the following)3
*Any HCA 500+ course
PH 578
Health Inequities
PH 580
Public Health Foundations and Practice
PH 583
Public Health Administration
PH 585
Global Health
COMM 590
Intercultural Communication Strategies
COMM 561
Communication for Global Organizations
LEAD 500
Effective Leadership Studies
*Other elective course may be chosen with advisor approval
Total Hours9

Health Education (0494)

  • Graduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The Health Education Certificate imparts knowledge and skills necessary for health educators, and is aligned with seven of the eight areas of responsibility outlined by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) for Certified Health Education Specialists (CHES).

Program Admission

Graduate Studies Admission

Please refer to the admission section of this catalog for Graduate Studies admission requirements.

Program Requirements (12 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
PH 587Health Behavior Theory3
PH 575Program Planning in Public Health Practice3
PH 576Public Health Education and Communication Techniques3
or COMM 553 Health Communication Campaigns
PH 548Community Organizing in Public Health3
Total Hours12

Occupational Safety and Health (1779)

  • Graduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The certificate program in Occupational Safety and Health is designed to provide advanced professional training for careers focused on the protection and promotion of human health from workplace hazards. Designed for working professionals and students desiring opportunities with industry, consulting firms, government agencies, and other occupational safety and health science professions, online courses will provide students with diverse in-place learning opportunities.

Program Admission

Students applying to the program must have a baccalaureate degree in a related field or a baccalaureate degree and related experience in health and safety, human resources, and related fields, and approval by the program director.

Program Requirements (12 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
EOHS 502Health Promotion in the Workplace3
EOHS 550Principles of Occupational Safety and Health3
PH 584Principles of Environmental Health3
Electives
Select 3 hours of the following: 13
EOHS 503
Health Assessment in Workplace
EOHS 560
Environmental Management
EOHS 570
Industrial Hygiene
EOHS 571
Air Quality Management
EOHS 572
Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology
EOHS 577
Environmental Toxicology
EOHS 580
Solid and Hazardous Wastes
EOHS 595
Public Health Management of Disasters
PH 581
Applied Methods in Public Health Practice/Field Epidemiology
PH 620
Advanced Biostatistics
PH 630
Advanced Epidemiology
Total Hours12
1

Other elective courses may be chosen with advisor approval.

Workplace Health Promotion (1746)

  • Graduate
  • Health and Human Services
  • Public Health

Overview

The graduate certificate program in Workplace Health Promotion will provide training for students and professionals who have an interest in developing health promotion programs in the workplace. This certificate program will provide a comprehensive skill base for assessment, planning, implementation and evaluation of health promotion programs in a workplace environment, effective communication techniques and a basic understanding of workplace hazards. This certificate will also introduce students to the Total Worker Health concept, which is a Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) initiative to integrate health promotion and health protection. 

Program Requirements (15 hours)

Course List
Required Courses
EOHS 502Health Promotion in the Workplace3
PH 575Program Planning in Public Health Practice3
PH 587Health Behavior Theory3
EOHS 503Health Assessment in Workplace3
EOHS 550Principles of Occupational Safety and Health3
Total Hours15

 

Loading...
Public Health News
Current Research
Make a Donation

 

Cori Covington

The Department of Public Health staff prepares their students intricately to make a difference in their communities. The partnerships that the Department of Public Health has built within our community have led me to where I am today. If it were not for Dr. Lartey and her advice, I would not have had the opportunity to secure a job at my internship site prior to graduation.

Cori Covington, 2022 BSPH Graduate

 

Why Pursue a Degree in the Department of Public Health at WKU?

For those seeking a meaningful career that makes a real impact, WKU’s public health programs provide the education, experience, and support needed to achieve their goals.

Undergraduate Student Resources

Graduate Student Resources

 

 

 

  • 270-745-2015
  • public.health@wku.edu

  • Academic Complex 133       

    1906 College Heights Blvd.#11082

    Bowling Green, KY 42101

 

Example of twitter 

Some of the links on this page may require additional software to view.

 Last Modified 9/3/25