Donnelly is now offering an Associate of Applied Science in Public Health degree. The first cohort of students will be enrolled in spring 2025. Donnelly’s national accreditor, The Higher Learning Commission, approved the new degree offering in February 2024.
This new degree offering provides specialized training designed to prepare students to work in public health fields. The program focuses on the application of educational and communications methods to promote preventive health measures and educate targeted populations on health issues. Those interested in pursuing a career path that includes advocating for a healthy community and educating people on mental, environmental and physical health are encouraged to apply for the public health degree program.
“In the last few years, we have observed an increase in students’ interest in serving their community through public health opportunities,” said Director of Liberal Arts and Sciences Ana Maradiaga. “Not only do we have more students interested in pursuing a healthcare degree like nursing, but we also have increased enrollment in environmental science and environmental ethics courses,” she said.
To launch the new program, Donnelly will be hiring additional adjunct instructors. As the program grows, instructors will transition to full-time roles. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, community or public health job availability is expected to increase 14 percent by 2032.
To learn more about the Associate of Applied Science in Public Health, click here. For more information on how to apply for Donnelly admission, click here.