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We are integrating perspectives from the natural sciences, social sciences, and humanities around one of the defining local, national, and international endeavors of our times—public health.

Welcome to the dynamic world of Public Health & Society (PH&S), the newest interdisciplinary undergraduate course of study in Arts & Sciences at WashU. A degree in PH&S provides a robust foundation for aspiring professionals in diverse fields such as medicine, business, government, non-profit advocacy, and policy. By combining the intellectual rigor of an Arts & Sciences degree with hands-on professional training, the PH&S program equips you with the skills to make a real impact.

What is public health?

Public health is an expansive field devoted to enhancing the health and well-being of communities and populations. As social beings, our health is deeply interwoven within society's fabric, touching on everything from business and medicine to climate change, civil rights, agriculture, and more. The interdisciplinary nature of our program offers a holistic understanding of the historical, social, cultural, and environmental factors influencing public health.

How is Public Health & Society related to the new School of Public Health?

Public Health & Society is an undergraduate program offered within Arts & Sciences. Our core curriculum courses are taught jointly by a faculty member in the School of Public Health and a faculty member in Arts & Sciences.

The new School of Public Health will be exclusively a graduate school, offering MPH and PhD programs. Both PH&S and the School of Public Health emerged from WashU's Here and Next strategic plan. The School of Public Health will be the first new school launched by WashU in 100 years and will offer significant opportunities for collaboration with our undergraduate program as well as with the School of Medicine, the Brown School, McKelvey School of Engineering, and Olin Business School. It is set to open in 2026.

Join our growing program by enrolling as a Public Health & Society major or minor!

Embark on this exciting journey with us and become a pioneer in shaping a healthier, more equitable world. Grow your capacity to tackle big problems and make a difference at home and around the globe. Your adventure in Public Health & Society awaits!