Explore Careers

Photo of a group of WashU graduates gleefully jumping into the air together

Explore Careers

What can you do with a Public Health & Society degree?

Public Health & Society graduates move into a variety of professions and advanced study programs. The field of public health offers a broad spectrum of career opportunities beyond the traditional roles in local health departments. Whether you aim to directly engage with communities, conduct groundbreaking research, or influence public health policies, a degree in Public Health & Society equips you with the knowledge and skills needed to make a difference.

Possible career paths include:

  • Biotechnology and Bioengineering
  • Clinical Research
  • Community Health Worker
  • Community Organizing, Advocacy, and Social Justice
  • Computational and Data Sciences
  • Environmental Policy Analyst
  • Epidemiology
  • Governance, Politics, and Consulting
  • Health Communications and Marketing
  • Health Insurance Underwriter
  • Healthcare Administrator
  • Healthcare Data Analytics
  • Healthcare Policy Research and Analysis
  • Human Resources and Labor Relations
  • International Humanitarian Aid
  • Medical Practice (MD/DO/NP/etc.)
  • Non-Profit Management, Grant Writing, and Program Development
  • Psychiatry, Psychological Counseling, and Social Work
  • Urban Planning and Architectural Design
  • Workplace Health and Wellness Initiatives
  • Youth and Family Services, Senior Services, or Disability Services

There is a lot you can do within the field of public health.


Not sure what classes to take? 

Map Icon

Electives Organized by Topic

A-Z Icon

Full list of Electives

The Center for Career Engagement

Make an Appointment

Don't be shy - whether you're just starting to think of options or have a specific path in mind, it's easy to meet with a career advisor! The Center for Career Engagement’s online tool lets you schedule an appointment at any time and help find the right advisor to get started.

Schedule an Appointment

Register for Handshake

Handshake is a career management system where you can search and apply for jobs, internships, and co-ops, manage your applications, and RSVP for programs and workshops. On Handshake, you can also upload and submit application materials such as resumes, cover letters, and other supporting materials like writing samples and portfolios.

Join Handshake

Browse Resources and Tools

The Center for Career Engagement has an abundant amount of resources and guides to help you along your journey.

Center for Career Engagement resources and tools

Drop-In Hours for Quick Questions

Looking for help with your resume, cover letter, LinkedIn, or Handshake? Need help preparing for an interview? Come to Drop-In Hours for Quick Questions to meet with a coach from the Center for Career Engagement. No appointment needed!

Spring Semester Opportunities:

Apply for the Summer Global Public Health Research Program! Deadline: January 20

The Summer Global Public Health Research Program offers full-time undergraduate, graduate, and professional students enrolled at an accredited U.S.-based institution research experience and mentorship with a global public health expert at Washington University. During the eight-week program, participants will participate in research with a matched WashU faculty member, and attend seminars and workshops on public and global health, research and career development. The program includes a summer stipend and covers housing and travel expenses. The program runs from June 8 through July 31 on the WashU campus. The deadline for applications is January 20.

10 Tips for Making the Most of Break

A pause during or between college semesters is a thing of beauty, so it’s important to enjoy down time. However, once you have a few Netflix marathons under your belt you might feel ready to do something productive with your time. We want to encourage and support you with some tips for making the most of break – no matter where you are in terms of career decision-making or readiness. Choose one or two and pat yourself on the back for using your time wisely.