B.S. Public Health FAQs

• What can I do with a bachelor’s degree in public health?

  A degree in Public Health provides you with a broad and versatile field of study that prepares students for careers in epidemiology, health promotion, health communications, program management, research, health education, public health administration, health policy, advocacy, maternal and child health, behavioral health, and many other areas dedicated to improving community health and well-being.

• When should I start looking for an internship?

  Students will be eligible to begin their internship during their final year in the program and should begin looking for an internship in the semester prior to their final year in the program.

• How many internship hours are required?

  Students are required to complete 120 hours of internship experience. In addition, students are required to develop a Scope of Work that includes learning objectives and competencies. The Scope of Work must be reviewed and approved before the internship placement can be finalized and enrollment in PH 463 (Internship Course). This scope of work will be presented in a public health course you will complete earlier in your degree program.

• What types of organizations qualify for internship sites?

  Any organization that will provide the student with a public health focused project or programming. For example: County and state offices, non-profit organizations, health and wellness centers, hospitals and medical centers, community and behavioral health organizations, etc.  

• Can I complete my internship remotely?
  This depends on the internship site and the project they are offering. Several of our internship sites offer hybrid opportunities and, in some cases, fully remote placements. The availability of these options will depend on the nature of the project and the organization's needs. Any remote or hybrid work arrangements can be discussed and coordinated directly with the internship site.
• Can I use my current job as an internship?

  Yes, you may use your place of employment as your internship site; however, it must meet the following criteria: 1) The scope of work must be public health-focused in nature; 2) The internship project must be a new initiative that is outside the scope of your current job responsibilities; and 3) Internship hours and activities must be distinct from your regular employee duties and this should be outlined in your Scope of Work.

• How do I find internship opportunities?

  Public health internship opportunities are available through the department's internship Students who are ready to begin their internship will receive instructions and access to the database so they can start applying for internship placements.

  We also encourage students to begin volunteering early, as this can provide valuable networking opportunities and may lead to an internship placement. Students have a lot of flexibility to locate their own internship that aligns with their interests or explores new opportunities. To see current volunteer opportunities at HandsOn San Diego.

• What should I expect from a public health internship?

  Your public health internship experience should provide you with an opportunity to be mentored by a public health professional and offer an integrated learning experience in which you demonstrate your ability to apply what you have learned in the classroom, including the required competencies.