public health at SAU Tech
Prepare for a Career in Community Health, Disease Prevention, and Health Policy
The Public Health degree option at Southern Arkansas University Tech (SAU Tech) offers students a strong foundation for a wide range of careers focused on improving community health and preventing disease. This program is designed as a transfer pathway, helping students complete their Associate of Applied Science (AAS) in Health Sciences – Public Health Option before continuing toward a bachelor’s degree in public health at a four-year university.
If you want to make a difference in the lives of others by promoting healthier communities and solving public health challenges, this program is the first step in your journey.
Public Health Program Overview
- Degree Offered:
- AAS in Health Sciences – Public Health Option
- Transfer Pathway: Designed for students planning to earn a bachelor’s degree in public health or related field
- Format: In-person coursework with general education and health science classes
- Goal: Prepare for careers in public health, community outreach, or government health services
Students will study a variety of topics including natural sciences, health systems, social behavior, and population health, while building strong communication and analytical skills.
What Is Public Health?
Public health is the science of protecting and improving the health of individuals and communities through education, policy development, health promotion, and disease prevention. Public health professionals work across sectors—from hospitals to schools to government agencies—to ensure people have access to healthier environments where they live, learn, work, and play.
Career Opportunities in Public Health
With a bachelor’s degree in public health, students are prepared for entry-level positions in public and private health sectors, including:
- Community Health Educator
- Health Program Coordinator
- Disease Intervention Specialist
- Environmental Health Specialist
- Care Plan Coordinator
- Health Unit Administrator
- Emergency Health Planner
- Public Health Research Assistant
- Epidemiologist Assistant (with additional training)
Public health professionals are in demand at government agencies (CDC, state health departments), nonprofit organizations, hospitals, schools, and international NGOs.
Program Goal
The Public Health option within the AAS Health Sciences degree is designed for students planning to:
Transfer to a four-year public health or health sciences program
Build foundational knowledge in biology, communication, public policy, and statistics
Prepare for meaningful careers in community health and public service
Program Learning Outcomes
Graduates of the Public Health program will:
Demonstrate foundational understanding of natural and health sciences
Apply the scientific method to investigate and solve public health problems
Use critical thinking to analyze health data and inform decision-making
Communicate clearly in professional and community health contexts
Demonstrate cultural awareness and sensitivity to social health issues
