Valparaiso University

What you'll study

This interdisciplinary bachelor’s combines core public health training with specialised coursework in veterinary epidemiology, infectious disease ecology and One Health principles. The curriculum balances classroom learning, laboratory methods and field-based practicum experiences to prepare students for roles in surveillance, outbreak response and research.

• Core public health modules: introduction to public health, epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and health promotion.
• Veterinary epidemiology and disease-focused modules: zoonoses and infectious disease ecology, population health of domestic and wild animals, diagnostic methods, veterinary public health principles and antimicrobial resistance.
• Laboratory and technical skills: diagnostic laboratory techniques, molecular methods basics, GIS for health, data management and outbreak investigation practicum.
• Research and applied learning: capstone research project in an epidemiology topic, supervised field practicum with public health agencies, veterinary clinics or wildlife health organisations.
• Complementary studies: courses in microbiology, immunology, animal biology, ethics in public health and communications for scientific audiences.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a high-school diploma or equivalent with a strong record in science and mathematics. Valparaiso looks for students who demonstrate analytical aptitude, interest in health sciences and capacity for fieldwork.

• Academic background: recommended coursework includes biology, chemistry, mathematics (algebra or higher) and preferably an additional science such as environmental science or physics.
• Academic performance: a competitive high-school GPA and evidence of sustained achievement in STEM subjects.
• Supporting materials: personal statement describing interest in public health and veterinary topics, one or more academic or professional references, and a résumé or list of relevant extracurricular activities (lab work, animal care, volunteering, internships).
• International applicants: proof of English proficiency where applicable and documentation of secondary education credentials.
• Additional considerations: relevant experience with animal handling, community health projects or research is advantageous but not required; transfer applicants will be assessed on previous college coursework in sciences and public health-related subjects.

Career prospects

Graduates combine public health tools with an understanding of animal health and disease transmission, making them well placed for a variety of entry-level roles and further study.

• Entry-level positions: disease surveillance technician, laboratory assistant, zoonotic disease investigation assistant, environmental health technician, animal health technician in governmental or non-governmental organisations.
• Public sector and NGOs: roles in local and state public health departments, agricultural agencies, wildlife health programmes and international development organisations focused on One Health.
• Research and clinical pathways: research assistant positions in academic or government laboratories; many graduates progress to graduate training such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), a research MSc/PhD in epidemiology or a professional veterinary degree (DVM) for clinical practice and advanced veterinary epidemiology.
• Other careers: policy analysis, health communication for veterinary and public health issues, field epidemiology units and biosecurity roles in industry.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a liberal-arts foundation that emphasises critical thinking, communication and ethical reasoning alongside scientific rigour. The programme stresses experiential learning through small classes, accessible faculty mentorship and local partnerships.

• Small cohorts and close faculty interaction support hands-on mentoring for laboratory and field practicum projects.
• Opportunities for applied learning through practicum placements with regional public health departments, veterinary clinics, wildlife rehabilitation centres and conservation organisations.
• Interdisciplinary approach rooted in One Health, enabling students to work across public health, biology and environmental science departments.
• Preparation for graduate study and professional licensure pathways, with advising to support applications to MPH, DVM and research programmes.