Christopher Newport University

What you'll study

The Health Studies curriculum at Christopher Newport University combines courses from the social and biological sciences with practical skills in research, communication and programme planning. Students take a sequence of core courses that introduce concepts in epidemiology, health promotion, health behaviour and health policy, alongside foundational coursework in research methods and biostatistics.

• Core modules: Introduction to Health Studies, Epidemiology, Health Behaviour and Promotion, Health Systems and Policy, Research Methods in Health, Biostatistics for Health Professionals, and Health Ethics.
• Applied and topical modules: Community Health, Global Health, Chronic Disease Prevention, Mental Health and Wellness, Health Communication, and Program Planning and Evaluation.
• Experiential learning: Practicum or internship with a community agency, hospital or public health department, and a senior capstone seminar or research project that integrates classroom learning with field experience.
• Electives and concentrations: Students may choose electives to focus on areas such as global health, health policy, health promotion, or research methods to tailor the degree to career goals or graduate study plans.

Entry requirements

Admission to Christopher Newport University and the Health Studies programme typically requires a high-school diploma or equivalent with a competitive academic record in college-preparatory subjects. Applicants are usually expected to have completed secondary-level coursework in biology and mathematics; chemistry or social sciences are also advantageous. CNU considers the whole application and admissions practices regarding standardised tests may vary, so applicants should check the university’s current guidance about test submission.

For transfer students, successful completion of college-level coursework in relevant subjects and a clear academic record are important. Students without a science background may still be admitted but should expect to take introductory biology and quantitative courses early in the programme.

Career prospects

Graduates of the Health Studies programme leave equipped for a range of entry-level roles in the health sector and for further professional or graduate study. Typical career paths include:

• Public and community health worker or educator
• Health programme coordinator or outreach specialist
• Health services administration and support roles in hospitals, clinics or non-profit organisations
• Research assistant positions in academic, government or private-sector health research
• Policy and advocacy roles with health-focused NGOs or governmental agencies
• Pathways to postgraduate professional programs such as nursing, physician assistant, public health (MPH), health administration (MHA) or medical and allied health schools

The programme’s practicum and local partnerships help students build professional networks, practial experience and the competencies employers seek.

Why study at Christopher Newport University

Christopher Newport University offers a liberal-arts centred environment with small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which benefits students in an applied field like Health Studies. The university emphasises undergraduate research, experiential learning and community engagement—features that allow Health Studies students to complete internships, service-learning projects and a capstone research experience under faculty supervision.

Located within reach of regional hospitals, public health agencies and community organisations, the programme provides opportunities for real-world placements and professional networking. Faculty teaching in Health Studies typically combine academic expertise with practical experience in public health, health promotion and research, helping students translate theory into practice while preparing for careers or further study in health-related fields.