Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Wellness

Admissions and Aid College of Arts and Sciences
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Bachelor of Science in Public Health and Wellness

What Will I Learn in the Public Health and Wellness Major?

University of Portland’s (UP) bachelor of science in public health and wellness (BS-PHW) degree program prepares you to create healthier communities and empower individuals to lead more balanced, fulfilling lives. It’s more than a public health degree. It’s an opportunity to examine your own physical, psychosocial, and spiritual health as you develop the skills to promote sustainable wellness and address complex health challenges across diverse settings. You'll graduate ready to take on initiatives in fields ranging from health promotion and policy to community advocacy and integrative medicine.

Public Health and Wellness Courses

Your coursework will cover core topics in public health, wellness, and holistic health practices. The BS-PHW curriculum blends foundational biology knowledge with opportunities to tailor your degree to your career goals through electives in health coaching, community health promotion, nutrition, leadership, and more.

Degree Requirements

University Core

University of Portland’s Core Curriculum is central to shaping ethical, reflective, and globally conscious leaders. The Core’s 40 credit hours connect your health and wellness major to a broader understanding of the world, empowering you to serve others and make choices that positively impact health care.

The Core

Public Health and Wellness Minor

Explore health promotion strategies and prevention techniques with our public health and wellness minor. This program is ideal for students pursuing other majors who want to complement their education with applicable wellness knowledge.

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More than a Degree

Discover how to take your bachelor’s degree in health and wellness further through enriching hands-on opportunities offered at UP.

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Integrative Health Coaching

Prepare to help others make transformative lifestyle changes that lead to long-term health and wellness. With specialized training in health coaching, you can become a National Board Certified Health & Wellness Coach who supports clients in building sustainable habits and achieving personal goals. The Public Health and Wellness Program also includes all the required competencies to sit for the National Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam.

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Study Abroad

Expand your global perspective by studying health systems and wellness practices in diverse cultural contexts around the world. See firsthand how global communities approach public health challenges.

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Holy Cross Tradition

Immerse yourself in the Holy Cross tradition, where service, compassion, and holistic care are integral to our values and your overall learning experience in the health and wellness degree program.

The UP Difference

At UP, you are our priority—see how.

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Student-to-Faculty Ratio

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of Students Receive Financial Aid or Scholarships

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Student Clubs and Organizations

Public Health and Wellness Student Spotlight

"I wanted a program that incorporated Eastern and Western health care while also addressing the widespread health disparities that impact certain communities. I wanted access to research opportunities and hands-on fieldwork that would prepare me to go out and care for other humans in the world post graduation. UP’s program fit all of my criteria. There are so many different health care pathways. If someone’s not sure they want to jump into acute care nursing, PHW is a great place to start."

Brylee Kiminsky '22, MPH candidate

“A degree in Public Health and Wellness is truly like no other. Every single day, without fail, I walk away from my classes having learned something life changing. Never before have I learned such relevant information that I am constantly excited to share with those in my life and that inspires me to integrate my education into my personal life.”

Reid Colkitt ’25

Careers and Outcomes

With a bachelor’s degree in health and wellness, you’re ready to pursue a variety of career opportunities across population health, health promotion, and integrative medicine. Health and wellness professionals design and implement programs to improve community health, educate individuals on healthy lifestyles, and advocate for policies that positively influence wellness.

Jobs with a Bachelor’s Degree in Health and Wellness

Potential career paths are:

  • Certified Health Coach
  • Community Health Advocate
  • Exercise Science Specialist
  • Health Educator
  • Health Policy Professional
  • Nurse
  • Nutritionist
  • Sports Medicine Professional

Graduate Studies

Many health and wellness majors continue their education in fields like public health, nutrition, nursing, or integrative medicine, advancing their expertise and expanding their impact in health care leadership roles. Explore health-related graduate programs at UP.

Alumni Employers

Through innovative wellness programs and community partnerships, our public health and wellness majors advance health initiatives across industries. These include:

  • IRG Physical Therapy
  • Oregon School-Based Health Alliance
  • US Army Medical Service Corps

Related Degrees

BS in Nursing

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BA in Psychology

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BA in Sociology

Create a Healthier World

Earn your bachelor of science in public health and wellness degree at University of Portland and transform lives through compassionate care and sustainable solutions. Here, you can turn your interest in health into an impactful career.

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