Address community health-related challenges with an online Certificate in Public Health. Explore pressing issues that affect populations and prepare to create healthier communities, address health disparities and improve global health.
Want to learn more? Connect with a student success coach and claim your free application waiver.
The online Certificate in Public Health creates a flexible path of study that complements your major — whatever that may be. This program will help you develop broad skills in analysis, critical thinking and communication within the lens of public health so you can effectively adapt with the quickly changing public health landscape.
This certificate diversifies your areas of expertise, making you a more appealing employee who can address problems that span industries. In fact, many career fields need employees with public health knowledge.
There are no specific program admissions requirements for the Public Health Certificate.
If you are a current, degree-seeking Boise State student, use the myBoiseState “change my major” tool to add the certificate.
If you are not a current Boise State student, apply to Boise State and declare the certificate in addition to your major.
The Certificate in Public Health is a 15-18 credit program offered online only with no in-person requirements.
To complete the program, you must:
| Course Type | Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|---|
| Required | PUBH 303 Foundations of Public Health | 3 |
| Required | PUBH 310 Evidence-based Public Health | 3 |
| Required | PUBH 382 Research Methods in Health | 3 |
| Option 1 | Complete at least two of the following courses: PUBH 315 Health Policy and Ethics PUBH 355 Human Health and Disease PUBH 365 Quality Improvement and Performance Management PUBH 418 Advanced Public Health Analysis PUBH 419 Public Health Communications PUBH 420 Strategic Planning and Project Management PUBH 460 Determinants of Health PUBH 470 Collaborating for Change | 6 |
| Option 2 | Complete the following courses: PUBH 240 Foundations of Health Education and Promotion PUBH 342 Health Education and Promotion Methods PUBH 344 Health Behavior Theory and Practice | 9 |
This content is provided as a quick reference for planning your academic schedule. All official course descriptions and degree requirements are published on the undergraduate catalog site.
The following table outlines the total cost to complete the online Certificate in Public Health.
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Boise State Undergraduate Application Fee (non-refundable) | $50 |
| Courses (15-18 total credits @ $375 per credit*) | $5,625 - 6,750 |
| Books (estimate) | $170 |
| Graduation Application Fee | $20 |
| Approximate Total Investment | $5,865 - 6,990 |
| Other potential expenses may include a personal computer, webcam, headphones with a mic and internet access, which are all required for this program. | Varies |
| Room/Board** | $5,688 |
| Transportation** | $1,248 |
**Costs for room, board and transportation are used to calculate financial aid and are included to disclose the full cost of attendance. These costs are not required for students pursuing a fully online degree.
Note to Boise State and other Idaho higher education employees: Fee waivers do not apply to this program.
The public health field is expected to grow 7% between 2022 and 2032 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Gain hands-on experience in the public health field, develop your leadership skills and network with other learners across the country.
Possible careers include:
From application to graduation, students are supported throughout their education journey at Boise State.
Add an online certificate to your existing degree plan or complete it as a stand-alone credential.
Contact our enrollment and student success team for support by emailing us at OnlinePublicHealth@boisestate.edu, calling (208) 426-5921 or clicking the chat button.