Pre-health Professionals

The pre-health professions concentration prepares students for entry in graduate professional schools in areas such as medicine, dentistry, physician assistant, pharmacy, athletic training, occupational therapy, physical therapy and public health. Students can participate in an optional internship that allows them some early exposure to their intended medical, allied health or public health field.

Possible Career Opportunities 

Graduates of the Pre-Health Professions concentration are well-prepared to pursue advanced studies in various health fields, including but not limited to medical school, dental school, occupational therapy, Health/Wellness Coach and physician assistant programs. 

Admission Requirements

To be admitted into the Pre-Health Professions concentration, students must achieve a minimum grade of B in the following prerequisite courses: 

BIOL 1100, BIOL 1101, BIOL 1200, BIOL 1201, CHEM 1150, CHEM 1151, CHEM 1160, CHEM 1161.  

Additionally, students must declare the concentration on or before earning 75 credit hours. 

Cost of Attendance and Financial Information

Afford | Undergraduate Admissions | ECU 

Program Requirements 

The curriculum includes foundational courses in public health, health policy, global health, epidemiology, health education, and can include specialized topics such as women’s health and program planning. 

Required Courses
Four Year Plan
 4 years (120 credits) 

Internship Requirements and Experience 

Students enrolled in the Pre-Health Professions concentration have the option to participate in internships if they meet specific eligibility requirements. To explore internship opportunities, students should consult with the Internship Coordinator or their academic advisor for guidance on requirements and potential placement sites. 

Student Opportunities and Experiences 

Students are encouraged to engage in extracurricular opportunities such as: Eta Sigma Gamma (National Health Education Honorary Society), PEP Squad (Preconception Educating Pirates), T.A.C.O. (Team Awareness Combating Overdose), HER+ Public Health.  Additionally, students may apply to become a Public Health Ambassador, collaborate with faculty on research projects, and participate in experiential learning opportunities. 

Delivery Methods 

This program is offered exclusively in a traditional, on-campus format, with face-to-face instruction. 

Accreditation Information 

The BS in Public Health is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). If you wish to review the most recent self-study document or the official accreditation report, please contact the Program Director, Kelli Russell, MPH, MCHES® (russellk14@ecu.edu).

Institutional and Professional Licensure Disclosures for Enrolled and Prospective Students 

ECU degree programs satisfy the professional licensure and/or certification requirements in North Carolina and prepare students to sit for these exams.  However, requirements in other states may be different. 

If you are considering a degree program that may, would, could or potentially lead to a professional license and/or certification, please note that at this time ECU may or may not be able to advise whether a  program meets requirements outside of North Carolina.  Prior to enrolling in a degree program, please discuss this important topic with your program of interest.