<p>Hi Jvandai,
Do you know what kind of work you want to do in public health? Have you looked at the website I linked to above (<a href=“http://www.whatispublichealth.org/careers/index.html”>http://www.whatispublichealth.org/careers/index.html</a>)? The answer to your question depends somewhat on what direction you’re interested in. If you are most interested in epidemiology or environmental health, then a BS with a focus on science and quantitative methods would be best. If you’re interested in Health Promotion, though (for example), a BA would be fine. Regardless of whether your undergraduate degree is a BA or a BS, you should develop strength in quantitative methods, such as statistics. All public health students at the graduate level have to take coursework in epidemiology and biostatistics. When you apply for graduate school, the admissions committee will review your undergraduate transcript to see how you did in any quantitative and/or science classes you took. For a masters applicant, we usually look for a minimum of 3.0 GPA over all, and also a 3.0 minimum in math/science classes specifically. You also have to submit GRE scores (Graduate Record Exam, similar to an SAT but for graduate school admission). For a masters applicant, a cut-off 153/144 (V/Q) is usually the minimum score you’d need, although scores over 160/148 (V/Q) would be preferred. The personal statement is also important and should demonstrate a clear interest in public health. If you have an opportunity to work in a public health setting or for a public health type program, this would be beneficial too. The website I linked to provides some suggestions for that.</p>
<p>Hope this helps.</p>