Gwynedd Mercy University 2026-2027 University Catalog
approved for Early Entry may take up to 12 credits of coursework from the MS in Counseling Program, which will count as undergraduate open electives and may also be used towards the MS in Counseling degree.
PUBLIC HEALTH Degree: BSPH, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Program Modality: On-ground
Program Description: The Bachelor of Science in Public Health( BSPH) is a four- year program that provides a strong foundation in the liberal arts, Mercy values and critical concerns, and the foundations of public health practice. Public health is a broad field focused on the health and well-being of populations and communities. It encompasses diverse domains such as epidemiology, disease prevention, health education and promotion, environmental health, health policy, and advocacy. The field of public health is grounded in a social justice philosophy and strives to eliminate health disparities and inequities, often by focusing on social determinants of health. Graduates from the BSPH program are prepared to sit for the CHES( Certified Health Education Specialist) credential exam, enter an MPH( Master in Public Health) program, and / or enter the public health workforce as an entry-level professional. Program Student Learning Outcomes: PLO1: Describe the history, philosophy, core values, and functions of public health within global and societal contexts, grounded in Gwynedd Mercy University’ s Mercy mission of service, compassion, and respect for human dignity PLO2: Explain the foundational concepts, methods, and tools used in public health data collection, analysis, and evidence-based decision-making. PLO3: Apply population health principles and public health approaches to assess, prevent, and address health needs and inequities among diverse and marginalized populations in local and global communities, across the life course, with a commitment to social justice, advocacy, and community well-being. PLO4: Analyze the biological, behavioral, socioeconomic, environmental, legal, ethical, economic, and policy factors that influence human health, disease prevention, health promotion, health equity, and environmental justice. PLO5: Demonstrate foundational public health practice skills through experiential learning and reflective practice, including reciprocal community partnerships, professional communication, project planning, implementation, assessment, evaluation, and health system literacy, while embodying Mercy values, ethical leadership, service, and a commitment to social justice. PLO6: Explain the structure, organization, and key functions of the U. S. health care and public health systems, including the legal, ethical, economic, and regulatory dimensions of health policy and the roles and responsibilities of governmental agencies and branches. For Major Requirements, see Program Handbook and Curriculum Sheets. For Curriculum Sequence, see Program Handbook.
Academic Criteria for Admission, Progression and Retention
Program Admissions Requirements and Procedures: Any student accepted into the University may declare Public Health as a major.
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