Core Public Health Certificate Program Online

Public Health
  • Graduate Certificate
  • Joint School of Public Health at Old Dominion University in partnership with Norfolk State University
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Next Start Date
August 24, 2026

Why ODU for core public health?

Public health professionals need a broad foundation of knowledge to respond to complex health challenges at every level of society. ODU’s Core Public Health Certificate provides that foundation through coursework in the five essential areas of public health.

In this program, you will study:

  • Biostatistics
  • Epidemiology
  • Environmental health
  • Health services administration
  • Social and behavioral sciences

This program supports ODU’s mission to strengthen the public health workforce by preparing professionals to serve diverse communities with integrity, skill, and a commitment to lifelong learning.

When you complete this certificate, you will be prepared to analyze population health data, assess community needs, and contribute to evidence-based public health solutions.

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Additional accreditation information

The Joint School of Public Health is undergoing a review by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) for accreditation. Part of this process includes the provision of a third-party comment period, which allows anyone, including students, alumni, faculty, staff, community and practice partners, and members of the public, to share relevant information about the Joint School of Public Health directly with CEPH. If you have any information about the Joint School of Public Health you would like to share with CEPH to inform their review, send your comments to submissions@ceph.org by October 9, 2025.

Program Information

Total
18 Credit Hours

You will take six courses to complete this certificate. Courses include:

  • Social and Behavioral Sciences for Public Health
  • Statistical Reasoning for Public Health
  • Public Health Administration and Management
  • Principles of Environmental Health
  • Principles of Epidemiology
  • Introduction to Research Methods

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Total
18 Credit Hours

You will take six courses to complete this certificate. Courses include:

  • Social and Behavioral Sciences for Public Health
  • Statistical Reasoning for Public Health
  • Public Health Administration and Management
  • Principles of Environmental Health
  • Principles of Epidemiology
  • Introduction to Research Methods

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$649 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

Explore ODUGlobal Cost & Aid
The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Learn more about our scholarships

Careers in Public Health

A strong foundation in public health opens the door to a wide range of careers focused on improving community health and shaping health policy.

Career paths for certificate holders include:

  • Public health program coordinator
  • Health education specialist
  • Community health advocate
  • Environmental health technician
  • Public health data analyst
Medical and Health Services Managers
Growth
28.5%
Median Salary
$110,680
Epidemiologists
Growth
18.8%
Median Salary
$81,390
Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health
Growth
7.3%
Median Salary
$78,980
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists
Growth
11.5%
Median Salary
$100,890
Social and Community Service Managers
Growth
8.2%
Median Salary
$77,030
Compliance Managers
Growth
5.7%
Median Salary
$133,560

Ready to Apply?

Applications to the graduate public health certificates must be started in the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS).

If you are an international student interested in taking this program online from your home country, please contact the ODU International Admission Office for assistance.

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