Online Bachelor of Arts in Global Health

Arizona State University’s global health program employs a transdisciplinary lens to explore contemporary health challenges and ways to solve them. In this program, you’ll develop a broad set of abilities for addressing complex health issues while learning about factors that influence well-being across different cultures, places and times. Upon graduation, you’ll be prepared to pursue a career in community or public health.

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Quick facts

Next start date:

Next start date: 10/16/2024


Total classes:

Total classes: 39

Weeks per class:

Weeks per class: 7.5

Total credit hours:

Total credit hours: 120

Degree questions, answered

Have questions about the Global Health (BA)? Fill out this form and we’ll get in touch!

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Why is global health important?

On an international scale, global health addresses crises ranging from infectious diseases to chronic conditions and age-related illnesses, as well as mental health concerns and the consequences of war, violence and displacement. Through the design and assessment of context-specific interventions, global health professionals protect the well-being of individuals, families and communities around the world.

Global health programs are important because they facilitate understanding and practice in using education, lifestyle modification, program implementation and research to prevent disease and promote overall health. By learning about the social, ecological and biological dimensions of health, you can see illness and well-being in a different light, preparing you to create new solutions.

Interested in pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) online? Explore the Accelerated Master of Public Health program through Claremont Graduate University in collaboration with ASU.

What is a global health major?

The global health major is an undergraduate degree program that investigates the intersections of disciplines like:

  • Anthropology.
  • Epidemiology.
  • Evolutionary theory.

This program drives creative problem-solving and original solutions for promoting the health of people. In this program, you’ll build competencies in critical thinking while acquiring direct experience in the field. Educational opportunities include research, service learning and advocacy. Studying abroad is also strongly encouraged, but not required for online students for developing a hands-on perspective, though you can make alternative arrangements if necessary. This degree is intended to support your efforts in asking the right questions and imagining new answers that create meaningful and effective change.

This bachelor’s degree can be completed as part of an Accelerated Master’s program. When accepted, you can earn a master’s degree in as little as one year after completing your undergraduate degree. This opportunity saves you time and money while giving you advanced knowledge in your field. Applicable master's degrees include:

Is global health a good degree?

The global health degree can be a good option for students interested in exploring disease prevention and health promotion with an emphasis on contexts related to:

  • Cultural influences.
  • Evolutionary factors.
  • Social issues.

Graduates may pursue paths in health education or community health. For this category, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projected 13% growth in total positions between 2019 and 2029. For comparison, the national average for all occupations was 4%.

Does my global health major say 'online'?

No, Arizona State University’s diplomas don’t specify whether you earn your degree online or in person. All diplomas and transcripts simply say “Arizona State University.” That’s because ASU Online students learn from the same faculty and receive the same course content as in-person students receive.

Global health major courses

The global health program emphasizes the integration of diverse fields. Topics covered range from cultural anthropology to sociology, economic development and more. You’ll also benefit from opportunities for practical learning and direct experience. Featured courses include:


What can you do with a global health major?

Global health degree holders may pursue careers in community or public health. Roles are also available in research, teaching and health services. Many graduates work for nonprofits, international organizations and health departments. Others find jobs in the private sector. Career examples include:

Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)


Growth: 7.2 %
Salary: $59,990

Community Health Worker


Growth: 14.1 %
Salary: $46,190

Environmental Protection Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $76,480

Epidemiologist


Growth: 26.7 %
Salary: $78,520

Health and Safety Manager


Growth: 13.3 %
Salary: $78,570

Healthcare Professor


Growth: 19.1 %
Salary: $100,300

Medical and Health Services Manager


Growth: 28.4 %
Salary: $104,830

Politician


Growth: 3.4 %
Salary: $48,090

Public Relations Specialist


Growth: 6.1 %
Salary: $67,440

Award-winning faculty who inspire new leaders

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

Award-winning faculty who inspire new leaders

From Royal Society and American Academy Fellows to Marshall and Barry Goldwater Scholarship recipients, The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences is home to prestigious students and faculty members who include:

  • Fulbright American Scholars.
  • Guggenheim Fellows.
  • MacArthur Fellows.
  • Nobel laureates.

How to apply

I am a future

You’re considered a first-year student for application purposes if you’ve never attended college or have fewer than 12 transferable credit hours.

Learn how to apply.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

Don't meet admission requirements?

You can still gain general admission to most online programs at ASU through Earned Admission. Through this pathway, you can demonstrate your ability to succeed at ASU by completing online courses with a 2.75 GPA or higher.

To begin, submit an application to ASU. An enrollment coach will reach out with more information if Earned Admission is right for you.

*Some programs may have higher admission requirements. You must meet all program requirements to be admitted.

The largest and most diverse college at ASU

The College of Liberal Arts and Sciences takes a transdisciplinary approach to education with a vast spectrum of degrees in the social sciences, natural sciences and humanities. We inspire students to become socially aware critical thinkers and global citizens.

25,500+


currently enrolled students.

$170 million


in research expenditures in 2022.

23


interdisciplinary schools and departments.

100+


undergraduate degrees.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

Tuition calculator

Use our calculator to estimate your full-time or part-time tuition fees for this program prior to any financial aid. Keep in mind that most of our students receive financial aid, which can reduce out-of-pocket costs. Learn more.

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