Bachelor of Science in Health Education

The community health education program is designed to facilitate voluntary changes in individual health behaviors as well as to advocate for social and economic policies which lead to health promotion and disease prevention for all. This program prepares individuals to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate programs for health and human services such as public health departments, voluntary health agencies, community-based organizations, community clinics, and hospitals. The course work and field experience in health education have three primary objectives: to provide a theoretical and philosophical foundation in principles of community health education; to facilitate the development of professional skills in program planning, implementation, and evaluation; and to offer broad course work in personal, community, and school health. Students are also expected to complete course work in biological, social, and behavioral sciences. The B.S. in Health Education has 11 units of prerequisites, 42 core units and 9 - 12 emphasis elective units to be chosen in one of the three areas described below. Program Scope Mission The mission of the Health Education Department at San Francisco State University is to promote individual and community health, health equity and social justice through community-based research, advocacy, and the preparation of public health leaders. We provide a participatory learning environment that integrates research, theory and practice, honors diversity, and fosters leadership, collaboration, critical thinking, and communication skills. The Department’s Institute for Holistic Health Studies (IHHS) offers a model program in undergraduate education, integrative healthcare, self-care, and the role of holistic perspectives in health and well-being. IHHS seeks to provide the University and its broader community with knowledge and skills that encourage and support health through natural means focusing on a rich cross-cultural, trans historical vision of human potential. Career Outlook A variety of career opportunities are open to individuals graduating from the Bachelor of Science program. Results from a recent survey of program graduates indicate that in addition to positions specifically titled health educator, many also hold positions as program planners, assistant administrators, assistant personnel directors, in-service education coordinators, community outreach workers, health counselors, health writers, environmental workers, and pharmaceutical-medical detail professionals. Employers include hospitals, government and voluntary agencies, school districts, private industries, and some individuals are self-employed. Graduates of the B.S. in Health Education program also select careers outside the health care field. The professional skills developed in the degree programs have numerous applications in non-health employment settings. Additionally, some health education graduates continue graduate studies in public health, administration, social services, dentistry, medicine, and law.