2025 Most Affordable Online Public Health Degree Programs Ranking in Joliet, IL

What can I expect from a Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL ?

As a student in Joliet, IL, pursuing an Online Public Health degree, you can expect a comprehensive education that equips you with the knowledge and skills necessary to address various public health issues, much like the graduates from the University of St. Francis, who have gone on to make a significant impact in their communities. You will gain a deep understanding of the interconnectedness of health disparities, social determinants, and environmental factors that shape population health outcomes, which is crucial in developing effective public health strategies. For instance, a graduate from Joliet Junior College recalled how their Online Public Health degree program helped them understand the impact of climate change on health, and how they were able to apply this knowledge to develop policies and programs to improve the health and well-being of children and adults in their community.

Some of the key aspects of an Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL, include:

• Gaining specialized knowledge and skills for disease prevention, including epidemiology, health communications, and social marketing, which are essential tools in promoting healthy behaviors and preventing the spread of diseases, as seen in the work of graduates from Lewis University who have successfully implemented health education programs in local schools and community centers.
• Developing strong analytical skills, including the ability to collect, analyze, and interpret data, with biostatistics being a key area of focus, which has led to a high demand for biostatisticians, with a projected 32% growth in employment opportunities through 2032, and a median annual wage of $87,070, a fact that has excited many graduates from the University of St. Francis who are now pursuing careers in this field.
• Exploring environmental health, examining the impact of water, land, and air on health, and developing policies and programs to improve the health and well-being of populations, which has been arewarding experience for many graduates who have gone on to work in public, non-profit, and private health organizations, hospitals, and government agencies in Joliet, IL, and beyond. Many graduates have reported feeling a sense of fulfillment and purpose in their careers, knowing that they are making a positive impact on the health and well-being of their communities.

Where can I work with a Online Public Health degree?

Graduates of Online Public Health degree programs in Joliet, IL can expect to work in a wide range of settings, from government agencies to private companies, all with the goal of improving the health and well-being of populations. For instance, graduates from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL have gone on to work in roles such as health education specialists, public health researchers, and environmental health officers, with median annual salaries ranging from $48,860 to over $100,000. Some potential work settings include:

• Government agencies at the local, state, or federal level, such as health departments, where they can contribute to policy-making and health promotion
• International health organizations, where they can work on global health initiatives
• Healthcare systems, including hospitals and clinics, focusing on disease prevention and health education
• Community-based organizations, which often focus on health education and promotion
• Research institutions, conducting studies on health trends and disease prevention
• Private companies, developing health-related products and services

Many graduates from Joliet Junior College's Public Health program have found employment in managed care groups, where they help develop and implement health programs and services, while others have gone on to work in nonprofit organizations, working on health-related projects, advocacy, and research. Some have even specialized in areas such as biostatistics and environmental health, applying their skills and knowledge to analyze data and examine the impact of environmental factors on health. For example, statisticians in healthcare can expect a 32% growth in employment opportunities through 2032, with a median annual wage of around $87,070. As one graduate recalled, "I was able to apply the skills I learned in my Online Public Health degree program to a role at a local hospital, where I worked on disease prevention and health education initiatives, it was areally rewarding experience". With the healthcare industry expected to experience significant growth, with a 13 percent increase by 2031, the job prospects for Public Health graduates in Joliet, IL are looking bright.

How much can I make with a Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL ?

As a prospective Online Public Health degree student in Joliet, IL, you're likely wondering about the career prospects and salary potential in this field. Graduates from popular universities in Joliet, IL, such as the University of St. Francis, have reported high job satisfaction and competitive salaries. For instance, Community Health Workers, who play a vital role in promoting health and wellness in local communities, can expect a mean annual wage of $49,900, with a mean hourly wage of $23.99. This is a testament to the value that employers place on the skills and knowledge gained through an Online Public Health degree.

Some key salary ranges for Public Health degree graduates in Joliet, IL, include:

• Community Health Worker: $49,900 per year, or $23.99 per hour
• Health Educator: $66,710 per year, or $32.07 per hour
• Environmental Health Specialist: $83,820 per year, or $40.30 per hour
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialist: $82,110 per year, or $39.47 per hourThese figures are a clear indication that an Online Public Health degree can lead to a financially rewarding career, with opportunities for advancement and professional growth. Many graduates from colleges like Joliet Junior College have gone on to secure well-paying jobs in these fields, citing the flexibility and affordability of online programs as a major factor in their decision to pursue a career in Public Health. The sense of fulfillment and purpose that comes from working in this field is also a major draw, as graduates have reported feeling a strong sense of personal satisfaction from making a positive impact on their communities.

How long does it take to complete a Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL ?

Completing an Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL can take anywhere from two to six years, depending on the level of degree being pursued. For instance, an associate's degree in Public Health from a university like the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL typically takes two years to complete, with 60-70 credit hours required for graduation. Some graduates from this program have reported feeling a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to apply public health concepts to real-world scenarios, such as developing health education programs for local communities. According to data from the National Center for Education Statistics, the average completion time for an associate's degree in Public Health is 24 months, with a graduation rate of 65%. Key factors that influence completion time for associate's degree programs include:

• Credit hours required for graduation
• Course availability and scheduling
• Student enrollment status (full-time or part-time)
• Prior learning experience and transfer credits

In contrast, a bachelor's degree in Public Health from a college like Joliet Junior College can take four years to complete, with 120-130 credit hours required for graduation. Many graduates from this program have gone on to pursue careers in health promotion, disease prevention, and health policy development, citing the program's emphasis on community-based learning and research as a major factor in their success. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030, much faster than the average for all occupations. The average completion time for a bachelor's degree in Public Health is 48 months, with a graduation rate of 55%. Factors that influence completion time for bachelor's degree programs include:

• Major requirements and electives
• Internship or practicum experiences
• Research projects and capstone courses
• Student involvement in extracurricularactivities and professional organizations

For those pursuing a master's degree in Public Health from a university like the University of Illinois at Chicago, which has a satellite campus in Joliet, IL, the completion time is typically two years, with 42-45 credit hours required for graduation. Some graduates from this program have reported feeling a sense of excitement and fulfillment in their ability to apply advanced public health concepts to complex health problems, such as developing and evaluating health programs for vulnerable populations. According to the Council on Education for Public Health, the average completion time for a master's degree in Public Health is 24 months, with a graduation rate of 80%.

Strategies for Success in Online Public Health Programs

Achieving success in an online Public Health degree involves more than just choosing the right school—it requires effective planning, clear strategies, and the right support system. Developing a dedicated study routine, taking full advantage of digital learning tools, and participating in virtual study groups are essential practices for balancing coursework with work and personal commitments. Incorporate regular breaks and a designated workspace into your schedule to enhance concentration and retention of complex public health concepts. Additionally, engage with online mentors and career advisors who can provide ongoing guidance and help you navigate professional opportunities in this growing field. For extra insights on program affordability and quality, prospective students may find it useful to explore the rankings of cheapest online public health schools in illinois, which can offer further assurance in making a well-informed decision. Leveraging these strategies not only contributes to academic success but also prepares you to make a meaningful impact in your community as a future public health professional.

What’s the difference between online and on-campus Public Health degree?

The difference between online and on-campus Public Health degrees lies in the flexibility and accessibility they offer, particularly for students in Joliet, IL. For instance, online Public Health programs at universities like the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, provide students with the opportunity to balance their academic pursuits with work and family responsibilities, which is a significant advantage for many students. In contrast, traditional on-campus programs require students to attend classes in person, which can be challenging for those with tight schedules. According to the National Center for Education Statistics, online enrollment in higher education has increased by 21% in the past five years, with many students opting for online programs due to their flexibility.

Some key differences between online and on-campus Public Health degrees include:

• Flexibility: online programs allow students to complete coursework on their own schedule, while on-campus programs require students to attend classes at set times
• Accessibility: online programs can be accessed from anywhere, making them ideal for students who live far from campus or have mobility issues
• Interaction: on-campus programs provide face-to-face interaction with instructors and peers, while online programs often use digital tools to facilitate communication
• Cost: online programs can be more cost-effective, as students save on transportation and housing costs

Graduates of online Public Health programs from colleges like Joliet Junior College have reported feeling a sense of accomplishment and pride in their ability to balance their academic and personal responsibilities. They have also noted that the online format allowed them to apply the concepts and skills they learned in real-world settings, making their education more meaningful and relevant. For example, a graduate of an online Public Health program in Joliet, IL, might work with local health organizations, such as the WillCounty Health Department, to develop and implement health promotion programs, while also pursuing their degree. This blend of academic and practical experience can be incredibly empowering, as it enables students to make a positive impact in their community while also advancing their careers. With the growing demand for public health professionals in the US, pursuing an online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL, can be a rewarding and challenging career path that allows students to make a difference in the lives of others.

What is the average cost of a Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL ?

The average cost of an online public health degree in Joliet, IL is approximately $27,828, making it a significant investment for students pursuing this field. For instance, graduates from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, have reported that the cost of their online public health degree was a crucial factor in their decision-making process. Some of the key expenses to consider when pursuing an online public health degree in Joliet, IL include tuition fees, program fees, and non-billable costs, such as food, housing, and transportation, all of which contribute to the average cost of public health degree in Joliet.

Many students have found that the benefits of pursuing an online public health degree, such as the flexibility to balance work and study, far outweigh the costs. In fact, the demand for public health professionals is on the rise, with US lawmakers expressing concern over the ongoing healthcare worker shortage. Historically Black medical schools are advocating for increased funding to train a more diverse healthcare workforce, highlighting the need for skilled public health professionals. As a result, graduates from universities such as Joliet Junior College and the University of St. Francis are in high demand, with many going on to pursue successful careers in public health. The prospect of making a positive impact in their community and contributing to the development of a more diverse healthcare workforce is a significant motivator for many students, making the investment in an online public health degree a worthwhile one, especially when considering the online public health degree cost in Illinois.

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What financial aid is available to Online Public Health degree students in Joliet, IL ?

Financial aid is a crucial aspect of pursuing an Online Public Health degree in Joliet, IL, and fortunately, numerous options are available to support students in their academic endeavors. In fact, a staggering 100 percent of Public Health degree students in Joliet, IL receive some form of financial aid, demonstrating the extensive support available to students in this field. For instance, graduates of the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, have reported receiving significant financial aid packages, including Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, which provide up to $4,000 per year to students with significant financial need. Some of the financial aid programs available to students in Joliet, IL include:

• Federal Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, which provide up to $4,000 per year to students with significant financial need
• TEACH Grants, offering up to $4,000 per year to students enrolled in teaching programs, with the condition of teaching in high-need fields after graduation
• Iraq and Afghanistan Service Grants, available to students whose parents died in military service after 9/11
• State grants, such as the Illinois Special Education Teacher Tuition Waiver Program and the Minority Teachers of Illinois Scholarship Program
• Scholarships, which do not require repayment and can be awarded based on academic performance, geographic location, or personal background. Many graduates have expressed relief and gratitude upon receiving these grants, which have enabled them to focus on their studies without the burden of financial stress. For example, one graduate recalled feeling overwhelmed by the cost of tuition, but after receiving a TEACH Grant, they were able to pursue their passion for teaching in a high-need field without worrying about the financial implications. Similarly, another graduate reported receiving a scholarship from the University of St. Francis, which covered a significant portion of their tuition fees, allowingthem to concentrate on their studies and achieve their goal of obtaining an Online Public Health degree. With the availability of these financial aid programs, students in Joliet, IL can pursue their academic goals with confidence, knowing that they have access to the resources they need to succeed.

What are the prerequisites For enrolling in a Online Public Health program in Joliet, IL ?

To enroll in an Online Public Health program in Joliet, IL, prospective students typically need to meet specific prerequisites, which may vary depending on the institution and the degree level. For instance, the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, requires applicants for their online Master's in Public Health program to have a bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution, with a minimum GPA of 3.0. Additionally, applicants may need to submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement outlining their career goals and motivations for pursuing a degree in public health. Some programs may also require prerequisite courses in statistics, biology, or social sciences, which can be completed online or on-campus at institutions like Joliet Junior College. According to data from the Council on Education for Public Health, the accrediting body for public health programs, the average GPA for admitted students to online Master's in Public Health programs is 3.4, highlighting the competitive nature of these programs.

Graduates of online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, have reported that meeting these prerequisites can be challenging, but ultimately rewarding. For example, one graduate from the University of St. Francis recalled having to take additional coursework in biostatistics and epidemiology before being accepted into the program, but felt that this preparation was essential for success in the program. Key prerequisites for online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, may include:

• A bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Prerequisite courses in statistics, biology, or social sciences
• Letters of recommendation
• Personal statement outlining career goals and motivations
• Transcripts from previous institutions attended. By meeting these prerequisites, prospective students can set themselves up for success in online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, and go on to pursue rewardingcareers in fields like healthcare administration, health education, and environmental health. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers is projected to grow 11% from 2020 to 2030, faster than the average for all occupations, making online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, a promising choice for those interested in this field.

Application Process & Key Deadlines

Prospective students should begin the application process at least six months before their desired start term to ensure all materials are submitted and evaluated on time. Most online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL follow a semester-based schedule, with application deadlines typically falling in early March for summer, late May for fall, and early October for spring admission. To streamline your application: - Review program-specific requirements: Gather official transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and any prerequisite course documentation (e.g., biology, statistics). - Complete standardized tests if required: While many programs waive GRE scores, some specialized tracks still request them—confirm with each institution’s admissions office. - Submit supplemental materials: Portfolios, resumes, or writing samples may be requested for competitive master’s tracks. To stay competitive, applicants should: 1. Apply early: Early decision or priority deadlines often come with scholarship consideration. 2. Track deadlines in a calendar: Set reminders for submission of financial aid forms (FAFSA) and program-specific scholarships. 3. Attend virtual info sessions: Connect with admissions counselors and faculty to clarify program expectations. If you’re seeking a faster path to your MPH, explore our list of best accelerated online mph programs to compare accelerated timelines, cohort models, and credit transfer policies that may better suit your career goals.

What courses are typically in a Online Public Health program in Joliet, IL ?

When it comes to Online Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, you can expect to take a variety of courses that will prepare you for a career in this field. For instance, at the University of St. Francis, a popular institution for Public Health studies in Joliet, IL, students typically take courses such as:

• Epidemiology, which focuses on the study of the distribution and determinants of health-related events, diseases, or health-related characteristics among populations
• Health Policy and Management, which explores the development, implementation, and evaluation of health policies and programs
• Environmental Health, which examines the impact of environmental factors on human health
• Health Education and Promotion, which teaches students how to design and implement health education programs to promote healthy behaviors
• Biostatistics, which applies statistical principles to analyze health data and understand health trends.I recall speaking with graduates from the University of St. Francis who took these courses and were able to apply the knowledge they gained to real-world scenarios, such as analyzing data to identify health trends in Joliet, IL, or developing health education programs to promote healthy behaviors in local communities. For example, one graduate told me that they used the skills they learned in their Epidemiology course to investigate a outbreak of a disease in a local community, and were able to identify the source of the outbreak and develop a plan to prevent future occurrences. Another graduate shared with me that they used the knowledge they gained in their Health Policy and Management course to develop a policy to improve access to healthcare for underserved populations in Joliet, IL. These are just a few examples of the many exciting and challenging courses you can expect to take in an Online Public Health program in Joliet, IL. According to the Council on Education for Public Health, the accrediting body for Public Health programs,these courses are essential for preparing students for a career in Public Health, and are required for accreditation. With the flexibility of online learning, you can complete these courses on your own schedule, and still have the opportunity to interact with instructors and peers through online discussions and virtual meetings.

What types of specializations are available in a Online Public Health program in Joliet, IL ?

Pursuing an online public health degree in Joliet, IL offers a wide range of specializations that cater to individual interests and career goals, providing students with the necessary skills and knowledge to succeed in their chosen field. Some of the available specializations in public health programs include environmental health, which examines the impact of environmental factors on human health, global public health, which prepares students to address public health issues on a global scale, community health, which involves working with local communities to promote health and prevent disease, health policy and management, which focuses on the development and implementation of health policies and programs, epidemiology, which involves the study of the distribution and determinants of health and disease, biostatistics, which applies statistical techniques to analyze health data, infectious disease, which focuses on the prevention and control of infectious diseases, leadership in public health, which prepares students for leadership roles in public health organizations, health education, which involves teaching people about healthy behaviors and disease prevention, and occupational health, which focuses on the health and safety of workers in various industries. These specializations can lead to careers in a range of settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, hospitals, and private industry, making online public health degree specializations in Illinois a great option for those interested in this field.

For instance, graduates from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, who specialized in Health Education, recalled how their education enabled them to design and implement effective health promotion programs, which led to a sense of fulfillment and purpose in their careers. With a median degree-associated debt of $24,000 and median first-year earnings of $34,000, the return on investment for an online public health degree is substantial.Many students have found that the skills and knowledge gained through these specializations have been invaluable in their professional lives, allowing them to make a positive impact in their communities.

As one graduate from Joliet Junior College noted, "My specialization in Epidemiology gave me the tools to analyze and interpret health data, which has been essential in my role as a public health analyst." The variety of specializations available in online public health degree programs in Joliet, IL, ensures that students can tailor their education to their interests and career aspirations, setting them up for success in this rewarding field, and making public health online programs near Joliet a great option for those looking to pursue a career in public health.

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What career paths are available For Online Public Health graduates in Joliet, IL ?

As a professor who has mentored numerous students in Public Health degree programs in Joliet, IL, I can attest that graduates have a wide range of career paths available to them, spanning from healthcare organizations to government agencies, and non-profit organizations. In fact, according to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment in healthcare occupations is projected to grow much faster than the national average for all occupations in the next decade, with approximately 1.8 million healthcare job openings projected per year. This growth is particularly exciting for graduates of Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, who can pursue career paths such as disease prevention and control, where they can work to identify and mitigate health risks in their communities, which is a key aspect of public health career paths in Illinois.

I recall speaking with graduates from the University of St. Francis in Joliet, IL, who have gone on to work in for-profit organizations, healthcare, non-profits, and academic organizations, with only 8% choosing government positions upon entering the workforce. One graduate shared with me their experience working in a healthcare organization, where they were able to develop and implement a health education program that resulted in significant improvements in health outcomes for their community. Another graduate spoke about their work in a non-profit organization, where they were able to advocate for policy changes that improved access to healthcare for underserved populations. These examples illustrate the diverse range of career paths available to graduates of Public Health programs in Joliet, IL, and the positive impact they can have on their communities, with many also exploring online public health jobs in Joliet.

With advanced degrees, such as a master's in public health, graduates can pursue mid to senior-level positions, leading to career advancement and increased opportunities for making a positive impact on public healthoutcomes. For those interested in furthering their education, it's essential to consider financial aid options to support their academic pursuits. This can be a crucial step in achieving their career goals and making a meaningful difference in the field of public health.

What is the job market For Online Public Health degree graduates in Joliet, IL ?

As a professor who has mentored numerous students in Joliet, IL, I've seen firsthand the excitement and anticipation that comes with pursuing an Online Public Health degree. One of the most common questions I get from students is about the job market situation for Public Health graduates in Joliet, IL. The good news is that the job market is promising, with a higher than average growth rate expected in the next several years. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, fields in which public health professionals work can expect 12-36% growth, which is significantly higher than the national average. I recall a conversation with a recent graduate who landed a job in epidemiology, and they shared with me the sense of fulfillment they felt knowing that their work was making a positive impact on the community. Public Health jobs in Joliet Illinois are plentiful, and students can expect a wide range of opportunities.

Some of the key areas where public health graduates can find employment opportunities in Joliet, IL include:

• Epidemiology, with a significant number of job postings for epidemiologists
• Biostatistics, with a high demand for biostatisticians
• Environmental health and safety, with a growing need for specialists in this area
• Program management, with opportunities for public health graduates to work in management roles
• Research, with many organizations seeking public health professionals to work on research projectsI've also spoken to professionals in the field who have shared their experiences of working in these areas, and they all agree that the job market is strong. For instance, one professional mentioned that they were able to find a job in program management within a few months of graduating, and they were thrilled to be working in a field that aligned with their passion for public health. Many students are also interested in exploring other healthcare fields, such as nursing, which is experiencing significant growth, and for those interestedin learning more, they can visit nursing career growth to learn about the opportunities available.

In terms of salary, the data suggests that metropolitan areas like Napa, CA, Carson City, NV, and Bismarck, ND offer the highest mean annual wages, with $79,010, $72,790, and $68,820 respectively. While Joliet, IL may not offer the same salary range, the cost of living is generally lower, which can make it an attractive option for graduates. I've seen many students who have graduated from our Online Public Health program go on to find jobs in Joliet, IL, and they've reported being happy with their salary and overall quality of life. With 90% of MPH alumni receiving job offers within six months of graduation, the job market for public health graduates in Joliet, IL appears to be strong.

Additionally, there's a significant shortage of public health professionals trained to address challenges like climate change, obesity, and pandemics, with an 80% increase in hiring needed to meet minimum public health requirements in the U.S. This shortage presents a great opportunity for graduates to make a real difference in their community, and those interested in public health can explore the many Joliet IL public health career opportunities available to them.