Top Public Health Schools for High School Seniors: AU, Lehigh, GWU, Rutgers, and UMD

Choosing the right college for public health is a significant decision. Factors such as program quality, location, faculty, research opportunities, and overall campus environment all play crucial roles. In this article, we'll delve into the pros and cons of the top public health schools for high school seniors: American University (AU), Lehigh University, George Washington University (GWU), Rutgers University, and the University of Maryland (UMD).

1. American University (AU)

Pros:

Strong Public Health Program: AU offers a well-regarded Master of Public Health (MPH) program through the School of International Service, focusing on global health issues. Location: Situated in Washington D.C., AU provides excellent opportunities for internships and networking with public health organizations, NGOs, and government agencies. Interdisciplinary Approach: The university encourages collaboration across disciplines, which can be beneficial for public health studies.

Cons:

Cost: AU can be expensive with high tuition rates and living costs in D.C. Size: Some students may find the campus culture to be less tight-knit due to its larger size.

2. Lehigh University

Pros:

Strong Academic Reputation: Lehigh is known for its rigorous academics and has a good reputation in engineering and business, which can complement public health studies. Research Opportunities: The university encourages undergraduate research, which can be valuable for students interested in public health.

Cons:

Limited Public Health Focus: Lehigh does not have a dedicated public health program at the undergraduate level, which may limit specialized opportunities. Location: Bethlehem, PA, is less urban than some other options, potentially limiting internship opportunities.

3. George Washington University (GWU)

Pros:

Top Public Health School: GWU has one of the leading schools of public health in the country, the Milken Institute School of Public Health. D.C. Location: Like AU, GWU benefits from being in the nation's capital, providing access to numerous public health organizations and government agencies. Diverse Programs: Offers various concentrations in public health, including global health, health policy, and epidemiology.

Cons:

Cost: GWU is also on the higher end of the tuition spectrum. Large Class Sizes: Some students may prefer smaller class sizes for more personalized attention.

4. Rutgers University

Pros:

Established Public Health Program: Rutgers has a robust public health program with a focus on community health, environmental health, and health policy. Diversity: The university has a diverse student body and offers a wide range of extracurricular activities. Research Opportunities: Strong emphasis on research, especially in public health issues relevant to urban populations.

Cons:

Location: Depending on the campus, some areas may lack the vibrancy of larger cities, though New Brunswick is relatively close to NYC and Philly. Size: As a large institution, some students may find it challenging to navigate or feel lost in the crowd.

5. University of Maryland (UMD)

Pros:

Strong Public Health Program: UMD has a well-respected School of Public Health with various specializations. Research and Internship Opportunities: Proximity to D.C. enhances access to internships and research in public health. Campus Life: UMD offers a vibrant campus culture with numerous student organizations and activities.

Cons:

Size: Being a large university, it may feel impersonal for some students. Cost of Living: The cost of living in the area can be high, particularly near D.C.

Conclusion

Ultimately, the best choice will depend on your personal preferences, career goals, and financial situation. If you're looking for a top-tier public health program, GWU and Rutgers might stand out. If you value location and networking opportunities, AU and GWU are excellent choices. For a more traditional college experience with strong academics, consider Lehigh or UMD. Visit the campuses if possible and connect with current students to get a better feel for each program.