Public Health Major — Salary & ROI 2026
Study of protecting and improving the health of communities and populations.
Starting Salary
$48K
median
Mid-Career
$72K
salary
ROI Payback
5.2 yrs
avg payback
Unemployment
3.5%
rate
Public Health Overview
Study of protecting and improving the health of communities and populations.
Category
Healthcare
Degree Level
Bachelor's
Graduation Rate
68%
Enrollment Trend
growing
Online Available
Yes
Underemployment
22%
Lifetime Premium
$420K
Female Graduates
72%
Public Health Degree ROI Calculator
Estimate your actual return on investment based on school type and scholarships.
0 to $40K/year in aid
Est. Total Cost
$17,100
4-year tuition
Net Cost (w/ aid)
$17,100
after scholarships
ROI Payback
1 years
to break even
Lifetime Return
$402,900
Lifetime earnings premium ($420,000) minus net degree cost ($17,100)
Public Health Salary Progression
Common Public Health Careers
Epidemiologist
Health Educator
Public Health Analyst
Top Employers
Skills You'll Learn
Top Schools for Public Health
#1
Johns Hopkins
#2
Harvard
#3
University of Michigan
#4
Columbia
#5
Emory
Related Majors
Public Health Degree FAQ
Compare All College Majors
Analyze ROI, salary potential, and career outcomes for 121+ college majors.