Approximately 30% of students in the School of Public Health-Bloomington (SPH-B) continue their education in graduate or professional programs after earning their undergraduate degrees. SPH-B majors offer a strong foundational curriculum that includes key prerequisite coursework, preparing students for advanced study in a variety of fields. Additional academic preparation equips students with the knowledge and skills needed to succeed in diverse and impactful career areas.
Before pursuing graduate or professional school, it is important to consider your long-term career goals, the financial and time commitments involved, and whether the program aligns with your interests and strengths. Reflect on your academic readiness, the potential return on investment, and how the experience will fit into your personal and professional life.
Ask yourself the following questions:
Taking time to evaluate these factors and ask these questions can help ensure your decision supports both your aspirations and well-being. Visit the Graduate School resource page for more on this topic.
Graduate and professional schools typically look for a combination of academic, interpersonal, and practical skills in applicants. Key skills include critical thinking and problem-solving, communication, research and analytical thinking, time management, organization, collaboration, ethical reasoning, professionalism, leadership, and initiative.
Many SPH-B students pursue advanced degrees to deepen their expertise and expand their career opportunities. Below are common pathways, each offering unique opportunities for specialization and impact.
Students interested in helping individuals recover from injury or enhance physical function often pursue advanced professional degrees in rehabilitation sciences. These programs typically require two to four years of additional study, depending on the specific field and career goals. Common SPH-B pathways include Physical Therapy, Occupational Therapy, Athletic Training, Kinesiology and Exercise Physiology, and Chiropractic Medicine. These programs emphasize anatomy, kinesiology, patient care, and clinical experience.
Students aiming to work in clinical healthcare often pursue advanced degrees that prepare them for direct patient care in a variety of medical settings. These programs typically require two to four years of additional education. Common SPH-B pathways include Medical School (MD or DO), Optometry, Dentistry, Physician Assistant programs, and Nursing at various levels (BSN, MSN, DNP). These careers offer opportunities to diagnose, treat, and manage health conditions while working collaboratively within interdisciplinary healthcare teams. These programs emphasize strong foundations in biology, chemistry, anatomy, and patient-centered care.
Students passionate about improving population health and shaping health systems often pursue graduate degrees in public health and related fields. These programs typically take one to two years and emphasize research, prevention, policy, and community health. Common SPH-B pathways include the Master of Public Health (MPH) with concentrations in Epidemiology, Global Health, Environmental Health, or a Master of Science (MS) in Biostatistics or Data Science. These programs emphasize strong foundations in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, research, ethics, and cultural competency.
Students interested in leadership, management, or organizational strategy often pursue graduate programs that build business acumen and administrative expertise. These programs typically take one to two years and emphasize skills in strategic planning, finance, operations, and leadership development. Common SPH-B pathways include the Master of Business Administration (MBA), Sport Administration, and Healthcare Administration. These degrees prepare students to lead teams, manage complex systems, and drive innovation across industries such as healthcare, sports, and nonprofit organizations.
Students interested in shaping policy, practicing law, or representing talent in the sports industry often pursue graduate programs that emphasize legal systems, governance, and negotiation. These programs typically require two to three years of study and develop skills in legal reasoning, policy analysis, advocacy, and contract negotiation. Common SPH-B pathways include Law School (J.D.), Public Policy, or Public Administration programs. Students typically study subjects such as constitutional and administrative law, public policy analysis, legal writing, ethics, and contract law.
Students interested in supporting mental health and emotional well-being often pursue graduate programs in counseling and related fields. These programs typically take two to three years and prepare students for licensure and professional practice in a variety of settings, including schools, clinics, and community organizations. Common SPH-B pathways include Clinical Mental Health Counseling, School Counseling, Social Work (MSW), and Counseling or Clinical Psychology. Graduate coursework focuses on counseling theories, human development, assessment, ethics, and supervised clinical experience.
If you are considering graduate or professional school, now is a great time to take the next steps toward your future. There are resources and support available to help you make informed decisions. Taking action early can help you clarify your goals, strengthen your application, and feel confident about your path forward.
Discuss your interests, career goals, and potential graduate pathways with a career coach who can help you explore options and plan strategically. Schedule an appointment through Handshake.
Talk with your SPH-B academic advisor to ensure you are meeting prerequisite requirements and aligning your coursework with your graduate school goals. You can also connect with Health Professions & Prelaw Advising (HPPLA) for guidance tailored to medical, legal, and other professional school pathways.
Learn about the graduate programs offered within the School of Public Health-Bloomington and how they align with your interests and career aspirations. Connect with the SPH-B admissions team. Locate a complete list of IU-B graduate programs here.
Understand the importance of researching programs along with the application process, timelines, required materials, entrance exams, and tips for writing a strong personal statement. Visit the Graduate School resource page for detailed information.
