Public health is a cornerstone of a thriving society, responsible for advancing wellness through disease prevention, education and research. A career in public health not only provides the opportunity to make a lasting impact on communities but also opens the door to diverse and growing professional paths.
For those seeking flexibility and leadership-ready training, the online Master of Public Health (MPH) program from Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) offers a powerful launchpad into this meaningful field. Graduates of SIUE’s online MPH program can pursue dynamic careers in roles that span data, leadership, education and disease surveillance.
Below are five of the top jobs that showcase the range of public health career paths available through this program. The salary information provided is current as of May 2025, and actual salaries will vary depending on factors such as job location and work experience.
1) Health Informatics Specialist
Health informatics jobs are at the intersection of data science and public health. These specialists utilize digital tools to collect, analyze and interpret health data to improve healthcare outcomes. In terms of job responsibilities, health informatics specialists manage electronic health records (EHRs), build data systems and provide actionable insights to hospitals, health departments and policymakers.
According to ZipRecruiter, health informatics specialists earn an average salary of $82,781 annually, depending on experience and location. With the rise of digital health and telemedicine, job growth in this field is strong. Professionals can move into leadership roles in IT management and policy advising or become chief information officers within healthcare organizations.
2) Healthcare Administrator
If you’re interested in the operational side of public health, healthcare administrator jobs provide the opportunity to oversee entire systems of care. Healthcare administrators manage staff, budgets and regulatory compliance for hospitals, clinics and public health organizations. They play a pivotal role in shaping patient experience and quality of care.
The salary of a healthcare administrator is robust. Falling under the category of medical and health services managers, the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) reports a median annual wage of $117,960. Demand for these roles is projected to grow 29% from 2023 to 2033, significantly faster than the average growth rate for all occupations. Administrators can advance to executive-level roles such as chief operating officer (COO) or chief executive officer (CEO) in healthcare settings.
3) Epidemiologist
One of the most scientifically rigorous public health career options, epidemiologist jobs are central to disease prevention and outbreak control. Epidemiologists investigate patterns and causes of disease and injury. Their work informs public health policies and emergency response efforts, such as those related to COVID-19 or chronic illnesses like diabetes and heart disease.
According to BLS, the median salary for epidemiologists is approximately $83,980 annually, with the top 10% earning over $134,860. Employment is projected to grow by 19% through 2033, reflecting the increased focus on public health preparedness. Career advancement can lead to senior research roles, directorships in government agencies or advisory positions for global health organizations, such as the World Health Organization (WHO) or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
4) Public Health Project Manager
For those who thrive on organization and results, public health project manager roles offer the opportunity to lead large-scale initiatives that drive real-world change. These professionals plan, execute and evaluate public health programs — everything from vaccination drives to nutrition initiatives. They coordinate with stakeholders, manage budgets and measure program effectiveness.
Public health project managers can earn between $70,000 and $110,000, with salaries varying by organization size and project scope. With the growing demand for efficient healthcare delivery and accountability, this role continues to gain traction. Project managers may ascend to program director roles or transition into consulting or policymaking positions with governmental or nonprofit entities.
5) Public Health Educator
At the heart of every effective public health strategy is education, and public health educator’s roles allow professionals to empower individuals and communities with knowledge. These educators design and implement community outreach programs, create health education materials and lead workshops on topics such as nutrition, exercise, disease prevention and substance abuse.
Per the Association of Clinicians for the Underserved (ACU), public health educators make an average salary of $48,684 per year, with the top 10% professionals earning $60,363. Professionals can pursue roles in curriculum development and program evaluation or move into policy and advocacy work that shapes public health at a systemic level.
Launch a Public Health Career With an Online Degree From SIUE
Earning an online MPH degree from SIUE equips students with the skills and knowledge to pursue these rewarding public health job options. Whether a person is drawn to data analytics, administration, research or community outreach, SIUE’s program provides the flexibility and expertise needed to thrive in today’s health-focused workforce.
By aligning a career with one of these in-demand public health jobs, professionals are not only investing in their future. They’re helping to build a healthier world for all.
Learn more about SIUE’s online Master of Public Health program.
