Starting next fall, Binghamton University plans to offer a new graduate program for public health. The program will add to the University’s already expanding areas of studies, including the School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences, which will open next fall.

Public health refers to the research, education and implementation of medical policy on a local and global level. It focuses on protecting and insuring public health. It differs from physicians and other medical jobs in that they do not directly treat the patients, but focus on the causes and effects of their condition and how it can be prevented in the future through medical policy and administration. It encompasses a large variety of fields in science and can manifest itself into a number of careers, including health insurance management, health care or careers at government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

Provost Donald Nieman said he recognizes the importance of expanding the University’s academic offerings to satisfy growing demands from students. The University currently offers master’s programs in nursing that prepare for administrative health jobs, but they are tailored toward the nursing field.

“Public health is a rapidly growing field that is critical to the well being of populations regionally, nationally and internationally and it offers outstanding career opportunities to highly motivated, academically well-prepared students,” Nieman wrote in an email. “It’s a field in high demand. In fact, it’s the program that we don’t offer that generates the most searches on the Graduate School web sites.”

The programs details are still being finalized, but it will consist of two years worth of coursework. Susan Strehle, vice provost and dean of the graduate school, said internships and practicum experience will play a role in the education process, ensuring students get hands-on experience in the field.

“It will provide another pathway for students who are interested in health to have a challenging and rewarding career, making a positive difference in people’s lives,” Strehle said. “Health in general, and public health particularly, is the largest growth area for jobs in America.”

For the past year, a group of six core faculty members have discussed and designed the program, reflecting on what the campus and its faculty members can bring to public health education. These faculty members offer insight from a wide range of subjects, and they include Gary James of the anthropology department, Yvonne Johnston of the nursing program, Titilayo Okoror of the Africana studies department, Victoria Rizzo of the social work program and Strehle.

At least 15 more faculty members have discussed the program with the core group and plan to participate in planning. Some of the faculty already at the University will teach courses, and more professors will be added.

“Almost a dozen current Binghamton faculty have expertise — and degrees — in public health, so with a few additional hires we can offer an excellent program,” Nieman said.

Strehle cited the United States’ aging population, insurance changes and the opioid epidemic as reasons for the growing need for public health degrees. Strehle said she believes the University will benefit greatly from the program, by adding students that are eager to research what she describes as a high-demand and fascinating field of study.

The program is still waiting for approval from the SUNY system and the New York State Education Department. Strehle said she hopes it will be available to students starting next fall.