Apply to Public Health

How to Declare (Admission and Declaration Process):

Admission to the Public Health major is selective and the number of majors is limited. There are two steps to becoming a major:

Step 1: Pre-Major Application

Students interested in applying to the major should first pre-major in Public Health. This allows students access to entry-level courses. You may sign up to become a pre-major as early as your freshman year; however, some students sign up during their sophomore year.  

Students should schedule a meeting with Jen Leita to declare the Public Health pre-major.

 

 

Step 2: Major Application 

The Public Health program accepts major applications in the spring quarter.  The deadline for submitting applications for admission to begin the Public Health major in Fall 2024 is Friday, April 12 by 5PM.  Students are eligible to apply to the Public Health major once they have completed the following requirements:

  • Successfully declared a Public Health pre-major;
  • Complete at least 75 undergraduate credits or approval from Jen Leita;
  • Complete or concurrent enrollment in at least two of the following courses:  MATH 114, CHEM 161, BIOL 101 or 205;
  • Complete or concurrent enrollment in at least one HLED class.

After completing the above, submit an application package, which includes a major application form, current resume, and college transcripts tp Jen Leita.  

Admission to the Public Health major is space-limited and competitive.  Fulfillment of the requirements does not automatically secure admission to the major.   A 2.50 GPA or higher is preferred when a student applies for the major though other factors, such as a passion for the program, volunteer experience, etc., are also considered.

Public Health pre-majors are notified regarding acceptance into the major before fall quarter registration.  

Grade Requirements

A grade of C or better is required for a student's major courses and supporting courses for majors.

How to Apply to the Public Health Major 

Please send ONE email to Jen.Leita@wwu.edu with items 1-3 attached.

Letters of reference (item 5) must be emailed directly from your reference to Jen.

1. Complete the Public Health Major Application 

Public Health Major Application

 

2. Transcripts

Transcripts from all colleges attended showing your previous and current course work are to be included with the application. Your transcripts do not have to be official. Western transcripts can either be saved as a PDF or printed off Web4U and scanned.

3. Current Resume  

Present your education, volunteer and/or work experience, awards, certifications, and hobbies/interests.  
 

Students should begin planning ahead with a faculty advisor and Financial Aid once they are accepted into the major.