Do you want to make a real difference in your community and love healthcare? If yes, you’re already on the right path. But before you take your next steps, here’s a question: Are you more for Health Science or Public Health?

Health Science vs. Public Health is a common comparison for students wondering about healthcare. These two fields may seem similar since they both aim to improve lives through healthier lifestyles. However, they each approach that same mission from different angles.

So, how do you decide which path is right for you? That’s what this article is here for. We’ll show you the difference between Health Science vs. Public Health and the types of careers you can expect from both.

What is Health Science?

Health Science is all about helping the healthcare field advance through research, technology, and innovation. It’s a broad field that involves applying scientific knowledge in practical ways to improve the health of individuals and populations.

While they don’t work with patients often, Health Science professionals are essential in behind-the-scenes care. Many people think of healthcare as primarily doctors and nurses, but that’s not the whole story. Health Science opens the door to countless non-clinical and support roles that keep the entire system running.

If you’re interested in the science of healthcare, want to work with data, systems, or management, or hope to lead within a healthcare setting, a Bachelor’s degree in Health Science could be your ideal fit.

Careers in Health Science

Health Science careers are as varied as the field itself. From labs to leadership positions, here are some standout options:

Clinical laboratory technologists and technicians

These professionals conduct tests on blood, tissue, and bodily fluids to diagnose illnesses. Technicians often perform routine lab work, while technologists handle more advanced analyses and interpret results.

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists track the patterns and causes of diseases in communities. They use statistics and real research to stop diseases from spreading and create policies. They’re especially crucial during global health crises.

Healthcare administrator

These leaders run the show from behind the scenes. Healthcare administrators manage day-to-day operations in hospitals and other similar settings. They manage budgets, staff, and keep everything running smoothly.

Health education specialists

Health education specialists teach others about important medical topics. A specialist promotes healthier living and strategies to prevent illness. Whether through school programs or community events, they help others make healthier choices.

Substance abuse counselor

Substance abuse counselors work one-on-one with individuals and families to help them recover from addiction. They collaborate to develop treatment plans and long-term wellness goals.

A Health Science degree gives students the needed knowledge in healthcare, terminology, and law. All of these are skills that can be applied in dozens of career paths.

Find new breakthroughs in Health Science at Goodwin University

What is Public Health?

Now let’s explore Public Health. Unlike Health Science, which often focuses on behind-the-scenes research helping individuals, Public Health zooms out. It’s all about protecting and improving the health of communities.

According to the CDC Foundation, Public Health professionals promote healthy lifestyles, study disease and injury prevention. They also respond to health crises, both local and global.

Public Health is a mix of studies, involving sociology, biology, statistics, and policy. If you’re passionate about health equity, education, or environmental factors that affect health, then Public Health may be your calling.

Trying out courses in Public Health is a strong starting point. Many students take off from them to earn a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) for higher roles.

Careers in Public Health

Public Health careers focus on community well-being, education, and systemic change. They use their knowledge of the U.S. healthcare system, its policies, and the many factors affecting human health to change health policy.

Working in Public Health, here are some options you might explore:

Community health worker

The links between communities and healthcare. They provide education, support, and resources to improve access to care and promote healthy living.

Environmental health specialist

These specialists focus on how the environment affects human health. They inspect and enforce regulations to keep air, water, food, and communities safe.

Research assistant

The backbone of Public Health studies. They collect and analyze data from research and help design studies to support researchers in health.

Health and safety specialists and technicians

They keep workplaces safe by keeping up with safety protocols and complying with health regulations across industries.

Child development specialist

Experts in how kids grow, learn, and thrive. They support children’s early learning and collaborate with families and educators to provide children with the best possible start.

Public Health professionals are often the first to act in crises as well. They do this by educating the public and advocating for policies that protect the most vulnerable.

Health Science vs Public Health: Which is right for you?

Still wondering which direction to choose? Let’s clarify the Health Science vs Public Health conversation:

• Health Science is fantastic if you want to work within the healthcare system, but not as a doctor.
• Public Health is ideal if you’re passionate about getting involved in your community and advocating for systemic change on behalf of the people.

Think of it this way: Health Science often supports clinical care, while Public Health focuses on preventing people from needing that care in the first place.

If you still have questions about what’s right for yourself, take a minute. Ask yourself:

• Do I want to work with individuals or have a broader impact on entire populations?
• Do I want to be involved in research, policy, or education?
• Do I enjoy working behind the scenes or being out in the community?

Both degrees open doors to meaningful, purpose-driven careers. Whether you choose to pursue a Bachelor’s in Health Science or a Master’s in Public Health, you’ll be equipped to lead, serve, and advocate for better health outcomes.

At Goodwin University, you have the option to do both. So no matter your passion, we can help you turn it into a powerful career.

Find unique opportunities in healthcare at Goodwin University.