Iowa is the 19th healthiest state in the nation, according to the 2016 Gallup-Healthways Well-Being Index. The state's doctors, nurses, and public health professionals work together to further improve residents' health. Iowa's government, universities, and private organizations research the state's most pressing health challenges, such as cancer and heart disease, and promote public health initiatives.
The BLS projects a 12% long-term growth in the number of health educators in Iowa and a 20% increase in the number of health specialty teachers.
Because of Iowa's focus on health, the state is the ideal place for students to earn a master's degree in public health. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 12% long-term growth in the number of health educators in Iowa and a 20% increase in the number of health specialty teachers. Earning a master's in public health prepares students for careers and allows them to network with current public health professionals, which leads to employment opportunities after graduation.
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Public Health Initiatives in Iowa
The Iowa Department of Public Health works to combat disease and improve Iowans' health. Current foci include protecting residents against the flu, fighting the state's opioid epidemic, and reducing the number of sexually transmitted diseases. Throughout Iowa's rural areas, community reinvestment led to improved hospitals in smaller cities and towns.
In the private sector, the Iowa Healthiest State Initiative works to improve Iowa's standing in the list of healthiest states. This nonprofit organization promotes walking and eating locally grown food. The initiative's efforts target individuals, schools, and communities.
Public Health Internships & Fellowships in Iowa
Internships and fellowships are two popular ways to launch a career in public health. During public health programs in Iowa, students often complete internships to gain experience and on-the-job training. Some universities require an internship. Many recent public health graduates pursue paid fellowships, which provide experience and may be a stepping stone to a full-time position with the company or organization. Internships and fellowships typically last a few months to two years.
The IDHP offers Des Moines-based internship opportunities to undergraduate and graduate students. Students may apply through the department's website to work in one of 21 public health fields. More Information
Public Health Careers in Iowa
Americans may associate Iowa with its sprawling cornfields and small towns, but the state also provides a variety of opportunities for public health professionals. Potential salaries depend on employer, location, and experience. For example, an experienced public health professional working in Des Moines would earn a higher salary than a recent graduate working in a small town. The table below shows the mean hourly and annual wages for public health professionals. Although recent graduates typically earn less at their first jobs, the potential salary for experienced public health professionals easily exceeds these figures.
| Employment | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Iowa | 550 | $30.44 | $63,320 |
| United States | 63,260 | $32.60 | $67,810 |
Source: BLS
Public Health Employers in Iowa
Recent graduates of online MPH programs in Iowa can shorten their job search by researching the state's largest employers of public health professionals. Large employers use their resources to find new talent throughout the year. These employers may also have mentoring programs, which can jumpstart your career in public health. Below are the top public health employers in Iowa.
| Employers | Number of Employees |
|---|---|
| Iowa Department of Public Health | 200 |
| University of Iowa Hospitals and Clinics | 13,000 |
| 6,500 |
Public Health Research Centers in Iowa
For students earning their MPH, Iowa's research centers offer some of the most exciting career opportunities in the field. Research is the foundation of public health; it provides the latest recommendations and best practices to guide the public and health professionals. A career in research allows opportunities to inform public health policy.
University of Iowa College of Public Health: At the University of Iowa, students and faculty work together to research the latest public health challenges through extensive studies. Research extends beyond Iowa's borders; the university also works with global public health initiatives.
Iowa Department of Public Health: The state agency for public health, IDPH publishes material on public health issues such as flu prevention and domestic violence. Employees work closely with local public health agencies and apply the findings of research studies conducted by other organizations and academic institutions.
Health Research Institute: From Fairfield, Iowa, HRI conducts public health research and laboratory testing of food, agricultural products, and environmental samples. HRI partners with companies and government agencies to complete custom research projects that benefit Iowans' health.
Public Health Professional Organizations in Iowa
Students earning a master's in public health online in Iowa should join a professional organization to improve future career opportunities. The organizations below, along with others throughout the state, provide networking opportunities such as conferences and message boards. Most also offer professional opportunities such as private job boards and continuing education to help graduates secure employment.
Iowa Public Health Association: IPHA has advocated for Iowa's public health professionals for more than 90 years. Membership includes opportunities to network and secure grants to fund special projects.
American Association of Healthcare Administrative Management: For graduates of online MPH programs in Iowa, careers in healthcare administration offer high earning potential and multiple opportunities for advancement. AAHAM membership allows professionals to network with experts in the field.
Association of Public Health Laboratories: Efficient and accurate laboratory services are a crucial component of public health. APHL works with independent laboratories and federal agencies to improve public health throughout the nation. Membership includes professional development opportunities to help public health professionals become experts.
Public Health Certifications and Licenses in Iowa
Public health is a large field with many unique professions. From athletic training to speech pathology, Iowa offers 19 licenses to ensure public health professionals follow all state laws and regulations.
Iowa offers 19 licenses to ensure public health professionals follow all state laws and regulations.
Not all public health professions in Iowa require a license, but earning licensure makes you competitive in the job market and helps advance your career. For example, professionals who aspire to improve children's health may pursue a license in social work.
Accreditation for Online Public Health Master's Programs in Iowa
When researching online MPH programs in Iowa, look for regional and national accreditation. Regional accreditation is awarded by six accreditation agencies; Iowa schools are regionally accredited by the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools. National accreditation is typically reserved for specialized educational programs, including distance and online education. Online programs accredited by the Distance Education & Training Council offer high-quality programs.
Independent accreditation agencies review programs in their respective fields. Excellent public health programs receive accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The CEPH search tool offers prospective students an easy way to assess the quality of online MPH programs in Iowa.
Scholarships for Public Health Master's Degrees in Iowa
The Medical Group Management Association offers multiple scholarships to students entering the medical field. The scholarships do not renew.
Amount Offered: $2,500Scholarship Deadline: May 1Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be enrolled in a full-time undergraduate or graduate program related to medicine or public health.