From Degree to Dream Job: Navigating the Challenges Public Health Postgraduates Face in the Job Market
- Proximate Learning LLC
- Feb 28
- 4 min read
Earning a degree in public health is an exciting accomplishment. It represents years of studying, research, application of new skills, and dedication to improving community well-being. Many recent MPH graduates, including myself, have quickly realized that transitioning from a graduate student in academia to the workforce in the last year presents a long list of challenges.
Even though the demand for public health professionals is projected to grow through 2030, landing a position isn’t easy. Many entry-level roles require experience beyond education, high competition, and connections seem to be a pre-requisite. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for health education specialists and community health workers are expected to grow by 7% from 2023 to 2033 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, 2023), yet many recent graduates in public health struggle to find full-time employment within the first year after graduation. According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers report, nearly 85% of the class of 2023 bachelor’s degree graduates and roughly 90% of master’s degree graduates were employed or engaged in further education within six months of graduation (Gray, 2024). So why is it so challenging to break into the field, and what can new graduates do to improve their chances?
Take myself, Deja Jackson, M.S., CHES, for example. In October 2023, I passed the Health Education Specialist Certification exam distributed by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC), and then I soon concluded my graduate program in December 2023, obtaining my Master's Degree in Health Education from Texas A&M University. Throughout my graduate program, I took advantage of significant opportunities, including membership in Eta Sigma Gamma National Honor Society and the Black Graduate Student Association, securing a Graduate Assistant position with the Office of Health Promotion, and coordinating a research program for adolescents. In addition, I attended conferences to network and connect with individuals within the field of public health and research, all while discovering the many opportunities outside of academia. These experiences strengthened my leadership skills tremendously, which gave me great hope of securing a job in no time.
During the initial application process, I mainly focused on positions within the government sector that prioritized qualitative data collection, using sites such as USAjobs.gov and ORISE to search for these roles. Tailoring resumes and cover letters helped me finalize applications but led to no response or a rejection email. After a few months of stagnation, I began to apply to various public health settings, such as state health departments, hospitals, non-profit organizations, community health centers, and universities. As the 2024 year came close to an end, I remained hopeful but began to expand my horizon to opportunities that were outside of my scope.
I am currently a part-time Communications Coordinator at Proximate Learning, where I make significant contributions to the brand and the organization's overall direction. I have also secured a position as a Youth Development Professional at the Boys and Girls Club Inc. Although these roles were not part of my initial plan, they have allowed me to apply and enhance transferable skills such as communication, strategic planning, and problem-solving. By staying open-minded, I have been able to refine these skills, which have gradually become some of my strongest assets.
Throughout this hiatus, I recognized the importance of resilience and establishing professional connections. I’ve gained a better understanding of industry terms and professional titles. Many agencies use different job titles for similar roles, making it essential to refine search terms when job hunting. I had many relevant skills but initially overlooked certain positions due to differences in terminology. Here is a document to help guide you through public health key terms
For those currently navigating the job search, remember that persistence is key. Stay open to different paths, whether in government, nonprofit organizations, healthcare settings, or academic institutions. Be proactive in networking, seek mentorship, and continue developing professional skills. The job that aligns with your passion and expertise is out there—it may just take time and strategic effort to find it. Most importantly, do not underestimate the value of your education, experiences, and dedication to public health. The work you are striving to do is essential to improving communities and shaping a healthier future. Stay patient, remain adaptable, and trust in your ability to contribute meaningfully to the field. The right opportunity will come at the right time. Keep going—you’ve got this!
Proximate Learning is committed to preparing new professionals by providing current students and recent graduates with the opportunity to experiment, learn through trial and error, and gain valuable skills in health communications, training, and education. As we continue to encourage your growth, we’d also like to share some valuable resources to help you explore and rediscover the right path for you.
Resources:
Mentoring and Networking matters:
NNPHI- Charting your Public Health Career Path:
NNPHI- Secrets of the Government Job Search: How to Apply for Local & State Health Department Jobs:
Pathways to public health:
Public Health Key Terms:
References:
Gray, K. (2024, October 28). Class of 2023: Nearly 85% of bachelor’s grads employed or continuing education within six months of graduation. Graduate Outcomes. https://www.naceweb.org/job-market/graduate-outcomes/class-of-2023-nearly-85-percent-of-bachelors-grads-employed-or-continuing-education-within-six-months-of-graduation
U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. (2023, September 6). Health education specialists. Occupational Outlook Handbook. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm