If you’re a Duke undergraduate, studying global health can provide a multidisciplinary lens on the complex challenges of our interconnected world. Along with the knowledge gained through global health coursework, you’ll have opportunities to participate in research, service and field experiences.

We offer a global health co-major, which is paired with another major, and a global health minor, as well as an accelerated bachelor’s/master’s program. All three programs emphasize the ethically informed study of health disparities experienced by people around the world. You’ll learn to study social determinants of health and the complex relationship between health and environmental, social and cultural factors. Students explore these relationships as through coursework, study abroad programs, fieldwork experiences and interactions within the global health community. 

For select, highly qualified Duke undergraduates, an accelerated program is available. Students apply during their junior year and begin graduate coursework during their senior year, enabling them to earn an M.S. in Global Health with only one additional year of study. A field-based research project is completed during the summer after completing the undergraduate degree. To explore this option, contact a global health advisor no later than the fall semester of your junior year; earlier planning is encouraged.

As a global health major, you will complete an experiential learning requirement before spring semester of your senior year. Experiential learning allows you to apply skills learned in the classroom through hands-on experience. You will gain an understanding of the opportunities and difficulties inherent in implementing health interventions and engage with communities and colleagues.

Ready to add global health to your studies? Take a look at the registration guide for the next term. Your advisor can also help you understand curriculum options.