Degree programs within the Department are some of the fastest-growing programs at Cal State East Bay. Students majoring in Public Health and Health Sciences are driven to improve the health of their communities and California. They are preparing for careers in fields such as nursing, law, policy, administration, community health, occupational safety, and more. The Department's programs focus on understanding human health from a population perspective with a strong emphasis on health equity, social justice, and the health effects of climate change. It asks students to think critically and to explore health from a variety of perspectives and to understand the role that culture has in constructing health. The program also emphasizes problem-based learning which is core to its approach. The Department's goal is to help students develop strong critical thinking skills, teamwork, and strong problem-solving skills. Another emphasis is placed on the environmental factors that impact human health. The effects of climate change have an immediate and long-term effect on human health and the communities of California. The Department focuses on helping students develop the skills to face some of these health challenges and to see them as an opportunity to design a sustainable future. The general BS in Health Sciences is designed to be flexible for students who may wish to pursue a career in professional fields (such as medicine, law, nursing, physician assistant, or other allied health fields), who want to explore human health more generally, or who want to design a program of study with their advisor. Students graduating with a B.S. in Public Health or Health Sciences will be able to: Use knowledge and skills to provide effective, necessary, and appropriate health services and public health interventions in diverse and multicultural communities. Work effectively on a team in health and health care. Act ethically and responsibly. Use critical thinking, knowledge, and expertise to address complex challenges in health and health care. Apply population perspectives in the health professions Apply knowledge of the role of the environment and of climate change in human health in ways that improve population health and sustainability.