Public Health Lab Programs

Like the clinical lab field, public health labs offer multiple career tracks that require different levels of education.

Public health lab scientists are typically required to complete a 4-to-5 year science curriculum through an accredited college or university while lab technicians are usually only required to complete a 2-year program in laboratory sciences. Senior leadership positions, such as a lab director, usually require a doctoral degree in a scientific discipline (MD, microbiology, chemistry, environmental sciences, etc.) or a doctorate in public health.  

Whether you’re interested in life at a big university or would prefer a two-year associate’s degree program at a community college, there are careers available in public health labs.

To find out more information on educational requirements and for a complete list of accredited programs, please visit: www.naacls.org/accreditation.