Emory Rollins School of Public Health is a leading institution dedicated to educating future public health professionals, advancing research, and addressing global health challenges that impact communities around the world. Located in Atlanta, Georgia, the Rollins School of Public Health is part of Emory University and benefits from its proximity to major health organizations and agencies. With rigorous academic programs, interdisciplinary training, and a strong commitment to research and community service, Rollins prepares students to become leaders in public health practice, research, policy, and advocacy. The school’s emphasis on innovation and real-world impact underscores its role in shaping health systems, improving population health, and fostering equity in health outcomes.
History and Background
The Rollins School of Public Health was established in 1990 as the public health school of Emory University. Since its founding, Rollins has grown into one of the most respected public health institutions in the United States, attracting students, faculty, and researchers from across the globe. The school was endowed by the Rollins family, leading to significant investments in facilities, programs, and research capacity that have helped shape its modern identity. Rollins continues to uphold a tradition of excellence in public health education and service, adapting to the evolving needs of populations facing complex health challenges.
Academic Programs and Structure
Rollins offers a comprehensive range of academic programs designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to address public health issues at local, national, and global levels. The school features six academic departments, each focusing on a different area of public health expertise. Students may pursue master’s degrees, doctoral degrees, dual degrees, and certificates that reflect their interests and career goals.
Academic Departments
- Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences
- Biostatistics and Bioinformatics
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Global Health
- Health Policy and Management
These departments collaborate with faculty and students to foster interdisciplinary learning and research. The curriculum blends theory with practical application, allowing students to gain hands-on experience through projects, fieldwork, and professional internships.
Location and Strategic Partnerships
One of Rollins’ defining strengths is its location in Atlanta, which has been referred to as the Public Health Capital of the World. The city is home to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), The Carter Center, national health agencies, and numerous nonprofit and academic organizations focused on public health. This environment provides Rollins students with unparalleled access to internships, collaborative research, and professional networking opportunities.
Collaborative Opportunities
- Internships and practicum placements with the CDC and local health departments.
- Research collaborations with international agencies and nonprofit organizations.
- Field experiences that support real-world problem solving in public health settings.
- Joint programs with other Emory University schools, including medicine, law, nursing, and business.
These partnerships allow students to apply classroom learning to real public health issues and prepare them for careers in governmental agencies, international organizations, research institutions, and community-based programs.
Research Excellence
Research is central to the mission of Emory Rollins School of Public Health. Faculty and students engage in innovative research that seeks to understand and address pressing health issues worldwide. Rollins hosts numerous research centers and projects that span a wide range of public health topics, from infectious disease response and chronic disease prevention to environmental health and health policy analysis.
Research Focus Areas
- Infectious disease surveillance and outbreak response.
- Chronic diseases such as diabetes, cardiovascular disease, and cancer.
- Environmental health and the impact of pollution on communities.
- Reproductive and maternal health.
- Social determinants of health and health equity.
Rollins’ research efforts are designed to generate evidence that influences public health policy and practice. Faculty work closely with students to mentor research projects, publish findings, and translate knowledge into impactful interventions that improve population health locally and globally.
Student Experience and Training
At the Rollins School of Public Health, students receive a comprehensive education that blends rigorous academic study with hands-on learning. The school’s programs emphasize applied public health practice, preparing graduates to address real-world health challenges. Students are encouraged to participate in service-learning, internships, and practicum experiences that enhance their professional skills and expand their understanding of diverse health contexts.
Signature Programs and Opportunities
- Rollins Earn and Learn (REAL) program, which allows students to gain paid work experience while earning academic credit.
- Applied practice experiences with federal, state, and local health agencies.
- Global health field placements that expose students to international public health systems.
- Community-centered projects that address health disparities and promote wellness.
These opportunities help students develop leadership, communication, and analytical skills that are essential in public health practice and research.
Admissions and Enrollment
Prospective students interested in attending the Rollins School of Public Health can apply to a variety of graduate programs, including Master of Public Health (MPH), Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH), and doctoral programs. The school attracts a diverse student body from across the United States and around the world, reflecting a range of cultural, professional, and academic backgrounds.
Admission Considerations
- Academic transcripts and prior coursework relevant to public health or related fields.
- Letters of recommendation and personal statements outlining goals in public health.
- Professional experience or engagement in community health work.
- Standardized test scores when required by specific programs (varies by department).
Rollins evaluates each applicant holistically, considering academic potential, professional interests, and commitment to public health. The school also offers financial support options, scholarships, and assistantships to help students pursue their studies.
Diversity and Inclusion
Emory Rollins School of Public Health values a diverse and inclusive community, welcoming students and faculty from various backgrounds and perspectives. The school’s programs emphasize equity, cultural competence, and social justice, encouraging students to consider how public health intersects with culture, policy, and human rights. This commitment to diversity enriches the learning environment and reflects public health’s core mission to promote health for all populations.
Impact and Alumni Network
The impact of Rollins extends far beyond the classroom. Its alumni network includes public health leaders, researchers, policymakers, and practitioners who work in influential positions across sectors. Graduates contribute to efforts that protect communities, improve health systems, and promote global health equity. The network also provides mentorship, career connections, and opportunities for collaboration that benefit current students and recent graduates.
Emory Rollins School of Public Health is a respected institution that combines academic excellence, research innovation, and practical training to prepare future public health professionals. With its strong emphasis on addressing global health challenges, fostering interdisciplinary collaboration, and promoting equity and inclusion, Rollins stands as a leader in public health education. The school’s programs, partnerships, and research activities contribute to improved health outcomes and policy advancements, making a lasting impact on communities around the world. Whether through hands-on fieldwork, collaborative research, or community engagement initiatives, Rollins continues to shape the next generation of public health leaders committed to building healthier societies.