social spotifysocial threadssocial blueskypauseplayhomemenu searchsocial instagramsocial youtubesocial facebooksocial linkedinsocial twitter xclosesearchright arrow
Park on a sunny day

Advancing Public Health for 50 Years

The work of the USC Arnold School of Public Health reaches far beyond our walls. It strengthens communities across the state and nation and contributes to solutions around the world.

Through changing decades, our commitment to research with real-world impact has never wavered. Fifty years on, we remain focused on improving lives, expanding opportunities, and building a healthier future for all. We were among the nation’s first schools of public health, and today we stand among its best. 


At a Glance

  • 1

    The only accredited school of public health in SC

  • Top 50

    A Top Ranked School of Public Health

  • 31

    Ways to Make an Impact

Get the Impact Report

See the research, partnerships and measurable results improving lives across South Carolina and beyond.

View Online
Arnold Abstract Cover

Among the Best

Our research is improving lives every day. We are fifth in NIH funding among public schools of public health, garnering over $50 million in external support every year.

Explore Impactful Research
Discovery building

Transforming Public Health from the Ground Up

At the Arnold School, advancing public health starts with the social drivers of health, the conditions that shape daily life from home and school to work and food access. Through partnerships and research, we are helping make public health more responsive to real-world needs by addressing the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence wellness.

Graph of arrows moving forward

Advancing Rural Health

Rural areas make up most of the country’s landmass, and nearly a third of South Carolinians live in rural communities. Because rural health is both unique and essential to statewide progress, the Arnold School is leading with science and service through research, community engagement, and strong clinical and academic programs to improve outcomes and strengthen national leadership in rural health.

Farm fence Post wrapped in barbed wire

A Holistic Approach to Aging

As the nation ages, public health must adapt with innovative and compassionate community-centered care. The Arnold School is helping lead that work by developing science-based interventions, advancing holistic care models and training the next generation of health professionals. From stroke recovery and Alzheimer’s support to tech-enabled arthritis care and stronger community communication, we are building a foundation for healthy aging across the state and beyond.

an unclear but colorful view of a sunny day

Taking the Lead in Childhood Health and Wellness

The Arnold School is improving children’s health through research, community programs and cross-disciplinary expertise focused on helping children grow, learn and thrive. By advancing work in physical activity, nutrition, language development, maternal health, and more, we are building healthier futures from the start.

Healthy Kids Poster

Healthy Environment, Healthy People

The Arnold School has a long legacy in environmental health, protecting ecosystems and the people who depend on them. Our researchers tackle locally relevant global challenges like seafood safety, drinking water protection, and climate-related disasters. This work traces back to former dean Winona Vernberg and continues today with environmental health leaders shaping the school’s direction.

Hand holding grass

Harnessing Big Data to Improve Public Health

At the Arnold School, Big Data is driving better health outcomes. We develop new methods to turn large data streams into actionable insights, from predicting outbreaks to understanding maternal health. We also train data-savvy public health professionals to improve health across the state and beyond.

Hypothetical image of data being transferred

Leading Graduate Programs

  • No. 1

    Speech-Language Pathology Program in SC

  • No. 2

    Athletic Training Program in the Nation

  • No. 5

    Exercise Science PhD Program in the Nation

Lead What's Next

Join an exciting and challenging career protecting the health of the public locally and globally. Begin your journey today by applying to the Arnold School!

Explore Programs
Students walking and talking on campus

Subscribe to the Arnold School

Get our top news sent to your inbox.

Building on campus shot from a low angle in the sun

Download the Report

Get the full report in a downloadable PDF format.

Download