Innovative new Health Security program trains future leaders for an uncertain world

As threats to health and safety both domestically and globally continue to evolve, Tulane University’s Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is launching a cutting-edge Master of Science in Health Security, with classes beginning in Spring 2026.

Building on its longstanding leadership in disaster preparedness and environmental public health, the school is expanding its reach to train professionals who can navigate a wider range of threats—from pandemics and bioterrorism to extreme weather and systemic breakdowns.

“Health security sits at the crossroads of public health, emergency preparedness, and biosecurity,” says Dr. Thomas A. LaVeist, dean of the school. “This degree will prepare our students to meet the challenges of a world increasingly shaped by disease outbreaks, extreme weather crises, and geopolitical instability.”

“Health security isn’t just about disasters or pandemics—it’s about protecting population health across a spectrum of risks and ensuring our response systems are ready.”

-- Dr. Stephen Murphy

Offered both online and on campus, the MS in Health Security equips students with the tools to both prevent and mitigate crises, but also to develop necessary skills to lead operational responses to acute public health threats. Through a focus on scientific and systems-based approaches, students will cultivate a well-rounded perspective anchored in public health disciplines including epidemiology, one health, and environmental health, as well as hone skills in leadership, resilience-building, and project management.

“This is a forward-looking, interdisciplinary degree that places our graduates at the forefront of a growing and essential field,” says Dr. Stephen Murphy, director of the new program. “Health security isn’t just about disasters or pandemics—it’s about protecting population health across a spectrum of risks and ensuring our response systems are ready.”

Students will benefit from the school’s leadership in the CDC-funded Region 6 Center for Health Security and Response Readiness—one of just 10 centers nationwide—providing hands-on opportunities to engage with real-world readiness and response initiatives and experienced practitioners. Faculty bring deep connections with local, state, and federal agencies, as well as healthcare organizations, offering students rich opportunities for mentorship, collaboration, and career placement.

The program is designed for individuals with interests or experience across the health and emergency response sectors—including healthcare professionals, emergency managers, and public health communicators—and welcomes both early-career students and experienced professionals looking to advance. While a STEM background is preferred, applicants with relevant experience or quantitative coursework are encouraged to apply.

As the frequency and complexity of public health emergencies increase, so does the demand for professionals who can lead in times of uncertainty. Graduates of the MS in Health Security will be prepared to serve in roles that span public health, healthcare, business continuity, emergency management, and academia.

“Whether it’s managing a disease outbreak, preparing for extreme weather-related disruptions, or coordinating multi-agency responses to national emergencies, our graduates will be equipped to lead,” says Murphy. “This degree empowers them to safeguard communities and build systems that can withstand the challenges ahead.”