Program Overview

Graduate Certificate in Public Health Studies

Overview

The field of public health is ever changing and expanding. It has played a major role in promoting the health of the nation, the world, and in extending life expectancy. A four-course, 12-credit Graduate Certificate Program in Public Health Studies is intended for individuals with diverse health, natural science, and social science backgrounds who are interested in careers in public health. The courses offered in the certificate program are foundation courses in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program. The certificate is expected to serve as a conduit into the MPH Program for students who are not yet ready for application/admission. The certificate program will enable students to decide whether they should apply to a 42-credit MPH program. The graduate certificate will also provide students in the healthcare field with the additional coursework to advance careers in the area of public health.

Upon acceptance into the MPH program, the 12 credits from the Graduate Certificate in Public Health with a course grade of 3.0 or higher may be transferred into the MPH degree program.

Admission Requirements

• Baccalaureate degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.000
• Completed Certificate Application form
• Official Transcript from the baccalaureate institution
• Completed undergraduate courses in Statistics and either Biology or Anatomy & Physiology with grades of C or above
• Citizens of non-English speaking countries who have never earned an academic degree in the United States must submit TOEFL scores

Required Courses

• PUBH.5750 Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• PUBH.5010 Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health

Elective Courses

• PUBH.5021 Public Health Policy
• PUBH.5061 Environmental Health
• PUBH.5070 Leadership and Management in Public Health
• PUBH.5770 Biostatistics for Health Data

Program Structure

The Graduate Certificate in Public Health Studies consists of 12 credits, divided into required and elective courses. The program is designed to provide a foundational understanding of public health principles and practices, preparing students for careers in the field or further study in the MPH program.