Program Overview
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health provides a comprehensive foundation in public health principles and practices through online courses. It equips participants with the knowledge and skills to address public health issues effectively, enhancing their career prospects in healthcare, education, and other related fields. The program's flexible online format allows for convenient learning, catering to working professionals and those with other commitments.
Program Outline
Degree Overview:
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health aims to equip participants with the fundamental principles and practices of public health, without committing to an entire graduate degree program. This certificate is particularly valuable for individuals seeking to enhance their credentials and career prospects in the healthcare industry, including healthcare workers (government/private non-profit), college graduates, nurses, physicians, teachers, and others interested in pursuing public health education.
Objectives:
- To facilitate the acquisition of critical knowledge applicable to public health principles and practices
- To provide a comprehensive understanding of core public health concepts and their implementation
- To equip participants with the skills necessary to address public health issues effectively
Outline:
Program Content and Structure:
The program curriculum consists of 15 credit hours of graduate-level courses delivered online (Canvas). The online learning platform combines synchronous (live) and asynchronous (self-paced) sessions. Students engage in interactive sessions, including lectures, presentations, and group work, at scheduled times with the instructor. Attendance in synchronous sessions is mandatory and crucial for program progression.
Course Schedule and Individual Modules:
The program coursework includes the following core courses:
Social & Behavioral Sciences Applied to Health
(3 Credits)
- Explores the interplay between social and behavioral factors and their impact on health outcomes
Health Policy/Planning/Management
(3 Credits)
- Delves into the complexities of health policy, health planning, and health management systems
Epidemiology
(3 Credits)
- Provides a foundation in the science of epidemiology and methods for investigating disease patterns and health-related events
Environmental and Occupational Health
(3 Credits)
- Examines the relationship between environmental factors and occupational hazards to human health and well-being
Biostatistics
(3 Credits)
Teaching:
Teaching Methods and Faculty:
The program utilizes online (Canvas) delivery, combining synchronous and asynchronous components. Faculty members guide students throughout the program, facilitating discussions and providing expert insights into public health issues.
Unique Approaches:
The program's online format allows for flexible and convenient learning, catering to the schedules of working professionals and those with other commitments.
Careers:
Potential Career Paths, Opportunities, and Outcomes:
Upon completion of the Graduate Certificate in Public Health, individuals may pursue various career opportunities in public health fields, including:
- Health Educator
- Public Health Administrator
- Community Health Worker
- Epidemiologist
- Environmental Health Specialist