Curriculum and Course Sequencing
GENERAL REQUIREMENTS
The MPH program requires 45 semester hours of specified, sequential courses including an internship. Admitted students begin the program in the fall semester. All required courses are offered in the evenings and meet once each week. Required meetings and departmental symposium may occur during the day – these schedules will be available at the beginning of the semester to allow for planning with work obligations.
Full-time students take four courses each semester over two years. Part-time students enroll for three years, including two summers, and take two courses each semester aside from the fall semester of year 3 in which they take three courses.
COMPREHENSIVE DEVELOPMENT
The program’s approach to professional practice includes reflective practice, a theoretical base, network development, leadership development, and cooperation and collaboration with community health organizations.
Throughout the curriculum, special attention is given to community involvement, effective communication, and uses of technology. Graduates of the program gain the knowledge and skills necessary to promote health and prevent infectious and chronic diseases, injuries, and the consequences of disasters.
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT FOCUS
The curriculum emphasizes the application of health education skills and knowledge with a variety of community populations, as well as the practical application of research findings to health problems and includes preparation in the core areas of public health.
Throughout the curriculum, special attention is given to community engagement. During their coursework, students will develop an e-Portfolio that can be used to market themselves to future employees.