CORE COURSES
Take the following courses:
MPH-500 Health Policy & US Health System
This graduate-level course explains the policymaking process in the United States as it relates to healthcare policy. Students will contemplate how healthcare policy is shaped by ethical considerations, research and evidence about healthcare outcomes and disparities, and political considerations.
3 Credits
MPH-501 Research Methods & Epidemiologic Studies
Designed to equip students with essential tools for evidence-based practice, this course explores the foundations of research design, methodologies, and the application of epidemiological principles to public health challenges.
3 Credits
MPH-502 Biostatistics & Health Informatics
This comprehensive course integrates the principles of biostatistics and health informatics, offering students a robust foundation in statistical methods and data-driven decision-making within the context of public health and healthcare systems. Students will gain a multifaceted skill set, combining statistical analysis with information technology to address complex challenges in health-related research and practice.
4 Credits
MPH-503 Health Promotion/Communication/Community
The Health Promotion, Communication, and Community course explores essential strategies for promoting health, communicating public health messages effectively, and engaging communities to address population health needs. Students will learn to assess population health needs, design evidence-based interventions, and cultivate partnerships for positive health outcomes. Emphasis is placed on selecting appropriate communication strategies, fostering cultural competence, and building coalitions to influence public health. Through interactive learning experiences, students will develop practical skills to promote health, communicate effectively, and engage communities in collaborative efforts to improve population health and advance health equity.
3 Credits
MPH-504 Health Equity & Bias
This graduate-level course explores the organization, structure, and function of health care, public health, and regulatory systems worldwide. Students analyze implications on access, quality, and outcomes for diverse populations, evaluating effectiveness in addressing disparities. Cultural competency principles are applied to design, implement, and critique public health policies, focusing on mitigating cultural biases. Strategies to address structural bias, inequities, and racism are identified and proposed. Students learn advocacy skills to promote policies improving health in diverse populations, developing persuasive arguments and evidence-based strategies. They also evaluate policies for their impact on public health and equity, informing evidence-based recommendations.
2 Credits
MPH-505 Public Health Perspectives & Environment
This course explores the dynamic relationship between public health and the environment, focusing on the multifaceted factors influencing population health. Through lectures, discussions, and case studies, students examine the history, philosophy, and core functions of public health, alongside the role of environmental determinants. Topics include disparities in health outcomes, prevention strategies, global health impacts, and ecological perspectives. Practical skills in budget management, program evaluation, policy analysis, and leadership are emphasized, preparing students to address complex public health challenges effectively.
3 Credits
PUBLIC HEALTH TRACKS
Complete one of the following tracks below (NOTE: track courses are based on semester offerings and are track specific):
EPIDEMIOLOGY & CLINICAL RESEARCH
Take the following courses:
MPH-510 Ethics & Conduct of Research
Ethics and Conduct of Research explores theoretical and practical issues related to scientific integrity and responsible conduct of research. The course will use a blend of lectures and group discussions to consider ethical concepts and the regulatory framework relevant to scientific research. We will discuss how standards of conduct vary among cultures and communities, as well as authorship and peer review, conflict of interest, scientific misconduct, and ethical issues related to emerging technologies. Students in this course will develop skills for dealing with difficult, real-life problems that researchers face in their professional lives, and discover the resources available to help when issues become challenging. This course satisfies National Institutes of Health (NIH) requirements for training in responsible conduct of research.
3 Credits
MPH-511 Design & Conduct of Clinical Trials
This course offers a comprehensive exploration of the entire clinical trial process, encompassing key stakeholders, diverse roles, and critical phases involved in bringing a new medical intervention from conception to market. Students will gain a thorough understanding of the roles played by pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), hospitals, and various professionals within the clinical trial ecosystem. The course delves into the intricacies of different trial phases, the pre-clinical stage, and the regulatory pathways, providing a holistic perspective on the design and execution of clinical trials.
3 Credits
MPH-512 Intermed Epi. & Clinical Research Methods
Intermediate Epidemiologic and Clinical Research Methods encompasses an in-depth exploration of epidemiological principles, study design methodologies, and their application in both public health and clinical research. Students will learn to select and justify quantitative and qualitative data collection methods for specific public health contexts. Advanced statistical analyses, including multivariate regression and survival analysis, will be covered to interpret data analysis results effectively. Special attention will be given to the development of clinical trial protocols, integrating epidemiological methods. Ethical considerations in research, interdisciplinary collaboration for population health advancement, and the translation of research findings into practice will be integral components of the course. Overall, the course provides a comprehensive understanding of epidemiology and its crucial role in clinical research and public health initiatives.
3 Credits
MPH-513 Analysis of Discrete Data
Intermediate Biostatistics: Analysis of Discrete Data is a specialized course designed to advance students' statistical proficiency in the context of discrete data analysis within the field of biostatistics. Building upon foundational statistical concepts, this intermediate-level course delves into the complexities of handling categorical and count data encountered in various health-related studies.
3 Credits
MPH-514 Epidemiologic Analysis of Disease
Epidemiologic Analysis of Disease in Clinical Research is an advanced course tailored to explore the intersection of epidemiology and clinical research, providing students with the skills to analyze and interpret disease patterns within a clinical context. The course emphasizes the application of epidemiologic principles in understanding the distribution, determinants, and outcomes of diseases encountered in clinical settings.
3 Credits
MPH-515 Regression/Prediction/Survival Analysis
Intermediate Biostatistics: Regression, Prediction, Survival Analysis is a specialized course designed to deepen students' expertise in the application of advanced statistical methods within the realm of biostatistics. Focusing on regression analysis, predictive modeling, and survival analysis, this intermediate-level course equips students with the skills to analyze complex data sets commonly encountered in the field of health sciences.
3 Credits
HEALTH POLICY & ADMINISTRATION
Take the following courses:
This course examines the intersection of culture, religion, global power relations
and public health systems. What are the obstacles to the promotion of health care
in underdeveloped countries? In what ways do global health programs reflect imperialist
and colonial thinking? To what extent are "traditional" health care systems considered
legitimate by global health leaders? How can public leaders learn from each other?
Why do some countries have better public health outcomes than others? 3 Credits Health Economics uses microeconomic principles to better understand the history and
current structure of America's healthcare system. Particular attention is paid to
special interest group lobbying, ethical concerns, sources of inefficiency in the
system and a historical analysis of how America's healthcare system got to its current
state. 3 Credits This course is designed as an in-depth look at how health policy is crafted at the
federal level. Students will look closely at the policymaking process, and practice
creating and advocating for population-based health policies. 3 Credits Public Health Law & Administration is a comprehensive course that explores the intersection
of legal frameworks, administrative policies, and public health initiatives to promote
population health and address pressing societal challenges. Through an interdisciplinary
approach, this course aims to integrate perspectives from various sectors and professions
to advance public health agendas and foster collaborative solutions. 3 Credits This course examines health reform work from perspectives outside of the United States
public health system. Students will look at population health policies around the
world. They will also be asked to engage with views of population health initiatives
from other sectors within the US. 3 Credits In this graduate-level course, students will learn how to interpret data from public
health research and use these findings to make public health decisions. 3 CreditsMPH-520 Global Health Policy Systems
MBA-521 Health Economics
MPH-522 Federal Policymaking & Policy Advocacy
MPH-523 Public Health Law & Administration
MPH-524 Population Health & Health Reform
MPH-525 Health Policy Research/Analysis Methods
COMMUNITY HEALTH & HEALTH COMMUNICATION
Take the following courses:
This course is designed to introduce students to the principles and practices of effective
grant writing. Through a blend of lectures, workshops, and peer-review sessions, students
will learn how to develop compelling research proposals, effectively communicate their
research ideas, and navigate the grant submission and review process. 3 Credits This course provides students with an opportunity to explore fundamental concepts
and practical applications in health promotion and prevention. Through a combination
of theoretical learning and hands-on experience, students will develop the knowledge
and skills necessary to assess population needs, design effective interventions, and
evaluate program outcomes. 3 Credits Strategic Multimedia Production and Innovative Health Communication: Design and Delivery
explores the communication of public health messages through various media platforms,
equipping students with technical production skills and strategic content creation
insights to design and deliver innovative health campaigns. 3 Credits Multisectoral Engagement for Sustainable Health delves into the complexities of multisectoral
engagement for advancing sustainable health outcomes. The course emphasizes understanding
health as more than the absence of disease and is anchored by the social determinants
of health framework, which recognizes that successful community health interventions
require cross-sector collaboration and an asset-based approach. Rooted in the competencies
expected of public health professionals, this course emphasizes strategies for identifying
stakeholders, conducting community health needs assessments, building coalitions and
partnerships, advocating for policy change, and applying negotiation and mediation
skills to address organizational or community challenges. Through theoretical exploration,
case studies, practical exercises, and hands-on applications, students will develop
the competencies necessary to navigate the dynamic landscape of public health, engage
communities effectively, and advocate for positive change across diverse populations. 3 Credits Applied Methodologies in Community Health Research addresses theory and methods of
research used by community health researchers. The goals of this course are to understand
the fundamental nature, purpose, and application of research; to develop a practical
and applied working knowledge of classic and contemporary research methods; and to
apply knowledge of research principles and methods as critical consumers of research. 3 Credits Health and Media Literacy for Public Health Advancement takes a critical approach
to understanding and applying health and media literacy. Students analyze health literacy
case examples and use literacy studies research methods to communicate public health
information that different audiences will understand and design health interventions
to improve health outcomes for different contexts. 3 CreditsBIN-510 Scientific Grant Writing
MPH-530 Program Planning/Evaluation/Management
MPH-531 Innovative Health Communication
MPH-533 Engagement for Sustainable Health
MPH-534 Community Health Research
MPH-535 Health & Media Literacy
CAPSTONE EXPERIENCE
Take the following courses in addition to one of the tracks listed above:
The Public Health Internship is designed to provide students with practical experience
in the field of public health, in accordance with the Council on Education for Public
Health (CEPH) guidelines of 120 hours minimum. Under the supervision of experienced
professionals, students will work in various settings to apply their knowledge and
skills to real-world public health issues. Through hands-on projects and activities,
students will develop essential competencies, gain insight into public health practice,
and contribute to addressing community health needs. This internship prepares students
for future careers by bridging theory with practical experience and fostering professional
growth. 3 CreditsPrerequisite: MPH-541 or instructor permission. This seminar course is designed to provide students with comprehensive guidance on
various aspects of academic and professional communication. Throughout the course,
students will learn about formatting standards, study design principles, and presentation
structures and guidelines. Through interactive sessions, workshops, and practical
exercises, students will develop proficiency in formatting academic papers according
to industry standards, designing research studies effectively, and structuring presentations
for maximum impact. Additionally, students will receive feedback and guidance on their
work to help them refine their skills and improve their communication abilities. By
the end of the course, students will be equipped with the knowledge and skills necessary
to excel in conveying their ideas and research findings in both academic and professional
settings. 2 Credits In this course, students will embark on a journey of research investigation, delving
into methodologies for analyzing both quantitative and qualitative data. Through the
lens of biostatistics, informatics, computer-based programming, and software, students
will learn how to scrutinize data with precision and depth. What sets this course
apart is its emphasis on students' analysis of their own research projects, allowing
them to apply the techniques learned directly to their own work. By interpreting the
results of their data analysis within the broader context of public health research,
policy, or practice, students will not only gain valuable insights but also hone their
skills in contributing to the advancement of public health knowledge and practice. 3 CreditsPrerequisite: MPH-540. The Symposium in Public Health course provides students with the opportunity to develop
and present research posters on relevant public health topics. Through workshops and
mentorship, students learn poster design principles, refine their presentation skills,
and develop their research projects. The course culminates in a symposium event where
students showcase their posters and engage in scholarly discussions with peers and
professionals in the field. 1 CreditsPrerequisite: MPH-542.MPH-540 Public Health Internship
MPH-541 Capstone Seminar
MPH-542 Research Investigation
MPH-543 Symposium in Public Health
Program Credit Total = 45
Any course exception must be approved by Dr. Tia Warrick.