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U of A public health students attended a senior center in Dangriga, Belize a few years ago. They did basic screenings for cardiovascular health, diabetes, and eyesight. The new Master of Public Health program also offers hands-on training and the opportunity to study with experienced teachers.
Public health received significant attention during the COVID-19 pandemic and underscores the vital role the profession plays in protecting and improving the health of people around the world.
The general public has heard public health terms such as curve flattening, incubation period and herd immunity almost daily for a year. The focus on this profession, as well as the increased need for professionals, has resulted in more people participating in public health programs in higher education, including the University of Arkansas.
The U of A offers a new opportunity this fall. Applications for a new Master of Public Health program at the College of Education and Health Professions are now being accepted. The priority application deadline is March 1st. However, applications will still be accepted and reviewed after this date. In addition, the GRE for students who are admitted for autumn 2021 is waived.
“This degree provides students with the knowledge and skills they need to become effective and positive public health change makers,” said Matthew Ganio, director of the university’s Department of Health, Human Performance and Recreation. “This degree could be viewed as similar to the MBA for the business world. It is a level of knowledge that is highly valued in the healthcare sector.”
The MPH is a competency-based degree that can lead to a variety of jobs including a health administrator, epidemiologist, or nurse. The degree focuses on preventing and mitigating disease outbreaks such as the coronavirus pandemic and health challenges such as environmental pollution.
“This Masters degree would be a good choice for people in a variety of professions, including healthcare. But it would also benefit someone in business,” said Ches Jones, program coordinator.
The 42 credit hour program includes courses, internships, and a capstone project. Masters students can choose from two concentrations offered initially: physical activity or public health practice. Future concentrations can be added to the grade based on demand and opportunities.
The variety of courses includes basic courses in public health, health behavior, health communication, and epidemiology. Other core courses in the program focus on health policies, health systems, and social determinants of health. Research and statistics courses are also an important part for any health professional and an integral part of the program at the University of A.
Hands-on learning will be an integral part of the program and students will have the opportunity to study with faculties trained in epidemiology, aging and health, health behavior and communication, physical activity and exercise science.
The program is currently being accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health to complement the accredited bachelor’s degree in public health.
For more information, please contact Ches Jones, Public Health Graduate Coordinator, [email protected], 479-575-4009 or Paul Calleja, HHPR Graduate Coordinator, [email protected], 479 -575-2854.
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