Health Promotion

[applyingforMPH]

Hi,
This question is for anyone who is applying for or currently enrolled in a Health Promotion track. I am applying for this track, but am concerned that it will only deal with issues at a local/community level. I am interested in eventually using whatever programs I hope to create to effect policy on a more national level. Does anyone know if policy is in some way incorporated into a Health Promotion education besides the core classes we must take? I know it probably depends on the schools, but any information/advice would be great. Thanks!!

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[Frazier]

Hi,
This question is for anyone who is applying for or currently enrolled in a Health Promotion track. I am applying for this track, but am concerned that it will only deal with issues at a local/community level. I am interested in eventually using whatever programs I hope to create to effect policy on a more national level. Does anyone know if policy is in some way incorporated into a Health Promotion education besides the core classes we must take? I know it probably depends on the schools, but any information/advice would be great. Thanks!!

Hey applyingforMPH,

Have you tried thoroughly reviewing the individual curriculum of specific programs - along with the available elective courses? ...I would imagine that the schools that focus on primarily local vs. national policies would become evident.

Also I would imagine that the "name" of your school (prestige, rankings, etc etc) will be of much more importance if you wish to work at the fed policy levels [again vs. local levels].

Lastly, what degree are you applying for? Master of Science or....

 

[JMM051]

Have you looked into the international health and development track at Tulane. Its a little different but seems like it could be a good fit. From what I've heard, all of Tulanes programs can give you good international experience. I would also look into UNC...from their open house they seemed to also involve it in coursework as well have many students with international internships

 

[premad]

Hey, just to chime in, if you enjoy Health Promotion and feel that the courses (theories of health promotion, program design, program evaluation - all generally focused on the individual behavior change level) suit you, I wouldn't worry about whether this degree will lead to an ability to work with policy. The MPH is an extremely flexible degree, and you can work where you'd like, as long as you build up skills/experience through electives and internships/jobs.

For example, I do global health work even though I didn't any sort of global health track. So, I would suggest that if you want to do policy, you identify schools that either have their own policy internships or those that are near organizations where you think you'd like to work. Networking and experience will far outstrip the focus of your degree.

Good luck!