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Christina Heminger
and
Andrew Wiss
Pathways to Public Health introduces you to a wide array of topics that are fundamental to public health and its place within the broader health sector. These topics are an essential starting point for the study of public health, including as preparation for the Maternal and Child Health MicroMasters. This course examines important and impactful public health topics, approaches, and methodologies, including but not limited to: the genetic and biological basis for disease, environmental factors, social determinants of health, individual levels of behavior change, globalization, research methods, and many more.
Read more
Pathways to Public Health introduces you to a wide array of topics that are fundamental to public health and its place within the broader health sector. These topics are an essential starting point for the study of public health, including as preparation for the Maternal and Child Health MicroMasters. This course examines important and impactful public health topics, approaches, and methodologies, including but not limited to: the genetic and biological basis for disease, environmental factors, social determinants of health, individual levels of behavior change, globalization, research methods, and many more.
Read more
Pathways to Public Health introduces you to a wide array of topics that are fundamental to public health and its place within the broader health sector. These topics are an essential starting point for the study of public health, including as preparation for the Maternal and Child Health MicroMasters. This course examines important and impactful public health topics, approaches, and methodologies, including but not limited to: the genetic and biological basis for disease, environmental factors, social determinants of health, individual levels of behavior change, globalization, research methods, and many more.
This course provides a valuable introduction to core public health concepts, theories, and language that will inform your understanding of persistent and emerging health issues such as the COVID-19 pandemic, health disparities, and the impact of climate change on human health.
Register for this course and see more details by visiting:
OpenCourser.com/course/pkacvj/pathways
What's inside
Learning objectives
- Describe the essential functions and services of public health in both the domestic united states and international settings.
- Discuss issues public health attempts to address relating to: health disparities, health services delivery and access, epidemiology, global health, changing health behaviors, prevention, influencing policy, and the importance of evidence in decision making.
- Describe the various professional roles public health professionals play, and their intersections with outside professions.
- Identify underlying influencers of individual and community health, including the social, environmental, commercial, and biological determinants of health.
- Describe the essential functions and services of public health in both the domestic united states and international settings.
- Discuss issues public health attempts to address relating to: health disparities, health services delivery and access, epidemiology, global health, changing health behaviors, prevention, influencing policy, and the importance of evidence in decision making.
- Describe the various professional roles public health professionals play, and their intersections with outside professions.
- Identify underlying influencers of individual and community health, including the social, environmental, commercial, and biological determinants of health.
Good to know
Good to know
Know what's good ,
what to watch for , and
possible dealbreakers
Equips learners with a solid foundation in public health ideas and terminology, which will aid comprehension of present and emerging health concerns
Prepares learners for the Maternal and Child Health MicroMasters, indicating a focus on real-world application
Explores various public health professions and their connections with other fields
Outlines the critical roles and services of public health organizations within the United States and globally
Emphasizes the impact of social, environmental, and biological variables on health, reinforcing a holistic approach
Suitable for students studying Maternal and Child Health, expanding their knowledge of public health concepts
Save this course
Save Pathways to Public Health to your list so you can find it easily later:
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Activities
Be better prepared
before
your course. Deepen your understanding
during
and
after
it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered
in Pathways to Public Health with these
activities:
Review your biology and chemistry background
Show steps
Biology and chemistry are important foundation subjects for public health. Refreshing your knowledge of these subjects will help you better grasp the concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
-
Review your notes and textbooks from previous biology and chemistry courses
-
Take practice quizzes and tests
-
Attend a review session or workshop
Review basic statistics
Show steps
Statistical analysis provides a vital foundation for this course. Especially if you are rusty on your stats skills, this review will help ensure you are prepared for this course.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
-
Review your notes from an introductory statistics course, such as mean, median, and standard deviation.
-
Practice solving basic statistics problems using online resources or textbooks.
-
Take a practice quiz or test to assess your understanding of the concepts.
Join a public health online forum or community
Show steps
Connecting with other public health professionals through online platforms will allow you to discuss ideas, share resources, and build a network of colleagues who can provide support and insights.
Browse courses on
Professional Networking
Show steps
-
Identify relevant public health forums or online communities
-
Create a profile and join the community
-
Participate in discussions and ask questions
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Attend a local public health conference
Show steps
Attending public health conferences allows you to connect with professionals, learn about the latest research and trends, and explore career opportunities.
Browse courses on
Professional Networking
Show steps
-
Research and identify upcoming conferences
-
Register for the conference
-
Attend sessions and workshops
-
Network with other attendees
Create a public health infographic
Show steps
Infographics are a concise and visually appealing way to communicate public health information. Creating an infographic will help you synthesize and present public health data and information in an engaging way.
Browse courses on
Public Health Communication
Show steps
-
Gather the necessary health data
-
Choose an appropriate infographic format
-
Design and create the infographic
-
Share and promote your infographic
Volunteer at a local health organization
Show steps
Volunteering for a health organization will provide you with hands-on experience in public health and an opportunity to contribute to your community.
Browse courses on
Public Health Practice
Show steps
-
Identify a local health organization
-
Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities
-
Complete the necessary training and orientation
-
Participate in volunteer activities
Review your biology and chemistry background
Show steps
Biology and chemistry are important foundation subjects for public health. Refreshing your knowledge of these subjects will help you better grasp the concepts covered in this course.
Browse courses on
Biology
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes and textbooks from previous biology and chemistry courses
- Take practice quizzes and tests
- Attend a review session or workshop
Review basic statistics
Show steps
Statistical analysis provides a vital foundation for this course. Especially if you are rusty on your stats skills, this review will help ensure you are prepared for this course.
Browse courses on
Statistics
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Review your notes from an introductory statistics course, such as mean, median, and standard deviation.
- Practice solving basic statistics problems using online resources or textbooks.
- Take a practice quiz or test to assess your understanding of the concepts.
Join a public health online forum or community
Show steps
Connecting with other public health professionals through online platforms will allow you to discuss ideas, share resources, and build a network of colleagues who can provide support and insights.
Browse courses on
Professional Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify relevant public health forums or online communities
- Create a profile and join the community
- Participate in discussions and ask questions
Three other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all six activities
Attend a local public health conference
Show steps
Attending public health conferences allows you to connect with professionals, learn about the latest research and trends, and explore career opportunities.
Browse courses on
Professional Networking
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Research and identify upcoming conferences
- Register for the conference
- Attend sessions and workshops
- Network with other attendees
Create a public health infographic
Show steps
Infographics are a concise and visually appealing way to communicate public health information. Creating an infographic will help you synthesize and present public health data and information in an engaging way.
Browse courses on
Public Health Communication
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Gather the necessary health data
- Choose an appropriate infographic format
- Design and create the infographic
- Share and promote your infographic
Volunteer at a local health organization
Show steps
Volunteering for a health organization will provide you with hands-on experience in public health and an opportunity to contribute to your community.
Browse courses on
Public Health Practice
Show steps
Show steps
Show steps
- Identify a local health organization
- Contact the organization to inquire about volunteer opportunities
- Complete the necessary training and orientation
- Participate in volunteer activities
Career center
Learners who complete Pathways to Public Health will develop knowledge and skills
that may be useful to these careers:
Social and Behavioral Scientist
Social and Behavioral Scientist
Social and Behavioral Scientists study the social and behavioral factors that influence health. They develop and evaluate interventions to promote health and prevent disease. This course would be helpful for Social and Behavioral Scientists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on social and behavioral science.
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologist
Epidemiologists investigate the causes of disease and other health problems in populations. They design and conduct studies to collect data on the incidence, prevalence, and distribution of diseases. They also develop and evaluate public health programs to prevent and control diseases. This course would be helpful for Epidemiologists because it provides a foundation in epidemiology and other public health concepts.
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analyst
Health Policy Analysts develop and evaluate health policies and programs. They work with policymakers to develop and implement policies that promote health and well-being. They also conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of health policies and programs. This course would be helpful for Health Policy Analysts because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on health policy.
Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health Specialist
Environmental Health Specialists protect human health from environmental hazards. They work to identify and assess environmental hazards, develop and implement regulations to control environmental hazards, and educate the public about environmental health risks. This course would be helpful for Environmental Health Specialists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a specific focus on environmental health.
Maternal and Child Health Specialist
Maternal and Child Health Specialist
Maternal and Child Health Specialists work to improve the health and well-being of mothers and children. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop and implement programs that meet the needs of mothers and children. They also advocate for policies and programs that promote maternal and child health. This course would be helpful for Maternal and Child Health Specialists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on maternal and child health.
Health Communication Specialist
Health Communication Specialist
Health Communication Specialists develop and implement communication strategies to promote health and prevent disease. They work with the media, public health organizations, and other organizations to create and disseminate health information. They also conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of health communication campaigns. This course would be helpful for Health Communication Specialists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on health communication.
Health Researcher
Health Researcher
Health Researchers conduct research to improve the health and well-being of populations. They study the causes of disease, develop new treatments, and evaluate the effectiveness of health interventions. This course would be helpful for Health Researchers because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on research methods.
Public Health Administrator
Public Health Administrator
Public Health Administrators manage the operations of public health departments. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop and implement policies and programs that promote health and well-being. They also manage the financial and human resources of public health departments. This course would be helpful for Public Health Administrators because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on public health administration.
Global Health Specialist
Global Health Specialist
Global Health Specialists work to improve health and well-being in low- and middle-income countries. They work with governments, NGOs, and other organizations to develop and implement health programs. They also conduct research to evaluate the effectiveness of health programs. This course would be helpful for Global Health Specialists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on global health.
Health Program Manager
Health Program Manager
Health Program Managers plan, implement, and evaluate health programs. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop and implement programs that meet the needs of the community. They also manage the financial and human resources of health programs. This course would be helpful for Health Program Managers because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on health program management.
Population Health Manager
Population Health Manager
Population Health Managers work to improve the health and well-being of populations. They work with a variety of stakeholders to develop and implement programs that meet the needs of the community. They also manage the financial and human resources of health programs. This course would be helpful for Population Health Managers because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language, as well as a focus on population health management.
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurse
Public Health Nurses provide nursing care to individuals and families in the community. They work to prevent and control diseases, promote health, and improve access to healthcare. They also advocate for policies and programs that promote health and well-being. This course would be helpful for Public Health Nurses because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language.
Public Health Scientist
Public Health Scientist
Public Health Scientists conduct research to prevent and control diseases. They study the causes of disease and develop ways to prevent and treat them. They also work to improve public health policies and programs. This course would be helpful for Public Health Scientists because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language.
Community Health Worker
Community Health Worker
Community Health Workers provide health education and support to individuals and families in their communities. They work to improve access to healthcare and other resources. They also advocate for policies and programs that promote health and well-being. This course would be helpful for Community Health Workers because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language.
Health Educator
Health Educator
Health Educators develop and implement educational programs to promote health and prevent disease. They work with individuals, groups, and communities to provide information about health risks and behaviors. They also develop and evaluate health education materials. This course would be helpful for Health Educators because it provides a foundation in public health concepts, theories, and language.
For more career information including salaries, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pkacvj/pathways
Reading list
We've selected 11 books
that we think will supplement your
learning. Use these to
develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a
deeper understanding of the topics covered in
Pathways to Public Health.
This classic text provides a clear and concise introduction to the field of public health. It is written in a non-technical style and is accessible to readers with a variety of backgrounds.
A concise and accessible introduction to the key principles and practices of public health, covering topics such as epidemiology, health promotion, and public health policy.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the principles and practices of public health. It valuable resource for students and professionals who are new to the field or who want to update their knowledge.
Save
Provides a comprehensive overview of the social determinants of health. It valuable resource for students and professionals who are interested in understanding the social factors that influence health.
A monthly peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on the relationship between the environment and human health.
A monthly peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on the social and behavioral aspects of health and illness.
A weekly peer-reviewed medical journal that publishes research on a wide range of health topics.
A monthly peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on public health topics.
A monthly peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on health policy and planning issues.
Save
A quarterly peer-reviewed journal that publishes research on global public health issues.
This textbook provides a comprehensive overview of the field of public health ethics. It valuable resource for students and professionals who are interested in understanding the ethical issues that arise in public health.
For more information about how these books relate to this course, visit:
OpenCourser.com/course/pkacvj/pathways
Share
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Effort
2 to 4 hours per week for 8 weeks
Level
Introductory
Via
edX
Institution
George Washington University
Instructors
Christina Heminger
Andrew Wiss
Language
English
Transcript
English
Good to know
Equips learners with a solid foundation in public health ideas and terminology, which will aid comprehension of present and emerging health concerns
Prepares learners for the Maternal and Child Health MicroMasters, indicating a focus on real-world application
Explores various public health professions and their connections with other fields
Outlines the critical roles and services of public health organizations within the United States and globally
Emphasizes the impact of social, environmental, and biological variables on health, reinforcing a holistic approach
Suitable for students studying Maternal and Child Health, expanding their knowledge of public health concepts
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