Program Overview
Current globalization trends present threats to the health of populations and thus require critical attention in health assessment, planning and promotion. Improving the health of specific populations groups and the population as a whole should be seen from a trans-global and trans-disciplinary perspective. It is against this background that the program is designed to provide students with conceptual knowledge methods, analytical tools to understand public health issues from trans-global perspectives. The program structure encourages students to do much independent study and critical thinking. Based on the acquisition of academic knowledge, professional skills and competencies obtained through theoretical and practical work in a given population, students can embrace the public health profession at local, regional, national and international level in the private of public sectors. The program is designed to allow students obtain specialized practical knowledge and research skills in any of the following areas - Health services management, disease control, epidemiology and maternal, reproductive and child health.
Main Objective
The purpose of the program is to lay a conceptual background for public health practice at all levels. Furthermore it aims at increasing the students’ professional competencies to take over leadership in the analysis, development, planning, implementation (advising, teaching, research) and evaluation of programs, policies and institutions that aim at disease prevention, health promotion, care, rehabilitation, and treatment.
Expected learning outcomes
Upon completion of the program, students should have;
- The professional and occupation – relevant knowledge and skills in the following areas - health promotion, health services management, disease control, and epidemiology;
- Extensive knowledge on the theories, methods and strategies used to promote and protect the health and well-being of populations;
- Knowledge and skills to apply relevant theory and research methodologies within public health;
- Analyze and critically assess the influence of behavioral, environmental and social conditions on the physical, mental and social health and quality of life of population groups;
- The competencies to teach, carry out research, communicate and co-operate interdisciplinary and in a largely autonomous manner within the framework of public health.
Program Duration
The MPH program will run for 18 Months.
Target Audience
- Holders of a bachelor’s degree within Health Sciences such as human biology, medicine, nutrition medical laboratory technology; social sciences and development related studies.
- Holders of a postgraduate diploma related to the above mentioned fields
- Holders of a national /technical diploma in health/medical related fields plus at least 1 year experience working in Public Health related field will undertake the PGD-Masters route.
The program is directed towards those interested in philosophical, epidemiological, social, behavioral and environmental aspects of health. The program is appropriate for individuals working in all levels of social and health care and social insurance administration. The program also encourages students to pursue continuous education throughout their lives. The program is directed towards those interested in philosophical, epidemiological, social, behavioral and environmental aspects of health. The program is appropriate for individuals working in all levels of social and health care and social insurance administration. The program also encourages students to pursue continuous education throughout their lives. Career Opportunities With PAID-WA’s Masters in Public Health (MPH) graduates can exploit potential jobs opportunities in:
- Health services planning and management assignments within public and private institutions, companies and organizations.
- Health initiatives/projects design and management in key national and regional agencies and institutions e.g. the Ministry of Health, the Ministry of Social Affairs and the Ministry of Labor and other ministries, hospitals and health organizations together with social and health planning departments in councils.
- In addition, students can apply for jobs in national and international organizations dealing with prevention and combating of disease - e.g. WHO, the EU, Red Cross, the World Bank and other bilateral and multilateral institutions.
- Finally, students can apply for jobs within research and teaching at universities and institutions of higher education and teaching within social and health educations programs.
Program Structure
The program is organized in three semesters (18 Months) to cover 122 credits. This is a full-time study program that starts in October every year and ends in June. Two (2) semesters consist of a teaching period of each 11 weeks in addition to essay/project writing that will be accompanied with seminar presentations. The semester ends with an exam period. The 3rd Semester will consist of one (1) compulsory course and internship or field work that sets the basis for the research work of the students. Core Activities
- Lectures
- Field placement/desk research
- Seminar Presentations
- Research Project / Thesis