2025-2026 Catalog | Page 119

Gwynedd Mercy University 2025-2026 University Catalog 118
learning opportunities.
Early Entry to the MS in Counseling Program: The Psychology Program also offers the opportunity for eligible students to apply for Early Entry to the Master of Science in Counseling Program. Students approved for Early Entry may take up to 12 credits of coursework from the MS in Counseling Program, which will count as undergraduate open electives and may also be used towards the MS in Counseling degree.
PUBLIC HEALTH Degree: BSPH, Bachelor of Science in Public Health Program Modality: On-ground Program Director: Sharla Willis
Program Description: The Bachelor of Science in Public Health( BSPH) is a four- year program that provides a strong foundation in the liberal arts, Mercy values and critical concerns, and the foundations of public health practice. Public health is a broad field focused on the health and well-being of populations and communities. It encompasses diverse domains such as epidemiology, disease prevention, health education and promotion, environmental health, health policy, and advocacy. The field of public health is grounded in a social justice philosophy and strives to eliminate health disparities and inequities, often by focusing on social determinants of health. Graduates from the BSPH program are prepared to sit for the CHES( Certified Health Education Specialist) credential exam, enter an MPH( Master in Public Health) program, and / or enter the public health workforce as an entry-level professional.
Program Student Learning Outcomes: PLO1 Describe the history and philosophy of public health as well as its core values, concepts and functions across the globe and in society. PLO2 Explain the basic concepts, methods and tools of public health data collection, use and analysis, and why evidence-based approaches are an essential part of public health practice. PLO3 Identify the concepts of population health, and the basic processes, approaches and interventions that identify and address the major health-related needs and concerns of populations. PLO4 Recognize the underlying science of human health and disease, including opportunities for promoting and protecting health across the life course. PLO5 Summarize the socioeconomic, behavioral, biological, environmental and other factors that impact human health and contribute to health disparities. PLO6 Explain the fundamental concepts and features of project implementation, including planning, assessment and evaluation. PLO7 Compare the fundamental characteristics and organizational structures of the US health system. PLO8 Describe basic concepts of legal, ethical, economic and regulatory dimensions of health care and public health policy and the roles, influences and responsibilities of the different agencies and branches of government. PLO9 Use basic concepts of public health-specific communication, including technical and professional writing and the use of mass media and electronic technology.
For Major Requirements, see Program Handbook and Curriculum Sheets. For Curriculum Sequence, see Program Handbook.
Academic Criteria for Admission, Progression and Retention