Gwynedd Mercy University
AY2022-2023 Graduate Academic Catalog
of public health . The degree is grounded in the social , behavioral , and biological sciences , and is guided by a social justice philosophy consistent with the mission of Gwynedd Mercy University . Courses in the MPH program are designed to help students become competent and confident in the application of skills used in the diverse field of public health and prepare them for employment and leadership within the field of public health .
Preparation for Professional Licensure : The field of public health does not require licensure . The public health program will prepare students to take the Certified in Public Health ( CPH ) or the Certified Health Education Specialist ( CHES ) exams if they choose . The CPH exam is offered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners ( NBPHE ) and demonstrates a knowledge of key public health sciences . The CHES exam is offered by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing ( NCHEC ) and measures an individual ’ s knowledge and skills in areas of responsibility related to health education practice . CPH and CHES are not required certification or licensure but are recognized in the field of public health as measures of national standards in the field . Both certifications require continuing education credits to maintain .
Program Learning Outcomes : The curriculum of the MPH program is structured to address 22 foundational and 5 program competencies . Program learning outcomes summarize these public health competencies .
• Apply epidemiological methods to public health issues through quantitative and qualitative data collection , analysis , and interpretation ;
• Compare public health care systems nationally and internationally , including how structural bias , social inequities and racism negatively impact health equity ;
• Design culturally appropriate , population-based , health interventions and evaluation plans ;
• Propose strategies to develop and evaluate public health policies that incorporate community participation ;
• Advocate for policies that will improve health in diverse populations ;
• Apply principles of leadership , governance , and management for public health programs ;
• Communicate public health content , both orally and verbally , in a manner appropriate for the specific audience ;
• Perform effectively on an interprofessional team ;
• Apply systems thinking tools to a public health issue ;
• Apply a health equity focus in public health actions related to the critical concerns of the Sisters of Mercy : earth , immigration , anti-racism , non-violence , and women .
For Major Requirements , see Program Handbook and Curriculum Sheets Academic Criteria for Admission , Progression and Retention
Program Admissions Requirements and Procedures :
• A baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university ;
• Official transcripts from every college or university attended o A cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 on a four-point scale or the equivalent o Consistent academic performance in math , science , and writing intensive courses o Applications from candidates with a GPA lower than 3.0 or lacking in the above courses will be reviewed on a case-by-case basis , taking into account public health experience , personal essay and references
60