Wednesday 30 May 2012

Online International Health Degree Program Options

Degree programs in international health are fully available online as a Bachelor or Master of Science in Public Health. Areas of study generally include international health, health policy and environmental health.

Online Bachelor's Degree in International Health Overview

Bachelor's degrees in international health are generally available as a Bachelor of Science in Public Health. These programs provide students with an understanding of American and global healthcare systems designed to protect the health of people and communities. Students leverage data analysis and research to identify community needs, and plan and manage programs designed to encourage better public health around the world.

Program Information and Requirements

Some institutions require bachelor's candidates to complete prerequisite coursework in the life sciences or other health-related disciplines. Most programs are taught completely online and include downloadable lectures and discussion board participation; however, some schools may require students to take part in group assignments on-campus. Students also may be required to participate in an internship in a community health organization or non-profit healthcare group.

Common Online Courses

Bachelor's students examine current issues in public health on the domestic and international levels. They gain knowledge of the philosophies and theories that guide global public health policies.

Introduction to Public Health Course

In this online course, students are introduced to the public health profession. Topics of study include an overview of common terminology, roles and responsibilities of public health professionals, and an examination of the current challenges faced by public health organizations worldwide.

Designing Community Health Programs Course

Students learn best practices in the creation and implementation of programs designed to meet the healthcare needs of individuals and communities. Major discussion points include problem identification, designing of needs assessments, and data analysis to determine outcomes.

Community Service in International Health Course

Students are given the opportunity to travel both domestically and internationally to gain first-hand experience in recognizing and analyzing health and development issues that affect the local or international community. They work in a local health organization to gain greater perspective in community health issues.

Career Information for Graduates

Graduates of a bachelor's degree program are generally qualified for entry-level positions in the public health industry such as program coordinators, policy analysts and community outreach workers. In November 2010, Payscale.com reported that the average annual salary for a health policy analyst was $53,939.

Online Master's Degree in International Health Overview

Master's degree programs in international health are generally available as a Master of Public Health (M.P.H.). Graduate programs provide advanced theoretical and practical knowledge in providing leadership in organizations, agencies and companies that deal with public health issues both domestically and internationally.

Program Information and Requirements

Applicants typically must hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited college or university. Some institutions may require students to have professional experience in the healthcare industry in either a clinical or administrative setting. Many of these programs are offered completely online; however, some may include a mix of distance education and on-campus classes. A number of schools require students to complete a field experience or thesis project to complete the curriculum.

Common Online Courses

Master's students examine current issues and challenges in leading organizations devoted to promoting public health. They gain advanced knowledge of the organization of public health systems and the promotion of healthy lifestyles around the world.

Introduction to Epidemiology Course

In this course, students research and analyze chronic and communicable disease patterns in the U.S. and the world. Major areas of discussion include an overview of calculating basic epidemiological measures, the epidemiological triad and the issues surrounding public health screening programs.

Community Health Assessment Course

This online course provides an overview on conducting public health assessments within a given community. Topics of study include health behaviors, economic and social issues that affect a community's health profile, and techniques in promoting good health and disease prevention.

Environmental Factors in Health Course

Students examine the environmental factors affecting a community's health and safety profile. They explore the scientific and psychosocial issues that hold influence on a community and have been affected by an environmental threat. Other areas of study include environmental risk assessment techniques, legal, regulatory and ethical considerations, and disaster preparedness and management.

Career Information for Graduates

Master's degree graduates are qualified for positions such as an epidemiologist and clinical research coordinator. The average annual salary for a community health director was $89,441 in November 2010, as reported by Salary.com.

Continuing Education Information

Applicants seeking to enhance their knowledge in global health practice can find relevant certificate programs in public and global health. These programs focus on a number of issues that affect global health, including infectious disease epidemiology, health systems management and biostatistics. Most certificate programs are fully available online and can be completed within 12 to 24 months. A number of schools allow certificate coursework to be transferred to a degree program offered by that particular school or another institution offering a public health program.

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