MPH Info Session Explains How Students Can Help the World

(April 14, 2015) - Reach underdeveloped countries with vital information about infectious disease. Guide local elderly people with advice on nutrition and wellness. Go to immigrant communities to talk about women's wellness and designing health screening programs. These are just a few of the opportunities students learned about at an information session for CSUN's online Master of Public Health: Health Education (MPH). 

"One of the best things about this degree is it's very much an applied, practical degree," said assistant professor Kaitlin O'Keefe, who led a presentation about the program at CSUN's University Club. The degree focuses on improving the health of communities, whether local, nationally or worldwide. It prepares students for careers in health-based nonprofits, community organizations, clinical and patient education, advocacy worksite health promotion, research and schools. 

"You will be on the cutting edge of prevention," O'Keefe said. "You will be in a leadership position. If you are interested in creating and designing a program, the MPH will give you the skill set to do that." 

Whether entering the field or seeking specialization in health program delivery and education, students can find an area to pursue. "CSUN is connected with government and community health organizations in the field of public health. We will connect you to people in the workforce. And you will grow in the workforce if you already are there. We also connect you with international organizations, such as W.H.O. [World Health Organization]."

O'Keefe praised how the program lets students pursue their passion about in settings such as medical facilities, community organizations, labs and agencies. She also touted the program's ability to bring students together and create positive change. "The best thing about an MPH is that it allows you to do something you are positive about! "We maintain a sense of community. We want you to connect."