Master in Community Health

Community health degrees instruct students on how to protect and improve the health of communities. It is a wide area that prepares students for careers in various settings such as departments of health, schools, hospital and community based organizations. Health educators work with community agencies to encourage healthy lifestyles and wellness by educating people about more nutritious and holistic choices.

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According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of health educators and community health workers is expected to grow by 21% from 2012 to 2022, much faster than the average for all occupations. A variety of programs are available in this area of study. Students can pursue the bachelor's or master's degree in community health. They can focus their degree in a range of areas such as health behavior/community health, epidemiology, environmental health, health policy and health administration to name a few.

Master in Community Health

The master in community health provides students with in-depth knowledge about public health. This program may help students find various positions within this field. Students get to know about community health issues, business administration and healthcare operations. In addition, they will also get instruction in human resource management.

Students examine the theories and processes involved in planning and implementing health education programs, prevention initiatives and health policy advocacy. Learners in these programs examine the theories and processes involved in planning and implementing health education programs, health policy advocacy and prevention initiatives. The master's degree in community health can usually be completed in 1-2 years. The exact duration of the program depends on the route that you take.

Online Programs

There are various schools that offer community health programs online. These programs can be a good learning option for working professionals seeking to switch careers as well as the ones who want to begin a career in this field but cannot attend regular classes. The online degrees help students keep up with their professional or personal commitments.

Curriculum

Some of the courses students can pursue in the master's degree in community health are biostatistics, social and behavioral sciences and environmental health. They may also cover topics such as community's health requirements and implementation of health programs.

Admissions Requirements

A high school diploma or GED is required to enroll in a community health program. Candidates may also have to submit GRE or other test scores. In addition, a personal statement, an interview as well as relevant work experience are some other factors that students may be required to address before they can enroll in a program.

Career Opportunities

Community health professionals can work in a variety of settings such as human services agencies, hospitals, public health departments and, rehabilitation centers. They may also find jobs at wellness centers, community health organizations, and family planning clinics.

The exact level of income depends on the area of specialty, location and experience. According to BLS, in 2012, community health educators earned a median wage of $41,830 per year. Most of these professionals work full time.