Certificate in Community Health Promotion
Hours: 20 Online
About
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion at Fort Hays State University is designed for those looking to deepen their understanding of public health and its impact on communities. Through this graduate-level certificate, participants will gain foundational knowledge and practical skills needed to effectively promote health within various communities. The curriculum covers essential topics, including health education, disease prevention, and community health initiatives.
The certificate suits health professionals seeking to enhance their credentials and expand their expertise. Delivered online, it offers flexibility for working professionals. Students will blend theoretical and practical learning experiences, including service-learning projects, field exercises, and laboratory work. This comprehensive approach ensures that students are well-prepared to address their communities' current and emerging health challenges.
Why pursue a Certificate in Community Health Promotion at Fort Hays State University?
Fort Hays State University's Certificate in Community Health Promotion stands out because it focuses on practical and applied learning experiences. Our program integrates hands-on activities such as service-learning projects and field exercises. This graduate-level certificate is exclusively online, providing the flexibility needed for working professionals to advance their education without compromising their current roles.
Additionally, the certificate leverages the latest research and trends in the field, ensuring that students learn up-to-date practices and methods. The curriculum is designed to provide a thorough understanding of community health promotion, preparing participants for a wide range of career opportunities in public health, health education, and community advocacy. The emphasis on practical applications and current advancements sets our certificate apart, making it an excellent choice for those dedicated to improving community health.
Who is this program for?
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion is designed to meet the needs of individuals seeking to advance their careers in public health, health education, and community advocacy. This certificate is ideal for:
- Health professionals looking to enhance their skills
- Individuals interested in community health promotion
- Public health workers seeking advanced credentials
- Health educators aiming to improve their teaching methods
- Community advocates seeking to make a significant impact
Learning Outcomes
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion ensures participants possess the skills and knowledge necessary to promote community health. The following learning outcomes highlight the graduate-level certificate's comprehensive approach to education.
Develop Fundamental Community Health Skills
Participants will acquire essential skills in community health promotion, including health education, disease prevention, and health policy development. This foundational knowledge enables them to design and implement effective health initiatives tailored to community needs.
Plan and Implement Health Programs
Students will learn to create, execute, and evaluate health promotion programs. This includes understanding the logistics of program planning, resource allocation, and evaluation metrics. Participants will be capable of managing comprehensive health programs from inception to completion, ensuring they meet the targeted health outcomes.
Engage in Effective Communication
The certificate emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practices in health promotion. Students will learn to apply the latest research findings to their health promotion efforts, ensuring their programs are grounded in proven methods. This ability to integrate research into practice enhances the effectiveness and credibility of their health initiatives.
Real-World Applications
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion prepares students for real-world applications through various practical experiences. Integrating service-learning projects into coursework allows students to work directly with communities, applying what they have learned in the real world. These projects help students develop critical thinking and problem-solving skills while making a tangible impact on community health.
Field exercises and laboratory work further enhance students' practical skills. These hands-on activities provide an opportunity to apply theoretical knowledge in a controlled environment, ensuring that participants are ready to tackle complex health issues upon entering the workforce. The graduate-level certificate's emphasis on practical application ensures that students can effectively promote health in diverse community settings.
Stay Ahead of the Curve
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion curriculum integrates the latest advancements and trends in community health. Students learn cutting-edge practices and innovations through lectures, demonstrations, and research-based coursework. This includes the use of technology in health promotion, contemporary methods in health education, and advanced strategies for disease prevention.
Students also benefit from exposure to current research and emerging trends through assignments and projects that require them to stay updated with the latest developments. This continuous learning process ensures that participants are not only knowledgeable about current best practices but are also prepared to adapt to future changes in the field of community health. Keeping pace with health promotion methodologies and technology advancements is a critical certificate component.
Hands-on Activities
Fort Hays State University strongly emphasizes experiential learning. The Certificate in Community Health Promotion includes various hands-on activities that enhance the learning experience. Students participate in service-learning projects, which involve working with real-world communities to develop and implement health promotion initiatives. These projects foster practical skills and community engagement.
Additionally, the graduate-level certificate offers field exercises and laboratory work, allowing students to apply their knowledge in practical settings. These activities are designed to simulate real-world scenarios, providing students with valuable experience that will be directly applicable to their careers. This pragmatic approach ensures that participants are well-prepared to address community health challenges effectively. The emphasis on hands-on learning helps bridge the gap between theory and practice.
What You’ll Learn:
- Community health skills
- Disease prevention
- Health education
- Program planning
- Health initiative evaluation
How You’ll Learn:
- Service-learning projects
- Field exercises and labs
- Research-based curriculum
- Interactive online coursework
- Lectures and demonstrations
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion requires 12 credit hours and covers essential topics in community health. The core courses include Health Education Methods, Community Health Assessment, Program Planning and Evaluation, and Current Issues in Community Health. These courses provide students with skills in effective teaching, community health evaluation, program development, and understanding contemporary health issues.
The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical application through service-learning projects and field exercises. This approach ensures that students are well-prepared to implement health promotion strategies in diverse settings, using the latest research and practices to address real-world health challenges effectively.HHP 633: Assessment and Planning in Health and Human Performance
In this course, students will be applying instruments to determine the physical and motor needs of individuals with disabilities and the ability to implement physical education programs for individuals with disabilities.
HHP 811: Health Promotion Programming
This course focuses on health promotion programming concepts, skills, and the delivery and evaluation of wellness programs. Students will analyze a framework for designing and implementing effective health promotion initiatives.
HHP 812: Nutrition for Health and Fitness
This course explores the interrelationships between nutrition, diet, health, and fitness. Topics include the roles of macro and micronutrients, weight maintenance, and the nutritional needs of special populations.
Discover the full Certificate in Community Health Promotion course listing by visiting the academic catalog.
Participants of the Certificate in Community Health Promotion will find career opportunities in various settings, including:
Public Health Educator
Public health educators work in public health departments, schools, and non-profit organizations to design and implement health education programs. They develop educational materials, conduct community workshops, and evaluate the effectiveness of health initiatives. Their goal is to promote healthy behaviors and prevent disease within communities.
Community Health Worker
Community health workers engage directly with community members to support and promote healthy lifestyles. They liaise between health services and the community, helping individuals navigate the healthcare system, providing health education, and connecting people to necessary resources. This role requires strong interpersonal skills and a deep understanding of community health needs.
Health Program Coordinator
Health program coordinators manage health promotion programs in various settings, including healthcare facilities, non-profits, and government agencies. They are responsible for planning, executing, and evaluating health programs, ensuring they meet specific health goals. This role involves collaboration with other health professionals, community stakeholders, and policymakers to create effective health initiatives.
Research Assistant
Research assistants in public health support research projects to improve community health outcomes. They collect and analyze data, help design studies, and disseminate research findings. This role is essential for advancing knowledge in community health and informing evidence-based practices.
Wellness Coordinator
Wellness coordinators develop and oversee wellness programs in corporate or community settings. They promote healthy lifestyles through various initiatives such as fitness programs, nutrition workshops, and stress management seminars. This role involves planning, implementing, and evaluating programs to ensure they effectively improve participants' health and well-being.
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion at Fort Hays State University has specific admission requirements to ensure that students are well-prepared for graduate-level study.
Graduate School Admission
Applicants must be admitted to the Fort Hays State University graduate school. This includes meeting the general admission requirements, such as holding a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution.
Academic Achievement
A minimum GPA, often around 3.0, in previous undergraduate coursework is typically required to demonstrate academic readiness for graduate studies. This ensures that students possess the foundational knowledge necessary for success in the graduate-level certificate.
Professional Experience
Relevant professional experience in health or a related field is highly beneficial and may be required for admission. This experience provides practical context and enhances the learning experience by allowing students to relate coursework to real-world scenarios.
Personal Statement
A statement of purpose outlining the applicant's goals and reasons for pursuing the certificate is typically required. This statement helps the admissions committee understand the applicant's motivation and commitment to advancing their career in community health promotion.
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide letters of recommendation, usually from academic or professional references, to support their application. These letters should attest to the applicant's academic abilities, professional achievements, and potential for success in the certificate.
The Best Value in Higher Education Anywhere
Fort Hays State University prides itself on quality education at an affordable price. Students in this program can expect to pay approximately $3,859.95* (Online)* per semester.
*Estimated cost based on 15 credit hours at the FHSU Online undergraduate tuition rate ($257.33/credit hour) for online courses. Actual price may vary depending on course load and location. Tuition and Fees are subject to change as they are approved by the Kansas Board of Regents each year.
Ready for the next step?
Our faculty would be excited to talk to you about how our department programs can help you explore your interests and prepare you for a variety of rewarding careers.
Related Programs
If you are interested in the Certificate in Community Health Promotion, you may also consider the following related programs offered at Fort Hays State University:
- B.S. in Health and Human Performance (HHP)
- MPS in Public Health Administration
- MLS in Health Sciences
- Certificate in Coaching
Community health promotion involves activities aimed at improving the health of individuals and communities through education, disease prevention, and health policy.
Participants can pursue careers as public health educators, community health workers, health program coordinators, and more.
Effective promotion involves health education, community engagement, developing health programs, and advocating for health policies.
Applicants for the Certificate in Community Health Promotion must be admitted to the graduate school, have a relevant bachelor's degree, and have professional experience in a related field.
The Certificate in Community Health Promotion is offered entirely online, providing flexibility for working professionals.
Department Information
The Department of Health and Human Performance provides specialized, in-demand degrees that combine innovative, hands-on learning with access to state-of-the-art facilities. You will be supported by a dedicated faculty and staff who are committed to helping you address the needs of the community and make a meaningful impact beyond the campus.
We strive to prepare you for a fulfilling and rewarding career that aligns with your personal and professional goals. Our programs emphasize practical learning experiences, offer flexible academic options, and foster close-knit mentorship from our experienced faculty. With opportunities in diverse, high-growth fields such as professional sports, healthcare, and more, you will be equipped to pursue your career aspirations. Join our network of accomplished alumni and embark on a path that leads to both personal satisfaction and professional success.
While earning your degree is your primary goal, college offers much more than just attending classes. Get involved in extracurricular activities that help you develop leadership skills, learn more about your chosen career, and make a difference in your community.
- Phi Epsilon Kappa - Delta Theta Chapter: The Delta Theta chapter of Phi Epsilon Kappa, a national honor society, recognizes FHSU students pursuing careers in physical education, health, recreation, dance, human performance, exercise science, sports medicine, and sports management. Through Phi Epsilon Kappa, you will gain leadership skills by engaging in campus, community, and professional activities. To get involved, contact Mrs. Jessica Phelan.
- HHP Majors Club: The HHP Majors Club is ideal for students wanting to stay involved with departmental activities, meet classmates, and participate in university events. This club fosters a sense of community within the department. For more information, contact Mrs. Anita Walters.
- Fellowship of Christian Athletes: The Fellowship of Christian Athletes offers students the chance to combine their faith with their passion for athletics. This organization sponsors the national annual event, Fields of Faith, which allows FHSU students to worship and serve alongside the Hays community. All students interested in Christianity are welcome to join, regardless of their participation in FHSU athletics. To get involved, contact Mr. Drew Gannon.
- Shooting Sports Club: The Shooting Sports Club welcomes all students and faculty interested in shooting sports as a recreational or competitive activity. The club promotes responsible use and ownership of firearms and emphasizes community service. Members have earned national awards and have even appeared on ESPN-U. For more information, contact Dr. Duane Shepherd or visit the Shooting Sports website.
- Pre-Physical Therapy Club: The FHSU Pre-Physical Therapy Club is dedicated to providing meaningful experiences for students preparing for physical therapy school. This club brings together students interested in professional development to strengthen their applications for physical therapy programs and beyond. Membership is available to any FHSU student interested in pursuing a career in physical therapy or related fields. For more information, contact Dr. Luke Kriley or visit the Physical Therapy RSO website.
- Certificate
- Online
