Special investigational or research problems for M.P.H. candidates or advanced students. Scope of the work can be varied to meet specified conditions.

Students choose a topic to research on their own under the guidance of a faculty advisor who will then grade the final written report.

Major methodologies useful in health research. Topics include philosophy of scientific investigation, field research, participant, survey research, experimental design, construction of questionnaires, and attitudes scales; the format for writing a research prospectus.

Concepts of program evaluation and their application to the health field. Emphasis on theoretical concepts and their application to development of practical skills in program evaluation.

Introduction to the philosophy, nature, and scope of health organizations; administration and organization of governmental health programs, economic and political forces and their effects on health services.

This course will introduce students to basic concepts and key issues in health policy in the United States, including how aspects of the policy environment (e.g. government institutions, stakeholders, public opinion) shape public health and the provision of health care services. We will also address the history of national health reform efforts and examine the Patient Protection and Affordable Care Act in detail. Course content and activities will help students to develop skills and strategies to critically analyze health policy issues and to communicate effectively in the policy context.

Review of communication sources, channels, messages, reception, and effects, diffusion of health information, adoption of preventive health behavior, and mass media and social change patterns.

Latest approaches in community development and community organizing strategies. Exploratory readings, field assignments; emphasis on leadership development, capacity building, and coordinated community action.

Survey of socio-behavioral theories commonly used in public health education interventions at the individual, group, and community levels.

The Commonwealth Honors College thesis or project is intended to provide students with the opportunity to work closely with faculty members to define and carry out in-depth research or creative endeavors. It provides excellent preparation for students who intend to continue their education through graduate study or begin their professional careers. The student works closely with their 499Y Honors Research sponsor to pursue research on a topic or question of special interest to them in preparation for writing a 499T Honors Thesis or completing a 499P Honors Project.