The Master of Public Health (MPH) Program was excited to host the Public Health Sciences Fall Semester Poster Day last week. Twelve Graduating MPH Students presented their work from their Integrated Learning Experience (ILE).
“I examined the relationship between healthcare provider type and breastfeeding duration,” said graduating student Annia Fountain. “My findings revealed that there is an association. Women who had a midwife were more likely to breastfeed for longer durations. Additionally, women who consulted a lactation specialist also experienced increased breastfeeding duration. I am deeply grateful for the opportunity to engage in this ILE project and for the invaluable support of my professor throughout the process. This experience has strengthened my passion for working in women-centered spaces, and I hope to continue contributing in ways that make a meaningful impact on the lives of all women.”
Graduating MPH student Kristen Morris analyzed hazing program evaluation data. According to Kristen, “My project was the biggest that I have ever worked on or created in my higher education journey. I am honored to share the work I have done as a graduate assistant for the Gordie Center and to utilize all the components I learned in the MPH program. This thesis was a milestone in creating more relevant hazing research and brings college students, professionals, and others into the conversation.”
All MPH students complete a final ILE project that demonstrates synthesis of MPH knowledge and skills developed over a 42-credit hour curriculum. Students select an ILE topic in consultation with an MPH Program Faculty advisor appropriate to their educational and professional goals, based on their program concentration. The student may choose one of a variety of methodologies such as economic analysis, policy analysis, geospatial/GIS analysis, program evaluation, health care quality assessment, qualitative analysis, health impact analysis, and quantitative analysis.
In the Research in Practice Concentration, students develop the knowledge and skills public health professionals and clinicians use to conduct research and create and evaluate programs. Students can choose to focus on quantitative and qualitative methods.
In the Health Policy, Law & Ethics Concentration, students explore the US healthcare and public health systems by developing and analyzing health-related policies and laws. Students utilize numerous methodological approaches, including quantitative, qualitative, economic, evaluation, and ethical analysis.
UVA MPH graduates are employed in consulting firms, health departments and other local, state, and federal agencies, health care delivery systems, and nonprofit community agencies.
Filed Under: Education