Bachelor of Science in Community Health Education Shorelight Group - University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, USA

This 120-credit program, which aligns with the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing competencies, will create new career opportunities for students and partnerships with the community; opportunities and partnerships consistent with the University’s Strategic Plan. As part of the Health Professions and Related Programs array, UW-Green Bay has numerous programs in this specialized area so, with the exception of five courses, the major is built from existing courses in related areas (i.e., sciences, health management, social work). Additionally, 26 credits within the supporting and major courses cover all but 18 credits of general education requirements. The program utilizes high impact practices including a semester-long practicum at a community agency. Program graduates will be able to assess, plan, implement, and evaluate health education programs for a variety of populations.

Students entering the major may be new freshmen who come to UW-Green Bay because of this major or transfer students from other post-secondary institutions who find this major appealing. The Community Health Education program will not use a cohort model, block requirement plan, or seek accreditation. The UW-Green Bay program will offer students a curriculum grounded on understanding the intersection of governmental and non-governmental healthcare organizations and how economics and policy influence health. The Community Health Education major will be an option for students who are not accepted into the Nursing program or prefer a non-clinical program.

As more organizations and communities focus on wellness and prevention, and with growth in the health industry, community health educators are sought after and in high demand. Graduates with a major in community health education find jobs in the health care industry (e.g., hospitals, public health departments, health insurance), non-profit organizations, government agencies, and private businesses. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, overall employment of community health educators is projected to grow 11% from 2018 to 2028, which is much faster than the average for all occupations.

Student Learning and Program Outcomes

Program outcomes align with the NCHEC 1 responsibilities, competencies, and sub-competencies for health education specialist practice.

 By the end of the program, students will:

• Understand the structure of contemporary healthcare including public, non-governmental, and health systems.
• Use an interdisciplinary approach to addressing complex population health issues and factors that influence health.
• Apply the steps of assessment, planning, implementation, and evaluation in the design of community health campaigns.
• Gather, analyze, and synthesize multiple sources of community/public information.
• Identify and engage priority populations, partners, and stakeholders to design and implement health education programming.
• Apply established ethical principles and principles of cultural humility, inclusion, and diversity in the development of community/population health campaigns.