Health Sciences

Degrees and Certificates

Classes

HPW 300: Communication Strategies in Healthcare Settings

Credits 3

This course focuses on effective communication strategies essential for healthcare professionals. Through case studies, role-plays, and interactive discussions, students will explore communication techniques tailored to diverse patient populations, interdisciplinary healthcare teams, and stakeholders. Topics include patient-centered communication, cultural competence, health literacy, conflict resolution, and ethical considerations in healthcare communication. By honing their communication skills, students will be better equipped to navigate complex healthcare interactions, foster therapeutic relationships, and improve patient outcomes.

HPW 320: Contemporary Issues in Health Promotion

Credits 3

This course provides students with an overview of the fundamental concepts and principles of Public Health and Health Promotion. Through lectures, discussions, and interactive activities, students will explore topics such as epidemiology, health behavior, environmental health, and healthcare systems. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the social determinants of health and the role of public health in promoting population health and wellness. This course serves as a foundation for further study and careers in public health-related fields and health promotion. 

HPW 340: Lifespan Health and Wellness

Credits 3

This course explores health and wellness from infancy through late adulthood. Through lectures, case studies, and experiential learning, students will examine factors influencing health at different life stages, including biological, psychological, social, and environmental determinants. Topics include prenatal care, childhood development, adolescent health behaviors, adult chronic disease prevention, and geriatric health management. Emphasis will be placed on promoting holistic well-being and adopting evidence-based interventions to optimize health outcomes across the lifespan.

HPW 360: Health Promotion Program Planning

Credits 3

In this course, students will delve into the principles and methodologies of designing effective health promotion programs. Through a combination of lectures, case studies, and hands-on exercises, students will learn to assess community health needs, set program goals and objectives, develop intervention strategies, and evaluate program effectiveness. Emphasis will be placed on utilizing evidence-based approaches, cultural competence, and stakeholder engagement to create programs that address diverse populations' health needs. By the end of the course, students will be equipped with the skills necessary to plan, implement, and evaluate health promotion initiatives aimed at improving population health outcomes.

HPW 400: Global Healthcare Equity

Credits 3

In this course, students will explore the multifaceted dimensions of health disparities, their determinants, and potential strategies for achieving equity in global health outcomes. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks, case studies, and contemporary research, students will analyze historical trends, challenges, and prospects for addressing health disparities at local, national, and global levels. Through interactive discussions, collaborative projects, and experiential learning opportunities, students will develop a deeper understanding of the complex interplay between globalization, social justice, and health equity. By the end of the course, students will emerge with the knowledge, skills, and perspectives necessary to advocate for policies and practices that advance health equity on a global scale.

HPW 420: Public Health Education Methods

Credits 3

In this course, students will explore the theories, strategies, and techniques used in public health education and promotion. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on activities, and practical projects, students will learn to design, implement, and evaluate effective health education programs targeting diverse populations. Topics include health communication, behavior change theories, community engagement, cultural competency, and the use of technology in health education. Emphasis will be placed on developing skills to create culturally sensitive, evidence-based interventions that address public health challenges and promote positive health behaviors. 

HPW 440: Health Promotion and Aging

Credits 3

This course explores health promotion strategies specifically tailored for aging populations. Through lectures, case studies, and practical exercises, students will examine the unique health needs and challenges faced by older adults and explore evidence-based approaches to promote healthy aging and quality of life. Topics include preventive healthcare, chronic disease management, physical activity promotion, nutrition, mental health, social support, and end-of-life care. Emphasis will be placed on understanding the psychosocial, environmental, and policy factors influencing health outcomes in older adults and developing culturally competent interventions to support healthy aging. 

HPW 480: Senior Seminar in Health Promotion and Wellness

Credits 3

This course serves as a culminating experience for students in health promotion and wellness. Through a combination of seminars, projects, and presentations, students will integrate and apply knowledge gained throughout their academic journey to address contemporary issues in health promotion. Topics may include health behavior theories, program planning and evaluation, community engagement, advocacy, and emerging trends in public health. Emphasis will be placed on critical thinking, problem-solving, and synthesizing interdisciplinary perspectives to develop innovative solutions for promoting health and wellness at individual, community, and societal levels.

HPW 490: Internship

Credits 3

This course gives students practical, hands-on experience in health promotion and wellness through an internship placement. Under the supervision of a qualified mentor, students will engage in meaningful work related to health promotion initiatives, community outreach, program development, or research projects within public health agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare settings, or other relevant institutions. Through experiential learning, reflective activities, and regular supervision, students will enhance their professional skills, apply theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, and gain insight into career pathways in health promotion and wellness.