Postgraduate Certificate Public Health

Summary 2012/13

• Study a programme mapped against the core and defined competencies required in the Public Health Careers and Skills Framework (2008).
• Gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of contemporary public health issues and the type of work that public health incorporates;
• Enhance your skills in planning, delivering and evaluating public health practice.

This programme will introduce you to contemporary issues in public health, examine how epidemiological evidence is used to inform public health practice and investigate research methodology from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. Successful completion affords progression onto the Public Health Careers and Skills Framework (2008).

2012 Entry Requirements

To join this programme, a first degree in a health or social care related subject, at a minimum level of 2:2, is normally required.

As part of the selection process, you will be asked to submit a 500-word written paper demonstrating your understanding of contemporary public health.

Summary 2013/14

• Study a programme mapped against the core and defined competencies required in the Public Health Careers and Skills Framework (2008).
• Gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of contemporary public health issues and the type of work that public health incorporates;
• Enhance your skills in planning, delivering and evaluating public health practice.

This programme will introduce you to contemporary issues in public health, examine how epidemiological evidence is used to inform public health practice and investigate research methodology from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. Successful completion affords progression onto the Public Health Careers and Skills Framework (2008).

2013 Entry Requirements

To join this programme, a first degree in a health or social care related subject, at a minimum level of 2:2, is normally required.

As part of the selection process, you will be asked to submit a 500-word written paper demonstrating your understanding of contemporary public health.

Details

Who is this course for?

This Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health is targeted at a wide range of health and social care professionals. If you work as a health visitor, community staff nurse, family care nurse or community primary care worker, have a first degree and want to focus your career on public health, then this course is for you.

The programme may also be of value to local authority staff, such as teachers, health promotion workers and environmental health practitioners, together with third sector organisation personnel, including those working in women’s health, advocacy services, and people working with vulnerable groups in society.

What will I gain from this programme?

You will gain an in-depth knowledge and understanding of contemporary public health issues and the type of work that public health incorporates. You will also enhance your skills in planning, delivering and evaluating public health practice.

How we will support you

You will receive academic supervision on an individual level from the module coordinator who will support you with any queries or concerns. The programme leader will also be available to deal with any other issues that may arise. Further support is available via Student Services and you will have access to state-of-the-art learning environments including excellent library facilities at the Ormskirk Campus.

What will I study?

To achieve the Postgraduate Certificate you must successfully complete three modules which cover contemporary issues in public health, the role of epidemiological evidence in public health practice and an introduction to the research process.

You will begin the programme by developing your knowledge of public health through an examination of the application of public health skills in a variety of contexts and settings. This will involve critically analysing public health policy. Collaborative and partnership working to reduce inequalities in health will be explored and you will also consider the needs of vulnerable groups in society.

The drive to use evidence based practice requires practitioners to develop a number of skills, in order to critically appraise, analyse and interpret existing evidence. The second module on the programme examines how epidemiological evidence is used to inform public health practice. You will also explore how other forms of evidence, such as lay epidemiology, can apply to public health.

A research module concludes the programme and requires you to investigate research methodology from a qualitative and quantitative perspective. You will study ways of designing research studies and develop skills in appraising research. This skill is fundamental to any professional’s working life, as health and social care policy and related professional work is often driven by research recommendations.

How will I study?

The course is delivered through a combination of lectures, tutorials and self-directed study. Modules will typically be delivered in the early evening (4pm-7pm) although the research module is delivered mainly online, with five face-to-face sessions.

Who will be teaching me?

The teaching team are all research-active, highly experienced professionals with a range of backgrounds in health and social care. Current research interests amongst teaching staff on the programme include health sciences, arts in health, respiratory conditions and an evaluation of public health initiatives.

How will I be assessed?

You will be assessed using a variety of formative and summative methods, including group presentations, compilation of an integrated portfolio, designing a research proposal, seminar presentations, essays and various online activities.

What are my career prospects?

Completion of the Postgraduate Certificate in Public Health will afford progression onto the Public Health Careers and Skills Framework (2008).

The area of work that encompasses public health is vast so this qualification is of particular value to a wide range of employment opportunities.

A Great Study Environment

Based in 160 acres of beautifully landscaped grounds, the Ormskirk Campus is a unique and inspirational place to study. Industry standard resources and cutting edge technology combine to make an interactive and highly advanced teaching and learning environment. Everything you could want is on one site with fantastic modern spaces in which you can study and socialise and 25 acres of sport and leisure facilities.

The University library gives you access to thousands of books, journals, online resources and extensive PC and media provision. You'll get all the support you need to succeed, reflected in Edge Hill University being ranked in the top two in England for students' personal development, and the top three in the country for assessment and feedback, in the 2011 National Student Survey. The University is also featured in the top four in England for graduate employment.

How do I apply?

Apply directly to Edge Hill University. Download the Health Professional Development pathway application form and notes for guidance (pdf).

Fees and Finance

Tuition fees are still to be confirmed for this programme for academic year 2012/13. Please keep checking this page for updates.

Edge Hill graduates joining an eligible postgraduate programme at the University in academic year 2012/13 could benefit from a 20% reduction in tuition fees. If you're a UK or EU student and will be paying the fees yourself, you might be eligible to receive this discount. See www.edgehill.ac.uk/reducedfees for more information.

Not got the entry requirements?

Please contact the programme leader to discuss your options.

Still want more?

If you have any questions you would like to ask the programme leader about the course, please contact:

• Susan English, Faculty of Health and Social Care, Edge Hill University, St Helens Road, Ormskirk, L39 4QP
• Tel: 01695 650984
• Email: englishs@edgehill.ac.uk

Overseas students should visit www.edgehill.ac.uk/international or email international@edgehill.ac.uk for further information.

Modules

• HEA 4054 Contemporary Issues In Public Health
• HEA 4051 Epidemiology and Evidence for Public Health Practice
• HEA 4050 Health Promotion
• HEA 4045 Research: Developing a Research Proposal

All modules on this programme can be studied on a standalone basis.