Health Science and Leadership
Department Mission
The Health Science and Leadership Department provides a fundamental and thorough education in the liberal arts tradition while concurrently providing pre-professional preparation in the field of health and wellness education. Mastery of the liberal arts core as well as communication skills built sequentially into the major curriculum support the graduate as they enter and adapt to changes in the professions and contributes to their success as a mature and responsible citizen beyond graduation. The program is designed to prepare students for careers immediately after graduation and/or graduate school, as well as professional schools for medicine, dentistry, podiatry, and veterinary medicine, as well as other programs such as physician assistant, occupational therapy, physical therapy, and radiological sciences.
Program Student Learning Outcomes
Exercise and Movement Science (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Create a lifelong fitness plan.
- PLO 2: Actively participate in health enhancing activities.
- PLO 3: Identify and resolve unsafe exercise environments
- PLO 4: List principles of fitness.
- PLO 5: Interact with technology educational learning systems.
Health Promotion and Sciences (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Identify the ethical consideration associated with planning, implementing and evaluating health promotion programs.
- PLO 2: Demonstration respect and understanding of diverse populations and achieve a level of cultural competency appropriate for professional working environments.
- PLO 3: Investigate, analyze, write, and present well-documented research papers based on complex health problems.
- PLO 4: Identify programmatic strategies to meet the needs of specific populations
Health Care Management (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Apply course content of the internship experience.
- PLO 2: Demonstrate respect and understanding of diverse populations and achieve a level of cultural competency appropriate for professional working environments.
- PLO 3: Work constructively and collaboratively in a working/research group or committee solving case studies in healthcare management.
- PLO 4: Experience working in a professional work environment as part of an internship experience.
- PLO 5: Investigate, analyze, write and present well-documented research papers based on complex healthcare management problems.
- PLO 6: Formulate strategic plans for a health care facility based on managerial and legal practices.
Public Health (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Organize ideas clearly and effectively.
- PLO 2: Apply appropriate communication strategies with clients and their families, community organizations, and/or other stakeholders.
- PLO 3: Analyze community health needs with critical thinking and problem-solving skills.
- PLO 4: Practice awareness of cultural, ethnic, age, gender, and lifestyle differences.
- PLO 5: Demonstrate ethical and professional conduct appropriate to the community health environment.
Radiological Science (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Demonstrate knowledge of x-ray physics and related math.
- PLO 2: Exhibit professional conduct and ethical decision making.
- PLO 3: Work in a team while conducting patient procedures.
- PLO 4: Explain the different modalities for examining patients.
Biomedical (Podiatric Medicine) (B.S.)
- PLO 1: Design and perform experiments that demonstrate the scientific method, incorporate vocabulary and collect and analyze data, and write a cogent lab report.
- PLO 2: Make oral presentations that demonstrate the scientific method.
- PLO 3: Demonstrate connections among population biology, ecology and evolution, molecular and cellular biology and organismal biology, and among biology, chemistry and physics.
- PLO 4: Make qualitative and quantitative assessments of their own data as well that in scientific literature.
- PLO 5: Create and explain illustrations of biological phenomena.
Exercise and Sports Science (M.S.)
Shared by all tracks:
- PLO 1: Design and institute exercise and wellness assessment and maintenance programs which maximize compliance, motivation, technology, and prevents injury and illness.
- PLO 2: Use qualitative and quantitative reasoning and evidence, synthesizing information from a variety of origins to methodically and systematically solve problems and develop intervention in the human movement domain.
- PLO 3: Apply analytical and critical thinking to advance exercise and wellness initiatives for individuals, families, businesses, communities, and other health care professionals in the delivery of care.
- PLO 4: Apply fundamental movement principles and demonstrate an applied understanding of the form and function of the human body.
- PLO 5: Communicate effectively in ways that are congruent with situational needs, orally and in writing with lay and professional audiences.
High Performance Coaching Concentration:
- PLO 6: Integrate high-performance coaching and training methods that optimize performance and athletic potential across youth, interscholastic, intercollegiate, and professional settings.
Sports Psychology Concentration:
- PLO 6: Integrate psychological techniques and strategies for the enhancement of human performance and well-being in sport and exercise across recreational, professional and collegiate settings.
Strength and Conditioning Concentration:
- PLO 6: Develop sports and conditioning regimens that promote rehabilitation, wellness, and physical performance in sport and exercise across recreational, professional, and collegiate settings.
- Biomedical Science (Podiatric Medicine) B.S.
- Exercise and Movement Science, B.S.
- Exercise and Sports Science (High Performance Coaching), MS
- Exercise and Sports Science (Sports Psychology), MS
- Exercise and Sports Science (Strength and Conditioning), MS
- Exercise and Sports Science, MS
- Health Care Management, B.S.
- Health Promotion and Science Minor
- Health Promotion and Science, B.S.
- Personal Training Minor
- Public Health Minor
- Public Health, BS
- Radiologic Sciences, B.S.
The course covers the main principles of global health along with additional topics such as health determinants and disparities, socioeconomic status and health, human rights, culture and health, unintentional injuries, maternal and child health, water and sanitation, and infectious diseases.
This course introduces concepts of occupational safety and health, including regulatory agencies, financial and human impact of occupational injuries and illnesses, and workers' compensation. It covers basic safety terminology and how to access safety information and resources.
The Introduction to Human Disease course is designed to bring students to a level of understanding of basic human biology, health, and disease, as well as modern biomedical science that will enable them to make rational decisions on personal, ethical, and political issues in their health. Focused analysis of the causes and mechanics of human illness and death will be presented for each of the major human body systems. Selected diseases will be studied in greater detail including etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, sociology, and therapy.
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to environmental health and disease. Using the perspectives of the population and community, the course covers factors associated with the development of occupational and environmental health problems. Students gain an understanding of the interaction of individuals and communities with the environment, the potential impact on health of environmental agents, and specific applications of concepts of occupational and environmental health.
This course will focus on the complexities of health service delivery to diverse populations using social-ecological models to provide a deeper understanding of the impacts of health policy, social justice, structural inequities, and the value systems of diverse groups, as well as variables related to gender, age, lifestyle, religion, culture, social class, race, geography, and developmental level and how this relates to health status and health service needs.
The course examines health-related motivation and behavior through the study of relevant psychological, sociological, and educational theory and research. Emphasis is on application of behavioral and behavior-change theories and constructs in designing effective health education and promotion programs.
This course offers students an opportunity to obtain practical experience in community health work. Students will contract for 50-100 hours at an internship placement and participate in a weekly seminar to discuss their fieldwork and apply academic theory to practice. Students will work in settings that familiarize them with concrete examples of the core competencies in the Community Health major. Students will also gain an understanding of industry and organizational structures, cultures, and ethics, and will strengthen their critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills. They will keep logs of their activities and complete other written assignments for class.
The senior capstone course integrates the knowledge, concepts and professional skills gained from prior coursework in Community Health. Students choose between two different options: (1) an applied project in which the student develops a hypothetical applied case and intervention program for a group or organization in order to synthesize and demonstrate the ability to understand, develop, and advance the principles of Community Health or (2) conduct a research project in which the student displays the development of research techniques, including the ability to define a research problem, write hypotheses, review the literature, apply a research design, collect and analyze data, and interpret the results.
This course provides an introduction to the domains of exercise and movement science including physiological systems, exercise physiology, clinical assessment, and exercise and sports nutrition.
This course is designed to provide students with the basic concepts in statistics, measurement and evaluation in exercise and movement science. The course incorporates the application and interpretation of descriptive and inferential statistics for quantitative research and fitness evaluation. Students will utilize computer based statistical programs for statistics analysis.
This course introduces students to concepts of mechanics as they apply to human movement, particularly those pertaining to exercise, sport, and physical activity. The student should gain an understanding of the mechanical and anatomical principles that govern human motion and develop the ability to link the structure of the human body with its function from a mechanical perspective.
Emphasis on organization and administrative policies and procedures; purchase and care of equipment and supplies; public and professional relations; structural and functional aspects of a school program in physical education, athletics, and intramurals.
This course provides students with an overview of how physical training affects the human body. Topics include weight training, principles of training, as well as aerobic and anaerobic changes that occur from a training stimulus.
This course introduces students to appropriate nutrition practices in relation to exercise or sport training to promote health, energy and adaptations.
This course provides an introduction to the foundational concepts of strength and conditioning. Topics covered include strength and conditioning terminology and foundations, strength and conditioning exercises, warmup strategies, and program design.
introduction to teaching and learning sport skills from a motor learning perspective. Open and closed loop information processing systems are used to describe and explain sports skill, reaction time, and motor skills. Theory and concepts learned will be applied to the everyday practical aspects of teaching and coaching sport.
This course provides students with a foundation in exercise testing and prescription. Students will investigate the many parameters of fitness, including their measurement, interpretation of results, and application toward recommendations for exercise programs. Topics will include cardiorespiratory fitness, muscular strength and endurance, flexibility, body composition, and performance/athletic components.
This course explores the interfaces between human resource management, operations, marketing, and entrepreneurship within the context of entrepreneurial, for-profit, and nonprofit fitness and health promotion ventures.
Relates basic legal concepts to sport and physical education environments. Includes torts, contract law, constitutional law, negligence, and Title IX issues.
The study of emerging topics or inquiries not fully covered in other courses. This includes an examination of evidence-based approaches to exercise and movement science.
This course introduces students to exercise and sport psychology theories, mediators, and behavior change strategies applied to sport, leisure, and exercise settings and provides knowledge and opportunities to develop skills to promote adoption and adherence to physical activity.
This course offers students an opportunity to obtain practical experience in community health work. Students will contract for 50-100 hours at an internship placement and participate in a weekly seminar to discuss their fieldwork and apply academic theory to practice. Students will work in settings that familiarize them with concrete examples of the core competencies in the Exercise Health concentration. Students will also gain an understanding of industry and organizational structures, cultures, and ethics, and will strengthen their critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills. They will keep logs of their activities and complete other written assignments for class.
Independent study under the direction of a faculty member. For Exercise Science majors only.
The senior capstone course integrates the knowledge, concepts and professional skills gained from prior coursework in exercise science. Students choose between two different options: (1) an applied project in which the student develops a hypothetical applied case and intervention program for a client or team in order to synthesize and demonstrate the ability to understand, develop, and advance the principles of exercise science, or (2) conduct a research project in which the student displays the development of research techniques, including the ability to define a research problem, write hypotheses, review the literature, apply a research design, collect and analyze data, and interpret the results.
In this course, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to find and evaluate scholarly and academic research resources generally employed by exercise and health scientists. Through an emphasis on general statistics, interpretation and analysis of data, research ethics, scientific writing, and database use, students develop proficiency in the essential steps of the scientific method of inquiry. By engaging with course discussions, writing assignments, and an independent research project, students synthesize theories and data in order to apply integrated knowledge to practice across exercise and sport science settings. In establishing a community of inquiry, sustained and active participation with other course participants are requisites to fulfill participation requirements.
In this course, students will explore how nutrition supports physical performance and the relationships between nutrition, energy metabolism, and exercise and sport performance. The course features in-depth analysis of dietary and nutritional supplementation. Emphasis is placed on applying evidence-based strategies in examining case studies, including topics of student interest.
This course explores the interfaces between human resource management, operations, marketing, and entrepreneurship within the context of entrepreneurial, for-profit and nonprofit fitness and health promotion ventures. Students will develop a business plan for potential funding.
Explore the foundations of strength and conditioning as established by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Design and critique strength and conditioning programs based on NSCA guidelines. Designed to prepare students interested in becoming a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA
This course develops skills for the selection, development, and implementation of various types of instruments and techniques for measuring and evaluating health and human performance interventions. Evaluation of these interventions includes general health behaviors, health related fitness, nutritional and dietary intake, body composition, and other areas related to an individual's quality of life.
During this course students will examine a systematic approach to integrated performance training using the National Academy of Sports Medicine's Optimum Performance Training model. This course is designed to prepare students interested in becoming a Performance Enhancement Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
During this course students will examine a systematic approach to integrated performance training using the National Academy of Sports Medicine's Optimum Performance Training model. This course is designed to prepare students interested in becoming a Performance Enhancement Specialist through the National Academy of Sports Medicine.
This course prepares students to develop programs and services that enhance the health, fitness, and well-being of diverse groups. Through the study of group dynamics, students explore the psychological processes that appear in group sport, exercise, and recreational activity. Topics include anxiety, self-confidence, motivation and goal setting, leadership, the self in groups, and other elements of sport psychology related to group dynamics.
This course will explore program design principles for corrective exercise training, with an emphasis on the National Academy of Sports Medicine's Corrective Exercise Continuum, but additional program/assessment strategies will be discussed.
Explore the foundations of strength and conditioning as established by the National Strength and Conditioning Association (NSCA). Design and critique strength and conditioning programs based on NSCA guidelines. Designed to prepare students interested in becoming a Certified Strength and Conditioning Specialist (CSCS) through the NSCA. Explore the principles of resistance training and periodization. Develop periodized programs based on foundational and current literature. Critique and justify programming selections.
Application of mechanical principles to development of human movement, with emphasis on kinematics and kinetics.
Examines fundamental concepts in bioenergetics, biomechanics, cardiopulmonary responses, and skeletal muscle function & adaptation. Includes evidence-based program design and practical skills necessary for success in fire and rescue, law enforcement, and military careers. Content will help prepare students to sit for the NSCA Tactical Strength and Conditioning Facilitator certification.
An evaluation of the physical, physiological, and psychological factors that affect motor skill acquisition, performance, retention, and transfer. With a focus on voluntary movement, topics include nervous system control of movement, sensory and perceptual contributions to motor learning, information processing, optimal conditions for learning motor skills, preferred modes of feedback delivery during learning, and individual variability in motor skill acquisition. Students will apply the principles of motor learning to coaching, fitness, and rehabilitation settings. Additionally, they will analyze motor learning settings and determine adjustments to be made in those settings to foster motor skill acquisition for a variety of populations.
This course covers current topics in sport psychology. Emphasizes theory and research on personality, motivation, arousal, cognition, attributions, attitudes, self-efficacy, leadership effectiveness, and group dynamics.
Are sports an avenue for personal empowerment or a path to exploitation? What do sports mean in American society? Study the ways in which sports are embedded in social systems such as the economy, government, and education. Themes include race, class and gender issues, crime and violence in sport, and the economic impact of sport.
Development and implementation of a strength and conditioning program through a case study with a member of the community. Justify your programming selections and assess program success
Graduate students only. Independent research and study in a topic in Exercise Science. Prerequisites: graduate standing and approval of the department chairperson.
In-depth study of selected advanced topics in human movement science.
An introduction to the pluralistic health system of 21st-century America; institutions, manpower, consumers, financing, and government. This foundation course will survey topics covered in higher-level courses, as well as describe the broader environment in which individual services are grounded. Topics include public, private, and voluntary services; the impact of laws and regulations at the local, state, and federal levels; the public health hierarchy; the influences of fiscal intermediaries on health care.
An overview of issues concerning the aging population and process; stereotypes, retirement issues, physical and psychological changes, legal and financial needs, family supports. Traditional facilities as well as innovative concepts and programs are introduced.
Introduction to basic organization with emphasis on acute-care hospitals and departmental structure. The managerial functions and supervisory skills for the middle manager; comparison of managerial styles.
An overview of legal issues confronting health care personnel. Topics include contracts, informed consent, patient rights, record keeping, liability for negligence and malpractice, as well as other ethical topics.
An in-depth workshop approach to management problems in health care delivery. The emphasis is on case study and an experiential method of problem-solving. Specific cases will be used to illustrate problem-solving and decision-making techniques of practical use to health care professionals. Interpersonal skills and group dynamics are also developed.
Introduction to the effective management of human resources. Topics covered include recruitment, training and supervision, discipline, evaluation, and termination. The course applies personnel theories and techniques to the health field.
Students will examine and analyze the health care research literature with an emphasis on understanding and then applying statistics in novel health care situations.
Introduction to the efforts to assure quality in health services, professionals, and institutions; peer review, utilization review, medical audit, credentialing and continuing education, accreditation. diagnosis-related groups or DRG'S, ambulatory payment classifications or APC's, Medicare and Medicaid reimbursements, Accountability within professions vs. external controls. Evaluation models as applied to health programs and services.
Survey of the principles of accounting theory with emphasis on their application to the health field. Managerial accounting as it relates to planning, budgeting, staffing, and rate setting. Designed for the middle manager.
The principles, skills and knowledge involved in organizing and managing a long-term care facility. Special attention is given to the needs of the aged in various levels of care, financing mechanisms, federal, state, and local regulations, and criteria/standards which must be met to secure licensure in New York State as a nursing home administrator.
This course includes learning about topics such as Elderly Waiver (EW) and Alternative Care (AC) programs that fund home and community based services (HCBS) for people age 65 and older who may need the level of care provided in a nursing home, but choose to live in the community. Case management, home health care, and special provisions such as respite care will be covered
A study of basic principles of mental health, as well as an overview of maladjustment. Programs, treatment modalities, facilities designed to maintain or restore mental health, and long-term custodial institutions will be discussed.
Observation and supervised experience in selected health care settings; participation in administrative meetings and training sessions. Includes on-campus seminar to discuss problems and progress. May be taken for two semesters with the approval of the approval of the chairman only.
Observation and supervised experience in selected health care settings; participation in administrative meetings and training sessions. Includes on-campus seminar to discuss problems and progress. May be taken for two semesters with the approval of the approval of the chairman only.
Independent investigation into selected topics in health care management under the direction of a department faculty member. Pre-requisite: 15 credits in HC courses with B average and Departmental approval.
Independent investigation into selected topics in health care management under the direction of a department faculty member. Pre-requisite: 15 credits in HC courses with B average and Departmental approval.
enior seminar dealing with the ethical aspects of current issues in the health field. Topics may include organ transplantation, managed care, informed consent, confidentially of patient records, reproductive technology, genetic research, and whistle blowing. Designed to be taken in the student's final year, this course is the capstone experience for both content and skills. Fulfilling the college requirement of a comprehensive project, each student will make a major presentation and write a mid- length thesis-quality paper. Taken in the last semester, with the approval of the chairman.
Graduate students only. This course will explore the U.S. health care industry, one of the most controversial and changing industries in the global economy. Topics of discussion will include characteristics of the components of U.S. health care systems, the roles of the public and private sector, the impact of managed care, health care markets, and health care reform strategies.
Graduate students only. This course will explore how leaders develop and implement innovations in health care. Topics will include design thinking, evaluating new opportunities, leadership theories, overcoming organizational resistance to change, and the roles of entrepreneurship and intrapreneurship and reforms in the current health care environment.
Graduate students only. This course will explore health care financial management and reimbursement systems in the U.S. Students will focus on the practical application of financial concepts and skills in health care settings. Topics will include third-party payers, Medicare/Medicaid payments, managing working capital, resource allocation, and the impact of local and federal health care reforms.
Graduate students only. This course will explore specific, identified topics in health care management. The subject matter will be chosen by the instructor prior to registration, with the approval of the department chair. Topics may include information technology, marketing, project management, or other contemporary concerns in health care management.
Provides an overview of select current issues in the area of health. Data necessary for making informed decisions will be presented. Personal and societal attitudes, beliefs, and values implicit in the decision-making process will be discussed as they relate to health behavior and, consequently, health outcomes. 2 CREDITS. EVERY SEMESTER. DAY. EVENING. NOTE This course does not fulfill the 2-credit core requirement for HCM majors.
An introductory course in community health issues, including basic concepts of community health; overview of government, foundations, private agencies, and voluntary health organizations; health care reform issues; the nine different areas of community health programming, such as chronic and communicable disease control measures, health promotion, and health education.
A survey of home, school, and community programs in safety and first aid. Methods of safety research, Haddon's matrix, rating calculation, identification of accident types, methods to control causation and responsibilities of individuals, and the community for safe living. Procedures for temporary care of victims of accidents and sudden illness. Successful completion of this course leads to American Red Cross Certification in Standard First Aid and Personal Safety (includes Adult CPR).
An introductory course in human nutrition that includes its importance to optimum physical and emotional health. The nutrients--carbohydrates, proteins, lipids, water, vitamins, and minerals--are studied as to their composition, usage in the human body, where found in foods, how digested and utilized in the human body. Body requirements, patterns of diet for various groups, and specific conditions, as well as social and cultural influences on food selection are studied.
Consumer problems are viewed in terms of economic, sociological, psychological, and biological consequences to the individual and the community; consumer attitudes and behavior regarding needs, desires, and response to advertising, incorrect labeling, health insurance, life insurance, Medicare, over-the-counter drugs, cosmetics, health fads and quackery, consumer protection agencies, evaluation of products, and other topics of interest to the consumer.
This interdisciplinary course explores theories, research, and techniques related to the impact and management of stress. Emphasis upon the application of stress reduction techniques through class exercises in progressive muscle relaxation, autogenic and imagery training, systematic desensitization, assertiveness training, time management, and problem-solving.
Exploring healing and wholeness from many perspectives, this course is an overview of healing from the traditions of the shaman to contemporary faith healers, from ancient roots through modern medicine--Chinese medicine, Ayurvedic medicine, and homeopathy as well as alternative medicines and holistic therapies and ways to self-healing through dream journals and meditation.
Accurate information about their own health needs enables women to become more active participants in their own health care. Issues include physicians attitudes toward women, knowing ones own body, contraception, pregnancy, rape, family violence, hysterectomy and mastectomy, mental health issues, and patients rights in the health system. 3 credits. Fall; evening.
Investigates the processes of death, loss, and grief while focusing upon the manner in which patterns of dealing with death are interwoven with patterns of living. The family, religion, medicine, economy, law, and community are considered. Specific issues addressed include the moral and legal aspects of euthanasia and the right to die; the hospital, hospice, and home as alternative sites for dying; definitions of life and death; religious and cultural burial customs; and the bereavement process. The implications of these issues are explored for health care practitioners and other individuals in the helping professions as well as for people in their daily lives. 3 credits. Spring; evening.
An introductory course in the study of public health the content of course will focus on basic material related to the five public health foundation: Health Services, Epidemiology, Social/Behavioral, Science, Environmental Health and Biostatistics. Discussion will include the biomedical basis of public health, some historical developments of public health, and the role of health ethics especially in research and future challenges. The course will also present an introduction to the cross-cutting areas of public health including: communication, and informatics, diversity and culture, leadership, public health biology, professionalism, program planning, and systems thinking.
Development and application of health education methods to trainers who will teach disease prevention and health promotion to diverse audiences. Focus on developing health literacy across the lifespan for each constituency. 3 credits. Fall semester; day.
Review of empirical research including basic interpretation of elementary statistical tests and techniques. Literature review of behavior maintenance, adoption, change and management theories drawn from the public health and social sciences. Prerequisite: HS 2150. 3 credits. Spring semester; day
This introductory course will examine the root causes and the scientific understanding of the major environmental health problems associated with urban communities. The course will examine key historical trends and look at current trends and new emerging issues facing densely-populated urban cities. Topics covered include an examination of both indoor and outdoor environmental pollutants and biological hazards related to food, water, sanitation, air quality, noise, radiation, and occupational or indoor hazards. Specific pollutants of interest will be discussed, including asbestos, heavy metals, pesticides, PCBs, radiation, mold, tobacco smoke and other allergens with relevance to their impact on public health. Environmental disasters, either naturally occurring or artificially induced, i.e., as acts of terrorism, will also be examined as a potential vehicle of disease and threat to public health. The course will also look at current trends in novel urban design, construction, and urban planning (so-called green construction) as a means of mitigating environmental hazards and promoting public health. The course will conclude with an examination of the scientific basis for policy decisions and regulations that aim to control environmental hazards and lessen their impact on the health of urban communities.
This course addresses questions about human sexuality using bio-medical knowledge about anatomy (the organs), physiology (function), and behaviors. We will look at the lifespan health issues that trouble people the most using a public health perspective. We will address health issues that impact sexuality, although related to other bodily systems. Along the way, we explore where people obtain sexual information, review its accuracy and develop strategies for finding valid information. We will talk about global Public Health interventions that promote responsible sexuality, equal access to reproductive information and technologies, and how health disparities impact global health measurements. Together we will create sexual behavior negotiations, consent exchanges, and shared responsibility scripts that we will talk about in light of legal, ethical, economic, and cultural conditions. Community-based careers and scholarship in sexual health will also be introduced.
An introductory study of the factors influencing the nature and causes of communicable diseases and chronic conditions in human populations. The study of principles, practices, theories, and methods related to the control and prevention of disease prepares the student for practical application of statistics. Topics include the natural history of diseases in various population groups, environmental and biological factors influencing the emergence of disease, and the investigation of a community health problem.
Students are guided through planning and designing a health promotion program in a content area, setting, and population of their own choice.
Students are guided through program acceptance, marketing implementation, and evaluation programs. Students will organize and implement a campus-wide health fair and evaluate it.
In this course, students will learn about the prevalence of and rise of obesity in our society. Causes of obesity and its effect on health will be explored. Socioeconomic factors such as cheap high calorie food, and increasing urbanization, as well as genetics, cultural differences in perception of food, and its preparation and consumption will be examined. The biology of the effects of weight on organ systems such as the heart and circulation and diabetes will be considered. Models of successful solutions to this problem will be presented, and students will be encouraged to formulate their own solutions.
A practical overview of 3D printing technologies and design in Health Care.
Provides a dual introduction to concepts and skills that will culminate in the completion of a senior thesis in the seminar. This course introduces a variety of ethical issues related to health. Research skills from topic selection and narrowing through draft writing will be practiced. Prerequisite: HS 3251. 3 credits, Fall semester, day, beginning Fall 2009.
Observation and supervised experience in a community setting giving practical application to previously studied concepts and theories related to health promotion or health administration. Minimum of 135 hours in the field placement plus required on-campus meetings as scheduled by the instructor. May be taken for two semesters with the permission of the Chairperson only. Prerequisites: 15 HS credits. 3 credits per semester. Every semester.
Observation and supervised experience in a community setting giving practical application to previously studied concepts and theories related to health promotion or health administration. Minimum of 135 hours in the field placement plus required on-campus meetings as scheduled by the instructor. May be taken for two semesters with the permission of the Chairperson only. Prerequisites: 15 HS credits. 3 credits per semester. Every semester.
Independent investigation into a selected health science topic under the direction of a department faculty member. Usually culminates in a major paper. Requires a written proposal accepted by the Chairperson prior to registration. Prerequisites: Approval of the Chairperson and 15 HS credits with a B average. 3 credits per semester. Every semester; day and evening.
Same as HS 600; students may elect a second semester as HS 601.
Integrating theory and practical experiences in health promotion, this seminar allows in-depth exploration of issues of importance to the field. Completion of a thesis paper and oral presentation encompass the major work in this course.
This course is an interdisciplinary exploration of the interface of medical sciences and spiritual healing arts. It begins with very early attempts of human beings to explain illness and death and to intervene, then traces that process to the present. The course investigates medical, surgical, spiritual, and psychological interventions within their cultural contexts. Topics include Chinese medicine, Native American healing, and the phenomenon of miracle cures. Open to Honors students only.
The course covers the main principles of global health along with additional topics such as health determinants and disparities, socioeconomic status and health, human rights, culture and health, unintentional injuries, maternal and child health, water and sanitation, and infectious diseases.
This course introduces concepts of occupational safety and health, including regulatory agencies, financial and human impact of occupational injuries and illnesses, and workers' compensation. It covers basic safety terminology and how to access safety information and resources.
The Introduction to Human Disease course is designed to bring students to a level of understanding of basic human biology, health, and disease, as well as modern biomedical science that will enable them to make rational decisions on personal, ethical, and political issues in their health. Focused analysis of the causes and mechanics of human illness and death will be presented for each of the major human body systems. Selected diseases will be studied in greater detail including etiology, pathogenesis, epidemiology, sociology, and therapy.
This course is designed to provide students with an introduction to environmental health and disease. Using the perspectives of the population and community, the course covers factors associated with the development of occupational and environmental health problems. Students gain an understanding of the interaction of individuals and communities with the environment, the potential impact on health of environmental agents, and specific applications of concepts of occupational and environmental health.
This course will focus on the complexities of health service delivery to diverse populations using social-ecological models to provide a deeper understanding of the impacts of health policy, social justice, structural inequities, and the value systems of diverse groups, as well as variables related to gender, age, lifestyle, religion, culture, social class, race, geography, and developmental level and how this relates to health status and health service needs.
The course examines health-related motivation and behavior through the study of relevant psychological, sociological, and educational theory and research. Emphasis is on application of behavioral and behavior-change theories and constructs in designing effective health education and promotion programs.
This course offers students an opportunity to obtain practical experience in public health work. Students will contract for 50-100 hours at an internship placement and participate in a weekly seminar to discuss their fieldwork and apply academic theory to practice. Students will work in settings that familiarize them with concrete examples of the core competencies in the Public Health major. Students will also gain an understanding of industry and organizational structures, cultures, and ethics, and will strengthen their critical thinking, research, and problem-solving skills. They will keep logs of their activities and complete other written assignments for class.
The senior capstone course integrates the knowledge, concepts and professional skills gained from prior coursework in Public Health. Students choose between two different options: (1) an applied project in which the student develops a hypothetical applied case and intervention program for a group or organization in order to synthesize and demonstrate the ability to understand, develop, and advance the principles of Public Health or (2) conduct a research project in which the student displays the development of research techniques, including the ability to define a research problem, write hypotheses, review the literature, apply a research design, collect and analyze data, and interpret the results.
Graduate Students Only This course explores the history of the global expansion of disease. By studying epidemics throughout human history - from the plague of Athens to Ebola - the course encourages students to think about the dynamics of globalization from a historical perspective. We will examine the relations between epidemics and warfare, colonial empires, and the growth of global trade networks, and consider how societies in different times and places have responded to the appearance (or threat) of epidemics. The course is divided into three main units: the first unit examines early epidemics (including plague and smallpox) and the globalization of disease as the result of emerging trade networks and exploration. The second unit will explore the rise of modern states in the 19th century and the need for new kinds of strategies to protect the public's health. The third unit will focus on the twentieth century, particularly on attempts to eradicate disease throughout the globe, the rise of international organizations, and the (re)-emergence of diseases such as HIV/AIDS, SARS, Ebola, and COVID-19.
Graduate Students Only The course is designed to familiarize students with the contribution of social and behavioral sciences to the understanding of the distribution, etiology, and solution of public health problems. The theoretical underpinnings of the most relevant explanation, planning, change, and evaluation theories will be reviewed and illustrated with examples of the application of these models to health promotion and disease prevention with individuals, groups, and communities. The format of the course is a survey of basic concepts, analytic frameworks, and social and behavioral sciences strategies that can be applied to current public health issues. Basic principles from psychology, anthropology, sociology, and other social science disciplines are analyzed in relation to the causes, consequences, and control measures for public health problems.
Graduate Students Only This course is designed to assist students in recognizing and analyzing the interrelationships between individuals, population groups, and communities in determining the health status of each. Students will explore the complex determinants of health and disease, the impact of economic, social, environmental, and cultural concerns on community health status, and community organizations that help shape community health. Course content integrates concepts from behavioral, biological, and natural sciences, with emphasis on epidemiology, to examine the history and foundation of community health. The format of the course is a survey of concepts, analytic frameworks, and social and behavioral sciences strategies that can be applied to current public health issues. Principles from psychology, anthropology, sociology, and other social science disciplines are analyzed in relation to the causes, consequences, and control measures for public health problems.
Graduate Students Only This course introduces basic epidemiological and biostatistical principles, concepts, and procedures for the surveillance and investigation of health-related states or events. Introduces collecting data and analyzing disease incidence and prevalence to provide analyses leading to effective interventions and preventions. Reviews sources of information, associations between diseases and precipitating factors, and statistical representations.
Graduate Students Only This course will provide an overview of inequities in health services, as well as current initiatives to address them. The course will cover some of the historical aspects of inequities in health services, such as legal segregation of health care facilities and how race/ethnicity and sexual identity have been conceptualized over time. We will examine what are some of the factors associated with unequal access and quality of general medical care, as well as mental health care and services for substance use disorders.
Graduate Students Only This course explores contemporary issues, problems, and controversies in global health through an interdisciplinary perspective; examines the complex tapestry of social, economic, political, and environmental factors that affect global health; analyzes global health disparities through a social justice and human rights lens; and exposes students to opportunities in global health program and research.
Graduate Students Only This course will provide a broad overview and deep exploration into the evolving body of relevant health communication research, theory, and practice, examining the powerful influences of communication on the delivery of care and the promotion of health. The course will take an action research perspective to the study of health communication, where our overarching educational goal will be to learn how to use strategic health communication to enhance health outcomes and reduce health disparities, locally and globally.
Graduate Students Only This course will introduce students to the methods and growing range of applications of decision analysis and cost-effectiveness analysis in health care, public health, technology assessment, medical decision making, and health resource allocation.
Graduate Students Only This course will provide students with a basic understanding of how to implement public health programs and evaluate their effectiveness. As this course is designed to be grounded in public health practice, you will complete the course with the skills necessary to develop both a program and evaluation plan. Given the importance of public health planning and evaluation occurring within the context of interdisciplinary teams, students in this course will also discuss and practice skills for building effective teams and accomplishing individual and group objectives through teamwork.
Graduate Students Only The focus of this course is on health problems and diseases affecting both pregnant women and children worldwide. The impact of various common health problems at different stages of the life cycle and their functional outcomes in terms of morbidity, mortality, psychological wellbeing, reproduction, and growth will be highlighted. Students will become acquainted with the epidemiology of maternal and childhood diseases in developed and developing countries. Programs and resources available to combat health and nutritional problems will be evaluated. The role of different international organizations will be discussed in the context of a community.
Graduate Students Only This course will examine current and emerging issues in global and public health nutrition. Students will engage in discussions to address populations of diverse cultures and global nutrition health and nutrition policy. Students learn to recognize how determinants of health, health disparities and availability and accessibility of resources, influence the nutrition status of communities and state, country, and regional programs. Program planning and population needs assessments are addressed. Course topics include an overview of global and US public health nutrition goals, malnutrition around the globe, nutrition surveillance systems and interventions, practices and processes of local and global food markets, global food systems and legislative and regulatory policies.
Graduate Students Only This course will examine current and emerging issues in global and public health nutrition. Students will engage in discussions to address populations of diverse cultures and global nutrition health and nutrition policy. Students learn to recognize how determinants of health, health disparities and availability and accessibility of resources, influence the nutrition status of communities and state, country, and regional programs. Program planning and population needs assessments are addressed. Course topics include an overview of global and US public health nutrition goals, malnutrition around the globe, nutrition surveillance systems and interventions, practices and processes of local and global food markets, global food systems and legislative and regulatory policies.
Graduate Students Only This course is intended to give the student practical experience in public health. This practicum is spent in an appropriate program, under the guidance of an administrator qualified by education and/or experience. The practicum consists of a 100-150 hour supervised practical application of previously studied theory and is completed by the student by the end of the term. Development and utilization of original activities is stressed, and periodic progress reports are required. Students must secure a supervised position prior to beginning this course. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor with any questions, prior to registration.
Graduate Students Only The main purpose of this course is to provide the culminating, integrative curricular experience for students enrolled in SFC's Master of Public Health program during their last semester prior to graduation. As such, the course draws on students' prior training in the core areas of public health, their required course work and their real world experience gained in the field prior to their graduation. In particular, the capstone class is closely linked to the MPH practicum. More than just providing a review of the MPH curriculum, however, the Capstone is designed to challenge students to reflect and integrate their training and experience with the goal of developing their own individual point of view regarding the role of public health in contributing to the improvement of the health and wellbeing of populations in the United States, as well as abroad.