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North Dakota School of Public Health – ND

By allied health world contributing writer
Published:  February 12th, 2010

Education in North Dakota for Public Health

When choosing from North Dakota public health schools, it is worth noting that it is more beneficial for students to attend a program that is accredited by one of the accreditation bodies in Public Health.  This is because it will show employers that you are adequately prepared to work in the field.  The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredits public health programs in which the degree earned will allow the student to be eligible for credentialing from a number of organizations.  Unfortunately there are not any accredited CEPH schools in North Dakota, but the universities in the state offer undergraduate degrees in the biological sciences and health communication, among many others, which can prepare students to move on to graduate programs in Public Health.

When attending graduate level public health programs students will take a variety of courses.  The core classes are usually in epidemiology, health management, environmental health, statistics, and behavioral sciences.  Then depending on the program attending, classes will be more focused in the degree to be earned.  For example, if you are attending a program in public health administration classes will be taken in healthcare policies, policy planning and development, and organizational leadership.

For those who are interested in present-day public health, would find the Certified in Public Health credential from the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE) most beneficial.  To be eligible for this credential you must have a graduate degree in public health from a Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited school.  After registration and approval you must successfully complete the NBPHE public health exam to receive the credential.  The cost of the exam is $350.  The certification must be maintained by completing 50 hours of continuing education every two years. In North Dakota and threw out the united states, there is no licensure for Public health professionals, so credentials and education are the main factors for employers when it comes to hiring.  The CPH will definitely give you an advantage when applying for public health positions.

Through campus based and online programs, aspiring Public Health Professionals in Fargo, Bismarck, Grand Forks and Minot, North Dakota may be able to prepare themselves for the possibility of employment in some of the largest hospitals and healthcare facilities in the state including the St. Alexius Medical Center, Jamestown Hospital, Dakota Clinic and Medcenter One Jamestown.