The MS in Health Education is designed to achieve health educator competencies as defined by the Society of Public Health Educators (SOPHE) and the National Commission on Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC) for application in health and public service professions. These competencies are:

1. Assess individual and community needs for health education.

2. Plan effective health education programs.

3. Implement health education programs.

4. Evaluate health education programs.

5. Coordinate the provision of health services.

6. Act as a resource in health education.

7. Communicate health and health education needs, concerns and resources.

8. Apply appropriate research principles and methods in health education.

9. Administer health education programs.

10. Advance the profession of health education.

In this 12 course (36 credit) program, students are required to complete five core courses (15 credits) and one capstone course (3 credits). The remaining courses are taken in one of three specific areas of health promotion: Community Health, School Health or Occupational Health.

The Community Health concentration allows students to focus on current health needs of individuals in the community. Within this concentration area, students can opt for further focus in Aging or Nutrition Marketing. 

The Aging curriculum is designed to increase the knowledge and enhance the practice of professionals working with older individuals. The program combines the core Health Education requirements with courses from the University’s M.S. in Gerontology.

The Nutrition Marketing curriculum is intended to enable Registered Dietitians and Nutritionists to enhance and/or move beyond traditional roles. The program provides administrative skill building with a service and educational orientation, preparing these professionals to promote principles of good health and nutrition to consumers.

The School Health concentration is structured to provide educators, public and private health professional  with knowledge and skills relevant to the overall health of the school aged child, including substance use and abuse, disease prevention and control and physical and emotional health maintenance. 

In addition to the general School Health program, a School Nursing concentration is available to licensed Registered Nurses who serve in school settings. Students can qualify for Pennsylvania School Nurse Certification if desired. 

The Occupational Health curriculum is intended to serve the needs of individuals who are providing health services to those in the workplace. The program develops competencies in management, counseling, and worksite health issues. 

A joint program with Health Administration is also available. See section on Health Administration. Courses for the M.S. in Health Education (General) are also offered at Albright College (See Graduate Programs at Other Locations under General Information for contact persons.)

ACCEPTANCE AND ENROLLMENT

The Committee on Admissions will decide whether the record and general background indicate sufficient ability to complete the program of studies. Applicants will be notified in writing regarding their admission status. Students are admitted for enrollment for the fall, spring, and summer sessions. Qualified individuals may take up to two courses, approved by the Director, as non-matriculated students. 

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