Integrating Practice into the Academic and Non-Academic Student Experience at the Rutgers School of Public Health

To ensure that all MPH students can apply knowledge and skills learned in the classroom to address real-world, public health issues domestically and abroad, the Rutgers School of Public Health has developed a variety of innovative practice opportunities that have been integrated into both the academic and non-academic student experiences. Through flexible offerings designed to meet students’ needs, such as a multi-semester field-based practicum, an international service learning and practice course, paid summer internships, and student-led volunteer opportunities, both part-time and full-time students are able to gain important, practical experiences that accommodate their schedules and prepare them for public health professions.

The School’s dedicated Office of Public Health Practice has cultivated a network of agencies and community partners, establishing strong collaborations with local, county and NJ state public health departments. These government agencies, as well as non-profits, corporations, clinical and research institutions, and others provide Fieldwork placements each semester addressing an array of public health topics. Students interested in global public health can enroll in a 3-credit course that brings them to the cane fields and bateyes of the Dominican Republic for one week to lead prevention, health education and other projects that build upon the experiences of previous students. The Bridging the Gaps program offers a short-term internship that places students in economically disadvantaged, urban communities to provide health-related services while practicing public health skills. Throughout the year, the student-directed volunteer organization (V.O.I.C.E.S) and What’s Your Passion community service program allow students to organize and implement public health-focused community projects often in collaboration with partner organizations.

Results from recent student, alumni and preceptor surveys suggest the value and benefits of the School’s practice initiatives for students, communities and partners. However, program sustainability, Fieldwork and further expanding practice activities into the curriculum pose challenges and opportunities that will be discussed.