About the School of Public Health

For those who want to make a difference in the health of communities and populations, the School of Public Health at Drexel University offers exciting opportunities. We prepare graduates who can have a positive effect on the health of the public. Our curriculum combines knowledge of the disciplines of public health with practical applications of that knowledge. By working collaboratively with community groups, agencies, and populations, we prepare professionals who can effectively address today's most pressing public health problems.

Such problems have existed for centuries. Despite many important public health interventions, new problems continue to emerge: the possibility of a bird-flu pandemic, post-hurricane devastation of social infrastructure, HIV/AIDS, complications of drug- and alcohol-induced premature births, tuberculosis, teenage pregnancy, substance abuse, violence, and poor diet and exercise habits. In addition, the structure of health care delivery continues to change. The public health arena needs professionals who can develop, implement, and evaluate strategies to practically and effectively address these problems.

The School is commited to a quality education that keeps pace with today's changing world. In response to a recent self-study and consultation among other key public health educators, modifications to the current curriculum have been implemented for first-year full-time MPH students in Fall, 2005. The curriculum will continue to be innovative and allow us to stay current with changing public health demands. The curriculum remains primarily in Problem-Based Learning (PBL) format while allowing for electives in the second year. Electives can be taken either within the school or within other departments of the university. All courses will be on a quarter basis.

Preparation and Partnership

The School prepares professionals to assess population health; to ensure appropriate services through programmatic, economic, and organizational interventions; and to develop and evaluate policy interventions.

The School believes that professionals can best meet the needs of today and tomorrow with expertise in the integration and practical application of all disciplines of public health. This belief led to the establishment of a School of Public Health whose educational and research programs are built upon partnerships with communities and the organizations that serve them.