Chreso University January 2019 Distance Learning and Part Time Public Health

The Public levels with respect to the aims specific to the discipline of public health. The Programme, as aligned with the public Health Skills and Career explores ways of measuring health and disease, and improving the health and wellbeing Health Programme examines various aspects of population health at local, national and international of groups of individuals (e.g. those in a specific geographical area, those with a specific disease, those from a particular ethnic community), preventing and minimizing the consequence of disease, prolonging valued life and reducing inequalities Health is an exciting, dynamic and multi-­‐disciplinary area of study, and public health focuses on the health of populations, locally and globally.

Public health is concerned with the health of a population rather than individuals. It has been defined as ‘the science and art of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting, protecting and improving health through the organized efforts of society.’ It is about promoting well-­‐being, not just dealing with illness, and looks at the impact on health of social, economic, political and environmental factors as well as individual behaviour

Public health is a great career for those who have a passion for improving health and reducing inequalities in health. Public health specialists work across organisations, particularly with local health organizations, local authorities and local communities, and in a variety of settings, from hospitals, and local health organizations, through to local authorities and the voluntary sector, on issues which affect health and well-­‐being.

Some examples of recent priorities for public health work include reducing smoking rates and protecting people from environmental tobacco smoke, looking at ways of reducing obesity, the effects of and tackling climate change, looking at ways to reduce alcohol consumption and new ways of delivering elderly care. This sort of work often has long timescales and results can take years to achieve but can have a lasting impact on improving health and tackling the causes of ill health.

The field of public health is constantly evolving in response to the needs of communities and populations around the world. The underlying mission of public health is to improve the conditions and behaviors that affect health so that all people can attain it.

 

WHY IS PUBLIC HEALTH IMPORTANT?

The work of public health professionals is important because public health initiatives affect people every day in every part of the world. It addresses broad issues that can affect the health and well-being of individuals, families, communities, populations, and societies—both now, and for generations to come.

Public healths programs help keep people alive. These programs have led to:

• Increased life expectancies.

• Worldwide reductions in infant and child mortality.

• Eradication or reduction of many communicable diseases.

This programme is designed to give one the opportunity to:

• Explore the links between theory and practice in relation to the concepts and principles of public health

• Explore the factors that contribute to health and wellbeing of individuals, communities and populations.

• Analyze the impact of policies on public health; and

• Understand the importance of research in public;

Course Learning Outcomes

On successful completion of BSc in Public Health programme, graduates are expected to have gained the technical and professional knowledge and interpersonal skills necessary to work as competent professionals. The skills gained in the programme will enable them to pursue a range of careers related to public health in Zambia and abroad.

Knowledge

Selected themes and issues in public health

The factors that influence health and wellbeing

Research skills and methods used in public health

Theoretical understanding of public health and related fields

Thinking skills

Apply theory in the assessment of public health policy interventions and developments

Develop an understanding of, summarise and synthesise materials from a range of sources to analyse issues in health

Identify, synthesise and evaluate relevant primary and secondary data sources

Skills for life and work (general skills)

Convey ideas in an appropriate written and /or oral format, including where appropriate, presenting this information.

Communicate effectively (in writing and verbally);

The ability to select and utilize appropriate computer software

Set goals and plan a programme of work

Develop personal learning style

Work independently

Many opportunities exist in the expansive field of public health locally nationally and globally. This may involve working in statutory services, the private sector or voluntary organizations. Possible careers may include:

• Health Educators

• Public Health Specialists

• Policy Advisors

• Epidemiologists

• Health Promotion Officers

• Researchers

• Administrators

Contact : 0977141697/976900681

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