Undergraduate degree studies in maternal and child health are usually offered through the public health departments at colleges and universities. Students may select from a few courses in maternal and child health at the undergraduate level, but most are offered at the master’s and doctorate levels. Some schools offer certificates at a midpoint in graduate studies so that graduates can work in public health organizations at local and state levels.
Assessing Needs of Children, Women and Families
Within the public health curriculum are courses that address the needs of children, women and families. At the undergraduate level, students learn how to use recommended measures for collecting health related information. These courses are usually limited for undergraduates, but provide a foundation in public health that enables students to earn higher level post graduate degrees in the field.
Accurate assessment of factors that promote or hinder the well being of family members is a competency that helps graduates work effectively in communities. Learning how to conduct programs that meet measurable objectives gives graduates tools for addressing public health issues that relate to women and children among many others.
Orienting Care at the Community Level
Courses at the graduate level teach students how to work with community oriented programs. Guidance by public health graduates who understand the needs of a community can assist community centers by involving health care providers and elected officials. These students learn how to research intervention methods and to share them with stakeholders to create effective programs.
Primary goals of Maternal and Child Health at the community level include developing marketing campaigns that advocate for measures that improve public health. Encouraging participation by community organizations broadens the education process that can link care providers to patients who have chronic or preventable health concerns.
Earning a Certificate
Some schools offer a certificate to master’s and doctoral candidates on completion of required core courses that focus on the health of women and children. The award of a certificate indicates competencies in the historical progress of public health programs and legislation that contributed to it. Students at the graduate level acquire an understanding of human growth patterns and development in addition to knowledge of health systems that support it. A critical skill that certificate holders provide is the ability to identify gaps that may exist in programs for mothers and children.
Preparing for Jobs in Public Health
Graduates who earn a bachelor of science in public health programs are equipped to assess community needs and assets, to plan and implement interventions and to administer programs. Career opportunities are provided by health organizations at the state, local, national and international levels that are dedicated to making a difference. With higher level degrees, specialists can improve health delivery systems through education, research and advocacy.
A career in public health is challenging and rewarding as it confronts disease, domestic violence, environmental issues, reproductive health, obesity and family planning. Studies in Maternal and Child Health require dedication and years of academic training to achieve a lofty goal.
Related Resource: How Much Can I Make Working for Administration for Children and Families (ACF)?