Adjusting course: Implementing curriculum renewal priorities in an established MPH

program

Ann Fox, PhD, RD

Background

2012 Situational Assessment Findings:• Disciplinary expertise a major asset (employers)• Enhance understanding of broader health policy

context (health leaders)• Desire for enhanced interdisciplinary learning

(students)• Strengthen qualitative and quantitative methods

foundation (faculty)

Objectives

1. Build on disciplinary depth and specialization of MPH fields to establish communities of practice

2. Enhance student opportunities for interdisciplinary learning

3. Enhance access to practice-related education in health policy

4. Enhance learning opportunities in qualitative and quantitative research methods for all MPH students

5. Establish on-going curriculum evaluation strategies.

Curriculum Renewal Task Force

Core Group• MPH program leads• Students• Administrative staff

Other stakeholders• Faculty• Division heads• Preceptors• Alumni• Employers, community, government agencies

Major Undertakings

• Developed core competencies (PHAC, CEPH)• Developed field specific competencies • Developed new interdisciplinary case-based Intro

Public Health course• Enhanced access to and adjusted scope of Policy

course• Revised Intro qualitative and quantitative courses• Established professional development workshop

series

What worked well?

• Involving students and faculty• Responding to key stakeholders• Setting priorities and foci• Identifying competency development needs

across program fields• Collegial support/Risk taking

What could we have done better?

• Engage division heads and divisional faculty in decision-making

• Be realistic about what can be accomplished in one course, in one year, in one degree program

• Communicate the plan constantly