Student Handbook - Thomas Jefferson University through the College of Graduate Studies, was...
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Jefferson College of Population Health Student Handbook 2019- 2020
Transcript of Student Handbook - Thomas Jefferson University through the College of Graduate Studies, was...
Jefferson College of Population Health
Student Handbook2019-2020
Notice of Equal Opportunity Thomas Jefferson University is committed to providing equal educational and employment opportunities for all persons without regard to race, color, national or ethnic origin, marital status, religion, sex, sexual orientation, gender identity, age, disability or veteran’s status. The consideration of factors unrelated to a person’s ability, qualifications and performance is inconsistent with this policy. Any person having inquiries or complaints concerning Thomas Jefferson University’s compliance with Title VI, Title IX, the Age Discrimination Act of 1975, the Americans with Disabilities Act, or Section 504 of the Rehabilitation Act is directed to contact their Student Affairs Dean or Human Resources – Employee Relations, who have been designated by Thomas Jefferson University to coordinate the institution’s efforts to comply with the these laws. Any person may also contact the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights, U.S. Department of Education, Washington, D.C. 20202, or the Director, U.S. Department of Education, Office for Civil Rights, Region Three, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania, regarding the University’s compliance with the equal opportunity laws. The Jefferson community is deeply committed to upholding the ethical standards and professional values of Medicine. The sections that follow, which have been adopted by the students, the Executive Council and the Professorial Faculty, are our expression of this commitment.
Student Handbook The Student Handbook is intended to describe the general policies and procedures regarding the Jefferson College of Population Health (JCPH) for a given academic year. It is accurate at the time of printing but is subject to change from time to time as deemed appropriate by the College in order to fulfill its role and mission or to accommodate circumstances beyond its control. Any such changes may be implemented without prior notice and without obligation and, unless specified otherwise, are effective when made. To obtain the latest information, please consult the online version on the JCPH website at: www.Jefferson.edu/PopulationHealth University-wide policies are available on the Thomas Jefferson University website: http://www.jefferson.edu/university/academic-affairs/schools/student-affairs/student-handbooks/university-policies.html Thomas Jefferson University is accredited by The Middle States Commission on Higher Education. The Master of Public Health (MPH) Program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Please direct any suggestions for changes to this document to Jennifer Ravelli, Assistant Dean, 901 Walnut Street, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107, [email protected], (215) 955-8069. Photo Credit: Thomas Jefferson by artist Lloyd Lillie, photo taken by Ed Cunicelli, 2006
Updated 8/29/2019
TABLE OF CONTENTS
A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN ................................................................... 1
JEFFERSON COLLEGE OF POPULATION HEALTH ........................................... 2
History ..................................................................................................... 2
Mission ..................................................................................................... 2
Population Health Defined ............................................................................. 3
Academic Leadership .................................................................................... 5
Contact Information ..................................................................................... 5
Academic Advisors ....................................................................................... 5
Program Directors ....................................................................................... 5
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION .................................................................. 6
ACADEMIC CALENDARS .......................................................................... 7
GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ........................................................ 8
Accommodations for Disabilities ....................................................................... 8
Banner ..................................................................................................... 8
Blackboard Learn ........................................................................................ 8
Campus Key ............................................................................................... 9
Change of Information .................................................................................. 9
Course Descriptions ...................................................................................... 9
Diversity Statement ..................................................................................... 9
Emergency Policies and Procedures .................................................................. 10
Health Insurance and Related Requirements ....................................................... 10
Illness & Injury Policy .................................................................................. 11
JCPH Student Community ............................................................................. 12
JeffMail (Email) ......................................................................................... 12
Mobile Apps .............................................................................................. 12
Posters, Presentations, and Manuscripts ............................................................ 12
Software and Hardware ................................................................................ 13
Student ID ................................................................................................ 13
Student Poster and Travel Support ................................................................... 13
Student Resources ...................................................................................... 14
Student Responsibility ................................................................................. 15
University Policies ...................................................................................... 15
Use of the College Name and University Logo ...................................................... 16
Weather Emergency Policy ............................................................................ 16
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES ..................................................... 17
Enrollment Information ................................................................................ 17
Registration .............................................................................................. 18
Academic Standing ..................................................................................... 22
Course Policies .......................................................................................... 23
Capstone Project ....................................................................................... 24
Grading ................................................................................................... 24
Transfer of Credits ..................................................................................... 26
Challenge Examinations ................................................................................ 28
Revalidation ............................................................................................. 30
Transcripts ............................................................................................... 30
Change of Student Status .............................................................................. 30
Graduation ............................................................................................... 31
Academic Integrity Policy ............................................................................. 33
Change of Grade and Grade Appeal .................................................................. 36
Student Grievance Procedure ......................................................................... 38
CODE OF CONDUCT/STUDENTS RIGHTS, FREEDOMS & RESPONSIBILITIES ............. 40
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES ...................................................................... 41
College Committees .................................................................................... 41
Student Participation at the University Level ...................................................... 42
Jeff SAPHE ............................................................................................... 43
ALUMNI RELATIONS ............................................................................. 44
University Alumni Association ......................................................................... 44
College Alumni Association ............................................................................ 44
LONGITUDINAL SURVEYS ....................................................................... 45
CONTACT LIST ................................................................................... 46
CAMPUS MAP ..................................................................................... 47
APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS & OUTCOMES RESEARCH (AHEOR) ...................... 48
Overview ................................................................................................. 48
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 48
Competencies ........................................................................................... 48
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 49
HEALTH POLICY ................................................................................. 50
Overview ................................................................................................. 50
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 50
Competencies ........................................................................................... 50
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 51
HEALTHCARE QUALITY & SAFETY (HQS, HQSM, HQSi) ................................... 52
Overview ................................................................................................. 52
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 52
Competencies ........................................................................................... 52
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 53
POPULATION HEALTH .......................................................................... 57
Overview ................................................................................................. 59
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 59
Competencies ........................................................................................... 59
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 60
POPULATION HEALTH INTELLIGENCE........................................................ 62
Overview ................................................................................................. 62
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 62
Competencies ........................................................................................... 62
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 63
POPULATION HEALTH SCIENCES .............................................................. 64
Overview ................................................................................................. 64
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 64
Competencies ........................................................................................... 64
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 65
Comprehensive Examination .......................................................................... 67
Dissertation Proposal and Oral Defense ............................................................. 67
PUBLIC HEALTH ................................................................................. 68
Overview ................................................................................................. 68
Key Contacts ............................................................................................. 69
Competencies ........................................................................................... 69
Curriculum ............................................................................................... 71
Completion Timelines .................................................................................. 73
ePortfolios and the Academic Repository ........................................................... 73
Clerkship - Applied Practice Experience (C-APE)................................................... 74
Student Handbook 1
A MESSAGE FROM THE DEAN
Dear JCPH Students,
Welcome to the College of Population Health!
As the first College of Population Health in the country, our mission is to help prepare leaders
for the dramatic changes occurring in our nation’s public health and healthcare systems.
These systems are going through a radical transformation and we are excited to be doing our
part to prepare the leaders of today—and tomorrow!
At JCPH, you will explore the policies and forces that define the health and well-being of
populations. Through your studies, you will develop the knowledge and skills necessary to
examine the social determinants of health and to evaluate, develop, and implement health
policies and systems that will improve the health of populations.
The faculty and staff at JCPH are committed to providing guidance and support, not only as
you progress through the program, but beyond, as well. If you have questions about the
policies described in this Handbook, please talk with the Assistant Dean.
Warm regards,
Willie H. (Billy) Oglesby, PhD, MBA, MSPH, FACHE Interim Dean Jefferson College of Population Health
2 Student Handbook
JEFFERSON COLLEGE OF POPULATION HEALTH
History
Recognizing the importance of health policy to the education of medical professionals, the
Jefferson Medical College (now Sidney Kimmel Medical College) established the Office of
Health Policy and Clinical Outcomes in 1990. As part of a long-term strategy to prepare
healthcare providers for the challenges of a dynamic healthcare environment, the Office of
Health Policy and Clinical Outcomes sought to conduct research and educate healthcare
providers, policy makers, payers, and consumers. In 2003, the Office was given departmental
status within the Jefferson Medical College.
The increasing complexity of Healthcare and its importance to the national economy
established the need and demand for professionals and researchers well versed and prepared
to assume leadership roles. In addition, the complexity and scope of the industry required
that research and education be addressed comprehensively and holistically from the
perspective of population health: health outcomes and their distribution within the
population, the determinants that influence this distribution and the policies and
interventions that affect these determinants. As a result, the University identified health
policy and population health as crucial to the mission and vision of the institution as it moved
forward in the 21st century.
In July 2008, the Board of Trustees designated the Department of Health Policy as the core of
a new University division, the Jefferson College of Population Health (JCPH). In addition, the
University’s Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program, established in 2003 and
administered through the College of Graduate Studies, was relocated to the new College.
With this restructuring, JCPH became one of six Colleges at Thomas Jefferson University (TJU)
and the first college of its kind in the country!
In 2017, Thomas Jefferson University merged with Philadelphia University and the Jefferson
College of Population Health became one of ten colleges in a larger and more comprehensive
university.
Mission
JCPH is dedicated to exploring the policies and forces that define the health and well-being
of populations. Its mission is to prepare leaders with global vision to examine the social
determinants of health and to evaluate, develop, and implement health policies and systems
that will improve the health of populations.
JCPH does this by providing exemplary graduate academic programs in population health,
public health, health policy, healthcare quality and safety, applied health economics and
outcomes research and population health intelligence. Its educational offerings are enhanced
by research, publications, and continuing education and professional development offerings in
these areas.
Student Handbook 3
Population Health Defined
Population health seeks to create conditions that promote health, prevent disease and
adverse events, and improve outcomes.1 Population health builds on public health
foundations by:
Connecting prevention, wellness and behavioral health science with healthcare
delivery, quality and safety, disease prevention/management, and economic issues of
value and risk—all in the service of a specific population, be it a city, provider’s
practice, employee group, hospital’s primary service area or age group.
Identifying socio-economic and cultural factors that determine the health of
populations and developing policies that address the impact of these determinants.
Applying epidemiology and biostatistics in new ways to model disease states, map
their incidence and predict their impact.
Using data analysis to design social and community interventions and new models of
healthcare delivery that stress care coordination and ease of accessibility.
Population health, in the broadest sense, addresses the large-scale social, economic, and
environmental issues that impact health outcomes of groups of people. Population health can
also be defined more narrowly as specific interventions to address the health needs of
attributed and discretely defined subpopulations. This latter definition is generally referred
to as population health management, as the populations are usually under the care of a
health system or provider or have an identifiable disease state.1
When applied to healthcare delivery, population health differs from conventional Healthcare
by emphasizing value rather than volume of services rendered.
CONVENTIONAL HEALTHCARE POPULATION HEALTH
Purpose Cure disease Prevent disease
Keep people healthy and well
Values Diagnosis, treatment, and cure
Physician’s expertise
Unlimited access to healthcare* *if you can afford it
Prevent disease
Emphasis on wellness
Timely, high-quality, cost-effective care
Agency and self-efficacy
Coordinated care/medical home
Methods Diagnosis and treatment
Fee-for-service
Personalized wellness plans
Community engagement and prevention
Global payments
Shared health information
1 Harris, D., Puskarz, K., & Golab, C. (2016). Population Health: Curriculum Framework for an Emerging
Discipline. Population health management, 19(1), 39-45.
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CONVENTIONAL HEALTHCARE POPULATION HEALTH
Constraints Cost
Continuity of care
Lack of access
Administrative burdens
Limited patient contact
Implementation cost
Politics
Opportunities Greater autonomy Cost effectiveness
Evidence-based/personalized medicine
Increased quality/error reduction
Assumptions System “rescues” patients
Doctor is center of authority
Patient responsible for health/wellness
Doctor is center of care team
As leaders in population health education, we have identified six domains—three knowledge-
based and three skills-based—that define our curriculum framework:
Knowledge-Based Domains
Health Systems: Addressing the structure, stakeholders, and processes of local, state
and national health systems
Legal, Regulatory and Administrative: Incorporating local, state, and federal laws;
agency and regulatory body regulations; and ethical standards
Social/Behavioral/Environmental: Addressing the factors outside of medical care that
influence health outcomes
Skills-Based Domains
Analytics: Incorporating epidemiological and outcomes research, sources of data, and
statistical analyses
Process and Design: Addressing the underlying skills necessary to complete many of
the topics seen in the other domains, including the skills required to plan, build and
maintain an organization or intervention
Interpersonal: Incorporating skills and techniques for greater communication and
collaboration between various parties1
Student Handbook 5
Academic Leadership
NAME TITLE
Billy Oglesby, PhD, MBA, MSPH, FACHE Interim Dean
Jennifer Ravelli, MPH Assistant Dean
Contact Information
Office Address 901 Walnut Street, 10th Floor, Philadelphia, PA 19107
Office Phone (Main) (215) 503-0174
Office Fax (215) 923-7583
Office Hours Monday through Friday, 8 am to 5 pm
Website Jefferson.edu/Population Health
Academic Advisors
NAME ADVISEES
Lisa Chosed, MA Matriculated online students
Rosie Frasso, PhD, MSc, MSc, CPH MPH students
Marianna LaNoue, PhD Doctoral students
Katherine Puskarz, MPH MPH students, Non-Matriculated MPH students
April Smith Non-Matriculated onsite students
Program Directors
NAME PROGRAM
David Delgado, PhD, MPH Applied Health Economics and Outcomes Research
Lee Pachter, DO Health Policy
Mary Reich Cooper, MD, JD Healthcare Quality & Safety, Operational Excellence
Mitchell Kaminski, MD Population Health
Karen Walsh, MS, MBA Population Health Intelligence
Marianna LaNoue, PhD Population Health Sciences (Doctoral Program)
Rosie Frasso, PhD, MSc, MSc, CPH Public Health
6 Student Handbook
NEW STUDENT ORIENTATION
Newly enrolled students are required to attend New Student Orientation before attending
class for the first time.
Doctoral Program: Students in the doctoral program have an online, interactive
orientation. It is scheduled in conjunction with an academic advising meeting with the
student’s academic advisor. Students taking an online course must also participate in
the Orientation to Online Courses.
Online Programs (Master’s and Graduate Certificate): Students in online programs
(HQS/M/i, Population Health, Population Health Intelligence, Health Policy, and
AHEOR) are required to participate in a week-long online orientation through
Blackboard the week before classes officially begin. Online students are required to
complete the required tasks within the orientation to gain access to their classes the
following week. The scheduled online orientation is preceded by on-demand
preparatory training that a student can access and complete as soon as a campus key
is acquired.
Public Health Program
o Master’s and Graduate Certificate: Students must participate in a hybrid
orientation (part online, part in-person). Any students taking an online course
must also participate in the Orientation to Online Courses.
o MPH LEAP Program: Students are required to participate in an additional
orientation.
o Non-Matriculated: Students are required to participate in an additional
orientation.
Student Handbook 7
ACADEMIC CALENDARS
Online and onsite/hybrid courses at JCPH have separate Academic Calendars. The most up-to-
date calendars are available online.
8 Student Handbook
GENERAL POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Accommodations for Disabilities
A student may request accommodation for a disability through the Office of Student Affairs.
Information about the process is available online. The University policy on Disability
Accommodations is also available online.
Banner
The Banner Information System enables students and faculty to access academic records and
process routine academic functions. Appropriate security features have been built in to
maintain confidentiality of this information. Students are issued a Campus Key upon
matriculation; the campus key is required to access information on the Banner website.
Features that are available through Banner include:
Application for financial aid
Course registration
Viewing of course schedules
Viewing of final grades (unofficial transcript)
Request for transcript
Payment of tuition charges
Viewing and updating demographic information
Blackboard Learn
Blackboard Learn is the online learning platform for all courses. Blackboard is the repository
for calendars, announcements, and links to a student’s courses. In each course, students
should expect instructors to post:
Course syllabi
Assignment details
Grading rubrics for all graded assignments
Grades for submitted assignments
Announcements
Once logged in, Blackboard Learn provides single-sign on access to JeffMail.
Student Handbook 9
Students are expected to complete the Foundations Training - Blackboard Learn in the JCPH
Student Community Training folder. The training provides a basic exploration of Blackboard’s
features.
SafeAssign
SafeAssign is Blackboard’s built-in plagiarism software. Students are encouraged to submit
copies of their assignments to the SafeAssign folder in the Course Resources section in every
class. SafeAssign will produce an Originality Report that should be reviewed thoroughly.
APA Format The College requires students to submit academic work following APA format version 6 or
higher. https://www.jefferson.edu/university/academic-
affairs/schools/student-affairs/student_writing_center/resources-for-
student-writers.html
Campus Key
Campus keys are the universal login credential and personal identifier for accessing University
resources such as JeffMail, Blackboard Learn, and Banner Web. Campus keys can be
determined using the Campus Key Lookup. The initial password is generally a student’s first
and last initial in lowercase, the last four digits of the student’s social security number and
the student’s first and last initial in uppercase. For example, John Smith’s initial password
would be: js1234JS. If a different password has been created, the student will receive a
notification. Students are strongly recommended to change their passwords on a regular basis
and not to release this information to anyone. No University organization, including IS&T, will
require students to send their account information, such as social security numbers and
passwords, via email.
Change of Information
Any change of student information with regard to name, address, marital status, etc., must
be reported to the University Office of the Registrar. Students may update their mailing
addresses and telephone numbers directly on Banner Web. To change a name on a student’s
academic record, the University Office of the Registrar must have the appropriate
documentation such as a marriage certificate or court document. All name changes should
also be reported to the academic advisors.
Course Descriptions
Descriptions of JCPH courses are available online.
Diversity Statement
Thomas Jefferson University has a long and proud history in contributing to the national
healthcare workforce. It aspires to create a diverse and inclusive environment, knowing that
10 Student Handbook
the creative energy and innovative insights that result from diversity are vital for the
intellectual rigor and social fabric of the University and is requisite for a highly effective
healthcare workforce of the future. As a scholarly community, the University welcomes
people of all racial, ethnic, cultural, socio-economic, national and international backgrounds,
diversity of thought, pedagogy, religion, age, sexual orientation, gender/gender identity,
political affiliation, and disability.
Emergency Policies and Procedures
JeffALERT Emergency Notification System
JeffALERT is the University’s on-campus emergency notification system. JeffALERT allows the
University to send simultaneous alerts in minutes through text messaging, voicemail, and
email to numerous devices, such as cellular phones, landline phones, fax machines, and PDAs.
In order for the system to be effective, students need to keep contact information current on
Banner. Students must provide contact numbers that they are most likely to check/answer
should a message be sent to them.
The Student Emergency Contact Information Policy is available online.
Emergency Preparedness
TJU has taken steps to support our campus community during times of heightened concern.
The Department of Emergency Management has established a plan that includes procedures
for all University buildings and occupants, as well as information that would be helpful in the
event of an emergency. Students are encouraged to visit the Emergency Preparedness site for
more information.
The following policies and plans are available online:
University Campus Violence Policy
University Weapons Policy
Active Shooter Response Plan2
Occupational Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids
JCPH student are not permitted to practice medicine or any other clinical field as part of
their JCPH studies, even if they have a license to do so. Students should be aware of the
University policy concerning Occupational Exposure to Blood and Body Fluids, especially if
they are completing their Clerkship and/or Capstone in a clinical setting.
Health Insurance and Related Requirements
All students seeking to matriculate into an on-campus graduate certificate or degree program
must provide proof of health insurance.3 Students without health coverage may purchase
2 This policy is only accessible from a University computer.
Student Handbook 11
insurance through the University. Students will not be allowed to register for courses without
proof of health insurance. Health insurance status must be updated regularly. The University
Health Insurance Policy is available online.
On-campus students can receive free flu vaccinations through the University Health Services
starting in September of each year. More information on the University Flu Vaccination Policy
is available online.
Students should be aware that the Jefferson Campus is a Tobacco Free Environment.
Illness & Injury Policy
In the event of a change in health status, extended illness, or serious injury that causes the
student to miss academic activities, the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs and/or the
Program Director reserves the right to require documentation of clearance through the
Occupational Health Network for Employees & Students (OHN).
If a faculty member believes that a physical or mental health concern may be impairing a
student’s ability to safely and effectively learn and/or execute their responsibilities, the
student will be referred to OHN for an evaluation. Though the student’s right to privacy is
recognized and respected, it is important that the optimal support is provided to the student
and that client and patient safety is protected.
If a student is referred to OHN, that student MUST report for an evaluation before returning
to the classroom or C-APE site. Students who fail to report may not return to class.
Students may be required to present information from the treating provider to assist in the
evaluation of their readiness to return to class. Clearance will be communicated from OHN
to the Assistant Dean for Student Affairs prior to the student returning to the classroom or C-
APE setting. When the student has been cleared to return, they should work with the faculty
of their enrolled courses to develop a plan for making up missed coursework.
As per the University Drug and Alcohol Policy, controlled substances legally prescribed by a
licensed medical provider, as well as other medications, can influence performance and
behavior. In these cases, the student may be referred to OHN for assessment. If a change in
health status requires accommodations, the student should contact the Office of Accessibility
Services.
3 Insurance must meet minimum requirements stated in the University Policy to qualify for a waiver.
12 Student Handbook
JCPH Student Community
Located on the Community tab of Blackboard Learn, the JCPH Student Community is the
central depository for program requirements (e.g., Capstone and Clerkship procedures),
JCPH-sponsored events, graduation requirements, and career opportunities. Students can
submit population health-related events to the Assistant Dean for posting to the JCPH Student
Community.
JeffMail (Email)
All students are issued a JeffMail email account. JCPH uses this email as the primary method
of communicating with students. Generally the format is
[email protected]. Students should check their Jefferson email
frequently to remain informed of important information concerning their matriculation. All
electronic communications should be sent through JeffMail. Faculty and staff will not respond
to emails students send with a non-Jefferson email address except under extenuating
circumstances.
When students graduate from JCPH, their University email address will transition into their
alumni address, usually [email protected]. Students should email the
Assistant Dean with an alternate email address for communications regarding College events
and news.
Mobile Apps
Learn@TJU mobile app provides students with convenient mobile access to TJU campus and
academic resources including links to key websites, calendars, contact information, and news.
It is available for both Apple and Android devices.
A Blackboard Mobile Learn app is also available. It provides access to core Blackboard course
functions on Android, Windows, and Apple devices.
Posters, Presentations, and Manuscripts
Students submitting posters, presentations, or abstracts to conferences, seminars, or
workshops should identify themselves as a JCPH student and the poster or presentation should
have the Jefferson logo on it. Students are encouraged to use the provided poster and
presentation templates. All posters and presentations must adhere to Jefferson Brand
Guidelines (see Use of the College Name and University Logo).
Students submitting manuscripts for publication should identify themselves as a JCPH student.
If the manuscript contains work completed as part of their degree program, students are
encouraged to include a Jefferson faculty member as an author, if appropriate.
Students may be eligible for reimbursement of printing costs and travel (see Student Poster
and Travel Support).
Student Handbook 13
Software and Hardware
Requirements
All students are required to have access to a computer with:
Internet access
Word processing software (e.g., Microsoft Word, Apple Pages, Google Docs, Apache
OpenOffice)
Spreadsheet software (e.g., Microsoft Excel, Apple Numbers, Google Sheets)
Presentation software (e.g., Microsoft PowerPoint, Apple Keynote, Prezi)
The University has identified minimum hardware and software standards for accessing
University websites. Students can purchase a Dell or Apple computer with a University
discount.
A browser compatibility check is available to ensure proper functioning of Blackboard Learn.
Technical Assistance
For software or hardware issues such as JeffMail or Blackboard Learn not working properly,
please contact Information Services & Technology (IS&T). They are available 24/7 by phone,
(215) 955-7975, or on the web.
The Assistant Director of Online Learning can assist online students with questions concerning
JCPH courses in Blackboard Learn. The Assistant Director of Online Learning is available
during normal business hours, Monday through Friday via email.
Student ID
Each student taking courses on the Jefferson campus is required to obtain an ID card through
the Photo ID Center located in the University Bookstore at 1009 Chestnut Street. The ID card
is necessary to gain entrance to Jefferson campus buildings. The initial card is provided at no
charge; replacement cards due to loss or damage are available for a fee. Students in online
programs who come on campus will be issued an ID card. The Photo ID Center can be
contacted by calling (215) 955-7942.
Student Poster and Travel Support
JCPH provides poster and travel support to eligible students and alumni to help defray costs
associated with their attendance at professional conferences.
Priority is given to students and alumni delivering a peer-reviewed podium or poster
presentation at a regional, national, or other major meeting related to their degree program.
Applications for other reasons will also be considered.
14 Student Handbook
To be eligible for support, students must be in good academic standing. Alumni must be
presenting at/attending a conference/meeting within 12 months of the date of receipt of
their degree. Awards are capped at $500 per student per year. An additional $100 per poster
printing/travel is available for up to three posters per year.
Students should be aware of the following conditions:
Awards for travel expenses are not made on a retroactive basis (i.e., for
conferences/meetings attended prior to the date of approval).
Preference is given to applicants who have not been previously funded.
Applications for travel support should be made at least 30 days prior to the event to
guarantee consideration of review. Students will hear back within 2 weeks of
submitting a request.
Applicants should complete a Student Poster and Travel Support Request form with
required documentation and submit it to the Assistant Dean. If expenses are approved,
the student will resubmit the form with all receipts after the event.
All awards are subject to availability of funding.
All posters and presentations must have the Jefferson logo on them (see Posters,
Presentations and Manuscripts).
Student Resources
The University offers a variety of services to students.
The Career Development Center offers help with all aspects of the job search from
developing resumes, CVs and cover letters, strengthening interviewing skills, and
designing effective job search strategies to evaluating and negotiating job offers. The
Center does this via individual appointments, class outreach, on-campus career fairs,
networking events, and much more!
The Student Writing Center offers one-on-one writing consultations with a professional
writing consultant to help students plan, create, and strengthen writing. Both online
and on-campus consultations are available.
The Scott Memorial Library is open to TJU ID cardholders, 24 hours a day, 7 days a
week (guest access available for spouses and domestic partners). The Library’s four
floors holds its print collection, study spaces, computer stations and classrooms,
special collections and archive, information services, and anatomical models. Online
resources include a specialty software catalog, journals and ebooks, Jefferson Digital
Commons, datasets, and interlibrary loan services.
Student Handbook 15
SAS OnDemand for Academics - Students who take AHE 511 are required to complete
this learning module – all students are able to access this program if interested.
Please reach out to your Academic Advisor with questions.
Student Responsibility
It is the responsibility of the student to be familiar with and observe all regulations, policies,
and procedures of the College and University.
The student is ultimately responsible for meeting all requirements for a degree and
graduation. Mentorship by advisors, faculty, preceptors, and program directors is offered in
an advisory capacity only. Students are assigned academic advisors at the time of admission.
University Policies
The University has several additional University-wide policies that students are obligated to
follow. More information is available below.
Confidentiality of Student Records
Crime Reporting & Investigation Policy4
Dissent and Demonstration
Drug & Alcohol
Equal Opportunity
Gambling
Hazing Policy
Peer-to-Peer File Sharing on University Networks
Prohibition of Sexual Harassment, Other Forms of Harassment and Retaliation
Religious Accommodation Policy
Search4
Service Animals – Emotional Support Animals
Skateboarding
Social Media
Student Alcohol
4 This policy is only accessible from a University computer.
16 Student Handbook
Student Sexual Misconduct
Use of Electronic and Recording Devices
Wired/Wireless Network Access Agreement
Use of the College Name and University Logo
No student organization or individual student may enter into any contractual agreement on
behalf of the University of College without prior approval of the Associate Dean for Academic
and Student Affairs.
The use of the University logo is dictated by University policy. Guidelines regarding the logo’s
use are described on the Creative Services website. Any variation from the standards in this
policy requires approval according to the policy. Misuse of the University logo may result in
disciplinary action.
Weather Emergency Policy
Cancellations of onsite classes due to weather or other emergency will be announced via the
University Emergency hotline (1-800-858-8806) and/or via the class emergency phone/email
chain.
The Weather Emergency Policy is available online.
Student Handbook 17
ACADEMIC POLICIES AND PROCEDURES
Enrollment Information
Non-Matriculated Student Status
Registration
Registering to take a course as a non-matriculated student for the first time through JCPH
requires submission of the following to the JCPH Admissions and Recruitment Manager:
Non-degree application form
Proof of one of the following:
o Earned bachelor’s degree with GPA of 3.0 or higher as evidenced by submission
of a copy of undergraduate transcript(s)5
o Earned graduate degree in appropriate area with GPA of 3.0 or higher as
evidenced by submission of a copy of graduate transcript(s)5-6
o Completion of at least 9 credits of appropriate graduate coursework with grade
of B or higher as evidenced by submission of graduate transcript(s)
Courses
JCPH designates certain courses within its curricula that may be taken by non-matriculated
students and reserves the right to edit this listing as circumstances may require.
These courses are available to non-matriculated students only if space permits and if the
student has met all prerequisites (i.e., additional course; online orientation; healthcare
experience; statistics and/or medical terminology competency) established for that course.
Taking courses as a non-matriculated student does not guarantee admission into a JCPH
graduate certificate or degree program nor does it exempt the student from JCPH program
matriculation requirements (e.g., GRE/equivalency requirement cannot be waived using
credits earned as a non-matriculated student).
Students need the approval of the Admissions and Recruitment Manager to register for each
course.
5 Students currently matriculated into another program at Thomas Jefferson University do not need to
provide a copy of their transcripts.
6 Jefferson employees with educational credentials at the master’s or doctoral level do not need to
provide a copy of their transcript(s) if these credentials are indicated on their ID badge; they should
submit a photocopy of their ID badge.
18 Student Handbook
Students must earn a grade of B or higher in the initial course taken as a non-matriculated
student in order to qualify to take additional course(s) as a non-matriculated student.
Non-matriculated students wishing to take more than 6 credits must meet one of the
following two conditions:
Formally apply and submit all required documentation (transcripts, letters of
recommendation, GRE scores, if applicable) prior to enrollment in a 3rd course taken
as a non-matriculated student; or
Show evidence to the satisfaction of the Admissions and Recruitment Manager that
they have no intention of matriculating into a JCPH program because they are taking
unrelated JCPH courses for personal development or professional enhancement; and
sign a statement to that effect.
Non-matriculated students are permitted to earn a maximum of 9 credits.
International Students
Students of onsite programs who are not United States citizens or permanent residents are
responsible for contacting the Office of International Affairs (OIA) at (215) 503-4335
immediately upon notification of admission to JCPH or upon any change in student status. OIA
assists students in obtaining the necessary forms from the U.S. Department of State to
request a visa or from the United States Citizen and Immigration Service to maintain legal
student status if transferring from another institution.
Please note that each student has the sole responsibility for ensuring that his or her
immigration status complies with all applicable laws and regulations.
Deferred Admission
Students who are accepted into a JCPH program may apply for deferral for a maximum of one
academic year. If a student does not enroll in courses after the deferral period, they will
need to reapply to the program.
To request a deferred admission, the student needs to send a written request to the
Admissions and Recruitment Manager, and complete and the appropriate forms.
Registration
To register for a course, students must enroll through the online Banner system during the
stated online registration period. Students should be mindful of deadlines posted in the
Academic Calendar to avoid incurring a late registration fee. After the registration period has
ended, students wishing to register for a course must talk with their academic advisor.
Student Handbook 19
Courses
Courses offered by JCPH are listed in the JCPH course descriptions. Each College program
requires completion of specific courses, including courses designated as electives for that
program. The College reserves the right to limit the number of students in a course.
Each course is identified by a six character “designator.” The first three letters are an
abbreviation for the program offering the course, followed by a 3-digit number.
AHE - Applied Health Economics & Outcomes Research
HPL – Health Policy
HQS – Healthcare Quality & Safety
OPX – Operational Excellence
PBH – Public Health
PHI – Population Health Intelligence
PHS – Population Health Sciences
POP – Population Health
Students should refer to the class schedule which is issued at the beginning of each semester
and identifies active courses for each term.
One credit represents a minimum of fourteen classroom contact hours per term or its
equivalent as adapted for online course delivery.
Continuous Enrollment
A student matriculated in a graduate certificate or degree program in the College must
maintain continuous enrollment each semester until completion of the program. Students who
do not complete at least one course during an academic year may be placed on administrative
leave of absence. During times of temporary personal circumstances, student may also
request a leave of absence. Students who exceed the number of allowed leaves will be
administratively withdrawn from the College. These students will have the opportunity to
seek reinstatement (see Readmission process)
Master’s students generally maintain active status for three semesters following the term in
which they complete coursework. During this time, students are expected to be working on
their Capstone Project. An additional two semesters are offered at 1.5 credit hours for
students who need additional time to complete their Capstone. Students should refer to the
Capstone Guidelines for more information. Doctoral students should refer to the Doctoral
Student Handbook for continuous enrollment information during their dissertation process.
20 Student Handbook
Foreign national students who hold an F-1 visa are required to be continuously enrolled in
order to maintain lawful immigration status in the United States. For more information,
students should contact the Office of International Affairs (OIA) (see International Students).
Dropping and Adding Courses
Students can revise their course schedules during the Drop/Add period (see Academic
Calendar).
To drop a course during the Drop/Add period, students must use the Banner system.
To add a course during the Drop/Add period, students must use the Student Schedule
Change Form with approval from their academic advisor.
Students who wish to drop after the Drop/Add period are subject to Course Withdrawal.
Students cannot add a course after the Drop/Add period has ended.
Students, in consultation with their academic advisors, are responsible for making certain
that any changes in their schedules will fulfill requirements for the degree. Students receiving
financial aid should also consult with the University Office of Student Financial Aid regarding
the effect that changing their academic schedules may have on their eligibility for aid.
Students who stop attending or participating in classes without going through the official drop
or withdrawal process will be responsible for the full payment of tuition and may receive a
failing grade for the course. Verbal or written (email) notification to the course instructor or
the University Office of the Registrar does not constitute an official course drop. Similarly,
students enrolled in onsite programs who attend classes without properly registering or
adding a course will not receive credits for the course. The addition of a student’s name to
the class list by an instructor does not constitute course enrollment.
Auditing
A student may request to audit a course by filling in the Request to Audit a Course form and
obtaining the permission of the Assistant Dean. The student must register for the course
during the registration period and pay all regular course fees. The registration for any course
may not be changed from audit to credit or vice versa after the Drop/Add period. Auditing is
only available to non-matriculated students and is only approved in extenuating
circumstances.
Course Withdrawal
After the conclusion of the Drop/Add period, a student may withdraw from a course by
completing a Student Schedule Change Form from the University Office of the Registrar,
securing the signature of their academic advisor and returning the form to the Registrar.
A student who withdraws from a course prior to the Withdrawal deadline published in
the Academic Calendar of the College will receive a grade of W.
Student Handbook 21
A student who withdraws from a course after the deadline published in the Academic
Calendar of the College but before the start of the 9th or 5th week of the term
(depending upon program) will receive a grade of WP (Withdrawal, Passing) or WF
(Withdrawal, Failing), depending upon the level of work at the time of the
withdrawal. A grade of WF is calculated in the grade point average (GPA) in the same
manner as a failing grade. A WP is not factored into GPA.
A student is not allowed to withdraw after the start of the 9th or 5th week of the term.
A final grade is calculated based on all of the course’s assignments (turned in and not
turned in by the student).
In order to receive credit for a course from which a student has withdrawn, the student must
re-register for the course and successfully complete it in a subsequent term.
Tuition Refund Policy
The amount that JCPH refunds to a student who withdraws, is dismissed, or is granted a leave
of absence after completing only a portion of a course, program or term within the applicable
billing period:
Percent of Refund: Number of Days Enrolled
100% 0-7 calendar days
75% 8-14 calendar days
50% 15-21 calendar days
25% 22-28 calendar days
NOTE: Students who do not officially drop or withdraw from a course according to the
procedures described above but stop attending or participating in classes will be
responsible for the full payment of tuition and may receive a failing grade for the course.
Verbal or written (email) notification to the course instructor or the University Office of
the Registrar does not constitute an official course drop or withdrawal.
22 Student Handbook
Students who receive Jefferson employee tuition assistance are subject to the terms defined
in the Jefferson Employee Tuition Assistance Policy.7
Students are responsible to ensure that they are being charged for tuition correctly. The
College will assist students with billing and fee issues. However, refunds and adjustments
will only be considered in the term in which the student is currently enrolled.
Academic Standing
Satisfactory Academic Standing
To remain in good academic standing, students enrolled in a degree or graduate certificate
program must:
Maintain a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (graduate certificate or master’s program)
or 3.3 (doctoral program); and
Earn a minimum grade of B- in no more than two courses (master’s program) or in no
more than one course (doctoral or graduate certificate program).
Failure to adhere to the above described policy may result in repeating a course, dismissal
from the program, or academic probation.
The University Office of Student Financial Aid has a policy on satisfactory academic progress
for those students to receive payment for any Title IV Financial Aid Program.
Failure to Complete a Course
Under extenuating circumstances (i.e., documented serious illness), a student who has not
completed all requirements of a course may request a grade of I (Incomplete). The student
and faculty member must complete an Incomplete Grade Contract and submit the completed
contract to the Assistant Dean. The student will be allowed to complete and submit
remaining coursework within four weeks of the date of the last official class of the course or
as specified on the Incomplete Grade Contract. At the end of the term listed on the contract,
the final grade will be calculated based on all of the course’s assignments (turned in and not
turned in by the student).
Repeating a Course
A student who receives a grade of C+ or lower in any course required for the student’s
graduate certificate or degree program must repeat the course.
Graduate Certificate or Doctoral: A student who receives a grade of B- in more than one
course in a graduate certificate or doctoral program must repeat one of those courses and
earn a minimum grade of B.
7 This policy is only accessible from a University computer.
Student Handbook 23
Master’s: A student who receives a grade of B- in more than two courses in a master’s
program must repeat one of those courses and earn a minimum grade of B.
A course may be repeated only once. To repeat a course, the student must obtain approval
prior to registration from the Assistant Dean.
Students can only retake a maximum of two courses. If a student earns a grade in a course
that requires retaking a third course, they may be dismissed from the program.
Whenever a course is repeated, no additional hours attempted will accrue, and the latter
grade replaces the previous grade in computing the GPA and in assignment of academic
credit. Both grades, however, remain a part of the student’s permanent academic record.
Academic Probation and Dismissal
Students who do not maintain the minimum cumulative GPA (see Satisfactory Academic
Standing) may be placed on academic probation for one term. At the end of the probationary
period:
The student is reinstated in good standing if the student achieves the minimum
cumulative GPA; or
The student may be dismissed from the program if the student fails to achieve the
minimum GPA at the end of the probationary period.
In extraordinary cases, where the student has made significant progress toward achieving the
minimum GPA, the Assistant Dean may recommend to the Interim Dean that one additional
probationary term be allowed. If, at the conclusion of the extended probationary term, the
cumulative GPA is still below the minimum, the student may be dismissed from the program.
Any student dismissed from or required to withdraw from the College because of academic
underachievement and subsequently readmitted to the College must achieve a term GPA and
a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher (graduate certificate or master’s) or 3.3 or higher
(doctoral) in the term in which he or she is readmitted. If the student fails to do so, he or she
will be dismissed.
Students who earn more than two grades of B- or lower in a master’s program or more than
one grade of B- or lower in a graduate certificate or doctoral program are automatically
placed on academic probation (see Repeating a Course). Failure to receive a grade of B in the
retaken course(s) may result in dismissal from the program.
Course Policies
Attendance Regulations
Attendance is expected in all classes for which a student is registered. The instructor
determines attendance requirements for each course. These requirements will be clearly
24 Student Handbook
described in the course syllabus. Students who have an outstanding tuition balance are not
permitted to attend classes.
Changes to Posted Syllabus
The College reserves the right to modify the syllabus and class activities or requirements.
Such modifications can include, but are not limited to, substitutions of certain journal articles
or other periodical resources for others, changes to the details of particular assignments,
rearrangement of group activities or modification of class participation requirements.
Students who have any concerns about these changes should direct them first to the
instructor and then to the Assistant Dean if these concerns are not satisfactorily resolved.
Course Evaluations
JCPH relies upon student input in guiding the revision of course content and the instructional
approach. Therefore, course evaluations are required.
Writing Style JCPH requires APA writing style, 6th edition or later, for scholarly and academic work unless
otherwise specified.
Capstone Project
All master’s students at JCPH are required to complete a Capstone Project. Requirements
vary by program. Students must adhere to the Capstone Guidelines.
Grading
Grading Scale
JCPH uses the following grading scale in all graded courses; rounding is permitted with partial
numbers 0.5 and higher rounded up to the next whole number and partial numbers of 0.4 and
lower rounded down to the previous whole number:
A+ 98-100 B+ 87-89 C+ 77-79 D+ 67-69 F Below 60
A 93-97 B 83-86 C 73-76 D 63-66
A- 90-92 B- 80-82 C- 70-72 D- 60-62
Grading System
At the close of an academic term, each instructor assigns a letter grade indicating the quality
of a student’s work in the course. The final course grade is posted in Banner by the date
indicated in the Academic Calendar.
The following is a description of the grading system used in the College, including the quality
points assigned for the use in the calculation of the GPA.
Grade Quality Points
A+ 4.0 C 2.0
Student Handbook 25
A 4.0 C- 1.7
A- 3.7 D+ 1.3
B+ 3.3 D 1.0
B 3.0 D- 0.7
B- 2.7 F 0.0
C+ 2.3 WF8 0.0
Grades Not Calculated in the Grade Point Average (GPA)
GRADE DESCRIPTION
AU Audit Permission required; no credit awarded
I Incomplete Awarded only when the student has done coursework at a satisfactory level. Failure to remove an Incomplete grade prior to the end of the contract period will result in a grade based on the course’s assignments (both turned in and missing)
IP In Progress Assigned when coursework is scheduled on a continuous basis over more than one academic term. The final course grade and credit are awarded in the term of completion
NC No Credit Did not achieve passing score on a challenge examination
P Pass Satisfactory completion of a course graded on a Pass/Fail basis or awarded for successful completion of a challenge examination
T Transfer Credit Transfer credit has been awarded.
W Withdrawal Given when a student withdraws from a course prior to the Withdrawal deadline
WP Withdrawal, Passing Given when a student withdraws from a course after the Withdrawal deadline, but before the 11th week of the course and has a passing grade based on completed coursework
Grade Point Average
GPA is computed in the following manner:
1. Multiply the number of Quality Points for each grade by the number of credits assigned
to each course attempted.
2. Divide the sum of these products by the total number of credits attempted.
The cumulative GPA is based on the grades earned in all courses taken in JCPH except for the
following circumstances:
1. Repeated courses: With the approval of the Assistant Dean, a student may repeat a
course and have the initial credits attempted, credits earned and quality points
8 Withdrawal, Failing
26 Student Handbook
excluded from the GPA. The original course grade remains on the transcript in all
cases.
2. Admission to a second program: A graduate of one program of the College who is
admitted to a second program has a cumulative GPA for the second program computed
only on the grades earned in courses taken after the completion of the first program.
Courses for which a student has the designation P, W or I, and grades for transferred courses,
are not included in the computation of the GPA.
Grades are part of the student’s permanent record. Once submitted and entered on the
student’s transcript, no changes will be made to this record, with the exception of entering
the final grade to replace an “I” or correcting an inappropriate grade (see Change of Grade
and Grade Appeal).
Transfer of Credits
Students in JCPH’s academic programs may request to transfer in courses completed at other
academic institutions to satisfy academic program requirements.
Time of Request
Students may request to transfer in courses at any time, but are encouraged to do so at the
time of admission. Preliminary determinations regarding course transferability may be done
at the time of application, but the actual transfer will not be initiated until the student is
accepted into a degree program.
Limits
The maximum number of credit hours that can be transferred in are as follows:
Graduate Certificates: Six credit hours
Master’s Degrees: Nine credit hours
Doctoral Degree: Twelve credit hours
Students who matriculate from a Graduate Certificate to a Master’s Degree or from a Master’s
Degree to a Doctoral Degree are limited to the total number of allowable transfer credits of
the highest degree sought.
Requirements
The courses requested to be transferred in must comply with the following requirements:
1. The transferred course must have at least an 80% overlap with a required course. The
syllabi for the transferred course and the required course will be reviewed by the
JCPH instructor who teaches the required course to determine if there is sufficient
Student Handbook 27
overlap between the two courses. The overlap must include the same number of credit
hours and similar learning objectives, assessments and readings.
2. The transferred course can satisfy elective requirements if the transferred course fits
within the academic program. The syllabus for the transferred course will be reviewed
by the program director to determine if the content of the transferred course is
consistent with the academic program.
3. The student must have received a grade of B or higher on the transferred course. After
the course is transferred in, the grade will not affect the GPA calculation. Pass/fail
and audited courses will not be accepted for transfer.
4. The transferred course must have been taken at a US-based institution of higher
education that is accredited by an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of
Education. If the transferred course was taken in a college/school or degree program
that has additional specialized accreditation available (i.e., CEPH, AACSB, CSWE,
etc.), then the college/school or degree program must also have obtained the
additional specialized accreditation.
5. The transferred course must not be older than five years at the time the request is
made.
6. The transferred course must have been taken at the graduate level (as defined by the
prior institution).
Ineligible Courses
There are several courses and degree requirements that must be completed at JCPH in order
to satisfy academic program requirements. Consequently, students cannot request to transfer
in courses from other universities to satisfy these program requirements:
AHE 510 Advanced Research Methods for Applied Observational Studies
AHE 514: Economic & Outcomes Analyses
PBH 510: Health Research Methods
PHS 602: Bioethics
PHS 615: Advanced Statistics for Population Health Sciences: Multi-Level Modeling
PHS 620: Teaching & Learning Seminar
PHS 650: Evaluative & Outcomes Research & Design
PHS 660: Mentored Research Experience
PHS 700: Integrative Research Seminar
28 Student Handbook
POP 500: Essentials of Population Health
POP 560: Population Health Strategy & Management Applications I
Clerkship, Capstone, or Internship
Core Competency Examination
Dissertation
Articulation & Affiliation Agreements
Students who enter JCPH academic programs under articulation and/or affiliation agreements
with other universities, professional societies, or other organizations may be able to transfer
in additional courses to satisfy academic program requirements. Please contact the Assistant
Dean for more information.
Process
Students wishing to transfer courses must complete the Transfer of Credit Request form and
submit it to their academic advisor. Syllabi and unofficial transcripts for the courses to be
transferred should be attached to the request.
When credits are transferred, the course is revalidated. The date that is recorded on the
transcript is the semester in which the transfer request was approved. For more information
on revalidation of courses, see Revalidation.
When necessary, credits from the other institution will be converted to credit equivalents of
the College of Population Health. A standard formula for converting quarter hours to semester
credit hours, and vice versa, is available online.
Appeal
Students who wish to appeal any decision regarding the transfer of credit under this policy
may do so in writing to the Dean within 10 business days of receipt of the decision. The
written appeal must cite specific matters of fact and/or process stated in this policy that
were ignored during the review and provide a recommendation for resolution.
Challenge Examinations
Students may earn academic credit by challenge examination for certain courses offered at
JCPH. A challenge examination is equivalent to a comprehensive test of the subject matter
covered in a course. Students taking a challenge examination in lieu of a course that is
required for a program must be matriculated into that program in order to have the results
for the challenge examination recorded on the student’s transcript.
Regulations
Students may earn up to a maximum of 9 credits by challenge examination.
Student Handbook 29
Students will not receive credit by challenge examination for a JCPH course the
student was registered for beyond the Drop/Add period. This includes courses which
they audited or for which they received a failing grade or a grade of withdrawal.
Students are not permitted to register for a course and the challenge examination for
that course in the same term.
Students are only permitted to attempt a challenge examination once. An attempt
begins as soon as the student sees the examination.
Students must be in good academic standing.
A course must be eligible for a challenge examination.9
A challenge examination must be proctored. Students who are unable to come to the
Jefferson campus must have access to a computer with video streaming capabilities.
Fees
The fee for challenge examinations taken for College courses is $200 per credit hour.10
Registration Procedures
To register for the challenge examination(s), students must obtain approval from the
Assistant Dean. Upon approval, guidelines will be discussed and the examination date will be
established. Students must take the challenge examination(s) on the date selected at the
time of registration.
Registration for a challenge examination is equivalent to registration for a course. Once
registered, students can change their registration only by filing a Student Schedule Change
Form from the University Office of the Registrar. Students who register for a challenge
examination but do not sit for the examination and do not complete the official drop
procedure will receive a grade of “NC” (No Credit) on their academic record and will be
responsible for the full challenge examination fee.
Grading
Students who successfully complete a challenge examination will receive a grade of P (Pass)
and the number of credits assigned to the course. Unsuccessful attempts are recorded on the
transcript with the grade symbol NC (No Credit). Neither grade is calculated in the student’s
GPA.
9 Eligible courses: Statistics (PBH 504/HPL 520) and Epidemiology (PBH 506/AHE 509)
10 Fees for challenge examinations taken for required College program courses by eligible full-time
Jefferson employees are covered by the Thomas Jefferson University Tuition Assistance Benefit (only
accessible from a University computer). However, full-time employees who do not pass the challenge
examination are responsible for paying the full challenge examination fee.
30 Student Handbook
Revalidation
In preparation for graduation, students must ensure that their courses are not older than five
years (graduate certificate and master’s) or nine years (doctoral). Students may request
revalidation of JCPH graduate courses by submitting the Request for Revalidation form and
revalidation fee to the Assistant Dean. The Assistant Dean in consult with the Program
Director will determine whether a course is appropriate for revalidation.
Transcripts
Unofficial transcripts can be printed from Banner.
Official transcripts are available through the University Office of the Registrar.
Change of Student Status
Any change in enrollment status requires students to consult their academic advisor. The
advisor will then instruct students on how to complete the Change in Student Status form
from the University Office of the Registrar. This form should be completed if a student wishes
to:
Take a leave of absence (e.g., medical, personal)
Return from a leave of absence
Change programs
Withdraw from a program
Reapply to a program within two years of leaving
Leave of Absence
Students are required to maintain Continuous Enrollment in order to complete degree
requirements on time and to ensure that the courses are current at the time of graduation.
However, students may need to request a leave of absence due to medical, financial, family,
workplace, or other personal reasons and should communicate this to their Academic Advisor
Requesting a Leave of Absence
Students wishing to request a leave of absence must do so using the Student Status Change
form. The form must be completed by the student and submitted to the student’s academic
advisor for review and approval. After approval, the academic advisor will send it to the
University Office of the Registrar for processing. A copy will be retained in the student’s
academic file.
Returning from a Leave of Absence
At the conclusion of the leave of absence, students must complete the Student Status Change
form to reactivate their enrollment in the program. The form must be completed by the
Student Handbook 31
student and submitted to the student’s academic advisor for review and approval. After
approval, the academic advisor will send it to the University Office of the Registrar for
processing. A copy will be retained in the student’s academic file. Students should contact
their academic advisor at least one month prior to the term they wish to reactivate to ensure
a timely return.
Maximum Number of Leaves of Absence
A maximum of 3 leaves of absence will be approved for students during their entire program
of study and no more than 2 consecutive leaves. After the student reaches the maximum
number of leaves of absence, the student will be withdrawn from the program. These
students will have the opportunity to seek reinstatement (see Readmission process)
Transfer from One Program to Another
Students wishing to transfer from one program to another must:
Meet the admission criteria of the new program;
Receive approval from both Program Directors; and
Complete a supplemental online application.
Students wishing to transfer from a Certificate program to the same MS program can do so
with a Student Status Change form. Students transferring from a Certificate program to
different MS program (ie. Certificate in Population Health to the MS in Population Health
Intelligence) will need to follow the Transfer from One Program to Another requirements
listed above.
If receiving financial aid, it is the responsibility of the student to inform the Office of
Financial Aid of any change in program matriculation.
Withdrawal from the Program
A student may voluntarily withdraw from a program or be placed on administrative
withdrawal. A withdrawal will not be granted to students with outstanding financial
obligations to the University.
Readmission
Students may apply for readmission to a program within two years of withdrawal or dismissal
by submitting a written request directly to the Assistant Dean. After two years, students must
re-apply through the Office of Admissions.
Graduation
Time to Degree
Students in graduate certificate programs must complete their coursework within two
academic years after matriculation.
32 Student Handbook
Students in master’s programs must complete their degree requirements within five
academic years after matriculation.
Students in the doctoral program must complete the degree requirements within nine
academic years after matriculation.
Students who fail to complete their graduate certificate and degree programs in the timeline
indicated may be dismissed from their programs.
An extension may be granted in the event of extenuating circumstances, such as documented
medical illness. After discussion with the academic advisor, the student must petition the
Associate Dean for Academic and Student Affairs for an extension. The extension may be
denied, in which case the student will be dismissed, or it may be granted with qualification.
The student and academic advisor will be informed of the decision in writing.
Students who must be away from their studies for one or more terms for personal, family,
financial or other compelling reasons may apply for a leave of absence (see Change in Student
Status and Continuous Enrollment). A leave of absence does not impact the time to degree
requirement.
Students who are granted extensions or leaves of absences are subject to course Revalidation.
Curriculum Completion
A student must successfully complete the program requirements in his or her program of
study and achieve a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0 (graduate certificate or master’s) or 3.3
(doctoral) to qualify for graduation from the University.
Application for Graduation
The official awarding of degrees takes place three times each year: at the spring
Commencement (May/June), August 31st, and December 31st.
Students who expect to meet the requirements for graduation must file an online application
with the University Office of the Registrar. These applications are normally filed during the
Fall semester but must be received no later than the deadline published in the Academic
Calendar. A student who applies for graduation and then fails to qualify must reapply,
indicating the revised date of the completion of graduation requirements.
In some cases, master’s students who have completed all coursework and are scheduled to
present their Capstone Projects no later than June 30 may walk in the Commencement
Exercises with approval from the Capstone Coordinator, the Assistant Dean, and the Capstone
Chair. A student who does not qualify for graduation in time for Commencement Exercises
may participate in the following graduation program.
Student Handbook 33
Academic Integrity Policy
TJU and JCPH believe that academic integrity is one of the most important values and
behaviors that should be practiced by students during their academic education.
The College leadership and faculty are committed to mandating and enforcing the practice of
academic integrity by all students. The following policy on academic integrity defines
dishonesty and describes the procedures for responding to charges of academic dishonesty in
the College.
Forms of Academic Dishonesty
Plagiarism
As stated in the American Medical Association Manual of Style (2007), “in plagiarism, an
author documents or reports ideas, words, data or graphics, whether published or
unpublished of another as his or her own without giving appropriate credit.”
When a student submits work for credit that includes the words, ideas or data of others, the
source of that information must be acknowledged through complete, accurate and specific
references, and, if verbatim statements are included, through quotation marks as well. By
placing his or her name on work submitted for credit, the student certifies the originality of
all work not otherwise identified by appropriate acknowledgments.
Examples of plagiarism include, but are not limited to:
1. Quoting another person’s actual words, complete sentences or paragraphs, or entire
pieces of written work without acknowledgment of the source.
2. Using another person’s ideas, opinions or theories, even if they are completely
paraphrased in one’s own words, without acknowledgment of the source.
3. Noting the original source of only a part of what is borrowed.
4. Borrowing facts, statistics or other illustrative materials that are not clearly common
knowledge without acknowledgment of the source.
5. Copying another student’s essay or test answers.
6. Copying, or allowing another student to copy a computer file that contains another
student’s assignment and submitting it, in part or in its entirety, as one’s own.
7. Working together on an assignment, sharing the computer files and programs involved,
and then submitting individual copies of the assignment as one’s own individual work.
Students are urged to consult with individual faculty members if in doubt.
Fabrication
Fabrication is the use of invented information or the falsification of research or other findings
with the intent to deceive. Examples include, but are not limited to:
34 Student Handbook
1. Citation of information not taken from the source indicated. This may include the
incorrect documentation of secondary source materials.
2. Listing sources in a bibliography not directly used in the academic exercises.
3. Submission in a paper, thesis, lab report or other academic exercise of falsified,
invented or fictitious data or evidence, or deliberate and knowing concealment or
distortion of the true nature, origin or function of such data or evidence.
4. Submitting as one’s own any academic exercises (e.g., written work, printing,
sculpture, etc.) prepared totally or in part by another.
Cheating
Cheating is an act or an attempted act of deception by which a student seeks to misrepresent
that he or she has mastered information on an academic exercise that he or she has not
mastered. Examples include, but are not limited to:
1. Copying from another student’s test paper or allowing another student to copy from a
test paper.
2. Using the course textbook or other material such as a notebook brought to a class
meeting but not authorized for use during a test.
3. Collaborating during a test with any other person by receiving information without
authority or collaborating with others on projects where such collaboration is not
expressly permitted.
4. Using or possessing specifically prepared materials during a test (e.g., notes, formula
lists, notes written on the student’s clothing, etc.) that are not authorized.
5. Taking a test for someone else or permitting someone else to take a test in one’s
place.
6. Tapping pencils or other objects or otherwise signaling in code.
7. Entering any office or opening a file to obtain a test or answer key.
8. Viewing test materials on a secretary’s or faculty member’s desk.
9. Passing quiz/test questions or answers from one student to another, even after the
test is completed.
10. Copying a posted answer key without permission.
11. Discussing test questions or answers outside the examination room while the test is in
progress.
Student Handbook 35
Academic Misconduct
Academic misconduct is the intentional violation of University policies by tampering with
grades, or taking part in obtaining or distributing any part of an unadministered test.
Examples include, but are not limited to:
1. Stealing, buying or otherwise obtaining all or part of an unadministered test.
2. Selling or giving away all or part of an unadministered test including answers to an
unadministered test.
3. Bribing any other person to obtain an unadministered test including answers to an
unadministered test.
4. Entering a building or office for the purpose of changing a grade in a grade book, on a
test or on other work for which a grade is given.
5. Changing, altering or being an accessory to the changing and/or altering of a grade in
a grade book, on a test, in a computer, on a “change of grade” form or other official
academic records of the University which relate to grades.
6. Entering a building or office for the purpose of obtaining an unadministered test.
7. Continuing to work on an examination or project after the specified allotted time has
elapsed.
8. Signing into classes for others.
Sanctions
Two possible options exist for cases of academic dishonesty. Option A outlines adjudication of
cases at the discretion of the faculty in consultation with the Dean (or Designee). Cases may
also be referred directly to the Judicial Board for adjudication under Option B of these
guidelines.
Sanctions under Option A are limited to one or more of the following, by choice of the faculty
member in consultation with the Dean (or Designee):
a verbal reprimand
a written reprimand
a grade of zero for an assignment or examination
a requirement that the student repeat the work affected by the academic dishonesty
No notation of faculty action will appear on the student’s transcript. However, the College
may choose to keep documentation in the student’s file and this may be taken into account if
the student is involved in another incident of academic dishonesty. When the instructor
chooses to have the student repeat the assignment, the instructor will tell the student the
36 Student Handbook
maximum grade that may be assigned for the repeated assignment. For example, it is
acceptable for the instructor to assign no more than a minimal passing grade to a repeated
assignment, if successfully completed by the student.
The student may contest the instructor’s allegation by requesting a hearing with the Judicial
Board. Any such request must be made within five working days from the time the student has
been informed of the charge and the instructor’s sanction. The instructor’s initial penalty will
be considered in assessing a penalty for a guilty finding by the Judicial Board.
Option B: Direct referral of the charge by the faculty member in consultation with the Dean
(or Designee) to the Judicial Board for adjudication.
See Code of Conduct/Students Rights, Freedoms & Responsibilities for information concerning
procedures for requesting a judicial hearing.
Change of Grade and Grade Appeal
Change of Grade
To change a student’s grade of I (Incomplete) or to correct a grade, the instructor must
complete and sign a Grade Change form.
A student who believes that he or she has received an inappropriate grade should contact the
instructor immediately. If the student does not feel that their concern is being addressed, the
student should contact the Assistant Dean.
A change of grade can be made within four weeks from the last day of the course.
Grade Appeals Protocol
The grade appeal policy and procedure affords recourse to a student who has evidence that an inaccurate final grade has been awarded under the following circumstances:
· Grade awarded does not align with criteria established in the course syllabus, rubrics, or other course documents.
· Grade awarded has been inaccurately assigned due to clerical or administrative error.
Please note the grade appeal process described in this policy is for final grades only, not individual assignments. If a student thinks that an inaccurate final grade has been assigned based on the circumstances above, they should discuss the grade with the course instructor. If an agreeable outcome is not reached, the student may begin an official grade appeal. Before starting an official grade appeal a student is required to meet with a member of Academic or Student Affairs to learn more about the process and timelines. Students on the East Falls campus should discuss with their academic advisor, students on the Center City campus should contact the Associate Provost for Student Affairs.
Official Appeal process:
Student Handbook 37
1. To appeal a grade for a course, the student should begin with the course instructor by submitting the documents outlined below. The course instructor will review the appeal and provide a written response to the student.
2. If the course instructor cannot provide a satisfactory solution, the appeal can be continued
in writing to the Assistant Dean who will also respond in writing.
3. In the event that the student is not satisfied with the outcome at that level, an appeal may be submitted to the dean of the college or school providing the course. The dean will respond in writing and is the final appeal. If the Dean is the instructor for the course, the Dean will appoint another faculty member to serve as a replacement in the appeal process.
Required documentation:
For a grade appeal, the burden of proof is on the student. To formally begin the appeal, the student must provide the following documents for review:
a) A detailed written statement requesting and explaining the basis for the appeal.
b) A copy of the course materials, including syllabus and assignments; and
c) Copies of other pertinent documents, including student’s submitted work, and any other evidence that may have a bearing on the grade in question. These may include, but are not limited to, work done by the student in the course, school/department/university policies, tests, papers, clinical records or evaluations, journals, handouts, correspondence to/from the instructor, course outlines, handouts, logs and any written feedback given by the instructor on written work.
If the appeal is for a prerequisite course for the subsequent semester, or if a student has been dismissed from a program based on a grade being appealed, college or school administration (program director or dean) will notify the student if they may or may not continue in the subsequent course or academic program during the appeal process.
Timeline:
If the course is not a prerequisite for the subsequent semester, the grade appeal should be completed by the end of the following semester or term.
If the course is a prerequisite for the subsequent semester, the following timeline is recommended:
A student must file the initial appeal within 10 business days after the deadline date for grade submittal as found in the Academic Calendar. The entire grade appeal process should take no more than 30 business days. If, due to extenuating circumstances, the student is unable to follow the timeframe, they must submit a written request for an extension from the next person in the process during the specified timeframe. Likewise, a course instructor, course coordinator, program director, department chair, or associate dean must submit a written request for an extension to the dean if there are extenuating circumstances that would not allow the timely completion of their review and decision.
38 Student Handbook
A student whose basis for dissatisfaction with a grade does not fall within this grade appeal policy may wish to review the university grievance policy found at:
https://www.jefferson.edu/university/academic-affairs/schools/student-affairs/student-handbooks/university-policies/tju-grievance-process.html for Center City courses
A student whose basis for dissatisfaction with a grade does not fall within this grade appeal
policy may wish to review the university grievance policy found at
www.jefferson.edu/handbook.
Student Grievance Procedure
All students in the TJU community have the right to express concern when they perceive that
they have been treated in a manner not consistent with the standards of conduct at the
University. The grievance process described below applies to all students who are enrolled at
TJU. Please note that the following matters are not handled as student grievances in the
scope of this process:
Final grade (see Change of Grade and Grade Appeal)
Curriculum matters (see Course Policies)
Sexual misconduct (see Student Sexual Misconduct Policy)
Behavioral concerns (see Behavioral Intervention Team at Jefferson)
Complaint Process
For all other issues, students may submit a written complaint or grievance with the Assistant
Dean within ten business days of its occurrence. The written communication should explain
the nature of the problem and a proposed solution. The Assistant Dean will investigate and
provide a written solution or an explanation to the student within five business days.
If the Assistant Dean fails to respond to the grievance or if the student is not satisfied with
the response, the student may submit a written grievance to the Associate Dean for Academic
and Student Affairs within five business days. The Associate Dean will respond with a written
statement to the student grievant within five business days.
In the event the Associate Dean fails to respond to the grievance, or if the student is not
satisfied with the Associate Dean’s response, the student may submit an official complaint
through the Grievance Process at Thomas Jefferson University.
During the initial assessment of the grievance more information may be requested from the
student who submitted the grievance as well as from any other individuals identified with
relevance to the issue. The University will make every reasonable effort to preserve an
individual’s privacy and protect the confidentiality of information it receives in connection
with a grievance. The information will be shared only with individuals who assist or are
Student Handbook 39
otherwise involved in the investigation and/or resolution of the grievance, or who otherwise
have a need to know about the grievance and/or its resolution.
Students submitting the form should expect confirmation of receipt of submission within 48
business hours. After the grievance process has ended the student will receive a letter
indicating the final resolution or disposition of the grievance.
Complaint Tracking
The University will track each complaint from the online system and will maintain a record
that includes information such as the date the complaint was received, the nature of the
complaint and the steps taken to resolve it.
The tracked information will be made available to regulatory agencies and accrediting bodies
as required in accordance with applicable laws, regulations and policies.
40 Student Handbook
CODE OF CONDUCT/STUDENTS RIGHTS, FREEDOMS &
RESPONSIBILITIES
The University Code of Conduct outlines the rights, freedoms and responsibilities of all
students matriculating at TJU.
Student Handbook 41
SERVICE OPPORTUNITIES
College Committees
In accordance with JCPH bylaws, students are able to serve on several College committees.
These opportunities offer students a chance to work alongside faculty in establishing policy,
reviewing recommendations and contributing to the overall governance of the College.
Curriculum and Academic Policy
2 student members
The Committee on Curriculum and Academic Policy (CAP) reviews proposals for new curricula
and courses as well substantive changes to curricula and courses.
MPH Curriculum Subcommittee
2 student members (must be MPH students)
The MPH Curriculum Subcommittee acts the same as the Committee on Curriculum and
Academic Policy except it is specific to the MPH program.
Research
1 student member
The Committee on Research advises on and recommends College-wide policies related to
research and scholarly activity and facilitates research collaboration amongst faculty.
Student and Alumni Affairs
2 student members from each academic program and 3 alumni
The Committee on Student and Alumni Affairs serves as the liaison body between the College
and the student body and is co-chaired by a JCPH faculty member and the President of
JeffSAPHE.
Advisory Board to Center for Population Health Innovation
At least 2 student/alumni members
The Advisory Board to the Center for Population Health Innovation (CPHI) reviews and
provides recommendations concerning initiatives/activities proposed and implemented by the
Center, related to workforce development, specialized continuing education and professional
development.
42 Student Handbook
Student Participation at the University Level
TJU has established a sophisticated committee structure to promote communication and
collaboration across divisions, and between students and administration.
Judicial Board
2 student members and 2 alternates
The Judicial Board hears allegations of misconduct as defined in the University Code of
Conduct/Student Rights, Freedoms and Responsibilities and follows the hearing procedures as
defined in that same document.
University Committee of Student Advisors
1 student member
The University Committee of Student Advisors (CSA) serves as the recognized student
organization for providing comprehensive student input across all academic divisions of the
University.
University Academic Services Committee
2 student members
The University Academic Services Committee (UASC) meets to share information across
divisions and, as needed, review and amend administrative policies and procedures related to
students.
University Student Affairs Committee
1 student member
The University Student Affairs Committee (USAC) reviews, updates and develops policies and
procedures related to student affairs for application within each College.
Other University Committees
Student members recruited as needed by the Assistant Dean
Students serve on a variety of other University committees including:
Bookstore Committee
Lindback Teaching Award Committee
TJU Global Health Initiatives Committee
University Committee on Diversity & Inclusion
University Wellness Working Committee
Student Handbook 43
Jeff SAPHE
The Student Association for Public Health Education (SAPHE) provides an opportunity for
students to meet and address public/population health issues as well as plan health-related
community service activities such as clothing/food drives for a local homeless shelter. SAPHE
selects its own officers per established bylaws and meets monthly. It helps recruit students to
serve on College and University committees. While having roots in the MPH program, the
organization is open to all Jefferson students. Please reach out to the MPH Assistant Program
Director for more information.
44 Student Handbook
ALUMNI RELATIONS
University Alumni Association
Graduates of all graduate certificate, masters and doctoral programs at any Jefferson College
are eligible for membership to the Jefferson Alumni Association. Membership is free. As
members of the Alumni Association, graduates have access to alumni resources such as
networking, educational or mentorship opportunities, and career and library services.
The Alumni Office produces two newsletters with alumni and campus news, organizes events
across the country, arranges group alumni travel programs and offers an alumni networking
app.
The Review is published to keep all alumni informed about healthcare trends,
institutional news, student life, alumni news, faculty research developments and
more.
The SKMC Alumni Bulletin is a quarterly magazine published continuously since 1922
by the SKMC.
Alumni Relations can be contacted by email, [email protected].
College Alumni Association
JCPH has its own association for alumni which include not only graduates of any JCPH
graduate certificate, master’s and doctoral program, but participants of the Population
Health Academy as well. Please contact the Assistant Dean for more information.
Student Handbook 45
LONGITUDINAL SURVEYS
JCPH is part of a unique history of longitudinal surveying at TJU that started in the 1940s with
the medical school and in the 1980s in the other schools and programs. Today, the surveys are
administered and initially analyzed by the Jefferson Office of Institutional Research (OIR).
JCPH uses the data from these surveys to monitor and evaluate the effectiveness of its
programs and measure its instruction, research and service.
Students and graduates are strongly encouraged to participate in these electronic surveys. To
ensure that students and alumni receive these surveys, all are encouraged to provide the
Assistant Dean with an alternate email address.
SURVEY TIMELINE RECIPIENTS
New Student At the start of the fall and spring terms All new matriculating students at JCPH
Exit Prior to the Capstone/Dissertation presentation (master’s and doctoral) or after coursework has been completed (graduate certificate)
All graduates of JCPH
Employment Within 6 months of graduation All graduates of JCPH
Recent Graduate 1 year post-graduation All graduates of JCPH
3 year Alumni 3 years post-graduation All graduates of JCPH
5 year Alumni 5 years post-graduation All graduates of JCPH
10 year Alumni 10 years post-graduation All graduates of JCPH
Since some of these surveys occur well into the future, students are required to provide
updated contact information to the Assistant Dean, as needed.
46 Student Handbook
CONTACT LIST
ORGANIZATION PHONE NUMBER ADDRESS EMAIL
Alumni Relations (215) 955-1635 125 S. 9th St, Ste 600
Campus Security (215) 955-8888
Emergency: 811
Edison 402
Career Development Center
(215) 503-5805 Edison 1120 [email protected]
College of Population Health
(215) 503-0174 901 Walnut St, 10th fl
IS&T (215) 955-7975 833 Chestnut St
Jefferson Bookstore (215) 955-7922 1009 Chestnut St [email protected]
Office of Human Research
(215) 503-8966 JAH M34
Office of International Affairs
(215) 503-4335 JAH M70
Office of Research Administration
(215) 503-1295 125 S. 9th St, 2nd fl
Office of Student Affairs
(215) 503-6335
(215) 503-2787
Edison 1120
Office of Student Life and Engagement
(215) 503-7743 JAH 105
Recreation and Fitness Center
(215) 503-7949 JAH B67
Research Administration Center of Excellence
(215) 503-8990 Curtis G-2
Scott Memorial Library (215) 503-6994 1020 Walnut St [email protected]
Student Personal Counseling Center
(215) 503-2817 833 Chestnut St, Ste 230
University Health Services
(215) 955-6865 833 Chestnut St, Ste 205
University Office of Student Financial Aid
(215) 955-2867 Curtis 115 [email protected]
University Office of the Registrar
(215) 503-8734 Curtis 115 [email protected]
Weather Hotline 1-800-858-8806
Writing Center (215) 503-2787 Edison 1120 [email protected]
Student Handbook 47
CAMPUS MAP
An interactive map is available online.
48 Student Handbook
APPLIED HEALTH ECONOMICS & OUTCOMES RESEARCH
(AHEOR)
Overview
The Applied Health Economics & Outcomes Research (AHEOR) program is an online program
that meets the growing need for professionals to evaluate and measure health outcomes
(both physical and humanistic), and to ascertain economic consequences of healthcare
interventions by determining optimal clinical effectiveness, comparative effectiveness and
economic value. The program is under the direction of David Delgado, PhD, MPH. Graduates
are in a position to become national leaders in applied health economics and to influence
decision-making through the application of established scientific methods to the allocation of
healthcare resources. A Graduate Certificate in AHEOR and a Master of Science in AHEOR (MS-
AHEOR) are available.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director David Delgado, PhD, MPH [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate program are able to:
Compare historical trends to current issues in U.S. healthcare organization, delivery
and financing.
Explore market structures and competitiveness and their impact on health insurance,
the role of government and the pharmaceutical industry.
Examine the strengths and weaknesses of research design and statistical methods in
evaluating product or service efficacy.
Discuss the key concepts and applications of simulations and quantitative modeling in
economic evaluations in Healthcare.
Graduates of the master’s degree program are able to achieve the above competencies plus:
Analyze the structure and function of U.S. healthcare institutions with strong emphasis
on financing and delivery.
Apply analytic methods (e.g., burden of illness, evidence evaluation, statistics and
research design, financial impact, cost-effectiveness, and decision analysis) to inform
resource allocation, relative value assessments and policy initiatives.
Student Handbook 49
Interpret and apply conceptual frameworks used in AHEOR, such as economic metrics
(e.g., cost-effectiveness), quality of life evaluations (e.g., utilities and patient
reported outcomes) and healthcare technology assessment evaluations (e.g., budget
impact analysis, guidelines, formularies, and utilization incentives and disincentives).
Communicate policy implications to various stakeholders and decision makers that
reflect AHEOR concepts and techniques.
Assume leadership roles in the decision process regarding the allocation of healthcare
resources.
Curriculum
The MS-AHEOR degree requires completion of 33 credits, comprised of 10 courses and a
Capstone Project that is presented on the Jefferson campus to peers and faculty following
completion of coursework. The Graduate Certificate in AHEOR requires completion of 15
credits or 5 courses. All courses taken for the graduate certificate can be applied toward the
MS-AHEOR. Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and the
master’s degree in two to four years, depending on their pace through the program and the
time it takes to complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
AHE 501 Economics of Health Insurance (3)
AHE 503 Hospital Finance and Accounting (3)
AHE 504 Economic Modeling 1 (3)
AHE 506 U.S. Healthcare Financing & Reimbursement (3)
Elective* (3)
AHE 509 Epidemiology & Evidence for Outcomes Research (3)
AHE 510 Advanced Research Methods for Applied Observational Studies (3)
AHE 511
AHE 511 Advanced Statistics for AHEOR and PHI (3) SAS on Demand Module**
AHE 512 Economic Modeling II (3) AHE 504
AHE 514 Outcomes & Economic Analyses (3)
AHE 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3) Completion of all courses
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements
*Required for graduate certificate and MS program **SAS on Demand Module completion required prior to the first day of class.
50 Student Handbook
HEALTH POLICY
Overview
The Health Policy program prepares graduates to assume policy analysis and advocacy roles in
healthcare provider organizations, integrated healthcare delivery systems, government
offices, academic institutions, health services research firms, pharmaceutical and medical
device manufacturers and community-based or advocacy organizations. A Graduate
Certificate in Health Policy and a Master of Science in Health Policy (MS-HP) are available.
Graduates of the master’s degree achieve deeper and more comprehensive proficiency in
research methods and statistical techniques that support policy formulation and
implementation.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Lee Pachter, DO [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate program are able to:
Identify the key stakeholders involved in U.S. healthcare organization, delivery and
financing, with a focus on policy-making bodies.
Examine the influence of social, economic, behavioral and political factors on health
outcomes.
Explore the general theoretical principles of economics and their application in the
healthcare sector.
Assess the role of information systems and data analysis in the policy-making process.
Examine the intersection of health law and the U.S. healthcare delivery system,
particularly in regards to policy decisions and reimbursement.
Graduates of the master’s degree program are able to achieve the above competencies plus:
Apply analytical skills to identify problems, model solutions and predict outcomes.
Construct system-wide approaches that consider market forces and multiple
stakeholder positions in the development of actionable policy solutions.
Design, conduct and evaluate health policy analyses and research.
Select and integrate information systems and technology to support decision-making
and work flow within and across healthcare settings.
Student Handbook 51
Apply advanced management and leadership skills to develop policies that manage
costs of Healthcare and that improve access, quality and safety.
Curriculum
The MS-HP degree requires the completion of 33 credits, comprised of 10 courses and a
Capstone Project that is presented on the Jefferson campus to peers and faculty following
completion of coursework. The Graduate Certificate in Health Policy requires completion of
15 credits or 5 courses. All courses taken for the graduate certificate can be applied toward
the master’s. Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and the
master’s degree in two to four years depending on their pace through the program and the
time required to complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
POP 500 Essentials of Population Health (3)
HPL 500 U.S. Healthcare Organization & Delivery (3)
HPL 504 Health Law & Regulatory Issues (3)
HPL 505 Legislative, Executive & Regulatory Processes (3) HPL 500
HPL 506 Health Policy: Analysis & Development (3) HPL 500
HPL 511 Policy Approaches to Addressing Social Determinants of Health (3)
HPL 512 Medicare & Medicaid (3) HPL 500
HPL 513 Effective Communication & Dissemination of Data (3)
HPL 520 Fundamentals of Health Statistics (3)
HPL 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3) Completion of all courses*
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements
* Can be taken concurrently with permission
52 Student Handbook
HEALTHCARE QUALITY & SAFETY (HQS, HQSM, HQSi)
Overview
The Healthcare Quality & Safety (HQS), the Healthcare Quality & Safety Management (HQSM)
and the International Healthcare Quality & Safety (HQSi) programs are all online programs led
by Mary Reich Cooper, MD, JD. A Graduate Certificate in HQS and Master of Science in HQS
(MS- HQS) are available. The Graduate Certificate in HQS and the MS-HQS have two tracks:
U.S. or International. The Master of Science in HQSM (MS-HQSM) is designed for physician
leaders with American Association for Physician Leadership (AAPL) preparation and/or
healthcare executives with MBA/MHA education. The Graduate Certificate in HQSi and Master
of Science in HQSi (MS-HQSi) are designed for employees at or fellows of The International
Society for Quality in Healthcare (ISQua) and require completion of a prerequisite course.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Mary Reich Cooper, MD, JD [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate programs are able to:
Discuss approaches to change management, innovation theory and effectiveness
through quality methodologies.
Identify key socio-economic and cultural determinants of population health outcomes.
Develop HQS project management skills.
Explore the evolution of HQS conceptual frameworks, design, measurements and
policy.
Identify current issues in healthcare organization, delivery and financing.
Graduates of the master’s programs are able achieve the above competencies plus:
Analyze the function and financing of HQS and the systems that deliver these services
in the United States or in international settings.
Identify, interpret and implement policies, care guidelines and regulations relevant to
HQS.
Apply quantitative and qualitative analytic skills to design, conduct and evaluate HQS
measurement, improvement and research activities.
Student Handbook 53
Evaluate and apply technology and information systems that incorporate HQS to
support decision-making and workflow within and across healthcare settings.
Apply management and leadership skills to develop policies related to measurement
and improvement of HQS.
Produce evidence to support healthcare policy development and change.
Curriculum
HQS
The MS-HQS requires completion of 33 credits (10 courses and a Capstone Project). There are
two tracks—U.S. track or International track—in the master’s program. A Graduate Certificate
in HQS (15 credits) is available and all courses taken for the graduate certificate can be
applied toward the MS-HQS. The graduate certificate is also available in both a U.S. track and
International track. Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and
the master’s degree in two to four years depending on their pace through the program and
the time required to complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HPL 500
HPL 550
U.S. Healthcare Organization & Delivery (3) U.S. track or
Comparative Health Systems (3) International track
HPL 520 Fundamentals of Health Statistics (3)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
HQS 505 Advanced Tools & Methods for HQS (3)
HQS 507 Advanced Application of HQS in Clinical Settings (3)
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
HQS 515 Applied Principles of Patient Safety (3)
POP 520 Change Management
POP 530 Applied Leadership Strategies for Effective Change (3)
Elective1 (3)
HQS 650 Capstone Seminar & Project* (3) Completion of all coursework
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements.
* Can be taken concurrently with permission. 1 Must be approved by Program Director. Can include other Operational Excellence courses.
54 Student Handbook
HQSM
Students in the MS-HQSM program are required to complete AAPL online trainings or have
MBA/MHA education prior to admission. The MS-HQSM requires completion of 27 credits (8
courses and a Capstone Project). The Capstone Project is presented on the Jefferson campus
or appropriate AAPL venue to peers and faculty following completion of coursework. A
Graduate Certificate in HQSM is not available. Students can complete the master’s degree in
two to four years depending on their pace through the program and the time required to
complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HPL 520 Fundamentals of Health Statistics (3)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
HQS 505 Advanced Tools & Methods for HQS (3)
HQS 507 Advanced Application of HQS in Clinical Settings (3)
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
HQS 515 Applied Principles of Patient Safety (3)
POP 520 Change Management (3)
POP 530 Applied Leadership Strategies for Effective Change (3)
HQS 650 Capstone Seminar and Project* (3) Completion of all coursework
* Can be taken concurrently with permission.
Student Handbook 55
HQSi
Students in the MS-HQSi program are required to be employees at or fellows of ISQua and
complete the online trainings prior to admission. The MS-HQSi requires completion of 33
credits (10 courses and a Capstone Project). A Graduate Certificate in HQSi (15 credits) is
available and all courses taken for the graduate certificate can be applied toward the MS-
HQSi. Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and the master’s
degree in two to four years depending on their pace through the program and the time
required to complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HPL 550 Comparative Health Systems (3)
HPL 520 Fundamentals of Health Statistics (3)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety1 (3)
HQS 505 Advanced Tools & Methods for HQS (3)
HQS 507 Advanced Application of HQS in Clinical Settings (3)
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
HQS 515 Applied Principles of Patient Safety (3)
POP 520 Change Management
Elective2
HQS 507 Advanced HQS Tools & Methods in Clinical Settings (3)
HQS 650 Capstone Seminar & Project* (3) Completion of all coursework
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements. 1 Will be waived for ISQua Fellows who take the pre-requisite course. 2 Must be approved by Program Director. Can include other Operational Excellence courses.
* Can be taken concurrently with permission.
56 Student Handbook
Student Handbook 57
OPERATIONAL EXCELLENCE
Overview
Operational Excellence (OpX) is the academic and professional field focused on
developing and implementing evidence-based performance improvement
methodologies needed to promote value and efficiency in healthcare. OpX
professionals lead healthcare transformation by focusing on eliminating waste and
improving system performance.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Mary Reich Cooper, MD, JD [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate program are able to:
Graduate Certificate
Apply the foundational concepts of quality and safety measurement, improvement and analysis
Utilize project management tools and framework to design and implement improvement projects
Distinguish the various evaluation methods used to externally and internally assess a healthcare organization’s performance
Identify and evaluate appropriate healthcare situations to utilize operational excellence tools
Master’s Degree (above plus)
Evaluate the effectiveness of various performance improvement evaluation approaches as well as improvement interventions
Integrate quality, safety and transformation/change management tools to promote quality, safety, and process efficiency
Design and implement operational excellence tools and strategies at a system level
Develop systematic approaches to drive broad-impacting improvements across a healthcare organization
Curriculum
The MS-OPX degree requires the completion of 33 credits, comprised of 10 courses and a
Capstone Project that is presented on the Jefferson campus to peers and faculty following
completion of coursework. The Graduate Certificate Operational Excellence requires
completion of 15 credits or 5 courses. All courses taken for the graduate certificate can be
58 Student Handbook
applied toward the master’s. Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two
years and the master’s degree in two to four years depending on their pace through the
program and the time required to complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HPL 500 U.S. Healthcare Organization & Delivery (3)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
OPX 531 Evaluating Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
OPX 532 Project Management Essentials (3)
Elective1
OPX 525 Executing Lean Thinking
OPX 535 Strategic Execution
POP 520 Change Management
OPX 540 Baldridge
HPL 520 Fundamentals of Practice Based Statistics
AHE 503 Hospital Finance & Accounting
OPX 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3) Completion of all courses*
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements
* Can be taken concurrently with permission 1 Requires approval from Program Director
Student Handbook 59
POPULATION HEALTH
Overview
The Population Health program offers additional skills required for leadership positions—
healthcare policy development, epidemiology, outcomes analysis, coalition building and
stakeholder management. The Population Health program is designed for experienced health
executives and practitioners. To be accepted into the program, applicants must have a strong
foundation and at least three to five years of experience in one or more key sectors of the
healthcare or public health system. The online program is led by Mitchell Kaminski, MD,
MBA. A Graduate Certificate in Population Health and a Master of Science in Population
Health (MS-PopH) are available.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Mitchell Kaminski, MD, MBA [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate program are able to:
Articulate new priorities in prevention, evidence-based practice, comparative
effectiveness, public health and health policy established by the population health
framework.
Identify key socioeconomic and cultural determinants of population health outcomes.
Analyze the structure and economics of the U.S. healthcare system and their impact
on population health outcomes.
Articulate how health information systems support and inform data analytics, decision-
making and work flow within and across healthcare settings.
Articulate new approaches to managing costs, and to improving access, quality and
safety.
Graduates of the master’s degree program are able to achieve the above competencies plus:
Apply quantitative and qualitative analytic skills to develop, implement and evaluate
programs that address population health issues at the institutional, community,
regional and national levels.
Assess and interpret healthcare policies, legal precedents, statutes and regulations.
Analyze the impact of socio-cultural factors on access to Healthcare and adjust health
promotions and interventions accordingly.
60 Student Handbook
Apply social, behavioral and organizational science to the diagnosis, development and
implementation of organizational change.
Participate in structured simulations that demonstrate the breadth of population
health.
Curriculum
The MS-PopH requires completion of 33 credits, comprised of 10 courses and a Capstone
project that is presented on campus to peers and faculty following completion of coursework.
The Graduate Certificate in Population Health requires completion of 15 credits or 5 courses.
All courses taken for the graduate certificate can be applied toward the master’s. Students
can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and the master’s degree in two to
four years depending on their pace through the program and the time required to complete
the Capstone Project. There are two tracks within the MS-POP program- Population Health
Science and Population Health Management.
POPULATION HEALTH SCIENCE
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HPL 500 U.S. Healthcare Organization & Delivery (3)
HPL 504 Health Law & Regulatory Issues (3)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
POP 500* Essentials of Population Health (3)
POP 510 Health Economics, Risk & Finance (3)
AHE 509 Epidemiology & Evidence for Outcomes Research (3)
HPL 504 Health Law & Regulatory Issues (3)
HPL 506 Health Policy: Analysis & Advocacy (3)
PHI 501 Health Informatics & Analytics (3)
POP 520 Change Management
Elective*
POP 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3) Completion of all courses**
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements.
*These courses are waived for AAPL members who meet criteria. ** Can be taken concurrently with permission.
POPULATION HEALTH MANAGMENT
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
POP 500*A Essentials of Population Health (3)
POP 510 Health Economics, Risk & Finance (3)
Student Handbook 61
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
PHI 501 Health Informatics & Analytics (3)
PHI 538 Implementation Science (3)
POP 520 Change Management
POP 560 Population Health Strategy & Management Applications I
POP 500, POP 510
POP 561 Population Health Strategy & Management Applications II
POP 560
POP 530 Applied Leadership Strategies for Effective Change (3)
Elective*
POP 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3)** Completion of all coursework
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements
*These courses are waived for AAPL members who meet criteria AThis course waived for POP Health Academy attendees ** Can be taken concurrently with permission.
62 Student Handbook
POPULATION HEALTH INTELLIGENCE
Overview
The Population Health Intelligence program prepares graduates to collect, organize,
harmonize, analyze, disseminate and act upon the data available to clinicians, health system
leaders, the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industry and healthcare payers. The mantra of
Population Health Intelligence is turning data into insight and action. A Graduate Certificate
in Population Health Intelligence and a Master of Science in Population Health Intelligence
(MS-PHI) are available.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Karen Walsh, MS, MBA [email protected]
Academic Advisor Lisa Chosed, MA [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the graduate certificate program will be able to:
Identify and respond to socio-economic, environmental and behavioral determinants of
health.
Develop a strategy for identifying and integrating disparate, non-health and
population-level data into clinical decision-making.
Transform data into measures and metrics for Population Health applications.
Describe the role of statistical analysis in population health, including the role of multivariate statistical analysis, and interpret results of multivariate statistical analyses found in the population health literature.
Identify and qualify sources of population health data.
Account for the impact of health law and regulations on the collection, aggregation,
analysis and presentation of data.
Understand different types of machine learning algorithms, their output and application.
Graduates of the master’s degree program will be able to achieve the above competencies
plus:
Evaluate questions of efficiency and effectiveness in Healthcare employing an array of
quantitative methods used by health analytics practitioners.
Student Handbook 63
Apply management and leadership skills to data driven decision-making.
Develop a strategy for analyzing and assessing payer contracts for at-risk populations.
Adopt data visualization techniques that contribute to effective presentations and
population health management dashboards.
Assess population health initiatives employing program implementation and evaluation
techniques.
Apply epidemiological research methods to identify factors affecting patient care and
health outcomes.
Curriculum
The MS-PHI requires completion of 33 credits, comprised of 10 courses and a Capstone project
that is presented on campus to peers and faculty following completion of coursework. The
Graduate Certificate in Population Health Intelligence requires completion of 15 credits or 5
courses. All courses taken for the graduate certificate can be applied toward the master’s.
Students can complete the graduate certificate in one to two years and the master’s degree
in two to four years depending on their pace through the program and the time required to
complete the Capstone Project.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
AHE 509 Epidemiology & Evidence for Outcomes Research (3)
AHE 511 Advanced Statistics for AHEOR (3) SAS on Demand Module*
PHI 501 Health Informatics & Analytics (3)
PHI 518 Data Science (3) AHE 511
POP 500 Essentials of Population Health (3)
PHI 516 Specialized Data Topics (3)
PHI 527 Analytics Leadership (3)
PHI 532 Data Presentation Architecture (3)
PHI 538 Implementation Science (3)
PHI 605 Advanced Statistics for Data Analytics AHE 511
PHI 650 Capstone Seminar & Project (3)**
Bolded courses are graduate certificate requirements. *SAS on Demand Module completion required prior to the first day of class. **Can be taken concurrently with permission.
64 Student Handbook
POPULATION HEALTH SCIENCES
Overview
The Population Health Sciences program is an onsite doctoral (PhD) program led by Marianna
LaNoue, PhD. The doctoral program prepares leaders to analyze the determinants of health
and to develop, implement and evaluate health interventions, policies and systems that
improve the health and quality of life of populations. More specifically, the PhD program
prepares leaders to be scholars, researchers, educators and practitioners in core aspects of
population health. A master’s degree or post-bachelor professional degree (e.g. PharmD, JD,
MD) is required for entry into the PhD program. Certificate program graduates are not eligible
for admission. Students in the Population Health Sciences program specialize in one of five
areas: Applied Health Economics & Outcomes Research, Health Behavior Science, Healthcare
Quality & Safety, Health Policy, and Population Health Intelligence.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Marianna LaNoue, PhD, MS [email protected]
Competencies
Graduates of the PhD program are able to:
Demonstrate advanced knowledge and application of population health frameworks
and concepts.
Apply knowledge of the structures, performance, quality, policy and environmental
context of Healthcare to the formulation of solutions to and prevention of population
health problems.
Formulate population health research questions that are informed by relevant
theoretical and conceptual models; systematic reviews of the literature; valid,
reliable and generalizable data; and stakeholder needs.
Select appropriate study designs to address specific population health research
questions.
Collect, analyze and/or interpret data obtained either prospectively (by survey,
surveillance, qualitative or mixed methods) or retrospectively through existing public
and private sources to identify determinants of health.
Conduct ethical and responsible research in the design, implementation and
dissemination of population health research through implementation of research
protocols with standardized procedures.
Student Handbook 65
Apply appropriate design and analytic methods to clarify associations between
variables and to identify causal inferences.
Communicate findings and implications of population health science research through
multiple modalities to academic, professional and lay audiences.
Curriculum
The PhD in Population Health Sciences requires a minimum of 62 credits, including the
competency examination, dissertation proposal and dissertation. Courses are offered either in
person or online.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
Core Coursework – Methods (12)
PHS 605 Advanced Statistical Methods for Data Analysis (3) PBH 504 or equivalent
PBH 606
AHE 509
Advanced Epidemiology (3)
or
Epidemiology & Evidence for Outcomes Research (3) Required for AHEOR Specialization; optional for all other Specializations
PBH 506 or equivalent
HPL 500
PHS 615 Advanced Statistics for Population Health Sciences: Multi-Level Modeling (3)
PHS 605 or equivalent
PHS 650 Evaluative & Outcomes Research & Design (3)
Core Coursework – Population Health Fundamentals (16)
HPL 500 U.S. Healthcare Organization & Delivery (3)
POP 500 Essentials of Population Health (3)
AHE 501 Economics of Health Insurance (3) HPL 500
PBH 502 Society, Behavior & the Environment (3)
PHS 602 Bioethics (1)
PHS 620 Teaching & Learning Seminar (3)
Integrative Research (4)
PHS 700 Integrative Research Seminar (1)
Mentored Research (3)
PHS 660 Mentored Research Experience (1, 2, or 3) Approval by Program Director
Specialization Coursework (15)1 - Bolded courses are required and students select two additional courses.
Applied Health Economics & Outcomes Research (AHEOR) Specialization Coursework
AHE 503 Hospital Finance & Accounting (3)
AHE 504 Economic Modeling in Healthcare 1 (3)
AHE 506 Subjective Outcomes in Health Evaluation (3)
AHE 510 Econometric & Observational Methods (3) HPL 500
AHE 511 Advanced Statistics for AHEOR (3)
AHE 512 Economic Modeling II (3) AHE 504
66 Student Handbook
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
AHE 514 Outcomes & Economic Analyses (3)
Health Behavior Science Specialization Coursework
PBH 512 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
PBH 515 Cultural Humility & Competence (3)
PBH 602 Advanced Social & Behavioral Theories & Interventions (3)
PBH 502
PHS 680 Advanced Health Behavior Methods & Measurement (3)
PHS 605
PHS 710 Advanced Analytic Methods for Health Behavior Science (3)
PHS 605
Health Policy Specialization Coursework
HPL 504 Health Law & Regulatory Issues
HPL 505 Legislative, Executive & Regulatory Processes
HPL 506 Health Policy: Analysis & Development
HPL 511 Policy Approaches to Addressing Social Determinants of Health
HPL 512 Medicare & Medicaid
HPL 513 Effective communication & Dissemination of Data
POP 530 Applied Leadership Strategies for Effective Change
Healthcare Quality & Safety Specialization Coursework
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
HQS 505 Advanced Tools & Methods for HQS (3)
HQS 507 Advanced Applications of HQS in Clinical Settings (3)
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
HQS 515 Applied Principles of Patient Safety (3)
POP 520 Change Management
Population Health Intelligence Specialization Coursework
PHI 501 Health Informatics & Analytics
PHI 516 Specialized Data Topics
PHI 518 Data Science AHE 511
PHI 527 Analytics Leadership
PHI 532 Data Presentation Architecture
PHI 538 Implementation Science
Examination & Dissertation (min 12)
PHS 800 Comprehensive Exam Prep (1)
PHS 801 Comprehensive Exam (1) PHS 800
PHS 805 Dissertation Proposal Seminar (3) PHS 800, PHS 801, Advancement to Candidacy
PHS 807 Dissertation Proposal Defense (1)* PHS 805
Student Handbook 67
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
PHS 810 Dissertation (3)
PHS 811 Dissertation (3) PHS 810
PHS 812 Dissertation (1)** PHS 811
Bolded courses are within track requirements
* up to 3 consecutive terms
** optional enrollment until Dissertation is successfully defended 1AHEOR Specialization has two tracks – Real World Evidence (RWE) or Modeling (MOD). RWE course
requirements (511, 510, 503, 504, 514) MOD course requirements (503, 504, 511, 512, AHE elective).
Comprehensive Examination
The Comprehensive Examination is composed of two parts:
Part I is the written, closed-book, monitored test consisting of essays on key areas in
population health
Part II is the written, open-book, non-monitored research proposal
Students should adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in the PhD Comprehensive
Examination and Dissertation Handbook.
Dissertation Proposal and Oral Defense
The Dissertation is the final degree requirement of the doctoral program. Students should
adhere to the policies and procedures outlined in the PhD Comprehensive Examination and
Dissertation Handbook.
68 Student Handbook
PUBLIC HEALTH
Overview
The Public Health program is an onsite program led by Rosie
Frasso, PhD, MSc, CPH. The public health program is the
foundational academic program of the College. The
comprehensive public health curriculum trains students to be
practitioners in community, government, research, non-profit,
and clinical settings. The program is committed to multi-
disciplinary experiential education, research, practice, and
service.
The Graduate Certificate in Public Health provides students with the foundational knowledge
and skills for public health practice. The Master of Public Health (MPH) is nationally
accredited through the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Students develop
competencies in several key public health areas: health behavior and social sciences,
biostatistics, epidemiology, policy and advocacy, program planning, implementation and
evaluation, and others. The interdisciplinary curriculum stresses leadership skills, systems
thinking, the integration of public health and health care as well as health communication,
global health, and cultural humility and competency.
Students can complete the MPH in several ways:
LEAP Pathway– The Leaders in Evidence, Application & Prevention Pathway is an
accelerated (one academic year) pathway for future healthcare professionals. All LEAP
students enter the program in the fall (September) term and take courses on a full-
time basis.
LPHT Pathway – The Leaders in Public Health Transformation Pathway is ideal for
students planning to practice public health and take the lead in promoting health
across siloes. LPHT students can enter the program in any term. Students on the LPHT
pathway may be either full-time or part-time. Jefferson employees looking to enhance
their skills and strengthen the human capital of the Jefferson Enterprise are
designated as Jeff LPHT students.
Dual Degree – Dual degree options allow students to apply coursework from other
degree programs to the Jefferson MPH. Currently, the Public Health program offers
several dual degrees, each with their own specific timeline.
The Public Health program offers four engaging concentration options. Each concentration
offers elective course options that address specific competencies. Students in each
concentration take 6 elective courses. Students will work with their academic advisors to
declare a concentration.
Student Handbook 69
1. Public Health Analytics focuses on bolstering students’ epidemiological and statistical
expertise through advanced coursework giving students the ability to collect, analyze,
interpret and visualize data.
2. Public Health Policy & Advocacy gives students the skillset to promote public health
policy at the local, state, federal and international levels.
3. Healthcare Quality & Safety focuses on integrating public health knowledge and skills
in the clinical space. This concentration is particularly of interest to students currently
in or intending to enter the medical field.
4. The Generalist concentration gives students the most freedom to choose electives
that appeal to them. Academic advisors will support students in determining which
electives support their career goals.
Key Contacts
TITLE NAME CONTACT INFORMATION
Program Director Rosie Frasso, PhD, MSc, MSc, CPH [email protected]
Assistant Program Director
Katherine Puskarz, MPH [email protected]
Academic Advisors Katherine Puskarz, MPH
Rosie Frasso, PhD, MSc, MSc, CPH
[email protected] [email protected]
Competencies
The Council on Education for Public Health has identified the essential knowledge and skills
needed in public health practice, education and research. The JCPH Public Health program
uses these competencies to guide curriculum development and assess student learning. Every
course in the program links these competencies to graded assignments allowing faculty and
students to track progress. Students in the Public Health program will demonstrate
attainment of the following competencies:
Public Health Knowledge
D1.1 Explain public health history, philosophy and values
D1.2 Identify the core functions of public health and the 10 Essential Services
D1.3 Explain the role of quantitative and qualitative methods and sciences in describing and assessing a population’s health
D1.4 List major causes and trends of morbidity and mortality in the US or other community relevant to the College or public health program
D1.5 Discuss the science of primary, secondary and tertiary prevention in population health, including health promotion, screening, etc.
D1.6 Explain the critical importance of evidence in advancing public health knowledge
D1.7 Explain effects of environmental factors on a population’s health
70 Student Handbook
D1.8 Explain biological and genetic factors that affect a population’s health
D1.9 Explain behavioral and psychological factors that affect a population’s health
D1.10 Explain the social, political and economic determinants of health and how they contribute to population health and health inequities
D1.11 Explain how globalization affects global burdens of disease
D1.12 Explain an ecological perspective on the connections among human health, animal health and ecosystem health (eg, One Health)
Foundational Competencies
D2.1 Apply epidemiological methods to the breadth of settings and situations in public health practice
D2.2 Select quantitative and qualitative data collection methods appropriate for a given public health context
D2.3 Analyze quantitative and qualitative data using biostatistics, informatics, computer-based programming and software, as appropriate
D2.4 Interpret results of data analysis for public health research, policy or practice
D2.5 Compare the organization, structure and function of health care, public health and regulatory systems across national and international settings
D2.6 Discuss the means by which structural bias, social inequities and racism undermine health and create challenges to achieving health equity at organizational, community and societal levels
D2.7 Assess population needs, assets and capacities that affect communities’ health
D2.8 Apply awareness of cultural values and practices to the design or implementation of public health policies or programs
D2.9 Design a population-based policy, program, project or intervention
D2.10 Explain basic principles and tools of budget and resource management
D2.11 Select methods to evaluate public health programs
D2.12 Discuss multiple dimensions of the policy-making process, including the roles of ethics and evidence
D2.13 Propose strategies to identify stakeholders and build coalitions and partnerships for influencing public health outcomes
D2.14 Advocate for political, social or economic policies and programs that will improve health in diverse populations
D2.15 Evaluate policies for their impact on public health and health equity
D2.16 Apply principles of leadership, governance and management, which include creating a vision, empowering others, fostering collaboration and guiding decision making
D2.17 Apply negotiation and mediation skills to address organizational or community challenges
D2.18 Select communication strategies for different audiences and sectors
D2.19 Communicate audience-appropriate public health content, both in writing and through oral presentation
D2.20 Describe the importance of cultural competence in communicating public health
Student Handbook 71
content
D2.21 Perform effectively on interprofessional teams
D2.22 Apply systems thinking tools to a public health issue
Concentration-Specific Competencies
Students will attain additional competencies dependent on their declared concentration.
Curriculum
The public health program requires the completion of 45 credits including a Clerkship-Applied
Practice Experience (C-APE) and Capstone-Integrative Learning Experience (C-ILE). A
Graduate Certificate in Public Health (18 credits) is also available. Students earning a
Graduate Certificate will identify six courses, three core and three electives, in consultation
with the Program Director.
“Free Choice” electives may be any elective offered across all concentrations. For example, a
student in the Public Health Analytics concentration takes 2 “free choice” electives in
addition to the required concentration courses. The student may choose to take a law and
ethics course from the Policy & Advocacy concentration and a global health course from the
generalist concentration as the “free choice” electives.
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
CORE COURSES
PBH 500 Foundations of the US Healthcare System (3)
PBH 501 Foundations of Public Health (3)
PBH 502 Society, Behavior & the Environment (3)
PBH 504
Or
PBH 505
Fundamentals of Statistics for Research (3)
Fundamentals of Statistics for Practice (3)
PBH 506 Fundamentals of Epidemiology (3)
PBH 509 Foundations of Policy & Advocacy (3)
PBH 510 Health Research Methods (3) PBH 504*/505*, PBH 506*
PBH 520 Program Planning, Implementation & Evaluation (3) PBH 501, PBH 502, PBH 506
PBH 611
PBH 612
PBH 613
PBH 614
LEAP Integrative Learning Experience, Part 1 (2) and
LEAP Integrative Learning Experience, Part 2 (1) LEAP only
or
LPHT Integrative Learning Experience, Part 1 (3) and
LPHT Integrative Learning Experience, Part 2 (0) LPHT only
PBH 510
PBH 510*
PBH 651 Clerkship – Applied Practice Experience (C-APE) (0) At least 16 credits
72 Student Handbook
COURSE # COURSE NAME (CREDITS) PREREQUISITES
CONCENTRATIONS Additional courses may be taken as electives with permission
Public Health Analytics (4 required concentrations courses + 2 “free choice” electives)
PBH 512 Qualitative Research Methods (3)
PBH 605 Advanced Statistical Methods for Data Analysis (3) PBH 504
PBH 606 Advanced Epidemiology (3) PBH 506
PBH 609 Geo-Based Information Systems (GIS) Mapping (3) PBH 504*/505*, PBH 506*
Public Health Policy & Advocacy (4 required concentration courses + 2 “free choice” electives)
PBH 511 Health Communication (3)
PBH 513 Public Health Law & Ethics (3) PBH 509
PBH 518 Applied Policy & Advocacy (3) PBH 509
PBH 519 Legislative Advocacy Skills for Public Health (3) PBH 501, PBH 502, PBH 509
Healthcare Quality & Safety (4 required concentration courses + 2 “free choice” electives)
HQS 500 Introduction to Healthcare Quality & Safety (3)
HQS 509 Applied Principles of Healthcare Quality (3)
HQS 515 Applied Principles of Patient Safety (3)
OPX 532 Project Management Essentials (3)
Generalist (6 “free choice” electives)
PBH 507 Fundamentals of Environmental Health (3)
PBH 508 Applied Toxicology (3)
PBH 514 Dimensions of Global Health (3)
PBH 515 Cultural Humility & Competence (3)
PBH 516 Human Rights of Immigrants, Refugees & Internally Displaced (3)
PBH 550 Public Health and Clinical Practice (3)
PBH 602 Advanced Social & Behavioral Theories & Interventions (3)
PBH 502
PBH 607 Infectious Disease Epidemiology (3) PBH 506
* Can be taken concurrently with permission
Student Handbook 73
Completion Timelines
COMPLETION TIMELINES
LEAP Students complete all coursework, the C-APE and the C-ILE
within one academic year.
Dual Degree Completion timelines vary by program. Dual degree students will
receive program-specific timelines from their academic advisor.
JD/MPH with the Delaware Law School at Widener
University
MD/MPH with Sidney Kimmel Medical College
MPH/MPH with Geisinger Commonwealth School of
Medicine
DO/MPH with the Philadelphia College of Osteopathic
Medicine (PCOM)
PharmD/MPH with the Jefferson College of Pharmacy
MSS/MPH with the Graduate School of Social Work and
the Social Research at Bryn Mawr College
PA/MPH with the Jefferson College of Health Professions,
Department of Physician’s Assistant
Full-Time LPHT Students complete all coursework, including the C-APE and C-
ILE, within two years
Part-Time LPHT Students complete all coursework, including the C-APE and C-
ILE, within five years.
Jeff LPHT Students complete all coursework, including the C-APE and C-
ILE, within five years.
ePortfolios and the Academic Repository
ePortfolios are a virtual portfolio of a student’s work. Much like an artist keeps a portfolio of
his or her artistic pieces, an ePortfolio holds essays, posters and other works that exemplify a
student’s public health knowledge and skills. As a student adds items such as personal photos,
history, career goals and other documents, the ePortfolio becomes a representation of the
student and can be submitted as part of an application for higher education or employment.
Students in the Public Health program use the Academic Repository on Blackboard to collect
and manage their ePortfolio documents. Students are required to upload one course
assignment along with an accompanying short description for every completed course in the
program. The Academic Repository must be completed prior to graduation.
74 Student Handbook
Interprofessional Activity
All students are required to participate in an interprofessional activity and write a reflection
paper on their experiences. Students are encouraged to participate in a pre-approved
activity, such as Nexus Maximus or any group activity provided by the Jefferson Center for
Interprofessional Education. Students may identify alternative interprofessional opportunities
in the community and submit them for approval by the Assistant Program Director. To be
approved, these opportunities must allow the student to actively participate in an
interdisciplinary group activity. More information about this requirement is available in the
Clerkship –Applied Practice Experience Handbook.
Clerkship - Applied Practice Experience (C-APE)
MPH students should refer to the Clerkship –Applied Practice Experience Handbook for the
policies concerning Clerkship.
Enrolling in a SAS OnDemand and SAS Programming I E-Learn Course:
Please create your account for SAS OnDemand for Academics. To register, visit
https://odamid.oda.sas.com and click on register for an account. You must use
your ‘.edu’ address, and it takes a few minutes for your application to be
processed.
After you have successfully created your SAS OnDemand account, follow these steps
to enroll in SAS Programming I E-learn Course:
1. Click this link https://support.sas.com/edu/elearning.html?ctry=us&productType=library
2. Sign on with your SAS OnDemand Login Credentials
3. Click on SAS Programming I- Start Now (Course is 14 Hours in length and is self-paced)
4. Once completed email certificate or validation that course was complete to [email protected]
Additional Support:
For more information about SAS OnDemand for Academics, including step-by-step
registration instructions, visit the following site: http://support.sas.com/ondemand.
