Integrating Service-Learning into an MPH Curriculum for Future Public Health Practitioners

• DOI: 10.1097/phh.0b013e3182140bcc
• Publication Date: 2013-08-29T13:23:00Z
• Authors: Lisa S. Anderson; Michael O. Royster; Nannette Bailey; Karen Reed
• Keywords: Service-Learning

Through a 3-year grant from the Community-Campus Partnerships for Health, Virginia Commonwealth University MPH program adopted an incremental approach to implement service-learning focused on health disparities into its curriculum. We first incorporated elective course and then required internship. worked with Department of Health develop plan first-year students engage in additional experiential learning through practicum. Students also were encouraged organize community service events, such as fairs. Service-learning was fully The student practicum, followed by internship, has strengthened collaborations among faculty, students, expanded community. number student-supported events more than doubled. An incorporating led successful implementation pedagogy. benefits partners, enriches learning, is well-suited studies public health.