New Partnership Addresses Need for Better Prepared Health Care Workforce

4+1 Degree is a Collaboration Between UH College of Education, UTHealth

The University of Houston College of Education offers a new area of study in the science of preventing disease, prolonging life and promoting health. Students who enroll in coursework for the college’s new 4+1 Degree can earn a Bachelor of Science degree in health, with a specialization in public health, and a master’s degree in public health.

The 4+1 Degree is a partnership between the College of Education and The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health. Students may begin enrolling in the program in spring 2015 and may apply online.

“The growing field of public health requires a better prepared workforce to address emerging public health challenges,” said Norma Olvera, UH professor of health. “There is an increased need for public health specialists to develop, implement and evaluate programs and policies for improved health care and disease prevention. We know this program will go a long way in addressing these challenges.” 

Students who are in the four year UH health education program with specialization in public health and are interested in applying the 4+1 may begin working on the master’s program during their senior year. Studies for both degrees will be complete in five years. Students must apply and be admitted to the master’s program in public health through UTHealth. 

“Health care is one of the most important purchases consumers can make. Including a public health focus at the bachelor's level is another step in the right direction to promoting wellness in the general population,” said Osama I. Mikhail, interim dean of The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health. “By partnering with the University of Houston, students in the program will be able to complete a master’s in public health in only one additional year from the top public health program in the Southwest.”

The 4+1 Degree graduates will be qualified to enter careers in the public and private sector, such as health educator, safety and health inspector, risk assessor, environmental health expert, health program evaluator, to name a few.  Graduates also will be prepared to pursue doctoral degrees in public health or allied health.

For more information on the UH College of Education and UTHealth 4+1 Degree, visit them online.