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Updated in [March 06th, 2023]

This course provides an overview of community change in public health. It begins with an introduction to the ecological model and definitions of community. It then moves on to a second perspective and framework, which includes offensive, defensive, and hidden communities. The course then covers community efficacy and competence, community change models, approaches and tools for community participation and change, and the political economy framework. It also covers what participation is, levels of involvement, community coalitions, and a case study on community participation onchocerciasis. Finally, the course covers the results of enhancing community-directed treatment and the CDI process.

[Applications]
The application of this course can be seen in the development of public health initiatives. It can be used to understand the dynamics of community change and to develop strategies for community participation and change. It can also be used to understand the political economy framework and the different levels of involvement in community coalitions. Additionally, it can be used to analyze case studies, such as the Onchocerciasis case study, to understand the results of enhancing community-directed treatment.

[Career Paths]
1. Public Health Educator: Public health educators are responsible for educating the public about health issues and promoting healthy behaviors. They work with communities to develop health education programs and materials, and they often collaborate with other health professionals to ensure that their programs are effective. They also work to identify and address health disparities in communities.

2. Community Health Worker: Community health workers are responsible for providing health education and services to individuals and communities. They work with local organizations and health care providers to identify health needs and develop strategies to address them. They also provide direct services, such as health screenings, health education, and referrals to health care providers.

3. Health Policy Analyst: Health policy analysts are responsible for researching and analyzing health policies and programs. They work with government agencies, health care providers, and other stakeholders to develop and implement health policies and programs. They also evaluate the effectiveness of existing policies and programs and recommend changes to improve them.

4. Health Program Manager: Health program managers are responsible for overseeing the implementation of health programs. They work with stakeholders to develop and implement health programs, and they monitor the progress of the programs to ensure that they are meeting their goals. They also evaluate the effectiveness of the programs and recommend changes to improve them.

[Education Paths]
1. Bachelor of Science in Public Health: A Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) degree is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of public health principles and practices. This degree program typically includes courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and health promotion. Students will also learn about the social determinants of health, health disparities, and health communication. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in public health, health administration, or health policy.

2. Master of Public Health: A Master of Public Health (MPH) degree is designed to provide students with advanced knowledge and skills in public health. This degree program typically includes courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and health promotion. Students will also learn about the social determinants of health, health disparities, and health communication. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in public health, health administration, or health policy.

3. Doctor of Public Health: A Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree is designed to provide students with the highest level of knowledge and skills in public health. This degree program typically includes courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and health promotion. Students will also learn about the social determinants of health, health disparities, and health communication. This degree is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in public health, health administration, or health policy.

4. Certificate in Community Change: A Certificate in Community Change is designed to provide students with the knowledge and skills necessary to effectively engage in community change initiatives. This certificate program typically includes courses in community organizing, community development, and community engagement. Students will also learn about the principles of community change, the role of stakeholders in community change, and the use of data and evidence-based approaches to community change. This certificate is ideal for those interested in pursuing a career in community organizing, community development, or community engagement.