Sociology and Public Health
School
College of Arts, Humanities and Social Sciences
School Interim Dean
Department
Department Chair
Sociology at St. Mary’s University is designed to foster the goals of a twenty-first century liberal arts and sciences education. We educate our students to think systematically, intellectually, ethically, and critically about society. Our goal is to better understand the social lives of individuals, groups, institutions, communities, and societies in all of their complexity and interconnectedness. The Sociology student develops analytic, research, and communication skills, and learns how to ask and answer social research questions by using data. Our rigorous and academically challenging program builds a course foundation vital to a variety of fields and careers, and students are encouraged to complement their course experiences with professionalizing opportunities outside of the classroom, campus, or country. Sociology at St. Mary’s University prepares students to contribute to solutions for some of the most complex and challenging social issues we experience in society today.
SC 1311. Introductory Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to the scope and methods of sociology, emphasizing the concepts of social structure, organization, institution, culture and socialization, and including analyses of primary and secondary groups, sex roles, social control, stratification, minorities, collective behavior, and population dynamics. Prerequisite for all courses in the Criminology and Sociology program.
SC 2310. Introduction to Sociology of Sex and Gender. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides an introductory examination of sex and gender from a sociological perspective. Students will explore how gender roles and sexual identities are socially constructed and how they shape individual experiences and societal structures. Key topics include the socialization of gender, the impact of gender stereotypes, the intersection of gender with race, class, and sexuality, and the ways in which gender roles are changing in contemporary society. The course will also address issues of gender inequality, power dynamics, and the social movements challenging traditional gender norms. By the end of the course, students will have a foundational understanding of how gender and sexuality influence social behavior and societal structures.
SC 2321. Social Issues. 3 Semester Hours.
Current discussions of contemporary social problems, including issues related to family and sexuality, health and substance abuse,
education, poverty, prejudice and discrimination, population and environment, war and peace. Prerequisite: SC 1311.
SC 2351. Foundations of Social Psychology. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces students to the sociological study of human behavior in social contexts and provides a foundational understanding of how social groups, institutions, and norms shape individual behavior, identity, and interaction. Students explore socialization, the development of the self, social norms, conformity and deviance, group dynamics, interpersonal relationships, and power. A key focus is understanding how individuals are influenced by social forces and how they contribute to sustaining or changing social conditions. No prior sociology courses are required.
SC 2371. Race and Ethnic Relations. 3 Semester Hours.
The study of race and ethnic relations among Asians, Blacks/African Americans, Hispanics/Latinos/Latinx, Native Americans, and
Whites in the United States. The goal of this course is for students to understand how the U.S. history of race and ethnicity shapes
opportunity structures in, for example, education, employment, housing, and health. Through this course students will gain a better
understanding of how race and ethnicity stratifies the lives of individuals, groups, and communities. Prerequisite SC 1311.
SC 2384. Theoretical Perspectives in Social and Health Sciences. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces major social theories from classical and contemporary traditions and explores how they shape understanding of society, health, and justice. Students examine perspectives such as structural functionalism, conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism, alongside health–relevant frameworks including the social determinants of health, the social ecological model, and intersectionality. Emphasis is placed on applying these ideas to real-world social issues—such as inequality, health behaviors, institutions, and community challenges—making the course relevant for students in sociology and social and health sciences.
SC 3155. Internship in Sociology. 1 Semester Hour.
Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 40 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the one-credit internship from SC3155. Involves written sociological analysis. 1 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Junior/Senior status. Prerequisite SC 1311.(fall, spring, or summer).
SC 3255. Internship in Sociology. 2 Semester Hours.
Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 80 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the two-credit internship from SC 3255. Involves written sociological analysis. 1 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Prerequisite SC 1311.(fall, spring, or summer).
SC 3300. Special Topics in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.
Topics will vary from semester to semester. May be retaken for additional credit when a different topic is offered. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3305. Interviewing Techniques. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to in-depth interview techniques and designs in Sociology. This course teaches students how to engage in scientific research using question-based data and conduct their own in-depth interview project based on original interview data. The course is open to majors, and non-majors who might use interview techniques in future academic or professional settings. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3306. Qualitative Research Methods. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to the methods used to conduct qualitative research in natural social settings. An examination of the methods of ethnography, participant observation/non-participant observation, focus group, interview, and use of documentary sources will be included. Students may have the opportunity to engage in hands-on research. Additional topics include data coding, data analysis and research ethics. Prerequisites SC1311 or CJ 1301 or CR 3325. Sophomore standing.
SC 3308. Sociology of Religion. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to basic issues in the sociology of religion, including alternative definitions of religion, the relationship of religion to economic, political and other social institutions, and the influence of religion on personal development, social order, conflict, and change. Religious institutions are viewed in historical and cross-cultural perspective. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3310. Sociology of Sex and Gender. 3 Semester Hours.
An examination of what it means to be male-female and masculine-feminine and the associated inequalities in US societies. Topics include sexual identity, gender stereotypes, cross-cultural differences in gender roles and socialization, and changes in these roles in contemporary society. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3315. Future Societies. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to social forecasting and the sociology of the future. This course explores a range of alternative possibilities for the future of human societies, including both optimistic and pessimistic scenarios. Topics include the impact of technology on social relations, the future of major social institutions, and prospects for the solution of global problems. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3320. Social Stratification. 3 Semester Hours.
An analysis of social stratification utilizing social class as the unit of study. The course will focus on the structure of social classes in the U.S. as a major factor influencing individual and group life chances with regards to education, crime, health, and disease, world views and life styles. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311, or CR 3325.
SC 3342. Social Organizations. 3 Semester Hours.
An introduction to basic concepts, theories, and topics in organizational sociology. Special emphases will be placed on: the social impacts of organizations; the characteristics of business, government, and not-for-profit organizations; approaches used to study organizations; and empirical analysis of organizational processes. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3343. Sociology of Families. 3 Semester Hours.
This study of families as a constantly-evolving social institution in the United States. Includes an historical and demographic overview of families, definitions of “family” and the social, economic, and political implications of such a definition, and relationships between social inequality in families with a particular focus on gender, race, and class. Topics may include marriage, cohabitation, divorce, dating, work-family balance, parenting, nonmarital sex and childbearing, step family formation, interracial marriage, and same-sex relationships. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3345. Social Work Profession and Practice. 3 Semester Hours.
This course is a general introduction to the social work profession, and to working with diverse populations in social service settings. It explores the basic concepts of the profession, understanding how the theories and techniques are applied in the field. Students investigate a variety of methods for intervention in working with individuals, families and groups; as well as general practice in agencies and community settings. Finally, students explore the breadth of the profession and study a sampling of the populations served by social workers.
SC 3351. Social Psychology. 3 Semester Hours.
This course addresses human behavior and personality development as affected by social group life. Major theories will be compared. The interaction dynamics of such substantive areas as socialization, normative and deviant behavior, learning and achievement, the social construction of the self, and the social identities will be considered. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3352. Group Dynamics. 3 Semester Hours.
An analysis of the structure, functions and processes of small groups from a social-psychological perspective. Practical applications are explored for education, counseling, social work, business, and law. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3353. Public Opinion and Propaganda. 3 Semester Hours.
An examination of the nature, extent, and purposes of propaganda and of other social and psychological influences on public opinion. Topics include techniques of persuasion and the role of mass media and advertising in shaping public attitudes. Prerequisites SC1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3355. Internship in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.
Experiential education related to the theoretical and research topics studied in sociology. The student shall complete a minimum of 120 hours at a site or agency approved by the department chair, with an evaluation of satisfactory performance, to earn the three-credits internship. Involves written sociological analysis. 3 to 6 semester hours of credit, with a maximum of 3 hours per semester. Junior/Senior standing (fall, spring, or summer).
SC 3361. Urban Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.
An analysis of cities, their historical development and social organization. Topics include urbanization in developed and developing societies, urban stratification and lifestyles, and urban, metropolitan and regional planning. Prerequisites SC 1311, or CR 1311, or CR 3325.
SC 3362. Population and Society. 3 Semester Hours.
The course takes a global perspective to examine the causes and consequences of population size, composition, distribution, and change; providing an overview of how social factors influence population characteristics and how these characteristics in turn affect society. The course explores many demographic questions, including: Why do some countries have rapid population growth while and others face population decline? Why is there a large variation in birth rates around the world today? Why are some people more likely to die younger than others? Why do some people try hard to migrate while others do not? Topics include demographic measurement, theory and data, fertility, mortality, morbidity, immigration, age and sex composition, and family formation. Prerequisites SC 1311, or CR 1311, or CR 3325.
SC 3363. Family Violence. 3 Semester Hours.
The family is the last place one would expect to find violence for it should be a safe haven for individuals. However, violence in the family is widespread, containing both perpetrators and victims. This course will examine definitions of family violence, explanations for why families are violent, different groups impacted by violence, and policy and prevention strategies. Prerequisite SC 1311.
SC 3371. Advanced Topics in Race and Ethnic Relations. 3 Semester Hours.
Intensive examination of a specialized topic in race and ethnicities and/or intersectionality of race/ethnicities/ class/gender. The specific topic of the course varies depending on the faculty offering it. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 3373. Sociology Of Childhood & Youth. 3 Semester Hours.
This course examines definitions, conceptions, and empirical research related to the sociology of childhood, adolescence, and the transition to adulthood in the United States. This will include historical and contemporary views of these life stages, peer cultures, race, class, gender, adolescent romantic relationships, and a variety of social problems. Prerequisite SC 1311.
SC 3381. Introductory Statistics. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces the social science application to statistical techniques and introduces both descriptive and inferential statistics. It examines statistics as a tool to understanding differences between social groups, to determine if social programs and policies are meeting their objectives, and to explore how and why variables are related to each other. We discuss how to critically assess and interpret the statistical data and conclusions shown in the media, the diverse way social scientists gather, interpret, and evaluate data, and the real-life application of statistical techniques to sociological data and the interpretation of results. Prerequisite: MT 1301, or MT 1302, or MT 1303, or MT1304 or MT 1305. Additional fee associated with this course. See fee schedule for details at https://www.stmarytx.edu/admission/financial-aid/tuition/.
SC 3383. Understanding Fertility and Reproductive Health. 3 Semester Hours.
This course focuses on fertilities in societies and childbearing among individuals and couples. In particular the cross-cultural approaches to women’s reproductive health issues. We will explore classical theories of fertility change at the societal level and contemporary critiques of these theories. We will also examine the determinants of fertility and reproductive health with special attention to the effects of racism, sexism and poverty in developed and developing countries. Prerequisite SC 1311.
SC 3397. Data Visualization. 3 Semester Hours.
This hands-on course introduces students to the principles and techniques of data visualization in social and health sciences. Students learn to construct clear and effective visual representations of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods data using contemporary tools and software, including charts, graphs, and dashboards. The course covers key concepts such as visual perception, design principles, data and AI ethics, and interpretation of results. Students apply these skills to real-world datasets through individual and group projects, gaining practical experience in communicating research findings visually. Prerequisites: SC 3381 or equivalent OR one research methods course (SC 3306, SC 4383, or equivalent).
SC 3399. Mixed Methods. 3 Semester Hours.
This is a “hands on ” methods course designed to bring awareness to mixed methods or the combin ation of qualitative and
quantitative research methods in the same study . The course will review the major tenets of this third metho dologica l movement ”
including the underlying research paradigms . The course will highlight bo th the important roles mixed methods play in the development
of Sociology among other fields (e.g., health sciences , psychology education) and cover formulati ng research questions, collecting and
analyzing different types of data, choosing the appropriate mixed methods designs, and interpreting mixed method research results. Prerequisites: SC 1311, SC3381 or equivalent and at least one methods course (SC3306, SC4383, or equivalent).
SC 4300. Sociology of Aging. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides a demographic overview of the social processes of aging in the United States and explores the social and cultural factors influencing the views of aging that are prevalent in our society. We examine how social factors, like gender, race, and social class, shape the experience of aging and create diversity among older adults. The course asks several key questions: How do we define the Sociology of Aging? What are the field’s origins and current areas of focus? What are the physiological and cognitive changes linked with aging, as well as the theories that explain such changes and adaptations to those changes? What is the social context of older adulthood, such as living arrangements, employment, family support, and discrimination; and finally, what are the social policies and social problems affecting older adults in the United States.
SC 4305. Death and Dying. 3 Semester Hours.
A holistic treatment of the dying person and their environment. Topics include cross-cultural differences in grief and mourning behaviors, psychological process of the terminally ill, funeral practices, hospice alternatives, and ethical problems related to the medical extension of life.
SC 4383. Applied Research Methods for Social and Health Sciences. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces the logic, history, and methods of social science research with applications in social and health sciences. Students learn principles of scientific reasoning, research design, and commonly used methods, including observation, surveys, interviews, content analysis, and experiments. Topics also include research and AI ethics, sampling strategies, descriptive statistics, and qualitative and quantitative data analysis using contemporary tools. Students design and conduct an applied research project addressing a contemporary social issue and present their findings in written and visual formats. Intended for sophomores or juniors, the course builds foundational skills in research, analysis, and evidence-based decision-making applicable across social and health sciences. Prerequisites: sophomore standing or higher and completion of one of the following courses: SC 1311 Introduction to Sociology, or CJ 1301 Introduction to Criminal Justice, or CR 3325 Criminology. This course is offered in the fall only and includes an additional course fee. See fee schedule for details at https://www.stmarytx.edu/admission/financial-aid/tuition/.
SC 4384. Sociological Theory. 3 Semester Hours.
An overview of major global and U.S. social theorists in classical and contemporary eras and their influence on current sociological research and applications. The most common theoretical perspectives—structural functionalism, social conflict theory, and symbolic interactionism will be introduced and explored as different lens that change the way we see and engage in our social worlds. Prerequisites SC 1311 or CR 1311.
SC 4390. ProSem: Professional Seminar in Sociology. 3 Semester Hours.
This course is designed to provide resources for the college-to-career pipeline for Sociology majors. The course includes three modules centered on forms of capital to provide a general set of tools and guidelines for professional careers after St. Mary’s. The course is an introduction to the professional field of sociology and the related employment industries and a guide to skills required to succeed in graduate school and professional careers. Topics and activities will include, for example: professional development, career searches, network development including online profile revision or preparation, assessment of cultural competencies, and refining professional portfolio materials and experiences. At the completion of the course, students will have professional college-to-career pipeline resources and an increased confidence about multiple options exist for them in their postbaccalaureate lives. Prerequisite SC 1311.
CPH 1301. Introduction to Public Health. 3 Semester Hours.
This course focuses on health problems and issues of public health from the social sciences perspective. The course will enable students to describe one or two core theoretical perspectives from social science disciplines and cover the major social and behavioral science models used in health promotion and disease prevention. The course will also cover existing social inequalities in health status related to race, social class, and gender, and the critical intersection between social risk factors, behavioral risk factors, and the development and implementation of public health interventions.
CPH 2301. Environmental Health. 3 Semester Hours.
This course develops a general awareness of how the human-made environment and natural ecosystem interact to affect health and the quality of life. A review of relevant principles from the natural sciences, and discussions of issues influencing the solutions to environmental health problems included.
CPH 2303. Introduction to Community Health.. 3 Semester Hours.
This course explores community health as a practice-focused area within the broader field of population health and public health. Students learn contemporary definitions of community and population health and their core functions. The course emphasizes assessing population and community health needs; applying evidence-based public health strategies; engaging communities through culturally responsive, multi-sector collaboration; and planning, implementing, and evaluating prevention-focused interventions. Topics may include epidemiology, community organizing, program planning and evaluation, minority and mental health, environmental and occupational health, substance use, and injury prevention, with a focus on health equity, social determinants of health, and improving population health outcomes.
CPH 3300. Special Topics in Public Health.. 3 Semester Hours.
This course covers the study of selected or emerging issues in public health not covered in depth in the regular curriculum. Topics vary by semester and focus on contemporary issues in public health research, practice, or policy. Example topics may include disaster management and emergency preparedness, climate change and health, maternal child health, emerging infectious diseases, rural health, or social media and health communication. May be repeated for credit when topics vary. Prerequisite: CPH 1301.
CPH 3301. Fundamentals of Epidemiology. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces students to principles and concepts in epidemiology, methods of epidemiologic investigation, and the design, interpretation, and evaluation of epidemiologic research. Students are introduced to the strategies adopted by public health professionals to study distribution and identification of important biological, social, and environmental determinants of diseases and health-related states in specific populations. Prerequisites: 1 course with statistics emphasis (CJ 3332, CR 3332, MT 2303, PO 2311, PS 3381, or SC 3381).
CPH 3303. Global Health and Wellbeing. 3 Semester Hours.
This course examines global health challenges and strategies through an interdisciplinary public health lens. Students analyze how social, economic, political, environmental, cultural, and biological factors shape health outcomes and inequities across populations worldwide. Topics include global disease burdens, determinants of health, health systems and policies, infectious and chronic diseases, maternal and child health, nutrition, environmental health threats, and emerging global health issues. Using case studies and real-world examples, students develop critical thinking and communication skills to evaluate global health problems and design evidence-based solutions at the community, national, and international levels. Prerequisite: CPH 1301 or CPH 2301.
CPH 3357. Intro to Health Informatics. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides an overview of health informatics for emerging healthcare, public health, and population health professionals. Students will develop expertise in the use of data, information, and knowledge to advance individual health, healthcare delivery, public health practice, and health-related research. The course defines health informatics and public health informatics and examines the knowledge, infrastructure, functions, and tools of the field; explores technology, planning, management, and applications in healthcare and public health; and compares the roles, needs, and solutions of major stakeholders in national and commercial health informatics communities. Special emphasis is placed on data and AI ethics, including privacy, security, governance, algorithmic bias, transparency, accountability, and the responsible use of AI and machine learning in healthcare and public health. Students will apply informatics concepts and skills to address healthcare and public health problems through data analysis, data visualization, and information retrieval using clinical and public health data. Prerequisites:one research methods course (SC 3306, SC 4383, or equivalent).
CPH 3367. Consumer Health Informatics. 3 Semester Hours.
Consumer health informatics (CHI) is a rapidly expanding area of informatics practice, with career opportunities emerging in the public, non-profit, and private sectors. Broadly, the field aims to give individual health care consumers, as well as their families and communities, the information
and tools that they need to help them become more involved in their health and health care. In this course, students will become familiar with a range of CHI applications, including the needs/problems that the applications address, their theoretical bases and designs, and relevant
evaluation results. The course will cover an overview of health behavior theories that are relevant to health behavior change and health information behavior and explore how they might be applied to promote changes in health behavior and/or explain health consumers’ behaviors. The course
will also introduce key issues such and health literacy, patient-centered communication, patient empowerment, patient-generated data, participation, and privacy with a special focus on the application of CHI in areas of public health, including surveillance, prevention, preparedness, and
health promotion. At the end of the course, students will have an ability to evaluate existing applications, and to generate theory-informed design and implementation strategies for CHI applications for potential users with a particular focus on groups that experience health care and
information access disparities. Prerequisites: one course with statistics emphasis (CJ 3332, CR 3332, MT 2303, PO 2311, PS 3381, or SC 3381) or one research methods course (SC 3306, SC 4383, or equivalent).
CPH 3372. Health Promotion in Public Hea. 3 Semester Hours.
Health Promotion in Public Health is ideal for students interested in managing public health programs that address health behavior, disease prevention, and health equity. Students will learn about commonly used theories and models, community engagement, health equity, needs
assessment, and program design, implementation, and evaluation. Throughout the semester, students will improve communication skills while applying newly acquired knowledge related to public health problems. (3 credits). Prerequisite: CPH1301 Introduction to Public Health.
CPH 3377. Electronic Health Records. 3 Semester Hours.
The course is aimed at exposing students to Electronic Health Record (EHR) systems and coding, with a strong emphasis on the role of EHR systems in health care operations and patient care as called for in recent US government regulation. The course includes: common coding systems or
language and functions and an overview of EHR software programs, legal and regulatory issues, the role of EHR in quality of care and evidence-based practice, and applications of EHR systems and healthcare data in patient care. Students will gain hands-on experience with a virtual EHR and
examine the impact of EHRs on healthcare particularly in terms of ensuring quality of patient care and evidence-based practice, adhering to standards set by accreditation bodies and government organizations, and promoting ongoing public health surveillance and for assessing outbreaks of
community-wide diseases and other threats to public health. Prerequisites: CS 1300 or CS 3300.
CPH 3387. Healthcare Project Management. 3 Semester Hours.
Much of the work in healthcare and public health is project based, whether it is training healthcare workers implementing an intervention, adopting a health information system, or evaluating a practice for quality improvement. Good project management is crucial for the success of these
endeavors. Students will be introduced to the theory and concepts of project management and the tools to manage projects with a specific focus on healthcare and public health. At the end of this course, students should be able to develop, execute, and control a basic project plan that is capable
of supporting organizational objectives linked to measures of success for a single project as it applies to healthcare and/or public health.
CPH 3392. Public Health Ecology and the Human Environment. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides an overview of the basic principles underpinning public health ecology and environmental health. Students are provided with foundational knowledge in public health ecology, principles of environmental health, and an introduction to environmental policies & controls including the forces that influence the development of environmental health policy. Applications of this knowledge will be applied to an environmental case study, wherein students will use a systems thinking approach to identify the key elements of the problem, develop solutions, and articulate a dissemination plan. In addition, inter-professional engagement simulations will be used to provide students with skills for engaging stakeholders, including community members, policymakers/enforcers, and other healthcare professionals. (3 credits). Prerequisite: CPH 1301 Introduction to Public Health and CPH 2301 Environmental Health.
CPH 3397. Data Visualization. 3 Semester Hours.
This hands-on course introduces students to the principles and techniques of data visualization in social and health sciences. Students learn to construct clear and effective visual representations of qualitative, quantitative, and mixed-methods data using contemporary tools and software, including charts, graphs, and dashboards. The course covers key concepts such as visual perception, design principles, data and AI ethics, and interpretation of results. Students apply these skills to real-world datasets through individual and group projects, gaining practical experience in communicating research findings visually. Prerequisites: SC3381 or equivalent OR one research methods course (SC 3306, SC 4383, or equivalent).
CPH 4301. US Healthcare System. 3 Semester Hours.
The course is designed to assist the student in understanding and preparing for the unique challenges presented to managers in a health services administration career. History and current environment of U.S. health care are considered, as well as the ever-changing infrastructure of the health-services industry including the organization, structure, and operation of the nation’s health care system.
CPH 4302. Advanced Epidemiology. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides a strong foundation in concepts, principles, and methods specific to advanced epidemiology. By the end of this course, students should be able to apply these skills to (a) assess the health of a population; (b) describe the natural history, distribution, and determinants of health-related states and events; and (c) evaluate programs designed to improve public health. To accomplish this, the course considers epidemiology in the context of core public health functions and services. Pre-Requisite: CPH 3301. Introduction to the Fundamentals of Epidemiology.
CPH 4304. Management and Policy Concepts in Public Health. 3 Semester Hours.
This course provides an overview of theory and practice in the management and policy sciences applied to the field of public health. Topics include public health in the U.S. health system/legal bases of public health, public policy institutions, planning and management to promote health, emergency preparedness, public sector institutions, management, and decision-making. Students will gain skills in oral and written communication with individual and group projects. This course will introduce students to the public health system, public health policy development, and
fundamental management concepts for managing public health organizations. Topics covered include organization, financing, and history of public health, public health policy-making, advocacy, and basic principles of finance and human resource management in public health organizations. (3 credits). Prerequisites: CPH 1301 Introduction to Public Health and CPH 4301 US Healthcare Systems.
CPH 4305. Health Economics. 3 Semester Hours.
This course introduces key economic principles relevant to public health and healthcare systems, programs, and policies, with a focus on practical application rather than formal economic theory. Students learn to evaluate population health interventions, analyze cost-effectiveness, and make evidence-based decisions considering equity and ethical implications. The course emphasizes micro-level concepts such as market function, provider behavior, and cost-effectiveness, as well as macro-level considerations such as health system financing, policy, and population outcomes. Applied case studies, real-world data, and policy exercises prepare students for careers in public health practice and research. Prerequisite: CPH 4301.
CPH 4390. ProSem and Internship. 3 Semester Hours.
This is a three-credit high impact learning experience course. This course is designed to provide resources and experiential learning for the college-to-career pipeline for Public Health majors. It is an introduction to the professional field of public health and the related employment
industries and will serve as a guide to skills required to succeed in graduate school and professional careers. Topics and activities will include, for example: professional development, assessment of cultural humility skills, and refining professional portfolio materials and experiences. At the
completion of the course, students will have professional college-to-career pipeline resources and an applied intern experience that should increase confidence about multiple public health career options in their postbaccalaureate lives. All students will complete 20 hours per week at an
approved healthcare and/or public health site. Program director approval required. Prerequisites: Junior standing.
CPH 4482. Introduction to Biostatistics in Public Health. 4 Semester Hours.
This course is designed as the first biostatistics course for students who have not previously taken a course in biostatistics; it is a designated core course for MPH students. Students will learn how to analyze quantitative data using appropriate biostatistical methods and software and interpret
analysis results for This course is designed as the first biostatistics course for students who have not previously taken a course in biostatistics; it is a designated core course for MPH students. Students will learn how to analyze quantitative data using appropriate biostatistical methods and
software and interpret analysis results for a given public health context. (4 credits). Prerequisite: any approved statistics courses and CPH1301 Introduction to Public Health.
Janet Armitage, Ph.D., M.B.A.
Professor
Anjelica Elizondo, M.P.H.
Visiting Assistant Professor
Sue Nash, Ph.D., M.P.H.
Associate Professor
