New UTA certificate aims to train professionals on improving health equity
The University of Texas at Arlington has launched a new certificate in the name of ensuring all patients have equal chances at living their healthiest lives.
The College of Nursing and Health Innovation’s Graduate Certificate for Diversity and Equity in Public Health is an in-person, postbaccalaureate, non-degree program that provides current and future working professionals with important knowledge and skills to facilitate health equity through their practice.
“There is a growing demand in North Texas, and across the country, to prepare those in the health care field to address and improve health equity,” said Erin Carlson, associate clinical professor and Master of Public Health program director. “Our program recognizes this need, and we are filling this important gap so public health and other health care-related fields can train their workforce to promote change to improve the health of diverse populations.”
This certificate is suited for professionals working in public health, health and health care-related nonprofits and other industries. Consisting of four classes—foundations of public health, community health, program planning and evaluation and race, ethnicity and health—it can be completed in as little as one academic year.
Students will benefit from evidence-based learning that will train them to detect and understand disparities and develop interventions to confront historical and contemporary injustices.
“There is a significant community need for a workforce equipped to advocate for equitable health,” Carlson said. “Through our program, we hope to prepare more professionals to be advocates who will lead programs within their organization, foster trust toward the health care system, enhance diversity and improve equity.”