MS in Health Education

2 Years On Campus Masters Program

University of New Mexico

Program Overview

The MS in Health Education at the University of New Mexico prepares professionals for careers in community health education, health promotion and public health. This fully online, 36-credit-hour program develops expertise in health behaviour, disease prevention, community engagement, programme planning and evaluation, making it suitable for students interested in improving population health through education and evidence-based interventions.

Curriculum Structure

Year 1: Students establish a foundation in public health, health behaviour, epidemiology and social determinants of health. They explore community health needs, health promotion theories, multicultural health and evidence-based prevention strategies.

Year 2: Students advance their expertise through health programme planning, implementation, administration and evaluation. They complete a 150-hour supervised field experience (HED 595) and participate in collaborative research and community-based health initiatives.

Note: The program requires 36 credit hours. The university does not prescribe a fixed two-year course sequence.

Focus Areas

Community health education, public health promotion, epidemiology, health behaviour, disease prevention, health equity, community engagement, programme planning and evaluation.

Learning Outcomes

Assess community health needs, analyse epidemiological data, design health interventions, implement prevention programmes, evaluate health initiatives, promote health equity, conduct community-based research, develop culturally appropriate health education strategies.

Professional Alignment (Accreditation)

Graduates are eligible to take the Master Certified Health Education Specialist (MCHES) examination, subject to applicable examination eligibility requirements. MCHES is a voluntary national professional certification, not a graduation requirement.

Reputation (Employability & Rankings)

The program provides fully online graduate education with supervised fieldwork and collaborative faculty research. Students develop skills relevant to schools, healthcare organisations, public health agencies, workplaces and tribal health systems, including the Indian Health Service and regional Pueblo health systems. No specific programme-level employability ranking or employment rate was identified in the official sources.

Experiential Learning (Research, Projects, Internships etc.)

At the University of New Mexico, the MS in Health Education program is designed to provide students with hands-on experiences that are essential for developing practical skills in the field. Students engage in a variety of experiential learning opportunities that prepare them for real-world challenges in health education. The program emphasizes collaboration, critical thinking, and the application of theoretical knowledge in practical settings. With access to state-of-the-art facilities and resources, students can immerse themselves in their studies and gain valuable insights into health education practices.

Here are some key experiential learning components of the MS Health Education program at UNM:

- Internships: Students have the opportunity to participate in internships with local health organizations, allowing them to apply their knowledge in real-world settings and gain professional experience.

- Group Projects: Collaborative projects are a core part of the curriculum, encouraging teamwork and the development of communication skills essential for health educators.

- Digital Tools: The program incorporates various digital tools and software, such as SPSS for data analysis and health education planning software, to enhance learning and research capabilities.

- Field Trips: Students often engage in field trips to health facilities and community organizations, providing firsthand exposure to health education practices and community health initiatives.

- Research Laboratories: Access to dedicated research labs allows students to conduct studies and experiments related to health education, fostering a deeper understanding of the field.

- Libraries and Resources: The UNM Health Sciences Library offers extensive resources, including access to health databases, journals, and research materials that support students' academic and professional growth.

- Institute for Health Education: The university hosts the Institute for Health Education, which provides additional resources, workshops, and networking opportunities for students.

Progression & Future Opportunities

The MS in Health Education at the University of New Mexico prepares graduates for a variety of impactful roles in the health sector, equipping them with the skills needed to promote health and wellness in diverse communities. Graduates often find themselves in positions such as Health Educator, Public Health Coordinator, Community Health Specialist, or Wellness Program Manager. With a strong foundation in health education, you’ll be well-prepared to make a difference in public health initiatives and community wellness programs.

Here’s how the University of New Mexico supports your journey toward a successful career in health education:

- Career Services: The university offers dedicated career counseling, resume workshops, and interview preparation to help you secure internships and job placements in the health sector.
- Employment Statistics: Graduates from the program have a high employment rate, with many securing positions shortly after graduation. The average salary for health educators in New Mexico is around $55,000, with potential for growth as you gain experience.
- University–Industry Partnerships: UNM has established partnerships with local health organizations, hospitals, and community health agencies, providing students with valuable networking opportunities and hands-on experience through internships and collaborative projects.
- Accreditation: The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring that your degree holds long-term value and is recognized by employers across the country.
- Graduation Outcomes: Alumni of the program have gone on to work in various sectors, including government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare facilities, demonstrating the versatility and demand for health education professionals.

Further Academic Progression: After completing your MS in Health Education, you may choose to further your studies by pursuing a Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH) or a PhD in Health Education. These advanced degrees can open doors to leadership roles in academia, research, or high-level public health policy positions, allowing you to contribute even more significantly to the field of health education.