Practicum Program

Purpose

The Practicum Program aims to provide Master of Public Health (MPH) students with the opportunity to use their academic training in a professional, governmental public health setting while continuing to grow their public health knowledge and finetune their skill sets. 

Eligibility

MPH students at any North Carolina higher education institution.  

Curriculum

If selected for a practicum opportunity posted in our database, you will be enrolled in the Practicum Program curriculum and receive the following:  

  • Synchronous Learning (E-Forums): Required virtual e-forums guided by a discussion prompt that connects back to optional e-learn content, current events in public health, or your experiences in the program (e.g., successes or challenges faced).  

  • Asynchronous Learning (E-Learns): The opportunity to complete optional e-learns that provide essential and contextual information about public health in NC.  

  • Peer-to-Peer Group Coaching Sessions: Group coaching sessions with your cohort, focusing on mutual learning and problem-solving and providing opportunities to share experiences, provide constructive feedback, and set future goals.  

  • Applied Learning Opportunities: 

    • Institution-Specific Project Support: Support from the Pathways Program Team and site supervisors in completing final practica projects required by your university degree program.  

    • Professional Development Events: The opportunity to attend professional development and networking events identified by the Pathways Program Team. Examples of professional development and networking events include research symposia, workshops, and career fairs.

How to Apply

The Pathways Program is committed to creating an environment where participants from all backgrounds feel valued, respected, and supported. We strive to provide accessible opportunities and cultivate a culture of collaboration that embraces diverse perspectives and experiences. 

To browse open practicum opportunities in state and local governmental public health, please visit the Practicum Opportunities Database. Candidates will be asked to submit a resume and cover letter.

 Frequently Asked Questions

  • Practica are ≥ 6 Weeks in length and offered during summer semesters. The Practicum Program begins the first week of June and ends at the end of July (end time may vary if opportunity is longer than 6 weeks). 

  • NCDPH and LHD host sites must complete a submission form to display practicum opportunities in our database. The Pathways Program Team will review completed submission forms for relevancy and completeness and contact the submitter with any questions or concerns. Approved opportunities will be displayed in the Practicum Opportunities Database, where students may apply.  

    Access Practicum Opportunity Submission Form

  • If you are part of NCDPH or an LHD and are interested in posting a practicum opportunity on our Practicum Opportunities Database, please complete the Practicum Opportunity Submission Form to let us know your contact details and some more about the position. The Pathways Program Team will review your completed submission form and contact you with any questions or concerns.