Professional Development/Continuing Education

Public health is an exciting and fast-paced field that responds to new and emerging issues. Public health professionals must remain informed and educated in both knowledge and skills to ensure that our public health system continues to protect our health. Opportunities for workers in the field to continue to learn and grow professionally include in-person events, distance-learning courses, and online modules.

Credentialing Public Health Professionals

Beginning in the summer of 2008, graduates of accredited schools and programs of public health will have the option to take an exam to become certified in public health. More information on certification is available from the National Board of Public Health Examiners Web site .

Certificate Programs

Obtaining a certificate in public health is a good way for those already working in the public health field or in a related field to improve upon their basic public health knowledge and skills, as well as an opportunity for individuals considering a career move or an advanced degree to learn more about the field and gain a basic understanding of the core areas of public health. In addition to certificates in basic public health, some programs also offer specialized certificates that allow public health professionals to gain a deeper understanding and targeted skills in certain areas—for example, in maternal and child health or in emergency preparedness.

Some New York State graduate schools and programs in public health offer certificates. Visit the individual school and program sites to learn more.