Welcome!
Welcome to the University of North Florida Master of Public Health (MPH) Program! The MPH
Program challenges our students to become confident, competent, and compassionate public
health professionals who are able to practice autonomously and ethically within a changing
public health environment.
The MPH Student Handbook serves as a resource for students, faculty and others involved in
this program. It provides information about the academic and administrative policies and
procedures specific to the program. When policies and procedures are revised, appropriate
updates to this manual will be made. For university-wide procedures that pertain to graduate
studies, please refer to the UNF Graduate Catalog. Information about UNF’s Graduate School
degree requirements and important policies and procedures are published in the Graduate
Catalog. The policies, procedures and guidelines for UNF’s MPH degree were developed to
conform to the Brooks College of Health and University of North Florida requirements.
In addition to this Handbook, you are required to read the Graduate School Student Handbook
as it provides general information applicable to all graduate students regardless of their
programs of study. While this handbook contains valuable information specifically related to
graduate studies in Public Health at UNF, the Graduate School Student Handbook addresses
policies, procedures and resources related to graduate studies in general at UNF.
It is your responsibility to review the information both in this Handbook and in the Graduate
School Student Handbook as you will be held responsible for abiding by its content.
Specific Policies and Procedures Adopted by MPH Program Faculty 6/15/04.
Revised 08/2015 for 2015-2016 Handbook
1. Professional Orientation
1.1 Overview of the MPH Degree
1.2 Program Accreditation & Professional Certification
1.3 MPH Program Mission Statement
1.4 Goal Statements & Measurable Objectives
1.5 Graduate Academic Learning Compacts (GALCs)
1.6 Values Statement
1.7 Commitment to Diversity
1.8 Ethical & Professional Conduct
2. Getting Started
2.1 Faculty Contact Information
2.2 Admissions
2.3 Trial Program (Probationary Admissions Stipulations)
2.4 Registration
2.5 Course Selection & Format
2015-2016
2.6 Advisement
2.7 Student Involvement
3. Program & Degree Requirements
3.1 Program of Study
3.2 Required Courses Descriptions
3.3 Public Health Capstone & Internship
3.4 Comprehensive Examination
3.5 Required Volunteer Hours
3.6 Field Experiences
3.7 Elective Courses
3.8 Transfer of Credit
3.9 MPH Program Course Sequence for Students Starting Fall 2012 or Later
3.10 Application for Graduation
3.11 Award of Degree
4. Policies & Procedures
4.1 MPH Communication
4.2 Changes to the MPH Curriculum
4.3 Class Attendance & Participation
4.4 Satisfactory Academic Progress
4.5 Adding and Dropping Courses during Drop/Add
4.6 Withdrawing from Courses after Drop/Add
4.7 Late Withdrawals
4.8 Repeating Courses
4.9 Incomplete Grades
4.10 Inactive Students
4.11 Violations of Academic Integrity
4.12 Second Master's Degree
4.13 MPH Course or Program Concerns
4.14 Student Appeals
4.15 Grade or Term Forgiveness
4.16 Program Site Dress Code
4.17 Electronic Communication Devices
4.18 Policies & Procedures Amendments
5. Financial Support
5.1 In-state vs. Out-of-state Designations
6. Resources
6.1 Professional Organizations
6.2 Career Opportunities
1
2015-2016
6.3 UNF Student Resources
6.4 Forms
7. Graduate Certificate in Public Health
7.1 Description
7.2 Program of Study
7.3 Course Sequence
Appendix I
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
1. Professional Orientation
1.1 Overview of the MPH Degree
1.2 Program Accreditation & Professional Certification
1.3 MPH Program Mission Statement
1.4 Goal Statements & Measurable Objectives
1.5 Graduate Academic Learning Compacts (GALCs)
1.6 Values Statement
1.7 Commitment to Diversity
1.8 Ethical & Professional Conduct
1.1 Overview of the MPH Degree
The MPH degree is the most widely recognized professional credential for leadership positions
in public health. This degree is appropriate for those who wish to pursue careers in developing,
planning, managing, or evaluating health promotion and disease prevention programs, or in
conducting public health related research. MPH graduates are able to integrate and apply their
knowledge to address public health problems, and possess skills and competencies necessary
for public health practice in a wide range of public and private institutions. Graduates are
typically employed in governmental or non-profit health agencies, health care facilities, work
site wellness programs or school settings.
UNF’s MPH Program provides students with the professional education necessary to become
competent and committed Public Health practitioners by preparing them with a broad
understanding of the core areas of public health combined with a focus on competencies
specific to the health promotion and education concentration area. Public health core courses
are designed around the “Core Competencies for Public Health Professionals” developed by the
Council on Linkages Between Academia and Public Health Practice. Epidemiology and
2
2015-2016
Biostatistics are the basic sciences necessary to measure the extent of health problems,
investigate disease causation and risks in populations, and identify effective interventions.
Training in social and behavioral sciences related to public health examines the political,
economic and socio-cultural context of community health and teaches skills necessary for
successful health education and health promotion efforts. The organizational aspects of public
health administration, policy development, and inter- organizational cooperation are part of
the discipline of health services administration. Instruction in environmental health sciences
acquaints students with biophysical aspects of public health.
Additionally, students receive training in Health Promotion/Health Education, preparing them
to enter a career in planning, implementing, coordinating and evaluating health promotion and
disease prevention programs as well as conducting research. The MPH concentration area is
aligned with the seven “Responsibilities and Competencies of Health Educators” delineated by
the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing Inc. (NCHEC).
Throughout the program, the values of ethical public health practice such as equity, honesty
and the balance of individual rights and community responsibilities are taught. Interpersonal
skills such as cooperation with other professionals and staff, and working with individuals and
community groups in a sensitive and unbiased way are emphasized. The improvement of the
public health knowledge base through both basic and applied research is stressed.
1.2 Program Accreditation & Professional Certification
The UNF MPH Program is nationally accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health
(CEPH). Graduates are eligible to earn the Certified in Public Health (CPH) certification by
passing the CPH exam offered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners (NBPHE). This
certification is only available to graduates of CEPH accredited programs. Graduates are also
eligible to become a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) by passing the exam offered by
the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC).
1.3 MPH Program Mission Statement
The mission of the University of North Florida (UNF) Master of Public Health (MPH) Program is
to prepare public health professionals to improve population health. This mission is
accomplished through excellence and innovation in graduate teaching and public health
research with a commitment to diversity, community involvement and professional service.
Students will acquire knowledge and develop skills in the five core areas of public health:
biostatistics, environmental health, epidemiology, health policy and management, and social
and behavioral sciences.
3
2015-2016
1.4 Goal Statements & Measurable Objectives
Instructional Goal
The MPH Program’s instructional goal is to provide a relevant and high quality educational
program that prepares graduates for successful careers in public health.
Instructional Objectives:
1. Each academic year, at least 80% of required MPH courses will receive a
UNF student ISQ item average of very good to excellent for “overall rating
of instructor.”
2. Each academic year, at least 80% of graduating MPH students will report
“agree” or “strongly agree” when reporting their overall satisfaction with
the internship experience on the exit survey.
3. Each academic year, at least 80% of graduating MPH students will report
“agree” or “strongly agree” when reporting their overall satisfaction with
the MPH program on the exit survey.
4. Each academic year, at least 80% of alumni will report “agree” or
“strongly agree” when asked if the UNF MPH program adequately
prepared them to practice as a public health professional on the alumni
survey.
5. The MPH program faculty will annually review and incorporate feedback
as necessary from the Public Health Advisory board regarding the
relevance of the program of study to current public health practice trends
and issues.
6. Each academic year, at least 50% of required MPH courses will include
information on the appreciation of diversity relevant to course content.
Research Goal
The MPH Program’s research goal is to engage in innovative research leading to new
discoveries and practices that impact public health and prevention of disease.
Research Objectives:
1. Each faculty member will produce at least 1 scholarly work annually as indicated by
peer-reviewed publications, internal/external grants or contracts, or presentations in
the public health field.
2. At least 25% of faculty will address the impact of diversity within at least one research
project per year.
3. At least 20% of MPH students will collaborate with faculty in research activities.
Service Goal:
The MPH Program’s service goal is to provide service that improves the health of individuals
and groups within the communities we serve.
4
2015-2016
Service Objectives:
1. Each faculty member will participate in at least one local, state or national public health
organization or community based service effort annually.
2. At least one MPH faculty member per year will participate with a public health agency
that addresses underrepresented populations.
3. At least one MPH faculty member will facilitate a public health service or training event
in the local community each year.
4. The UNF student health education honorary, Eta Sigma Gamma, will participate in at
least two service projects annually.
1.5 Graduate Academic Learning Compacts (GALCs)
UNF MPH Core GALCs
Graduates will be able to:
1. apply biostatistics and research methodology for effective collection, management,
analysis, and interpretation of health related scientific data.
2. analyze the distribution and determinants of health related states or events in human
populations in order to provide information for public health decision-making and
action.
3. examine complex issues in the ecology of public health problems related to aspects of
the environment for purposes of developing/implementing a plan to mitigate
environmental risk factors.
4. demonstrate knowledge of the areas of policy, economics, finance, marketing, quality,
and accessibility that are necessary to effectively manage public health care
organizations and services.
5. identify, organize, and critically appraise peer-reviewed research findings relevant to
specific public health topics.
6. develop and complete an independent public health practice or research project
focused on a specific health related program or problem.
7. effectively communicate public health issues, data, and information.
UNF MPH Health Promotion/Health Education GALCs
Graduates will be able to:
1. plan and implement an evidence-based health program that reflects social, economic,
cultural, and behavioral factors of the community.
2. design and implement theoretically-based, and developmentally and culturally
appropriate learning strategies.
3. evaluate a public health program.
1.6 Values Statement
The MPH Program provides a positive learning environment that supports quality teaching,
research and service through its commitment to the following values:
5
2015-2016









Mutual Respect: We treat each individual in our diverse community with consideration
and dignity.
Service: We provide service to the University, communities and professions and
promote public health through knowledge and training.
Accountability: We are responsible for our attitudes and actions.
Innovation: We encourage and support creativity in our teaching, research and service.
Cooperation: We support a culture characterized by open communication, collaboration
and collegiality.
Excellence: We strive for the highest standard of performance by continually
monitoring, evaluating and reviewing the Program’s goals, objectives, and outcomes.
Well-being: We promote physical, emotional and social well-being of the community.
Fulfillment of Potential: We are committed to professional development through
lifelong learning.
Ethical Behavior: We support fair, just and equitable treatment of individuals, families
and communities.
1.7 Commitment to Diversity
The MPH faculty are committed to achieving diversity and cultural competence within the
Program. We support the University Mission, Vision, Goals, Strategies and Values reflecting the
value of diversity, and the Office of Equal Opportunity and Diversity’s mission and policies.
UNF Mission Statement
UNF fosters the intellectual and cultural growth and civic awareness of its students, preparing
them to make significant contributions to their communities in the region and beyond. At UNF,
students and faculty engage together and individually in the discovery and application of
knowledge. UNF faculty and staff maintain an unreserved commitment to student success
within a diverse, supportive campus culture.
UNF Vision Statement
UNF aspires to be a preeminent public institution of higher learning that will serve the North
Florida region at a level of national quality. The institution of choice for a diverse and talented
student body, UNF will provide distinctive programs in the arts and sciences and professional
fields. UNF faculty will excel in teaching and scholarship, sharing with students their passion for
discovery. Students, faculty, staff, alumni, and visitors will enjoy a campus noteworthy for its
communal spirit, cultural richness, and environmental beauty.
University Values




the pursuit of truth and knowledge carried out in the spirit of intellectual and artistic
freedom;
ethical conduct;
community engagement;
diversity;
6
2015-2016


responsibility to the natural environment; and
mutual respect and civility.
Non-Discrimination, Equal Opportunity and Diversity Statement
UNF “is committed to providing an inclusive and welcoming environment for all who interact in
our community. In building this environment, we strive to attract students, faculty and staff
from a variety of cultures, backgrounds and life experiences. While embracing these concepts,
including our obligations under federal, state and local law, UNF is equally committed to
ensuring that educational and employment decisions, including but not limited to recruitment,
admission, hiring, compensation and promotion, are based on the qualifications, skills and
abilities of those desiring to work, study, and participate in our community.
To accomplish this intent, UNF shall not commit or permit discrimination or harassment on the
basis of genetic information, race, color, religion, age, sex, disability, gender
identity/expression, sexual orientation, marital status, national origin or veteran status in any
educational, employment, social or recreational program or activity it offers. Similarly, UNF will
not commit or permit retaliation against an individual who complains of discrimination or
harassment or an individual who cooperates in an investigation of an alleged violation of
University Regulation. In exercising these standards, the University will not abridge either free
speech or academic freedom based on its context.”
1.8 Ethical & Professional Conduct
Code of Ethics
The MPH Program subscribes to the basic standards underlying the professional codes of ethics
developed and adopted by professional public health associations. These include the Principles
of the Ethical Practice of Public Health developed by the Public Health Leadership Society, and
the Code of Ethics for the Health Education Profession, developed by the Coalition of National
Health Education Organizations. As a student in the program, you are expected to be familiar
with and follow these professional standards of ethics.
Professional Behavior
The MPH faculty have developed a number of Program and course policies to benefit
students. As your professors, one of our roles is to help you develop professionalism. We
expect students to present themselves as professionals both in class and when interacting in
the community as a representative of the UNF MPH Program. You are a reflection of our
Program. When you are applying for jobs, you will be competing against other highly qualified
graduates from various states and related programs. We want you to stand out, to be
professional, and to be successful in your future career.
Students in the MPH Program are expected to demonstrate professional behaviors such as: 1)
honesty; 2) commitment to learning, 3) appropriate interpersonal and communication skills, 4)
effective use of time and resources, 5) use of constructive feedback, 6) problem-solving, 7)
7
2015-2016
responsibility, 8) critical thinking, and 9) stress management. The MPH Program Faculty strongly
believes that professional behavior patterns begin during the student’s academic preparation.
Class attendance, promptness, preparation and active participation in class activities and
discussions are prime indicators of mature and professional behavior. Non-compliance with
professionalism policies may result in a reduced grade or failure in a given course.
The Free and Open Pursuit of Knowledge
UNF encourages the free and open pursuit of knowledge; we consider this to be a fundamental
principle and strength of a democratic people. To this end, UNF expects its students, its faculty,
its administrators, and its staff to uphold the highest standards of academic integrity. UNF
expects all members of the University community to both honor and protect one another’s
individual and collective rights.
Academic Integrity
Students are expected to abide by the policy on academic integrity as stated in the UNF
Graduate Catalog:
Claiming One's Own Work
Each student is honor-bound to submit under his or her name or signature only his or her own
work; to fully acknowledge his or her use of any information, ideas, or other matter belonging
to someone else, and to properly document the source in question; and to offer for credit only
that work which he or she has completed in relation to the current course.
Violations of Academic Integrity
Under this heading, the UNF Student Handbook identifies several types of violations; these
include but are not limited to: cheating; fabricating and falsifying information or citations;
submitting the same work for credit in more than one course; plagiarizing; providing another
student with access to one’s own work to submit under this person’s name or signature;
destroying, stealing, or making inaccessible library or other academic resource material; and
helping or attempting to help another person commit an act of academic dishonesty. UNF
authorizes any instructor who finds evidence of cheating, plagiarism, or other wrongful
behavior that violates the UNF Academic Integrity Code to take appropriate action. Possible
action includes, but is not limited to, failing the student on the work in question, failing the
student for the course, notifying the appropriate academic dean or Vice President for Student
Affairs, and requesting additional action be taken.
The consequences of a breach of academic integrity may result in an F, which is unforgivable,
regardless of withdrawal status, and dismissal from the MPH Program. Refer to the “MPH
Plagiarism Policy” in this handbook for more specific information on this type of academic
misconduct.
8
2015-2016
Course Content
MPH courses may address subject matters, issues, or perspectives to which some might object.
Such objections will not exempt a student from course requirements. UNF stands behind the
right of its instructors to include material that is challenging in any number of ways. The faculty
urges students to discuss any concerns they might have concerning the content of their courses
with their instructors.
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
2. Getting Started
2.1 Faculty Contact Information
2.2 Admissions
2.3 Trial Program (Probationary Admissions Stipulations)
2.4 Registration
2.5 Course Selection & Format
2.6 Advisement
2.7 Student Involvement
2.1 Faculty Contact Information
Name
Dr. Jeffrey Harrison
Position
Department of Public
Health Chair
Contact
Jeffrey.harrison@unf.edu
Brooks College of Health
Bldg 39, 4th floor, Room 4034
Dr. Tammie Johnson MPH Program Director
tammie.johnson@unf.edu
Brooks College of Health
Bldg 39, 3th floor, Room 3011
BCH Advising Office
Brooks College of Health
Bldg 39, 2rd floor, Room 2031
UNF Graduate
graduateschool@unf.edu
Admissions Office
JJ Daniel Hall
Bldg 1, 2nd Floor, Room 2000
For a complete listing of departmental faculty, click here.
Ext.
2840
1831
2812
1360
2.2 Admissions
Program admissions are handled initially by the UNF Graduate School. Students are admitted
for fall term only. Applications are reviewed as they are received. Applicants meeting all criteria
are typically notified of acceptance upon review, space permitting. Applicants not meeting all
criteria may be admitted to the trial program, on a competitive basis and space permitting,
after July 1. Applicants are encouraged to submit their applications and required documents
9
2015-2016
before July 1; the program cohort is capped at 30 students. The following information must be
submitted to the UNF Graduate School:
University requirements:
1. A baccalaureate degree from a regionally accredited U.S. institution or its equivalent
from a foreign institution with a GPA of 3.0 or higher in all work attempted in the last 60
credit hours of undergraduate study.
Additional program requirements:
1. Official transcripts from all attended institutions
2. GRE test scores:
o Prior to July 1, 2011: 1000 combined verbal and quantitative scores with no
lower than 400 on either section
o After July 1, 2011: 153 verbal and 144 quantitative
3. Letter of intent describing:
o reasons for seeking an MPH degree
o short and long-term goals
4. Resume
5. Two letters of recommendations
Students should be aware that admission into any graduate program is granted on a
competitive basis. Students meeting minimum requirements may be denied admission based
on such factors as program capacity or academic discretion. Likewise, students may be
considered for admission as an exception if stated admissions criteria are not met.
2.3 Trial Program (Probationary Admissions Stipulations)
Students admitted to the MPH program on a trial basis must earn a grade of B or better in all
MPH required classes during the first semester for full time students or during the first year for
part time students. Students who meet this criterion will be granted full admission to the
program; those who do not meet this criterion will not be allowed to continue in the program.
2.4 Registration
One Stop Student Services Center
One Stop Student Services Center (One Stop) assists current students with a wide range of
policy and procedural issues related to financial aid, admissions, academic records, Veterans
affairs, and registration. The office provides a central point of communication and contact for
all of Enrollment Services and coordinates many procedural functions that previously would
have required students to travel from office to office. The One Stop also provides access to selfservice computer kiosks and a pay-for-print multi-purpose machine for photocopying and
printing documents. The overarching goal of the One Stop is to provide excellent service to
students and streamline procedures while helping to maintain the integrity of the institution.
10
2015-2016
One Stop does not advise students regarding course selections or substitutions. Those functions
rest with the academic advisors. One Stop Student Services may be contacted at (904) 6205555, via email at OneStop@unf.edu, or at Hicks Hall, Building 53, Suite 1700. Through the One
Stop website and the myWings student portal, students can access and manage many of the
enrollment functions handled in One Stop Student Services.
Registration
Approximately three quarters of the way through each semester, One Stop Student Services
posts an online Course Schedule for the upcoming semester. Registration time tickets and an
open registration schedule are posted on the university matriculation calendar online. Students
register online during their time ticket.
2.5 Course Selection & Format
Student Orientation
An MPH Program Orientation is normally scheduled during the first week of classes in the fall
semester. It is expected that students will make every attempt to attend this session.
Mandatory MPH Program Course Sequencing
All students are expected to follow the course sequencing shown in this handbook. Students
who fail to follow the sequence without official approval from the Program Director will likely
delay their graduation. Program courses are offered only once per year. If a student gets off
sequence, or has to retake a required course, it will likely delay that student’s graduation for at
least one year.
Substitutions cannot be made in the core or specialization area requirements unless the
substituted course meets all the required Program competencies for that course. The
signatures of the student and MPH Program Director are required for substitutions.
International students who do not follow the program course sequencing will not be granted
time extensions to complete the degree, and will likely forfeit their ability to obtain the degree.
Requests for extensions may be supported according to the following guidelines: (1) the
student must request the extension in writing; (2) the student must provide written
documentation as evidence demonstrating an excusable reason for the extension (usually a
major medical emergency or similar tragedy); and (3) the request must be approved by the
Program Director. Contact the Program Director for more information.
Class Size & Format
Each UNF MPH cohort is limited to 30 students, thus limiting class sizes to 30. All courses are
offered once per year in one of three manners: 1) one evening per week in a face-to-face
format; 2) via distance learning; or 3) via a hybrid format (half face-to-face and half distance
learning).
11
2015-2016
Full & Part-time Sequences
The UNF MPH Program course sequencing is based upon full time students taking 9 credit hours
in each fall and spring semester, and 6 hours in summer semester. The part time sequencing is
based upon students taking 6 hours in each fall and spring semester, and 3 hours in summer
semester. This allows full time students to graduate in 2 full years, and part time students to
graduate in 3 full years. Students desiring to take more than 9 semester hours must obtain the
approval of the Program Director prior to the beginning of the respective semester.
2.6 Advisement
Academic Advisement
The MPH Program Director is the advisor of record for academic advisement for all MPH
students. An advising e-mail is sent to students each semester the week before registration
begins notifying students of the courses they should enroll in for the next semester. Course
registration is straight forward since all students are required to follow the Course Sequence
(available on the MPH web site, the MPH Bb site, and in this Handbook). Additional advising
questions may be sent via email, or student may request a phone or in-person meeting with the
Program Director. The Program Director also approves electives, performs graduation checks,
and similar tasks.
BCH advising staff are available to help with registration and other course related issues.
Career Advising
The UNF Career Services Center provides a variety of career services, programs, and resources
specifically designed to help students make a successful transition from academics to a
professional career. These services include resume development, interview skills, job search
resources and career fairs. The Brooks College of Health has a Career Services Liaison located in
BCH and specializing in the health professions.
MPH faculty are also available by appointment to meet with students to provide guidance on
continuing education, career paths and professional development opportunities.
2.7 Student Involvement
UNF Public Health Advisory Board
The UNF MPH Program has an Advisory Board with membership representing public health
practitioners, health educators, students, and program alumni. One current MPH student
serves on the Board each year. The group meets several times each year and submits
recommendations to the Program faculty regarding curriculum, marketing, student
recruitment, program policies and procedures. According to the group’s Bylaws, the Advisory
Board has the following duties: “To provide general guidance and input regarding the skills and
training required for practitioners in the field of community/public health; To participate in the
12
2015-2016
Program’s process for accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH); To
assist the growth and development of the Programs, through participation in student field
experiences and guest lectures; To serve as a resource to the Programs, in providing
opportunities for student projects, internships, and career advisement for graduating students,
to the degree feasible; To assist with fundraising efforts by the Programs and foster strategic
partnerships; and To serve as ambassadors of good will representing the Programs to the public
health and health care communities of Jacksonville, northeast Florida, and beyond.”
MPH Student Advisory Board & Program Committees
MPH students may participate in Program governance by serving on Program committees, and
through the MPH Program Student Advisory Board. The Student Advisory Board meets at least
once per year to provide input on the program strengths and areas in need of
improvement. Calls for participation in committees are sent via email through the UNF MPH Bb
site. The UNF MPH Program is committed to gathering student input and responding as
appropriate.
MPH Program Evaluation
MPH students and alumni participate in the evaluation of the MPH Program. Requests to
participate in providing feedback are announced in classes, on the MPH website and via
email. Students provide input through evaluation of individual courses (Instructional
Satisfaction Questionnaire) and program evaluation surveys (Current Student Surveyadministered spring of each year, Exit Survey-administered in the Internship class each summer,
and Alumni Survey-administered every two to three years). The UNF MPH Program also
involves employers of MPH graduates in program evaluation through their participation on the
Advisory Committee, and through their evaluation of MPH interns and program when they
serve as preceptors.
UNF Eta Sigma Gamma Chapter
Eta Sigma Gamma (ESG) is the National Professional Health Education Honorary. The purposes
of ESG are to: 1) enhance professional competence and dedication of individual members to
the health education profession; and 2) elevate the standards, ideals, competence and ethics of
professionally trained men and women in and for the Health Science discipline. The objectives
are to: 1) become acquainted with and enjoy the fellowship of students and faculty whose
professional interests are dedicated to the Health Education discipline; 2) allow the resources
for hands on experience and skill building in health education and promotion; 3) keep members
informed of recent trends in health education; and 3) promote professional growth and
leadership. Students receive hands-on experience, a certificate of membership, an official pin
of the honorary, regalia honorary cords at graduation, and a subscription to the organization’s
scholarly journals, The Health Educator and The ESG Student Monograph.
13
2015-2016
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
3. Program & Degree Requirements
3.1 Program of Study
3.2 Required Courses Descriptions
3.3 Public Health Capstone & Internship
3.4 Comprehensive Examination
3.5 Required Volunteer Hours
3.6 Field Experiences
3.7 Elective Courses
3.8 Transfer of Credit
3.9 MPH Program Course Sequence for Students Starting Fall 2012 or Later
3.10 Application for Graduation
3.11 Award of Degree
3.1 Program of Study
Major: Community Health
Concentration: Health Promotion/Health Ed
Degree: Master of Public Health
Core Requirements (21 credits)
 PHC6102 3 Public Health Policy and Management
 HSC6215 3 Environmental Health
 HSC6505 3 Epidemiology
 PHC6050 3 Public Health Biostatistics I
 HSC6603 3 Theory of Health Behavior
 HSC6735 3 Health Science Research
 PHC6103 3 Public Health Practice
Concentration Requirements (15 credits)
 HSC6585 3 Health Promotion/Health Education Strategies
 HSC6587 3 Program Plan Health Promo/Education
 HSC6716 3 Health Program Evaluation
 PHC6940 3 Public Health Capstone
o Prerequisite: Completion of or current enrollment in all required MPH courses
and permission of the PHC6940 Public Health Capstone Instructor

PHC6945 3 Public Health Internship
o Prerequisite: PHC6940 and Permission of the Capstone Instructor
14
2015-2016
*A comprehensive examination is required in this course.
Major Electives (9 credits)
A list of approved electives is posted on the MPH web site. Other graduate level courses may be
taken with approval of the MPH Program Director
o
3.2 Required Courses Descriptions
(delete HSA course description…)
HSC6215: Environmental Health 3 An ecological examination of the relationships between
environmental conditions and human health. Special emphasis will be given to principles,
processes, priorities, and current research in the study of environmental problems and their
impact on health and disease in human populations.
HSC6505: Epidemiology 3 This course covers epidemiological concepts and methods for
measuring and interpreting data related to the distribution and determinants of morbidity and
mortality in human populations. The knowledge and skills acquired should enable one to plan,
develop, conduct, and interpret findings from epidemiologic investigations and other types of
studies, and to make meaningful recommendations for methods of disease control and
prevention.
HSC6585: Health Promotion and Health Education Strategies 3 An examination of the
implementation, coordination and effectiveness of health promotion and health education
strategies and methods.
HSC6587: Program Planning in Health Promotion/Education 3 An analysis of the essential
aspects of planning procedures used in the development of community-based health
promotion and health education programs.
HSC6603: Theory of Health Behavior 3 An exploration of the theoretical and conceptual models
and factors underlying public health behavior and health promotion programs and their
application in planning, implementing, and evaluating public health programs for behavioral
change.
HSC6716: Health Program Evaluation 3 This course focuses on principles and methods
employed in program evaluation and evaluative research. Issues of conceptualization and
design in evaluation are emphasized. The course also addresses operational procedures used in
evaluation studies ranging from identification of variables to instrument design and use of
findings. The course reviews applications of evaluative research in health services decision
making.
15
2015-2016
HSC6735: Health Science Research 3 Prerequisite: HSC 6505. A study of the investigative and
analytical methods used in health related research. Emphasizes design, sampling techniques,
data collection and processing, interpretation of the results and ethics.
PHC6050: Public Health Biostatistics I 3 Prerequisite: Undergraduate statistics course or
equivalent Description: This course focuses on the principles and methods of reasoning that
underlie modern biostatistics, providing the basis for further study in epidemiology and
biostatistics. The course will provide information concerning specific descriptive and inferential
techniques commonly used in public health research.
PHC6102: Public Health Policy and Management 3 This course examines the organization,
financing, and delivery of public health and personal health services, with emphasis on major
current health policy and management issues related to access, quality and cost.
PHC6103: Essentials of Public Health Practice 3 This public health core course provides an
overview of the three fundamental areas in public health practice including assessment, policy
development and assurance. Purpose and examples of each area are examined within the
context of an operating county level public health department.
PHC6940: Public Health Capstone 3 Prerequisite: Completion of or current enrollment in all
required MPH courses and permission of the PHC 6940 Public Health Capstone Instructor This
course prepares students for entry into a public health career through development of
professional skills, securing an internship site, developing the internship project proposal,
obtaining necessary approvals, and preparation for national certification. This course must be
completed the semester immediately prior to Public Health Internship. This course is offered
spring term only.
PHC6945: Public Health Internship 3 Prerequisite: Completion of PHC 6940 and permission of
the Capstone Instructor This course consists of two major components: 1) a planned,
supervised practice experience with an approved public health organization; and 2) the
comprehensive examination. During the practice experience students will apply the knowledge
and skills learned in MPH core and health education specialization courses to actual public
health problems. The comprehensive examination will assess student proficiency in the
concepts and skills learned in MPH core and health education specialization courses. This
course is offered summer term only.
3.3 Public Health Capstone & Internship
The UNF MPH Capstone and Internship consists of two 3-credit courses taken over 2
semesters. Students set up the internship in the spring semester (PHC 6940 Public Health
Capstone) and complete the internship hours in the summer semester (PHC 6945 Public Health
Internship). The internship is the final culminating field experience required for the Master of
Public Health (MPH) degree and serves as an opportunity for the student to put into action the
16
2015-2016
knowledge, skills and abilities which they have acquired during their degree program. The MPH
Internship Handbook and a List of Potential Internship Sites are posted on the MPH Bb site.
To accomplish the internship objectives, prospective practice experiences may focus on, but are
not limited to:
1. Increasing proficiency in the Core Competencies for Providing Essential Public Health
Services:
 Monitor health status to identify community health problems
 Diagnose and investigate health problems and health hazards in the community
 Inform, educate, and empower people about health issues
 Mobilize community partnerships to identify and solve health problems
 Develop policies and plans that support individual and community health efforts
 Enforce laws and regulations that protect health and ensure safety
 Link people to needed personal health services and assure the provision of health
care when otherwise unavailable
 Assure a competent public health and personal health care workforce
 Evaluate effectiveness, accessibility, and quality of personal and population-based
health services
 Research for new insights and innovative solutions to health problems
2. Increasing proficiency in the Responsibilities & Competencies for Health Educators as
delineated by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing (NCHEC):
 Assess individual and community needs for health education
 Plan effective health education strategies, interventions, and programs
 Implement health education strategies, interventions, and programs
 Conduct evaluation and research related to health education
 Administer health education strategies, interventions, and programs
 Serve as a health education resource person
 Communicate and Advocate for health and health education
3. Integrating public health theory with community-based practice
4. Expanding understanding of the role of health-related agencies in the community setting
5. Analyzing the role of public health professionals/health educators in the community and
through agency activities
6. Gaining an understanding of the organization and policy issues, administration, research,
funding sources, program activities/ evaluation and challenges faced by public health
organizations
7. Improving communication and professional skills through on-the-job training
8. Increasing leadership, management, problem-solving, decision-making and administration
skills
17
2015-2016
Choosing an Internship Site
Internships must be completed at an approved and affiliated site as determined by the MPH
Capstone Committee. Sites are not required to provide any salary or benefits to interns;
payment is at the individual agency’s discretion. It is not recommended to complete
internships at agencies where family and/or friends are employed.
Unaffiliated Internship Sites
Students wishing to intern at a site that does not have an established affiliation agreement with
UNF should meet with the Faculty Internship Coordinator at least one semester, preferably one
year, prior to the desired internship semester to allow adequate time for the affiliation
agreement completion. It is highly recommended that students choose an approved
alternative site in the event the affiliation agreement is not able to be executed.
Out-of-Area Internship Sites
It is expected that the internship experience will be completed in the Northeast Florida area
(50-mile radius of the University of North Florida) at an approved and affiliated agency. Out-ofarea internships are granted only in extenuating circumstances and are left to the discretion of
the MPH Capstone Committee. The MPH Capstone Committee reserves the right to deny the
out-of-area internship proposal if it does not meet the internship program
requirements. Students who desire to intern out of the area should meet with the Faculty
Internship Coordinator at least one year prior to the desired internship semester to allow
adequate time for affiliation agreement completion and other arrangements.
It is highly recommended that students choose an approved alternative site in the Northeast
Florida area in the event the affiliation agreement is not able to be executed. It is important to
note that there will be required meetings on campus during the internship semester and the
out-of-area intern will be required to attend these meetings in order to receive full course
credit. No exceptions will be made for the course requirements, the comprehensive
examination, or internship poster session.
Dual Employment & Internship Location
The policy of the MPH Program only allows students to intern at their current community
health-related place of employment in rare circumstances. In order for students to complete
the internship experience at their current place of employment, they must complete the
required minimum 175 hours in addition to their regular employment hours and report to
someone other than their current supervisor.
The duties completed must extend beyond, or be something other than his/her regular work
duties and allow application of the knowledge and skills learned during the student’s degree
program. A Dual Place of Employment and Internship Site Agreement Form must be signed by
the student and site preceptor prior to internship approval.
18
2015-2016
The Internship Project Proposal & Practical Experience
Students must complete a minimum of 150 hours during the 3 credit hour summer internship
and may complete up to 50 hours during the spring capstone course. The internship project is a
graduate level culminating project and should comprise the majority of these hours. This
project will be proposed in the Internship Project Proposal paper during the spring Capstone
course. If the intern and/or preceptor are not sure if the proposed project is appropriate for a
graduate level project or will fit the project proposal paper format, please contact the Faculty
Internship Coordinator to discuss. It is NOT acceptable for graduate level interns to only focus
on a variety of small projects such as conducting a presentation, developing some print
materials, attending some meetings or completing routine daily tasks.
It is recognized that interns will also work on a variety of daily tasks to learn about the agency,
to assist the agency in achieving its mission, and to gain practical experience and competence in
the profession. The distribution of these hours will be determined by the intern, their
preceptor and the nature of the internship project.
The Internship Project Proposal should delineate the specific plans for how the internship
project will be accomplished. It is essential for the student and the site preceptor to
communicate about the work that will be accomplished during the internship and set
reasonable deadlines well before the internship semester commences.
The MPH Capstone Committee will review and approve internship sites and project proposals
before the internship semester commences. The Internship Project Proposal paper is a working
draft and may need to be revised before the project proposal is given final approval based on
review by the MPH Capstone Committee to ensure goals are appropriate for the MPH Capstone
experience. (However, all versions of the Internship Project Proposal paper turned in should be
of ‘final paper’ quality). While it may be necessary during the internship to modify strategies
for completing internship goals, the site preceptor and Faculty Internship Coordinator must first
approve the changes.
3.4 Comprehensive Examination
The comprehensive examination represents the culmination of the academic experience in the
MPH Program. This examination assesses each student’s understanding of the UNF MPH
Graduate Academic Learning Compacts, which are based on the core areas of public health and
specialization in health promotion/education. Additionally, the exam assesses student’s ability
to apply this knowledge to contemporary public health issues. The exam consists of 150
multiple choice questions divided into six sections representing each public health core area
and the health promotion/health education concentration. The five core areas of public health
include: Biostatistics & Research, Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Health Policy &
Management, and Social & Behavioral Health. The health promotion/health education section
includes questions addressing: Assessing, Planning, Implementing & Evaluating Health
19
2015-2016
Programs, Acting as a Resource Person in Health Education, and Communicating and
Advocating for Health Education. All questions are subject to review by the Program Director
and Program Faculty.
The examination will be taken during the last semester of the program. The examination is
given on campus at a set time via Blackboard early in the final semester. The exam will be
closed book and timed.
*Important Note: Although the comprehensive examination is administered through the
Internship course, it is a requirement of the UNF MPH Program. Students must pass all sections
of the Comprehensive Examination in order to graduate from the UNF MPH program. Students
who fail a section of the exam will have to retake that section.
3.5 Required Volunteer Hours
UNF MPH students are required to complete health related volunteer hours each year; 10
hours per academic year for full-time students and 7 hours per academic year for part-time
students. Students must keep a log and documentation of their hours served. The log should
include date, time, event and responsibilities. Documentation may include a brochure, flyer,
signed note or picture at the event. The log and documentation will be collected and counted
toward the PHC 6945 Public Health Capstone course grade. Volunteer hours that are being
completed for another MPH course or work should not be counted. Opportunities to receive
volunteer hours will be advertised through the UNF MPH Bb site. Examples of events that will
be counted toward the volunteer hours include:
1) Mentoring of 1st year students. The PHC 6103 Public Health Practice Instructor will send
information about a ‘meet and greet’ with new students and the process for becoming a
mentor.
2) Attending/staffing UNF MPH Program events such the MPH Student Advisory Board,
MPH recruitment events, ESG events, etc.
3) Attending/participating in local public health events such as coalition meetings,
conferences, presentations, etc.
If you are unsure if an event will count toward volunteer hours, please email the MPH program
director. If you have an event you would like shared with other MPH students, please send to
the MPH program director to send out through Bb.
3.6 Field Experiences
MPH students may complete 3 credit hours of Field Experience (HSC 6816-Field Experiences in
Health) as one of their program electives. Students wishing to complete this option will work
with the Capstone Faculty Internship Coordinator and must follow the guidelines and deadlines
set forth in the MPH Internship Handbook, and those in the PHC 6940 Public Health Capstone
and PHC 6945 Internship course syllabi. The Field Experience project may be smaller in scope,
and students are not required to participate in the Internship Poster Session, but are strongly
20
2015-2016
encouraged to attend. Students must complete all other internship required forms and
assignments by the deadlines set forth in the PHC 6940 Public Health Capstone and PHC 6945
Internship course syllabi. Please note that there are a number of deadlines that must be met
the semester before the field experience will take place in order to complete the required preinternship (or preparation) documents. Students must have completed one full time academic
year of courses before they will be allowed to register for field experience (e.g., 6 MPH courses,
typically 3 in fall and 3 in spring). Students will only be allowed to complete a field experience
and their internship with the same agency in very rare circumstances and with permission of
the Capstone/Internship Committee.
3.7 Elective Courses
Students take three electives courses as part of the UNF MPH program. Approved electives and
graduate Certificate Programs are posted on the UNF MPH Program website. Students must
obtain approval from the Program Director prior to enrolling in any elective courses not on this
list. Study abroad courses are also offered regularly through the Brooks College of Health and
students may seek approval to use these courses as electives. Elective courses must be
graduate courses at the 5,000 or 6,000 level or higher.
3.8 Transfer of Credit
Course Validation for Course Work Completed More than Five Years
Ago
UNF requires that a student who has taken courses at UNF or elsewhere more than five years
prior to the completion of a graduate degree program or admission to candidacy for the
doctoral degree must petition his or her graduate program director to validate these courses
before the Graduate School will apply them toward the student’s fulfillment of degree
requirements. Graduate program directors have the authority to require the student to
demonstrate his or her knowledge of the material covered in those courses.
Credit Transfers – Up to Nine Hours
The residency requirement at UNF is 24 semester credit hours; 18 of which must be taken at
the 6000 level.
With approval of the Program Director and the MPH Program Curriculum Committee, a student
may transfer up to nine (9) semester hours of course work from another regionally accredited
graduate program at an approved institution if those courses are determined to have met the
necessary MPH Program competencies.
Students wishing to enroll in courses at another institution while also enrolled at UNF for the
purpose of transferring credits into their UNF graduate program of study must complete a
“Concurrent Enrollment” form and have prior approval from the Program Director.
1. The student must have completed the course work subject to the time limits applicable
to his or her current graduate program.
2. The student must have earned grades of 3.0 or higher in the courses.
21
2015-2016
3. The student is not entitled to apply transfer credits toward the 18 hour minimum of
6000-level courses at UNF required for all master’s degrees.
4. The student is not entitled to transfer credit for correspondence courses, courses
included in a completed degree program, or portfolio-based experiential learning that
has taken place prior to admission to the current graduate program.
Students are strongly advised not to enroll in courses at another institution during their last
semester at UNF. Graduation will most likely be delayed for students who do attempt
concurrent enrollment in their last semester.
Credit Earned as a Post-Baccalaureate – Up to 10 Hours
A student may transfer up to 10 hours of graduate course work taken at UNF as a postbaccalaureate if that coursework is relevant to the MPH degree program. Such transfer credits
will not be included in the student’s UNF graduate GPA. The student must receive the approval
of the Program Director, who will so inform One Stop Student Services. Students who transfer
10 hours of coursework as a post-baccalaureate may not transfer any additional hours from
another accredited institution.
3.9 MPH Program Course Sequence for Students Starting Fall 2012 or Later
*Note: Following the course sequence is mandatory to graduate according to the schedule
shown in the MPH Handbook for your cohort and to be prepared for subsequent courses.
Courses are only offered one time per year. Students who fail to follow the course sequencing
will delay their graduation, possibly for a year or more. International students who do not
follow the sequence will not be granted extensions of their stay in the U.S., and may forfeit
their ability to complete the degree. When we make changes in the course sequencing, we will
make appropriate accommodations for students who might be adversely affected for reasons
out of their control. However, the program is not obligated to make special accommodations
for students who fail to follow the course sequencing we provide.
Full Time Students
Fall 1
HSC 6505: Epidemiology &
Disease Control
PHC 6050: Public Health
Biostats I
PHC 6103: Essentials of
Public Health
Fall 2
HSC 6603: Theory of Health
Behavior
HSC 6587: Program Planning
in Health
Spring 1
PHC 6102: Public Health
Policy & Management
HSC 6215: Environmental
Health
HSC 6735: Health Science
Research
Spring 2
HSC 6585: Health
Promotion/Ed Strategies
HSC 6716: Health Program
Evaluation
Summer 1
Elective 1
Elective 2
Summer 2
PHC 6945: Public Health
Internship
22
2015-2016
Elective 3
Part Time Students
Fall 1
PHC 6050: Public Health
Biostats I
PHC 6103: Essentials of
Public Health
Fall 2
HSC 6505: Epidemiology &
Disease Control
HSC 6603: Theory of Health
Behavior
Fall 3
HSC 6587: Program Planning
in Health
Elective 3
PHC 6940: Public Health
Capstone
Spring 1
HSC 6215: Environmental
Health
HSC 6735: Health Science
Research
Spring 2
HSC 6585: Health
Promotion/Ed Strategies
PHC 6102: Public Health
Policy & Management
Spring 3
HSC 6716: Health Program
Evaluation
PHC 6940: Public Health
Capstone
Summer 1
Elective 1
Summer 2
Elective 2
Summer 3
PHC 6945: Public Health
Internship
3.10 Application for Graduation
Students are required to apply for graduation by the published deadline during the first month
of the term in which you expect to graduate. Failure to apply for graduation by the
deadline may affect your ability to graduate and can result in the delay of your diploma
and transcripts.
Graduation applications are available on the web or from One Stop Student Services. You may
apply online in myWings by signing into Student Self-Service, then selecting Student Records,
then Graduation Application. If you are applying after the deadline, you will need to download
the application here or pick up a copy at One Stop Student Services. If applying after the
deadline, you will need the signatures of your Advisor and the Dean on the form.
3.11 Award of Degree
The MPH degree will be awarded when the student:
 Completes all course requirements within prescribed time limits.
 Maintains a grade average of B or better in all work attempted on the program of study.
 Meets all other academic and professional qualifications as published by the
appropriate governing bodies of the university.
 Satisfactorily completes the Capstone requirements including the practice experience
and comprehensive examination.
23
2015-2016
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
4. Policies & Procedures
4.1 MPH Communication
4.2 Changes to the MPH Curriculum
4.3 Class Attendance & Participation
4.4 Satisfactory Academic Progress
4.5 Adding and Dropping Courses during Drop/Add
4.6 Withdrawing from Courses after Drop/Add
4.7 Late Withdrawals
4.8 Repeating Courses
4.9 Incomplete Grades
4.10 Inactive Students
4.11 Violations of Academic Integrity
4.12 Second Master's Degree
4.13 MPH Course or Program Concerns
4.14 Student Appeals
4.15 Grade or Term Forgiveness
4.16 Program Site Dress Code
4.17 Electronic Communication Devices
4.18 Policies & Procedures Amendments
4.1 MPH Communication
Official Program Correspondence
University provided email addresses will be the only officially recognized email address for all
currently enrolled students per UNF’s Graduate Catalog ALL OFFICIAL MPH PROGRAM
COMMUNICATION will be through UNF email addresses.
Computer & Internet Access
All students will be required to have access to a personal computer with internet service. They
must also be able to access “Blackboard” or other programs as indicated. Additionally,
important information and announcements will be made only through the MPH “Blackboard”
site. UNF offers courses on how to use this program. Please check the MPH Bb website
frequently.
4.2 Changes to the MPH Curriculum
All changes to the curriculum will be approved by the majority of the MPH Program Faculty,
Departmental Chairperson, the Deans of the College and Graduate School, Academic Programs
Committee and the Faculty Association according to the policies of UNF.
24
2015-2016
4.3 Class Attendance & Participation
The University of North Florida authorizes its colleges, departments, and faculty to establish the
attendance and participation policies they deem appropriate. In this regard the Graduate
Faculty recognizes that the student’s responsibility is not solely for mastering a particular body
of knowledge but for doing so in relation to the multiple social contexts, which graduate classes
represent in miniature, that make graduate studies at UNF possible.
The MPH faculty believes that MPH Program students need to make their academic careers a
priority during their enrollment in the program. Due to the amount and complexity of the
material, students should ensure ability to attend the entire class period and to be on time by
having adequate arrangements for childcare, work and transportation. Personal vacation time
should be planned for periods when classes are not in session. Thus, we have developed the
following attendance policy which may be used at the discretion of the course instructor:
 Students are allowed one unexcused absence per course which is equivalent to 1 week
or 2.75 hours of class time, after which a percent of the total grade may be deducted
per absence. Several incidents of arriving after the instructor has initiated class or
leaving early may equal one absence.
 Students must submit excuses for full or partial absences to the faculty member in
writing prior to anticipated absences and within a reasonable time after unanticipated
absences. In order for an absence to be excused, it must be due to an excuse recognized
by the university (e.g., illness documented by a doctor, death in the family, university
sanctioned event). Do not ask if you need to submit documentation; in order to be
excused, the absence should be documented in writing. Other non-recognized reasons
for absence, such as work, family or transportation issues may be used for the one
allowed unexcused absence.
 Students who miss more than 25% of scheduled class meetings (e.g., 4 weeks out of a 16
week semester) may be dropped or asked to withdraw from the class.
 Students are responsible for any material covered during the time missed. Students
should attempt to obtain missed information/materials on their own first. It is not the
instructor’s responsibility to teach the material more than once.
 Not participating in class (e.g., not having read the assigned chapter, not completing
homework assignments, not participating in in-class assignments or discussions, etc.)
may also result in points deducted from the total grade.
Please know that while the MPH faculty understands that students may have a professional job,
family and/or other commitments outside of school, the Program expectation is that students
put their academic careers as priority during their enrollment in the program. Therefore, it is
not fair to allow some students to not fully participate in classes while other students are
making tremendous sacrifices to successfully complete the Program.
25
2015-2016
4.4 Satisfactory Academic Progress
MPH Program Academic Standards
Students may earn up to two (2) Cs as graduate students provided that the term and
cumulative graduate GPAs are 3.0 or higher. Graduate students who earn a third (3 rd) grade of C
or lower in the Program will be eligible for suspension (dismissal from the Program). Students
must earn a grade of C or higher on all Program courses for credit towards the degree.
Graduate students who do not have a 3.0 or higher final graduate GPA upon completion of all
Program requirements will not graduate. If a grade below C is earned for any required course in
the MPH Program of study, that same course must be repeated at UNF; a comparable course
from another university cannot be substituted, except by permission of the MPH Program
Director.
Good Academic Standing
Graduate students who have earned no more than 2 (two) Cs and possess a term and
cumulative UNF GPA of 3.0 or higher are considered to be in “good academic standing.”
Graduate students who fail to maintain a 3.0 (B) average in any given academic term will be
placed on academic probation. Probation shall be noted on the academic transcript for the
terms in which the graduate GPA is below 3.0. If while on probation the GPA does not reach 3.0
(B) in the following term, or if a student receives a third grade of C or lower, the student will be
eligible for dismissal from the Program. The Program’s policy is that when a student becomes
eligible for dismissal, the student is permanently dismissed from the program.
4.5 Adding and Dropping Courses during Drop/Add
Students may add and drop courses from the first day of registration through the final day of
the drop/add period, usually the first week of classes. Students may add and drop courses in
person at One Stop Student Services or via my Wings. Courses officially dropped during the
drop/add period will not be entered on a student’s permanent (transcript) record and will be
completely refunded. Normally, students may not drop courses and receive a full refund, or add
courses after the drop/add period. Students who encounter exceptional circumstances clearly
beyond their control must complete a “Petition to Waive University Policy” form available from
One Stop Student Services to permit them to drop or add courses after the drop/add deadline.
One Stop Student Services will automatically drop a student from all classes if this person does
not pay or arrange for the deferral of tuition and fees by the posted deadline.
4.6 Withdrawing from Courses after Drop/Add
A student may withdraw from a course or the University from the end of the drop/add period
through the “Last day to withdraw” (see the University Calendar online). The student may
withdraw online, submit an official withdrawal request at One Stop Student Services, or submit
a letter postmarked no later than the deadline. One Stop Student Services will assign a grade of
“W,” which will appear on the student’s transcript. Students who stop attending a course
without officially withdrawing will receive a final grade of “F”. Non-attendance does not
26
2015-2016
guarantee a student will be dropped from class. Students are fee liable for all courses they
register for unless dropped. Students must drop themselves from all courses they do not want
to take.
4.7 Late Withdrawals
Students who encounter exceptional circumstances clearly beyond their control may petition
for late withdrawal after the withdrawal deadline. A student may petition for withdrawal from
a course up until the end of the term, prior to the posting of grades. Students must petition the
dean of their college and receive this person’s approval. The petition is available at One Stop
Student Services. The course instructor then assigns a grade of “WP” (withdraw passing) or
“WF” (withdraw failing),which will appear on the student’s transcript. Students do not have the
right to withdraw from courses after the official withdrawal deadline simply because they have
passing grades at the time.
4.8 Repeating Courses
A student may receive credit for a course only once. However the GPA will reflect all repeated
courses.
4.9 Incomplete Grades
A student who has completed a substantial portion but not all of the required course work for a
course with sufficiently high grades may at the instructor’s discretion be assigned a grade of
incomplete in the event of extenuating circumstances that keep the student from completing
the course. An Incomplete is not appropriate in instances where the student is failing the
course, or has not completed the majority of course requirements with passing grades.
Incompletes are not computed in the grade point average. The instructor will specify the date—
not to exceed one calendar year or graduation, whichever comes first—and whether or not the
student is in residence, by which the student must complete all course work to resolve the
Incomplete. The instructor may also specify the grade to which the Incomplete will be
automatically changed if the student does not complete the required work (unresolved
incompletes usually revert to a grade of “F”). At the end of the time limit, the instructor will
change the Incomplete to a letter grade based on the quality of whatever work the student has
submitted. One Stop Student Services will then calculate that grade in the student’s GPA. To
extend an Incomplete beyond one year, the student must submit to One Stop Student Services
a petition for a waiver of University policy. Students may not register for courses in which
incomplete grades have been received. Students with an incomplete grade for any required
MPH Program courses will not be allowed to proceed with the Public Health Internship until the
incomplete grade is satisfactorily resolved.
4.10 Inactive Students
Students who have completed graduate course work at UNF but who do not enroll in at least
one course for three consecutive semesters (including summer terms) are placed in an inactive
27
2015-2016
status on the Registrar’s computer databases and need to contact the Graduate School to
complete a student update form for reinstatement. At that time, the student may have to
reapply for admission into the Program. Reinstatement without having to reapply for admission
is based upon approval by the Program Director.
4.11 Violations of Academic Integrity
The UNF Graduate Student Handbook identifies several types of violations of academic
integrity. These include but are not limited to: cheating; fabricating and falsifying information
or citations; submitting the same work for credit in more than one course; plagiarizing;
providing another student with access to one’s own work to submit under this person’s name
or signature; destroying, stealing, or making inaccessible library or other academic resource
material; and helping or attempting to help another person commit an act of academic
dishonesty. UNF authorizes any instructor who finds evidence of cheating, plagiarism, or other
wrongful behavior that violates the UNF Academic Integrity Code to take appropriate action.
Possible action includes, but is not limited to, failing the student on the work in question, failing
the student for the course, notifying the appropriate academic dean or Vice President for
Student Affairs, and requesting additional action be taken. The consequences of a breach of
academic integrity may result in an F, which is unforgivable, regardless of withdrawal status.
For the complete UNF MPH Program Plagiarism Policy, refer to Appendix I.
4.12 Second Master's Degree
Students who have earned a Master’s degree or higher graduate degree and wish to obtain an
MPH will be required to complete all the requirements of the MPH Program. For a second
master’s degree, at least 24 hours of UNF graduate coursework in residency is required.
Coursework counted in the fulfillment of any other UNF degree requirements cannot be
counted toward this second master’s residency requirement.
4.13 MPH Course or Program Concerns
Student concerns or questions regarding courses should first be discussed with the instructor. If
differences are unable to be resolved, then appeals may be made to the Program Director.
Other concerns about the MPH Program should be directed first to the MPH Program Director,
then to the Chair of the Department of Public Health, and finally to the Dean of the Brooks
College of Health. The Department Chair and the Dean of the Brooks College of Health
subsequently review all complaints and concerns in a timely manner. Students retain the right
to file a grievance with the University in the event the issue is not satisfactorily addressed at the
Program/Department/College level.
4.14 Student Appeals
Right of Appeal (Policy, Course/Grade, & Civil Rights)
All members of the University community are entitled to fair and equitable procedures.
28
2015-2016
Appeals concerning UNF policies: Any member who believes that actions of other members are
not equitable has the right of appeal. A student who believes that a University policy imposes
an undue hardship may petition One Stop Student Services to waive that policy. One Stop
Student Services will inform the student in writing of the results of the appeal.
Appeals concerning courses (grade appeal):Students who wish to appeal a course grade
(except for the grade of “Incomplete”) must do so within one year of completing the course in
question. Students can pick up the guidelines for grade appeals at One Stop Student Services.
Appeals concerning civil rights: Members of the community who believe they have not been
accorded rights under the Civil Rights Act of 1964 or Title IX of the Higher Education
Amendments of 1972 should contact the Director of Equal Opportunity Programs, Building 1 (J.
J. Daniel Hall), Room 2100 (620-2507).
4.15 Grade or Term Forgiveness
Per UNF regulations, graduate students are not eligible for grade or term forgiveness.
4.16 Program Site Dress Code
Students should dress appropriately when representing the MPH Program at designated sites or
activities. When at practice experience sites, students must comply with dress requirements
for that site. Appropriate dress normally does not include shorts, jeans, midriff showing shirts,
strapless shirts, or shirts without collars. Students should keep jewelry and other accessories to
a minimum.
4.17 Electronic Communication Devices
Due to the disruption to students and faculty, electronic communications devices should be
muted or turned off during all classes. Electronic communication devices include cellular
phones, beepers, and pagers. Faculty members may take appropriate actions in the event of
such disruption, including asking the student to leave class. Any request for exemption from
this policy must be submitted in writing to the Program Director for approval.
4.18 Policies & Procedures Amendments
Review of Policies and Procedures
The Program Director and other Program faculty and Departmental Chairperson annually
review specific policies and procedures governing the MPH Program for consistency with
general UNF policies and procedures. Any discrepancies will be discussed and acted on as
necessary.
Amendment of Policies and Procedures
Specific policies and procedures governing the MPH Program may be amended by a majority
vote of the MPH Program faculty and are subject to agreement by the Program Director,
29
2015-2016
Department Chair, Dean of the Brooks College of Health and Dean of the Graduate School. New
policies and amendments may be initiated by any of the entities listed above or by an individual
member of the MPH Program faculty or MPH Advisory Committee.
Exceptions to MPH Specific Policies and Procedures
Exceptions to MPH Program policies and procedures must be approved by the Program faculty,
Program Director and Departmental Chairperson, and are subject to agreement by Dean of the
College and Dean of Graduate School.
30
2015-2016
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
5. Financial Support
5.1 In-state vs. Out-of-state Designations
See the UNF MPH website for information on MPH Program and other Public Health funding
opportunities in the form of graduate assistantships, teaching assistantships, and scholarships.
See the UNF Graduate Student Handbook for information regarding the Academic Common
Market tuition reduction agreement, Assistantships, Federal Loans, Fellowships and Graduate
Financial Adie Grants.
See the International Center website for information about tuition assistance for international
students.
5.1 In-state vs. Out-of-state Designations
Tuition for out-of-state students is significantly more expensive than for in-state students. Thus,
out-of-state students entering the program should apply for in-state residency as soon as
possible.
31
2015-2016
Master of Public Health Graduate Program
Student Handbook
6. Resources
6.1 Professional Organizations
6.2 Career Opportunities
6.3 UNF Student Resources
6.4 Forms
6.1 Professional Organizations
Students are encouraged to join and participate in local community and professional
organizations related to public health. The Program is evaluated on both faculty and student
public health professional and community service as part of the CEPH accreditation
Eta Sigma Gamma UNF Chapter
Florida Public Health Association(FPHA)
American Academy of Health Behavior (AAHB)
American Public Health Association (APHA)
American College Health Association (ACHA)
American School Health Association (ASHA)
Eta Sigma Gamma National Professional Health Education Honorary
International Union for Health Promotion and Education (IUHPE)
Society for Behavioral Medicine (SBM)
Society for Public Health Education (SOPHE)
Society for Prevention Research (SPR)
6.2 Career Opportunities
American Public Health Association Job Listings
Association of Schools of Public Health Jobs net
Emory Public Health Employment Connection
Health Promotion Career Network
UNF Career Services
6.3 UNF Student Resources
Academic Center for Excellence (ACE)
Campus Recreation
Disability Resource Center
Fitness Center
Help Desk
Intercultural Center for Peace
32
2015-2016
Interfaith Center
International Center
LGBT Resource Center
Military Veteran’s Resource Ctr
Office of ADA Compliance
Office of Equal Opportunity & Diversity
One Stop Student Services
Student Government
Student Health Promotion
Student Health Services
Student Organizations
Student Ombudsman
Women’s Center
6.4 Forms
After reading the UNF Graduate Student and MPH Student Handbooks,
print, sign and turn in the acknowledgement of acceptance of the
handbooks and the BCH integrity code forms at the e nd of this
handbook.
33
2015-2016
7. Graduate Certificate in Public Health
7.1 Description
7.2 Program of Study
7.3 Course Sequence
7.1 Description
The Public Health Certificate (PHC) Program consists of five required courses. The PHC Program
prepares participants with a broad understanding of the core areas of public health and skills
necessary for public health practice in a wide range of public and private institutions. This
certificate is ideal for those students who are working on a Master’s degree in another field, but
have an interest in or plan to work in a public health setting, or for professionals who are
working in the field but do not have a degree in public health. The PHC is offered through the
Master of Public Health (MPH) program. MPH faculty teach the required PHC courses, and
students take courses along with MPH students. The UNF MPH Program is nationally accredited
by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).
The UNF PHC Program is offered in a hybrid format – students can complete the program in one
year meeting on campus one night per week on average. Each course is offered in one of three
ways: 1) face-to-face; 2) distance learning (DL); or 3) hybrid. Face-to-face courses meet on UNF
campus, typically one night per week, 6:00-8:45pm. DL courses are offered online. Hybrid
courses are a combination of the first two methods, with no more than half of classes meeting
face-to-face. This format makes the UNF MPH Program very accessible to those working full
time while still providing meaningful interaction with faculty and peers.
Special Notes about the Program
Individuals with a bachelor’s degree in any field may be accepted into the PHC Program; there
are no pre-requisites. Acceptance into the PHC Program is dependent on student eligibility and
space in the program. Students who have graduated from the MPH program or are enrolled in
the MPH Program are not eligible to earn the Certificate. All courses for the Certificate must be
completed at the University of North Florida.
Students admitted to the PHC with GRE scores meeting the minimum requirements will be
allowed to transition into MPH at any time. Students who have not taken the GRE must
complete all 15 credit hours in the PHC and have a 3.0 grade point average or higher before
they may transition into the MPH program.
7.2 Program of Study
Major: Public Health Certificate
Degree: Post-Baccalaureate Certificate
Certificate Requirements (15 credits)
34
2015-2016
Core Requirements
 HSC 6215 Environmental Health (3)
 HSC 6505 Epidemiology (3)
 HSC 6603 Theory of Health Behavior (3)
 PHC 6050 Public Health Biostatistics I (3)
 PHC 6102 Public Health Policy & Management (3)
7.3 Course Sequence
Notes: Following one of the course sequences below is necessary to meet prerequisites and
complete the certificate in a timely manner. Courses are only offered one time per year.
Students who fail to follow the course sequencing will delay their graduation, possibly for a year
or more.
Option 1 (1 year)
Fall 1
Spring 1
HSC 6505: Epidemiology & Disease Control
HSC 6215: Environmental Health
HSC 6603: Theory of Health Behavior
PHC 6102: Health Policy & Management
PHC 6050: Public Health Biostatistics I
Option 2 (1.5 years)
Fall 1
Spring 1
Fall 2
HSC 6505: Epidemiology & HSC 6215: Environmental
HSC 6603: Theory of Health
Disease Control
Health
Behavior
PHC6050: Public Health
PHC 6102: Health Policy &
Biostatistics I
Management
Option 3 (2.5 years)
Fall 1
Spring 1
Fall 2
Spring 2
Fall 3
PHC6050: Public HSC 6215:
HSC 6505:
PHC 6102:
HSC 6603:
Health
Environmental
Epidemiology &
Health Policy &
Theory of Health
Biostatistics I
Health
Disease Control
Management
Behavior
35
2015-2016
Appendix I: MPH Program Plagiarism Policy
Definition and Purpose
Plagiarism is presenting someone else’s work (words, line of thought, organizational structure)
as your own. There are many ways plagiarism can occur. Some examples include: using
another’s work as your own in part or in its entirety, improper citation, simply reordering
statements from another’s work, substituting synonyms into sentences from someone else’s
work, using direct quotes from another’s work without proper punctuation and/or citation, etc.
This is not a complete list of examples, demonstrates that plagiarism takes many forms.
Plagiarism is a type of academic misconduct. UNF’s Academic Misconduct policy is posted at
https://www.unf.edu/president/policies_regulations/02AcademicAffairs/EnrollmentServices/2_0640P.aspx. Please note that this policy covers
cheating, fabrication and falsification, multiple submissions, plagiarism, abuse of academic
materials, and complicity in academic dishonesty. The policy lays out possible faculty actions in
cases of academic misconduct.
The purpose of the UNF MPH Program Plagiarism Policy is to clarify steps that faculty will follow
for cases of student plagiarism within the program.
Faculty Responsibility
Faculty in the MPH program have an ethical obligation to all students to ensure that no student
has an unfair advantage over his or her peers. Students who plagiarize are cheating; therefore,
they are attempting to gain an unfair advantage over their peers. MPH faculty have the
responsibility to take all steps deemed necessary to detect plagiarism and administer
appropriate consequences to the students committing the plagiarism. The UNF MPH faculty will
work as a committee to address plagiarism issues (hereafter referred to as the “Faculty
Committee”).
36
2015-2016
Student Responsibility
Students are responsible for understanding what plagiarism is and for taking all necessary steps
to avoid it. Ignorance is no excuse when it comes to plagiarism. There are many resources that
can help you learn about plagiarism and how to avoid it. A few are listed below. There are
many, many more resources available.
www.plagiarism.org
https://owl.english.purdue.edu/owl/resource/589/01/
http://libguides.unf.edu/c.php?g=176993&p=1163741
UNF MPH Program Policy
Forms of Plagiarism
The UNF MPH Faculty Committee recognizes various types and levels of plagiarism. All are
unacceptable. Unless a faculty member explicitly states otherwise in writing in the course
syllabus or assignment instructions, the following general definitions apply.
Level 1 plagiarism is defined as doing any of the following without attribution:





Inserting verbatim phrases of 2-3 distinctive words
Substituting synonyms into the original sentence rather than rewriting the complete
sentence in your own words
Reordering the clauses of a sentence
Imitating the sentence, paragraph, organizational structure, and/or writing style of a
source
Using a source’s line of logic, thesis or ideas
Level 2 plagiarism is defined as doing any of the following without attribution:



Inserting verbatim sentences or longer passages from a source with or without proper
punctuation
Combining paraphrasing with verbatim sentences to create a paragraph or more of text
Repeatedly and pervasively engaging in level 1 plagiarism
Level 3 plagiarism is defined as doing any of the following without attribution:

Submitting or presenting someone’s complete published or unpublished work (paper,
article, chapter, presentation, etc.)
37
2015-2016





Submitting another student’s work for an assignment, with or without that person’s
knowledge or consent
Using information from old assignments that may be on file in any form
Downloading a completed assignment (such as a term paper) from a website
Buying a term paper or other completed assignment from any source (mail-order,
website, etc.)
Reusing or modifying a previously submitted assignment of your own (e.g. from another
course) for a present assignment without obtaining prior approval from the faculty
involved
Consequences of Plagiarism
Plagiarism can occur intentionally or unintentionally, but this is not a factor in determining
whether plagiarism has occurred or what consequences apply. Remember, ignorance is no
excuse when it comes to plagiarism and will not prevent the consequences from being applied.
By providing this policy, a list of resources, and instruction about plagiarism in the “Essentials of
Public Health Practice” course (a required course for all MPH students), faculty have provided
ample information about plagiarism, why it is unacceptable, and how to avoid it. Faculty will
follow current UNF policies when determining the appropriate consequence of plagiarism. In
addition, when determining a consequence for plagiarism, previous offenses in other courses,
student achievement and conduct are relevant.
Below are the recommended consequences for plagiarism. A faculty committee will make the
final decision on all consequences applied.
Level 1 Plagiarism
When instances of Level 1 plagiarism are detected, the faculty member can use these situations
as an educational opportunity to discuss with the student the nature of plagiarism and the
values of the UNF MPH program. At the discretion of the Faculty Committee, assignments may
be rewritten and resubmitted, with or without a grade penalty.
Repeated instances of Level 1 plagiarism will be treated as Level 2 plagiarism. If the faculty
member plans to exercise his or her discretion in cases of Level 1 plagiarism, procedures and
consequences should be clearly described in the course syllabus.
All instances of plagiarism, regardless of level, will be noted in the student’s academic file to
help complete the picture of a student’s academic record.
38
2015-2016
Level 2 Plagiarism
First Offense: Ordinarily, the student receives a zero (0) on the assignment that has been
plagiarized and an academic misconduct form is completed and submitted as prescribed by the
current Academic Misconduct policy.
Second Offense: Ordinarily, the student receives a failing grade in the course and an academic
misconduct form is completed and submitted as prescribed by the current Academic
Misconduct policy.
Third Offense: The student should be recommended for expulsion from the program. This
action is taken in consultation with other administrative staff such as the Program Director, the
Department Chair, the Dean, and the Provost.
Level 3 Plagiarism
First Offense: The student receives a failing grade (F) in the course and an academic misconduct
form is completed and submitted as prescribed by the current Academic Misconduct policy.
Second Offense: The student is expelled from the program. This action is taken in consultation
with other administrative staff such as the Program Director, the Department Chair, the Dean,
and the Provost.
Procedures for Dealing with Plagiarism
When a faculty member has reason to believe that plagiarism has occurred on an assignment,
the following procedures should be followed:
1. Gather the evidence that confirms plagiarism (copies of the assignment, SafeAssign or
other reports, sources from which the plagiarized material was taken, etc.) If plagiarism
cannot be firmly established, the faculty member is encouraged to meet with the
student to further inquire about sources for the work or to determine the student’s
familiarity with the work that he or she submitted.
2. If possible, meet with the student to discuss the incident. In this meeting, the following
should be addressed:
a. Describe the evidence that confirms that plagiarism has occurred
b. Listen to the student’s response
c. Review what plagiarism is, why it is unacceptable in a scholarly community, and
how to cite sources properly
d. Review the UNF Academic Misconduct and UNF MPH Plagiarism policies with the
student
39
2015-2016
3.
4.
5.
6.
e. Discuss with the student, based on the type of plagiarism, the potential
consequences
After meeting with the student, the case will be referred to the Faculty Committee to
determine the disciplinary action.
Inform the student of the disciplinary actions while maintaining privacy for all students
involved.
Document the incident by following the procedures outlined the UNF Code of
Misconduct Policy. Submit a copy of the case summary (including supportive
documentation) and disciplinary action to the student’s academic file.
Follow-up as needed with appropriate administrative offices to ensure a timely
response to cases of plagiarism.
Student Appeals
A student who believes that he or she has been unfairly accused of plagiarism may appeal the
actions described above in accordance with current UNF policies and procedures.
40
2015-2016
ACKNOWLEDGEMENT OF RECEIPT OF
MPH STUDENT HANDBOOK
I,
(Print Full Name), hereby acknowledge that I have
received and thoroughly read the UNF MPH Student Handbook. My signature below indicates
that I agree to abide by the policies and procedures as stipulated in the handbook for the year I
started the MPH Program.
(Student signature)
(Date)
Please complete and turn into the PHC 6103 Public Health Practice instructor on the night of
the MPH orientation.
41
2015-2016
UNIVERSITY OF NORTH FLORIDA
BROOKS COLLEGE OF HEALTH
Academic Integrity Policy
Enrolling in courses in the UNF Brooks College of Health (BCH) provides students the opportunity for
education in the health professions. As a necessary component for entry into the health professions, the
BCH requires that all students who enroll in courses in the college take responsibility for their
professional behavior in the classroom and in clinical settings. All students should be familiar with and
abide by provisions of the code of ethics established by the professional organization relevant to each
discipline. In addition to the code of ethics established by the various professions, all students must
comply at all times with the UNF Academic Integrity Code established by the University, and act in a
fashion designed to meet the expectations of the profession, faculty, administration, general public and
the student community. Consistent with such expectations of a health professional, the following
standard has been established by the faculty in the BCH.
Academic and professional honesty are essential to the existence and growth of an academic and
professional community. Without maintaining high standards of honesty, the reputations of the
University and professions are compromised, students are treated unfairly and society is poorly served.
The BCH policy may be simply stated as follows and may be found in course syllabi:
As a student enrolling in classes in the BCH, I agree to abide by the UNF Academic Integrity
Code and the Code of Ethics of the profession I am studying. I will not cheat, fabricate,
falsify, plagiarize, abuse academic material, be complicit in academic dishonesty, or submit
work for multiple submission without authorization nor tolerate those who do. I agree to
report immediately all of the above violations that I may observe or have knowledge of in
order to maintain the high academic standards of the BCH. I understand that violating the
UNF Academic Integrity Code or assisting another student in violating this code will result in
disciplinary action which may include my dismissal from UNF or the program, a failing grade
in the course or assignment in question, and/or referral to appropriate UNF personnel.
This policy is designed to foster a professional and honorable way of life, and it extends to student
academic activities as well as professional services. For college faculty to assist in developing,
graduating, and recommending students to serve as exemplary members of health professions,
students must comply with the provisions of this policy.
I, ___________________________________________(Print Full Name), acknowledge that I have read
this honor code and agree to abide by it.
(Student signature)
(Date)
Please complete and turn into the PHC 6103 Public Health Practice instructor on the night of the MPH
orientation.
42