New Degree Offerings Unveiled
Texas A&M University-Corpus Christi has officially introduced two new degree programs in Public Health aimed at preparing students for a successful career in this vital field. Both the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board and the Council on Education for Public Health have authorized the university to launch a Bachelor of Science and a Master of Public Health degree. These programs aim to tackle the burgeoning public health challenges in South Texas and provide extensive hands-on learning and collaboration opportunities.
Responding to Regional Needs
Dr. Hassan Aziz, the Dean of the College of Nursing and Health Sciences, expressed high expectations for these programs. “I’m expecting this program to be one of the most successful programs in this region,” stated Aziz. He highlighted the dramatic increase in the number of Bachelor’s degree completions in public health, which grew by over 45% in Texas from 2015 to 2019. This growth rate is thirteen times higher than that for all Bachelor’s degree graduates in the state, underscoring the rising demand for trained public health professionals.
Focused Curriculum for Real-World Impact
The Bachelor of Science program will emphasize public health surveillance, health policy, and health management. Aziz noted, “This field focuses not just on the individual but on the community, which is vital for the kind of program we wanted to introduce, one that truly serves the people of this region.” The program designers have structured all courses to be in-person to maximize experiential learning. Students must complete 120 credit hours and a 300-hour internship or clinical experience.
Meanwhile, the Master of Public Health program, which will be offered entirely online, features a 45-credit hour curriculum designed to expand students’ existing knowledge and prepare them for leadership roles in public health organizations, government agencies, and healthcare institutions.
New Degree Experiential Learning and Community Collaboration
Both programs will offer students the chance to learn from seasoned public health professionals and engage in collaborations with the Corpus Christi – Nueces County Public Health District. Dr. Fauzia Khan, Director of the Public Health District, emphasized the broad scope of career opportunities available to graduates. “A degree in public health can open doors to many positions in the hospital, public health nursing, and beyond,” she said. Khan also highlighted the importance of these new programs in preparing students for the workforce and addressing the evolving needs of the public health sector.
Anticipated Impact and Program Launch
The university has already seen significant interest in these new offerings, with over a hundred students enrolled at the Bachelor’s level and more than a dozen at the Master’s level for the upcoming fall semester. Dr. Khan added, “Just like any other profession, our workforce is going to retire. So, we need the next generation of public health leaders to be ready to step in.”
Further Information and Enrollment Details
The programs will begin this fall. Prospective students and interested parties can find more information about these transformative educational opportunities on the university’s website or by contacting the Admissions Office at (361) 825-2624.