Culminating Experience in IHD
(Effective for all students entering on or after January 1, 2007)

Introduction

Requirements of our accrediting agency, CEPH, call upon all students at schools of public health to have a culminating experience that draws together all of their classroom learning and practice experiences.  The Department of International Health and Development offers three options for students to complete this graduation requirement: a comprehensive exam, a public health analysis, or a thesis.  This activity should be completed in student’s final semester. 

What is the culminating exam option?

The preferred option for IHD students for completing the culminating experience will be a comprehensive exam developed by the school (Part A: which will test the student's knowledge of the core course material) and the department (Part B: which will test the student's knowledge in the major areas represented by the two departmental core courses).  This exam will be given only three times each year and it is the student's responsibility to be present in New Orleans to take the exam on the given day. Dates for the exam in 2009 are March 7, 2009; and July 11, 2009. Students must arrange their schedules accordingly.

What is the Public Health Analysis option?

The Public Health Analysis is a formal, professional written document much like a peer reviewed journal article. The Public Health Analysis is a substantive review and discussion of the body of knowledge in a selected field of public health.  The report should thoroughly and completely address the project undertaken. IHD will require that the final report be presented to the faculty advisor no later than one month prior to the date of graduation.  For an outline of the Public Health Analysis click here.

What is the Thesis option?

The Thesis is a formal, professional written document.  The Thesis describes the student’s original applied research that will contribute to the scope of knowledge and practice in the field of public health. The thesis should thoroughly and completely address the project undertaken. IHD will require that the final report be presented to the faculty advisor no later than one month prior to the date of graduation. For an outline of the Thesis or to read the official descriptions of these three options, click the link below.

Official SPHTM Public Health Analysis, Thesis, and Culminating Framework Information