The Global Health Emphasis for the A.A. or A.S. degree places a priority on improving health and achieving health equity. The focus is on worldwide health access and improvement, reduction of disparities, and protection against global health challenges. Students learn to work with diverse populations, provide international service, and understand the nuances of global healthcare.
Students who choose an A.A. or A.S. with the Global Health Emphasis degree often transfer into four–year schools which have Global Health majors, or into related international or health majors with a minor in Global Health. For example, at the University of Washington, a Global Health minor is a popular area of focus not just for students in medicine, but also for those majoring in:
- public health
- health sciences
- social sciences
- international studies
- environmental engineering
- social work
Note: Although the Global Health Emphasis does not serve as an articulation agreement to any university, some of the courses may meet prerequisites to enter global health–related majors or minors.
Students who successfully complete this emphasis will be able to:
- describe current global health issues, including causes and strategies for solutions in both domestic and international fields
- identify social determinants of health—the impact of socio–economic and cultural factors on health and development
- recognize the cultural elements of health and health outcomes, including intercultural communications
- analyze the impact of history, geography, religion, political structures and culture on global health challenges
For more information, please contact Jay McLean–Riggs, program faculty.
Graduates with a bachelor's or master's degree in Global Health work for international organizations such as:
- the World Health Organization
- World Food Program
- the World Bank
Others work in:
- consulting firms
- government agencies
- research institutions
- mental health facilities
Some volunteer as health educators with the Peace Corps; others do global health research through Fulbright or other fellowships, or work with non–governmental health organizations.