The Master of Public Health (MPH) program was established at the University of Saskatchewan (U of S) in May 2006 and is now the flagship academic program of the School of Public Health (SPH). It is a two‐year 45 CU course‐based Master’s degree with a practicum that prepares students for professional practice in the exciting field of public health. Total enrolment has grown from 7 students in 2006/07 to 142 students in 2011/12 and is projected to increase to nearly 200 students by 2013/14.
"To date, MPH students have followed either a full‐ or part‐time program at the U of S campus. However, the on‐campus program does not meet the needs of prospective students who are either fully employ
ed or living outside of Saskatoon, and who are unable to attend such a program due to work and family commitments, particularly those living in rural and aboriginal communities. To provide accessible learning opportunities for this group, the SPH is proud to announce the launch of its on-line MPH program this fall term of 2011." Dr. John Moraros, MPH Program Director.
The MPH distance students begun the 2011/12 academic year with the two‐week Foundations of Public Health course offered on‐campus during the final two weeks of August. Now the students continue through on‐line distance courses, and are expected to finish with the two‐week Capstone course offered on‐campus at the end of the MPH program. The program would generally require 2‐3 years for completion.
"My experience with learning from a distance has been spectacular. This mode of learning does more than just teach us the key concepts of public health. It allows us to apply the theories into practice at our work setting on a daily basis. The round the clock opportunity for discussion with peers and faculty is also very unique and extremely valuable." Sanket Ullal, First year Distance MPH student.
“I took the online MPH because I am living in Regina and working full-time for the Public Health Agency of Canada. I like that we all had to be on campus for the orientation and Foundation course in August as we were able to make some connections with our fellow online students and that is proving to be very beneficial as we all try to navigate through the courses together.” Amanda Arnold, First year Distance MPH student.
"This is my first time teaching a course online. I am amazed at how technology facilitates the learning process and makes it more responsive. The virtual environment of the course allows me to effectively communicate with my students and provide individualized and group feedback. I feel that it is a work in progress and I'm personally learning how to do it better every day." Dr. Marwa Farag, Assistant Professor, SPH.
Written by Bolaji Daniel Adeniji, 2nd Year MPH Student
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