Loyola launches health communication certificate program
| By Stephanie Weaver
Beginning in the fall of 2018, Loyola University Maryland will offer a new online health communication certificate program.
The certificate is designed for students who are interested in working or growing as communicators in the fields of health and wellness. Applicants may already work in public health, hospitals, clinics, insurance companies, or other health organizations. However, the program is also designed to be accommodating for those interested in changing careers into health or wellness.
Health is a major industry in the United States and particularly within Baltimore. According to the Maryland Department of Commerce, seven of the 10 largest employers in Baltimore are categorized within healthcare.
“To communicate health and wellness, you need to meet people where they are, which is why focusing on new and emerging media to communicate is essential,” said Elliot King, Ph.D., professor of communication.
The 15-credit certificate program is all online, offering students the flexibility to take the five three credit courses in under a year. Upon completion, students may choose to enter the Emerging Media master’s program, with all 15 credits transferring and the application process streamlined. The master’s program is an additional 18 credits.
The courses for the certificate include:
- Exploring Digital Culture
- Foundations of Health Communication
- Health Communication and Culture
- Health Communication Campaigns
- New Approaches to Health Communication Research
The application deadline for the fall 2018 semester is Aug. 1.