The mission of the CHHS Program is to research, study, and promote interprofessional, multicultural, ethical, and collaborative approaches to the delivery of community-based public health and social services, and the development of public policy.

Our goal is to prepare future leaders for health and human service and public policy agencies through a process of active classroom learning and field-based training in public agencies and nonprofit organizations. The curriculum emphasizes methodologies of collaboration, leadership, innovation, and organizational change.

We do this by providing students with a “toolbox” of interprofessional competencies that include the knowledge, skills, and abilities needed for careers in community health, social work, and public policy, as well as in other related fields such as public safety, health care, and counseling

The CHHS major prepares students for a variety of careers in the public and non-profit sectors. The primary objectives of the CHHS program are:

• To help students develop sound critical thinking, analytic, professional writing and oral communication skills, which will prepare them to conduct community assessments, create planning strategies, and advocate for effective policy solutions

• To assist students in developing competence in the theories and practice of community health, social work, public policy analysis, interagency collaboration, leadership, management, and applied research

• To encourage students to incorporate the philosophy, values, and professional ethics necessary for the delivery of health and human services, and the development of responsive public policy

• To provide opportunities for students to become proficient in the use of advanced electronic technologies

• To promote students’ cross-cultural competence and ability to work for the benefit of individuals, families, and communities whose backgrounds and lifestyles are different from their own

• To create an environment where students can develop a professional identity that is collaborative and interprofessional

• To prepare students for meaningful careers in health, human services, and public policy

• To ensure that graduates are highly competitive candidates for graduate school programs in public health (MPH), social work (MSW), public policy (MPP), and public management (MPA)

For more information on the CHHS program, please see Major Learning Outcomes, CHHS Courses, and Graduation Requirements.