Online Certificate in Foundations of Public Health Practice
For those who are working to protect human health, understanding the health care industry is critical. The online Certificate in Foundations of Public Health Practice provides valuable insights into designing interventions, addressing evolving health threats and navigating policy and legal challenges.
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About This Certificate
The online Certificate in Foundations of Public Health Practice offers a comprehensive exploration of environmental health, policy, prevention programming, health services administration and contemporary public health issues.
Program Details
How to Apply
Admission to this program is dependent upon admission to Boise State University with a minimum of 45 previously earned credits and a 2.25 cumulative GPA or higher. If you do not meet these admission requirements, we will review your application and work with you to remove any barriers.
When applying to Boise State, select “Certificate in Foundations of Public Health Practice (online)” from the program or certificate drop-down list on the degree path page.
If you are a current, degree-seeking Boise State student, you do not need to resubmit your application. To declare a certificate, add it by using Change My Major in your my.boisestate account.
Classes and Scheduling
The online public health practice certificate is a 15-credit program comprised of five required courses. Review the following table for details on this certificate’s required courses.
| Course Title | Credits |
|---|---|
| PUBH 210 Health Services Administration (7-week class) | 3 |
| PUBH 230 Healthy People, Healthy Environments (7-week class) | 3 |
| PUBH 315 Health Policy and Ethics (7-week class) | 3 |
| PUBH 340 Prevention and Intervention Programming (7-week class) | 3 |
| PUBH 498 Seminar (15-week class) | 3 |
Course Descriptions
Official course descriptions and degree plans are published on the undergraduate catalog website.
To find a course, click the “Courses” tab and select the drop-down list that aligns with your desired course prefix (e.g. PUBH 210). You may also use the search bar to search for the course prefix.
Program Costs
The following table outlines the total cost to complete the online Certificate in Foundations of Public Health Practice.
| Description | Cost |
|---|---|
| Boise State Undergraduate Application Fee (non-refundable) | $50 |
| Courses (15 total credits @ $375 per credit*) | $5,625 |
| Books (estimate) Instructors make use of open educational resources and other materials that are free to students whenever possible. However, low-cost textbooks may be required if free content is unavailable. | $200 |
| Graduation Application Fee | $20 |
| Approximate Total Investment | $5,895 |
| Other potential expenses may include a personal computer, webcam, headphones with a microphone and internet access — all of which are required for this program. | Varies |
| Room/Board** | $5,688 |
| Transportation** | $1,248 |
*The per-credit fees listed are for the 2024-25 academic year. Future academic year per-credit fees may vary slightly and are finalized each May.
**Costs for room, board and transportation are used to calculate financial aid and are included to disclose the full cost of attendance. These costs are not required for students pursuing a fully online degree.
Note to Boise State and other Idaho higher education employees: Fee waivers do not apply to this program.
Career Opportunities
The public health field is expected to grow 7% between 2022 and 2032 (U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics). Gain hands-on experience in the public health field, develop your leadership skills and network with other learners across the country.
Possible careers include:
- Health Education Assistant
- Public Health Benefits Navigator
Student Support
From application to graduation, students are supported throughout their education journey at Boise State.
Authorization
Boise State maintains authorization to offer online programs in Idaho and beyond. Detailed information about state authorization is available on the eCampus Center website.
Also Available Online
Add an online certificate to your existing degree plan or complete it as a stand-alone credential.
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Contact our enrollment and student success team for support by emailing us at OnlinePublicHealth@boisestate.edu, calling (208) 426-5921 or clicking the chat button.