Health Policy & Management

Duration

The length of the required practicum is 10-12 weeks and, unless special arrangements are made. It is assumed that all MPH candidates will abide by this time requirement. As a rule, the practicum is designed as a full-time experience that takes place in the summer term. Any change in the one-term length of the practicum or modification in the way it is scheduled is the exception rather than the rule. The primary justification for altering the duration of the practicum is educational. In making a decision, consideration is given to the student's past education and experience, present level of expertise, and future educational and career goals.

Any request for substantial alteration in practicum duration or any significant modification in scheduling the practicum must be put in writing by the student and receive prior written approval from the Department. Final action on an exception to the one-term length of the practicum for a given student should be made no later than the end of the first term following admission to the Mailman School.

Changing the Practicum

With proper planning, satisfactory and educationally beneficial practicum experiences are almost always arranged. If difficulties arise, however, the student should consult with the departmental advisor. In extreme cases, when placements prove totally unsatisfactory, a new student placement can be arranged.