Western’s Public Health Program becomes first in Ontario to be CEPH accredited

Western University’s Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health has received accreditation for five years from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), making it the first program in the province, and only the fourth in Canada, to receive this stamp of approval.

“What this means is that we’ve met some very exacting standards that ensure we are imparting quality public health education to our students,” said Dr. Amardeep Thind, Director, Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health. “It is an important affirmation for Western to have received accreditation so soon after the development of the program.”

The Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health is part of Western University’s Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry and was established in 2013 with the aim of producing transformative knowledge professionals and leaders that work to create healthy and sustainable communities both locally and globally. Graduates from the 12-month intensive program receive a Master of Public Health degree.

The accreditation not only attests that the program has met rigorous international standards for its curriculum, content and administration, but will allow graduates to write the National Board of Public Health Examiners credentialing exam, which is only open to students from CEPH accredited programs.

CEPH is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools of public health and public health programs. The accreditation process took place over a two-day period in March 2016 following three years of preparation. The Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health complied with all 22 criteria reviewed by the accreditors which were divided into four categories; the public health program; instructional programs; creation, application and advancement of knowledge; and faculty, staff and students.

“The Master of Public Health Program at the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry continues the School’s tradition of providing key, relevant and exceptional learning experiences,” said Dr. Michael J. Strong, dean, Schulich Medicine & Dentistry. “It offers students the opportunity to lead change in public health in the community, across Canada and around the world.”

MEDIA CONTACT: Crystal Mackay, Media Relations Officer, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry, Western University, t. 519.661.2111 ext. 80387, c. 519.933.5944, crystal.mackay@schulich.uwo.ca @CrystalMackay

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Western University delivers an academic experience second to none. Since 1878, The Western Experience has combined academic excellence with life-long opportunities for intellectual, social and cultural growth in order to better serve our communities. Our research excellence expands knowledge and drives discovery with real-world application. Western attracts individuals with a broad worldview, seeking to study, influence and lead in the international community.

ABOUT THE SCHULICH SCHOOL OF MEDICINE & DENTISTRY

The Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry at Western University is one of Canada’s preeminent medical and dental schools. Established in 1881, it was one of the founding schools of Western University and is known for being the birthplace of family medicine in Canada. For more than 130 years, the School has demonstrated a commitment to academic excellence and a passion for scientific discovery.