Assignment 2: Research Project

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COLLEGE OF NURSING AND PUBLIC HEALTH

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH PROGRAM

PRACTICUM PACKET

See suprograms.info for program duration, tuition, fees and other costs, median debt, salary data, alumni success, and other important info. Version History: September 2014 Version 2.0 December 2015

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 1

http://www.southuniversity.edu/programs-info/default.aspx

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Welcome Message ........................................................................................ 3 Master of Public Health Overview ................................................................ 3 Program Accreditation .................................................................................. 5 Master of Public Health Practicum in Public Health ...................................... 5 Objectives of the Practicum Experience ........................................................ 6 General Information for Students ................................................................. 6

Identify a Practicum Site and Preceptor ................................................. 6 Submit the Practicum Proposal Form for Approval ................................. 6 Complete and Submit the Practicum Learning Agreement ..................... 7 Confirm Affiliation Agreement Approval and Execution ......................... 7 Complete Practicum Requirements and Submit Practicum Requirements Checklist .......................................................................... 7 Complete Trainings and Certifications .................................................... 8 Practicum Activity Log ............................................................................ 9 Practicum Evaluations .......................................................................... 10 Written Report and Oral Presentation .................................................. 10

Responsibilities of the Student, Preceptor and Course Faculty ................... 11 Student Responsibilities ....................................................................... 11 Preceptor Qualifications ....................................................................... 12 Preceptor Responsibilities .................................................................... 12 Practicum Course Faculty Responsibilities ............................................ 13 Precepted Course Policy ....................................................................... 13 South University Practicum Guidelines ................................................. 14

APPENDICES ................................................................................................ 15 Contact Information ................................................................................... 16 Examples of Practicum Agencies/Organizations.......................................... 17 Master of Public Health Practicum Proposal ............................................... 19 Master of Public Health Practicum Learning Agreement ............................. 22 Master of Public Health Notice of Practicum Change .................................. 24 Master of Public Health Practicum Requirements Checklist........................ 25 Master of Public Health Practicum Hours and Activities Log ....................... 26 Master of Public Health Student Evaluation-Midterm ................................ 27 Master of Public Health Student Evaluation-Final (End of Term) ................ 30 Master of Public Health Practicum Counseling Form .................................. 33 Master of Public Health Student’s Evaluation of the Practicum .................. 34 Master of Public Health Preceptor’s Evaluation of the Practicum ............... 35

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 2

WELCOME MESSAGE

Welcome to the Master of Public Health program Practicum experience!

As a component of PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health course, students will complete a practicum experience in a public health agency or organization. This handbook is designed to assist the Master of Public Health (MPH) student, Preceptor, and faculty member with understanding the purpose of the Practicum experience and associated responsibilities and expectations. In addition, this handbook provides the steps needed for 1) review and approval of the Practicum site and Preceptor and 2) evaluations and reports required for successful completion of the practicum experience, which is part of completing PHE6980. The Practicum experience, which will be chosen by the student, will consist of a minimum of 120 hours of practical experience in a public health setting and final report and presentation. Included in this packet is a summary of requirements and the documents that must be completed prior to the Practicum as well as the documents that are needed during the Practicum. The student will need to review and submit all forms and documents in the timeframe requested. If clarification of the information provided here is needed, please contact the following individuals referenced throughout this document:

• Online Program: Online Program Director and/or Practicum Coordinator • Campus Program: Campus Program Director and/or Practicum Coordinator

Refer to the Contact Information in the Appendices. We wish you a great Practicum experience!

The College of Nursing and Public Health supports the South University policy of non-discrimination.

NON-DISCRIMINATION POLICY South University does not discriminate or harass on the basis of race, color, national origin, sex, orientation, gender identity or expression, disability, age, religion, veteran's status, genetic marker, or any other characteristic protected by state, local or federal law, in our programs and activities. South University will not retaliate against persons bringing foreword allegations of harassment or discrimination. The campus Dean of Student Affairs has been designated to handle inquiries and coordinate the campus' compliance efforts regarding the non-discrimination policy.

MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH (MPH) OVERVIEW

Program Overview:

In today’s field of Public Health within diverse global communities, knowledgeable professionals are

needed to: a) influence legislative and social policies; b) conduct and analyze research; c) prevent and

solve health-related problems; d) provide education; and e) plan and implement programs that promote

healthy lifestyles. South University’s Master of Public Health program launched in the Fall of 2013 and

is designed to prepare students for the potential to become valued leaders within the public health

profession, where they may find the opportunity to improve the collective health of entire

populations—from their local neighborhood to an entire country. The MPH degree is designed for

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 3

students from a variety of professional backgrounds and is designed to prepare students to seek

employment in both private and public sectors, non-profits and academic institutions and is ideal for

clinicians who wish to leverage their experiences with individual patients to develop initiatives that can

lead to the betterment of larger groups.

The South University MPH degree program is a 56 credit hour program with a curriculum that consists of

core competencies, specialized courses and a Practicum experience. The program covers a broad range

of topics to help develop each student’s knowledge, skills, and abilities as leading public health

professionals. The five core subject areas include social and behavioral science, epidemiology,

environmental health science, health services administration and biostatistics. Additional coursework

includes Public Health Informatics (PHE6203), Grant and Contract Proposal Writing in Public Health

(PHE6404), Evidence-based Public Health Practice (PHE6220), Public Health Law and Ethics (PHE6402)

and Practicum in Public Health (PHE6980). Practicum in Public Health (PHE6980) is taken at the end of

the program of study and provides students with the opportunity to apply skills and knowledge obtained

in didactic coursework to the practice of public health under the guidance of a Preceptor and a faculty

instructor for the course.

MPH Program Student Learning Outcomes:

Upon successful completion of the MPH program, students should be able to:

• Articulate and utilize core public health concepts in the areas of biostatistics, epidemiology, social and

behavioral sciences, health services administration, and environmental health.

• Identify and assess the public health conditions, including assets and deficiencies, of populations.

• Demonstrate the ability to plan, implement, and evaluate programs and services designed to address

public health conditions.

• Understand and employ an “ecological approach” to public health, with emphasis on the linkages and

relationships among the multiple determinants of health to assure conditions that protect and promote

the health of populations.

• Identify and analyze health disparities and design appropriate and culturally competent prevention and intervention strategies.

• Apply theory and knowledge in field-based settings, as evidenced by a competency level of

knowledgeable to proficient across the eight competency domains for public health professionals:

1. Analytical assessment.

2. Policy development/program planning.

3. Communication.

4. Cultural competency.

5. Community dimension of practice.

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6. Basic public health sciences.

7. Financial planning and management.

8. Leadership and systems thinking.

• Demonstrate skills in public health research and communication.

• Apply critical thinking skills within the context of public health policy, practice, and research. PROGRAM ACCREDITATION South University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate, baccalaureate, masters, and doctorate degrees. Contact the Commission on Colleges at 1866 Southern Lane, Decatur, Georgia 30033-4097 or call 404-679-4500 for questions about the accreditation of South University. MASTER OF PUBLIC HEALTH - PRACTIUM IN PUBLIC HEALTH The purpose of the Practicum experience is to provide the student with the opportunity to gain and apply practical knowledge, skills, and abilities in real-world public health settings. Key information regarding the Practicum includes:

• Students should register for PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health course in their last term/quarter of study in the program, but may only begin the Practicum at the site once all required documentation and approvals are obtained.

• Permission to begin the Practicum course and experience requires completion of all core courses in the curriculum and approval of the Department Chair or Program Director following receipt of all required documents including the Practicum Proposal, Practicum Learning Agreement and fully executed Affiliation Agreement.

• The Practicum setting must take place in an agency or organization that allows the student to apply his/her knowledge and skills of public health concepts acquired in the program. Appropriate locations in which students may obtain their practical public health experience include government agencies, community organizations, businesses, public health organizations, and social service agencies. Students should consider the areas or organizations of public health in which they want to work or explore when searching for a Practicum setting.

• While students may be allowed to complete the Practicum at their place of employment, the Practicum experience must allow the student to extend their knowledge and skills beyond those used in their regular position with the organization/agency. The student should not assume the same role in which he/she currently works or carry out the Practicum in the same department. The Preceptor for the Practicum may not be the supervisor or subordinate of the student.

• The student is expected to work with the agency/organization a minimum of 12 hours a week for a minimum of 10 weeks in order to meet the minimum of 120 contact hours required.

• The student is expected to maintain close contact with his/her course faculty member for PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health as well as the Preceptor at the agency/organization.

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• Students are required to submit a written report and professional presentation of the Practicum experience, which describes the nature and operation of the placement setting, detailing his/her activities, responsibilities, and interactions with other individuals, and any public health insights gained from the experience.

OBJECTIVES OF THE PRACTICUM EXPERIENCE In the Practicum experience, the student will apply and test public health concepts and theories garnered during coursework. The objectives of the Practicum experience are:

• Apply and test public health concepts and theories in practice settings. • Implement one or more of the ten essential services of public health. • Utilize problem-solving skills to assess and analyze public health issues. • Propose and implement effective intervention strategies whenever possible. • Justify the importance of interdisciplinary teamwork to address public health problems. • Learn to function successfully as a public health professional in a work setting. • Apply critical thinking skills to identify, evaluate, and interpret pragmatic solutions to the

challenges faced by public health organizations. GENERAL INFORMATION FOR STUDENTS

1. Identify a Practicum site and Preceptor • It is the responsibility of the student to find and secure an acceptable agency/organization

and Preceptor for the Practicum experience. If the student requests to complete the Practicum with his/her current employer, the Practicum must be in a different role and setting than his/her current role. The Preceptor should not report to the student or the student to the Preceptor in any capacity (directly or indirectly). Students are required to submit and receive approval for the Practicum Proposal no later than four weeks before the start of the term in which the PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health course will be taken to ensure that everything is ready before the student expects to start. For assistance with identifying appropriate Practicum locations, refer to the Examples of Practicum Agencies/Organizations located in the Appendices.

2. Submit the Practicum Proposal Form for Approval • The student must complete and submit the Practicum Proposal (Appendices) to the

Practicum Coordinator. This form describes the student’s plan for the Practicum experience and includes the following information:

• Name of the agency/organization • Overview of the proposed organization • Name and credentials of the Preceptor • Preceptor qualifications • Dates of the term/quarter in which the Practicum will be performed. • Description of the project to include goals and objectives • Explanation of anticipated learning outcomes

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• Once the Practicum Proposal has been completed, it should be submitted to the Practicum Coordinator for review and approval. The Practicum Coordinator will review and respond to the student with either approval, denial, or a request for more information or revisions. The student should expect to receive a response within one (1) week of submitting the Practicum Proposal. Approval of the Practicum Plan as outlined in the Practicum Proposal does not constitute final approval to begin the Practicum experience.

3. Complete and Submit the Practicum Learning Agreement • Once the student receives approval of the Practicum Proposal, the Practicum Learning

Agreement (Appendices) and Affiliation Agreement between South University and the agency/organization must be completed. The Practicum Learning Agreement is the responsibility of the student and Preceptor to complete. The Practicum Coordinator will handle the arrangements for the Affiliation Agreement between South University and the Practicum agency/organization. However, it is the responsibility of the student to ensure that a fully executed Affiliation Agreement is in place before beginning the Practicum course.

• The Practicum Learning Agreement must be completed and submitted to the Practicum Coordinator prior to the start of the Practicum. The Practicum Coordinator will acknowledge receipt of the Practicum Learning Agreement and confirm the Practicum start/end date. Any student who fails to submit the Practicum Learning Agreement prior to starting the Practicum will not receive credit for any hours worked with the Practicum agency/organization prior to the Coordinator’s confirmation. Also it is the responsibility of the student to notify the Practicum Coordinator and Preceptor if there are any changes to the Practicum experience within one (1) day of any change. Please note that any amendments to the Practicum experience must be submitted on the, Notice of Practicum Change form located in the Appendices. Any changes in Preceptor or agency/organization may cause an interruption in the Practicum experience. A new Affiliation Agreement may need to be executed, which can take several weeks.

4. Confirm Affiliation Agreement Approval and Execution • A fully executed and signed Affiliation Agreement between South University and the

Practicum agency/organization must be in place prior to the start of the Practicum course and attendance at the Practicum site. The Practicum Coordinator is responsible for submitting the Affiliation Agreement for review and approval; however, it is the responsibility of the student to make sure that a fully executed and signed Affiliation Agreement is in place before beginning the Practicum. Students may not begin the Practicum experience or enroll in PHE6980 until the Affiliation Agreement and all other documents have been received and approved by the Practicum Coordinator or Program Director.

5. Complete Practicum Requirements and Submit Practicum Requirements Checklist • It is the responsibility of the student to complete requirements, all required documents and

trainings/certifications (as applicable) prior to beginning the Practicum experience and the Practicum course, PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health.

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• The student will be responsible for submitting training certificates of completion to the

Practicum Coordinator. Requirements include: • Practicum Proposal approval • Affiliation Agreement confirmation of execution – document must be signed by both

South University and the agency/organization. • Practicum Learning Agreement with Practicum Preceptor

• Any required training/certifications as required by the Practicum agency/organization, for example:

o Background Check o HIPAA/OSHA Training o Human Subject Protection Training o Student Health Assessment

• The student may be required to apply to the South University Institutional Review Board

(IRB) if the Practicum will involve data collection or work that involves human subjects. The Practicum Coordinator will assist the student by providing direction on how to submit to the South University IRB. Information is available at http://inside.southuniversity.edu/index.php/academics/institutional-review-board

• The student should use the Practicum Requirements Checklist (Appendices) to ensure all steps and required documentation is completed. Submit the Checklist to the Practicum Coordinator.

6. Complete Trainings and Certifications if required by the Practicum agency/organization • Practicum agencies/organizations may have specific training or certification requirements,

which students may be required to complete and/or provide documentation stating successful completion prior to beginning the Practicum experience. Some organizations may require a background check. Examples include HIPAA and OSHA training, Human Subject Research training and certification, health assessment, and drug screening. If this is required, the student must successfully complete the training(s) and other requirements by the beginning of the Practicum and/or deadlines specified by the agency/organization.

• The following information is provided to assist the student should training and certifications be required:

HIPAA/OSHA Training There are many HIPAA/OSHA training sites on the Internet. The sites listed below are not endorsed by South University, but appear to meet all of the requirements for HIPAA/OSHA training. You may also find your own online sites for HIPAA/OSHA training or this may be provided by the Practicum agency/organization. OSHA training generally includes blood borne pathogen and hazard communication training.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 8

http://inside.southuniversity.edu/index.php/academics/institutional-review-board

*HIPAA and OSHA training is at the expense of the student if it is required by the Practicum agency/organization prior to Practicum placement.

HIPAA HIPAA Training.com: http://www.hipaatraining.com/healthcareproviders.aspx

• HIPAA General Awareness Training Course ($29.99) My HIPAA Training: http://myhipaatraining.com/

• Basic HIPAA Training Course ($25.00) OSHA Free-Training.com: http://www.free-training.com/osha/Soshamenu.htm

• Hazard Communication (no charge) (do not insert your Social Security Number)

OSHAcademy Occupational Safety & Health Training: http://www.oshatrain.org/courses/index.html

• Blood borne pathogens (course number 755) listed under free courses (costs $11.95 for PDF certificate of completion)

Human Subject Protection Training

Students may be required to complete Human Subject Protection training and submit a certificate of completion. The National Institutes of Health offers an online course at no charge (to be completed every three years) on Protecting Human Research Participants at https://phrp.nihtraining.com/users/login.php . Student Health Assessments/Requirements

Students may be required to obtain a health assessment as required by the Practicum agency/organization prior to beginning the Practicum. This may include determination or documentation of Mumps, Measles (Rubeola), Rubella, and Varicella Titers. An annual assessment for tuberculosis (TB) may also be required, which would include a tuberculin purified protein derivation (PPD) shot unless the student is PPD positive. Other immunizations may include Tetanus immunization (updated every ten years), Hepatitis B and Influenza. Students should consult with their Preceptor prior to beginning the Practicum to determine if any health assessments or immunizations are required. Contact the Program Director or Practicum Coordinator with any questions.

7. Practicum Activity Log • The student must maintain a weekly record of his/her activities and hours for the duration

of the Practicum. This can be done by using the Practicum Hours and Activities Log (Appendices). The student will log the hours and activities weekly. This form must be signed by the student and the Practicum Preceptor. Note that you will use a form for each week to complete the entire process. Practicum Hours and Activities should be submitted every week via the Dropbox.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 9

http://www.hipaatraining.com/healthcareproviders.aspx

http://myhipaatraining.com/

http://www.free-training.com/osha/Soshamenu.htm

http://www.oshatrain.org/courses/index.html

https://phrp.nihtraining.com/users/login.php

8. Practicum Evaluations

• Mid-Term (Week 5) and End of Practicum (Week 11) Each student and Preceptor must complete their respective evaluations and submit them in the timeframe designated in the course syllabus for the Practicum course. It is the responsibility of the student to provide the Preceptor with the Student Evaluation - Midterm and Student Evaluation - Final forms (Appendices). The forms provide the Preceptor with instructions for student evaluation as well as, discussion and submission of forms to the course instructor. The course instructor will follow up with the student in the event that an evaluation is not received from the site Preceptor.

Preceptors complete the Student Evaluation - Midterm (Appendices) of student performance at midterm (Week 5) and Student Evaluation - Final (Appendices) toward the end of the course (Week 10). The Student Evaluation forms provide the student with feedback related to their Practicum performance. If a student receives a failure at the mid- term evaluation, it will be formally documented by the Preceptor and discussed with the student and course faculty member providing feedback using the Practicum Counseling Form (Appendices). A failure at midterm is defined as receiving “Improvement possible” or “Improvement Required” on any of the twelve (12) objectives. Students must receive “Effective” or higher on all objectives at final evaluation in order to successfully pass the Practicum course.

• End of Practicum (Week 11) The student is required to complete the Student’s Evaluation of the Practicum Experience (Appendices) and submit his/her evaluation of the Practicum experience at the completion of the Practicum in week 11.

9. Written Report and Oral Presentation

• Mid-Term of Practicum Students will submit a draft mid-term written report (Week 5) to the course Dropbox based on the written report guidelines as outlined in the PHE6980 course syllabus.

• End of Practicum The student will prepare both a written and oral presentation (PowerPoint) of the Practicum experience according to the guidelines as outlined in the PHE6980 course syllabus. The final written report will be submitted to the course Dropbox in Week 10.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 10

RESPONSIBILITIES OF THE STUDENT, PRECEPTOR AND COURSE FACULTY Student Responsibilities: Prior to starting the Practicum course and experience:

1. Identify a preceptor and practicum site and provide all required forms and documentation for review and approval by the Practicum Coordinator/Program Director.

2. Complete all required trainings including human subject protection and any other requirements of the practicum agency such as a background check or health assessment, as required by the agency/organization.

3. Apply to the South University Institutional Review Board (IRB) if this is determined necessary by the Practicum Coordinator/Program Director and Preceptor. IRB approval will be required prior to starting the practicum experience if the practicum will involve data collection or work that involves human subjects. The Practicum Coordinator will assist the student by providing direction on how to submit to the South University IRB. Information is available at http://inside.southuniversity.edu/index.php/academics/institutional-review-board

4. Obtain permission and approval from the MPH Practicum Coordinator/Program Director in writing that all forms are completed and approved, the preceptor is approved and a duly executed Affiliation Agreement is in place between South University and the Practicum agency/organization.

5. Sponsored (Form I-20) international students must meet with their International Student Advisor prior to commencing the practicum experience.

During the Practicum Experience and Course:

1. The student will adhere to all academic and practice setting policies and procedures. 2. The student will dress professionally and conduct him/herself in a manner consistent with

agency/organization guidelines. 3. The student will maintain regular communication with the Preceptor through meetings. 4. The student will complete all assigned tasks. 5. The student will adhere to the Practicum work schedule, arriving at the agreed upon days/times

as determined by the Preceptor and the student. Any unscheduled absence(s) should be reported to the Preceptor as soon as possible. (NOTE: The student is still responsible for completing the required minimum 120 hours within the term. All hours must be completed and verified by the Preceptor by Week 11).

6. The student will record and submit their hours weekly using the Practicum Hours and Activities Log and submit to the Practicum course Dropbox for review by the faculty member.

7. The student will report any significant changes in the Practicum experience within one (1) day to the Practicum course faculty and the Practicum Coordinator. Examples of significant changes are: new Preceptor, changes in days/hours of Practicum, new project goals/objectives, etc.

8. The student will submit a written report and an oral presentation of the Practicum project and experience by week 11 of the course.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 11

http://inside.southuniversity.edu/index.php/academics/institutional-review-board

9. The student will submit the Student’s Evaluation of the Practicum Experience (Appendices) by week 11.

Preceptor Qualifications

Preceptors must hold credentials and experience in public health that meet the learning objectives of the Practicum experience. Preceptor qualifications must be reviewed and approved by the MPH Practicum Coordinator or Program Director. The South University MPH program has the following eligibility criteria for Preceptors:

1. Hold an MPH or higher graduate degree in public health. With permission of the Department Chair or Program Director, the Preceptor may be an individual who holds a master’s degree or higher graduate degree in a field closely related to public health.

2. Hold a position (must be employed, not a volunteer) in the Practicum agency/organization and have worked in their position for at least two years.

3. Willing and able to commit sufficient time to supervising and mentoring the MPH student. 4. Willing to commit to the responsibilities of the Preceptor including:

a. Orientation of the student to the Practicum agency/organization, b. Consultation with the faculty for the Practicum and/or the Practicum

Coordinator/Program Director, and c. Evaluation of the student at midterm and Practicum completion.

Preceptor Responsibilities:

1. The Preceptor is required to submit a Curriculum Vita or resume. The Preceptor must sign a Practicum Learning Agreement (Appendices) approving the student Practicum experience.

2. The Preceptor must provide an orientation to the facility, project, policies and procedures. Approval is needed to supervise the student.

3. The Preceptor will observe, assist, and guide the student through the Practicum experience providing ongoing constructive feedback on his/her performance.

4. The Preceptor will notify the course instructor and/or Practicum Coordination/Program Director in writing via email or phone of any concerns, issues, or incidents involving the student.

5. The Preceptor will participate in a discussion with course faculty at three time points: a. Beginning of the Term (Week 1): Meet and greet and discuss course objectives, review

student’s Practicum Proposal (Appendices) and share any questions/concerns. b. Mid-Term (Week 5): Review feedback on the completed Student Evaluation - Midterm

(Appendices) and to confirm completion of reported Practicum hours. c. End-Term (Week 10): Review final feedback on the completed Student Evaluation - Final

(Appendices) and confirm completion of reported Practicum hours. 6. The Preceptor will evaluate the student at mid-term (Week 5) and end of Practicum (Week 10)

using the Student Evaluation forms (Appendices). 7. The Preceptor will review the mid-term and end of Practicum evaluation forms with the student

and then submit the signed forms to the course instructor.

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8. The Preceptor will provide an evaluation of the Practicum experience from his/her and the agency/organization perspective using the Preceptor’s Evaluation of Practicum Experience form (Appendices).

Practicum Course Faculty Responsibilities: 1. The faculty member will monitor the student’s Practicum experience on a weekly basis and

provide constructive feedback. 2. The faculty is required to provide assistance and guidance to the student and the Preceptor

during the Practicum. 3. Course faculty member is required to contact the Preceptor three times by phone and submit a

summary log of this communication to the Practicum Coordinator or Program Director. a. Beginning of the Term (Week 1): Meet and greet and discuss course objectives, review

student’s Practicum Proposal (Appendices) and answer any questions/concerns. b. Mid-Term (Week 5): Contact the Preceptor to review their feedback on the completed

Student Evaluation - Midterm (Appendices) and to confirm completion of reported Practicum hours. For any student that has failed an objective, the faculty member will complete the Practicum Counseling Form (Appendices) at midterm and review with the Preceptor.

c. End-Term (Week 10): Contact the Preceptor to review their final feedback on the completed Student Evaluation - Final and confirm completion of reported Practicum hours (Appendices).

4. The faculty member should contact the Preceptor during the Practicum to discuss the student’s performance and any time that the student’s performance does not meet the stated requirements.

5. The faculty member will determine if the student has successfully met the objectives and requirements of the Practicum, including the minimum number of hours and appropriateness of activities in the practicum experience.

PRECEPTED COURSE POLICY Before the student enters the Practicum setting, the MPH Practicum Coordinator or Program Director will verify all of the following:

1. A Practicum Learning Agreement (See Appendices) is in place and the credentials of the

Preceptor have been reviewed for appropriateness for the particular practice area. The curriculum vitae or résumé of the Preceptor has been submitted along with the Preceptor Agreement.

2. An Affiliation Agreement with the agency/organization is completed with all signatures and in effect through the end of the scheduled Practicum course.

3. South University has met the legal and regulatory requirements for conducting practice courses in the state.

4. Mechanisms are in place for communication, feedback, and evaluation of the student’s experiences from the student, Preceptor and agency/organization.

5. Compliance with items 1-4 is documented in the student record.

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SOUTH UNIVERSITY PRACTICUM GUIDELINES Prior to starting the Practicum course, the Practicum Proposal and Practicum Learning Agreement must be completed and the arrangements for the Practicum approved by the Practicum Coordinator or Program Director. The Affiliation Agreement MUST be in place prior to the student engaging in any Practicum experiences at the designated Practicum agency/organization or being enrolled in PHE6980 Practicum in Public Health. The Practicum Proposal and Practicum Learning Agreement documents are due four weeks prior to the Practicum start date. The student may not take part in any activities on site at the Practicum institution until the aforementioned documents and the Affiliation Agreement have been received, and approved by South University. The student will receive an email from the Practicum Coordinator or Program Director indicating final approval of the Practicum site, once all documents are received and approved.

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Appendices

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 15

Campus Specific Contact Information South University, Online Programs

Chodaesessie Irene Morgan, PhD, MPH Program Director, Master of Public Health Program [email protected] 912-228-2873/FAX 480-999-8846

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mailto:[email protected]

Master of Public Health

Examples of Practicum Agencies/Organizations

It is the responsibility of the student to locate, contact, and arrange their Practicum. A listing of agencies/organizations that might provide an acceptable Practicum experience is provided below to assist you with locating a Practicum site. A list of websites that may help the student identify other agencies/organizations is also provided.

Practicum location examples are for guidance purposes only and do not represent a complete list of appropriate agencies/organizations, nor does it represent that arrangements for a Practicum at one of these will be approved. Please contact the Practicum Coordinator with questions and be sure to complete the Practicum Proposal Form and submit it for approval.

Practicum Locations

• American Cancer Society • American Heart Association • American Diabetes Association • American Public Health Association • Area Health Education Centers • Community Health Centers • Community based organizations • Department of Corrections • Emergency Medical Services • Environmental Health agencies • Federal agencies • Health Consortiums • Health Foundations • Healthy Start • International Health Organizations • March of Dimes • Planned Parenthood • Professional Medical Conduct organizations • Public Health Associations • State and County Health Departments • State and Local Social Services organizations • World Health Organization

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Websites to Assist with Locating a Practicum

• American Public Health Association (APHA) - Public Health Student Opportunities https://www.apha.org/professional-development/apha-internships-and-fellowships

• Associations of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) (Fellowships and Internships) https://fellowships.aspph.org/programs/

• Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) http://www.cdc.gov/minorityhealth/internships/opportunities.html http://www.cdc.gov/Fellowships/StudentInternships.html

• Emory Rollins School of Public Health – Public Health Employment Connection http://cfusion.sph.emory.edu/PHEC/

• Food and Drug Administration (FDA) http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/WorkingatFDA/ Click on the link to “Student, Fellowship and Senior Scientist Programs”.

• Department of Health and Human Services (HHS)

http://www.hhs.gov/partnerships/about/volunteer/fbci-intern.html

• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Graduate Student Epidemiology Program http://www.mchb.hrsa.gov/researchdata/mchirc/gsip/index.html

• Health Resources and Services Administration (HRSA) Public Health Internship Program http://www.hrsa.gov/about/jobs/internprogram.html

• Institute for Health Metrics and Evaluation http://www.healthmetricsandevaluation.org/education-training

• Opportunity Knocks http://www.opportunityknocks.org

• Relief Web Vacancies http://reliefweb.int/jobs

• The Akili Initiative http://www.mappinghealth.com/akili/

• United States Agency for International Development (USAID) http://www.ghfp.net/

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https://www.apha.org/professional-development/apha-internships-and-fellowships

https://fellowships.aspph.org/programs/

http://www.cdc.gov/minorityhealth/internships/opportunities.html

http://www.cdc.gov/Fellowships/StudentInternships.html

http://cfusion.sph.emory.edu/PHEC/

http://www.fda.gov/AboutFDA/WorkingatFDA/

http://www.hhs.gov/partnerships/about/volunteer/fbci-intern.html

http://www.mchb.hrsa.gov/researchdata/mchirc/gsip/index.html

http://www.hrsa.gov/about/jobs/internprogram.html

http://www.healthmetricsandevaluation.org/education-training

http://www.opportunityknocks.org/

http://reliefweb.int/jobs

http://www.mappinghealth.com/akili/

http://www.ghfp.net/

Master of Public Health

Practicum Proposal Please complete this document outlining your proposed Practicum site, Preceptor, and ability to meet the Practicum objectives. Review the course syllabus for objectives. This form must be returned to the Program Coordinator/Director. If you have any questions, please contact the Program Director/Coordinator.

Student Name:_________________________ Date Submitted:__________________

Contact Method: Phone _________________ Email___________________________

Term in which PHE6980 is scheduled:_________________________________

Expected PHE6980 Practicum experience start date at Agency/Organization:_________________ Practicum Information

Agency/Organization:__________________________

Address (street/city/state/zip):____________________________________________________

Phone Number:_______________________ Fax Number:________________________

Are you employed by this Practicum site? __________ If yes, what is your current position/department? _______________ What department will you be assigned to for the Practicum?_________________________ Students requesting to complete their Practicum with their employer must submit evidence of the following:

• Preceptor does not report to you or student does not report to Preceptor (directly or indirectly) • Student must complete their Practicum in a different role and setting than their current

employee role.

Preceptor’s Name:_______________________________

Credentials:__________________________ Position at agency:_____________________

Email:_______________________________ Phone Number:_______________________

 Preceptor’s Curriculum Vitae or resume is attached.

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Practicum Proposal: Please attach your proposal to this document using appropriate APA formatting and submit both documents. Be sure to include the following information:

1. An organizational overview of the agency/organization and include the population served, public health services offered, and role of the Preceptor within the organization.

2. The title and a description of the project that you will work on as your Practicum experience. Please include the purpose, goals and objectives.

3. If applicable, in what way does this project incorporate community-based approaches to public health practice (community involved in defining problem and identifying the problem and assisting with implementation).

4. A detailed proposed timeline for completion of the required 120 hours of Practicum experience over the 10 week practicum timeframe. Include proposed number of hours per week to meet the 120 hour requirement. Note that a minimum of 12 hours per week is required to meet the 120 hour requirement. In some weeks you may have fewer or more hours, but the total must equal at least 120 hours.

5. Which public health core competencies do you anticipate addressing through your Practicum project?

6. Description of what you (the student) would like to gain upon completion of your Practicum.

7. Do you have any concerns as you begin the Practicum?

8. Does your project involve human subject research? If so, check with your Preceptor and the Practicum Coordinator to determine if a submission to the South University IRB is needed before starting the project. An IRB Approval Form may need to be completed.

9. Does your Practicum agency/organization require you to have any trainings or certifications? If so, identify and document your plan for training completion or if you have completed these trainings already? Documentation of training/certification may need to be provided to your Preceptor and course instructor.

10. Does your Practicum agency/organization require you to have a health assessment prior to being on-site? If so, please provide the appropriate documentation.

Student Signature:______________________ Date:__________

Preceptor Signature:____________________ Date:__________

Program Coordinator Signature:________________________________ Date:_____________

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For Program Coordinator use only:

 Approved

 Denied

 Revisions Needed

Comments:

Documents Received:

 Signed Affiliation Agreement

 Signed Learning Agreement

 Preceptor’s Curriculum Vita

Comments:

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 21

Master of Public Health

Practicum Learning Agreement This agreement, entered into on this date ____/____/____ between _______________ (student’s name) who is a graduate student in the South University, College of Nursing and Public Health, Master of Public Health (MPH) program and the _______________ (Preceptor’s name) is for the purpose of providing a planned project designed to meet the Practicum in Public Health objectives. The details of the project are fully recorded on the MPH Practicum Proposal Form.

It is agreed upon that the MPH Practicum Preceptor will be responsible for the following:

• Hold a Master of Public Health or higher degree in public health or closely related field • Hold a position (must be employed, not a volunteer) in the Practicum

agency/organization and have worked in their position for at least two years. • Provide a Curriculum Vita or resume. • Communicate with the course faculty by phone at the beginning of the course (Week

1), mid-term (Week 5) and with the final evaluation • Provide an orientation to the facility, project, policies and procedures • Observe, assist, and guide the student throughout the Practicum experience • Provide ongoing constructive feedback and evaluate the student by:

o Collaborating with the Practicum course faculty to evaluate the student’s Practicum performance

o Notifying the course faculty member and Practicum Coordinator or Program Director in writing via email or by phone of any concerns, issues, or incidents involving the student

o Evaluating the student both at mid-term (Week 5) and at the end of the term (Week 11) using the Student Evaluation Forms

o Reviewing the mid-term and end of Practicum evaluation forms with the student and then submit the forms to the course instructor

• Review and sign this Practicum Learning Agreement regarding the student Practicum experience.

It is agreed upon that the student will be responsible for the following:

• Maintain a schedule that is acceptable to the Preceptor and will result in completion of the required minimum of 120 hours of appropriate time in the Practicum setting.

• Notify the Preceptor and Instructor of any absences. • Complete all assigned tasks.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 22

• Maintain regular communication with the Preceptor through meetings. • Obtain the Preceptor’s signature on all forms as needed. • Notify the Program Coordinator if there are any significant changes to the hours, project

tasks, or initial approved Preceptor. Understand that the student can only work with the contracted Preceptor. Any change in the Preceptor must be approved by the Practicum Coordinator prior to any changes.

• Maintain and submit the Practicum Hours and Activities Log weekly. • Submit both a written report and an oral presentation of the Practicum project and

experience by week 10. • Submit the Student’s Evaluation of the Practicum Experience Form by week 11.

By signing below, I agree to participate in the Practicum proposal and agree to the conditions listed above. If there are any significant changes to the above conditions, all parties listed below will be notified.

Student Signature:________________________ Date:___________________

Preceptor Signature:______________________ Date:___________________

MPH Program Director/Practicum Coordinator Signature:

___________________________________ Date:___________________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 23

Master of Public Health

Notice of Practicum Change Students must notify their Practicum instructor and the Program Coordinator within one (1) day if any change is made in the Practicum arrangements after the Proposal has been approved and the Practicum Learning Agreement signed. Student Name:_________________________ Preceptor:____________________________________ Organization:________________

Date of Change:____________________ Date Submitted:_________________

Please describe the change that is taking place during the Practicum experience and if this change is expected to impact the Practicum project in any way. (A change in Preceptor, project, or agency will require a new Practicum Learning Agreement. A change in agency/organization will require a new Affiliation Agreement.).

Student Signature:______________________ Date:_______________

Preceptor Signature:_____________________ Date:_______________

Program Coordinator Signature:______________________ Date:_______________

Actions to be taken/completed:

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 24

Master of Public Health

Practicum Requirements Checklist The student should use this checklist to ensure that all required documents and steps in the preparation for the Practicum experience are completed. Once completed, submit to the Program Coordinator. Student Name:___________________________

Expected Term/Quarter for PHE6980 Practicum start:____________________

Date Checklist Completed/Submitted:_________________________

At least four (4) weeks prior to start of the PHE 6980 Practicum in Public Health, the following requirements must be met:

 Program Coordinator approval of the Practicum Proposal, which must include:

o Proposal

o Practicum Agency/Organization information

o Preceptor information and curriculum vitae/resume

 Confirmation by Program Coordinator that Affiliation Agreement is executed with all signatures

 Confirmation by Program Coordinator that Practicum Learning Agreement is executed with all signatures

If required by the Practicum agency/organization, please check all that apply:

 HIPAA Training

 OSHA Training

 Background Check

 Human Subject Protection Training (Depending upon the Practicum proposal, South University Institutional Review Board (IRB) review and approval may be required)

 Other (please specify):

Review and approval of Program Coordinator:

Signature:___________________________________ Date:_______________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 25

Master of Public Health

Practicum Hours and Activities Log This log is to start on the first day that the student is physically present at the Practicum site and begins working with his/her Preceptor. It continues until the Practicum is completed. Meetings to discuss the Practicum and orientation sessions associated with the Practicum are not considered a part of the Practicum experience. They should not be listed in the log or counted toward the total number of Practicum hours required. This form must be submitted to the classroom Dropbox every week for review by your instructor. Student Name: Practicum Organization:

Term: Week:

First date at Practicum site:

Date Hours completed Brief Description of Activity

Total Hours

Total Number of Hours Completed to date:________

Student Signature:____________________________________________ Date:____________________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 26

Master of Public Health

Student Evaluation – Midterm

Student Name:_______________________ Date:___________________

Preceptor Name:_____________________ Agency/Organization:__________________

Practicum Start/End Dates: From___________ To __________

Total Weeks:__________ Total Hours: _________________

South University appreciates your willingness to provide this experience for the student. Evaluations are conducted at midterm (Week 5) and toward the end of the course (Week 10) and are intended to assess overall student performance in the Practicum setting. The Preceptor evaluation of the student’s performance is a component of the final course grade. The evaluation is based on successful completion of the following course objectives:

challenges faced by public health organizations.

Please evaluate the student’s performance using the criteria below. A comment should be provided to explain any outstanding or very effective rated items, but MUST be provided for items rated Improvement Possible or Improvement Required. The Preceptor must submit the form to the Practicum course faculty by scanning the document and submitting it in PDF format. Faxed copies to the faculty are not acceptable as this evaluation form must be submitted to the Dropbox.

Grading Rubric

Score Definition Outstanding Performance consistently exceeds normally expected levels. Very Effective Performance frequently exceeds normally expected levels. Effective Performance is consistently at normally expected, acceptable levels. There are

no major areas of necessary improvement that can be cited. Improvement Possible Performance is inconsistent, meets minimum standards only periodically and/or

only in certain areas. Improvement Required

Performance does not meet minimum standards and improvement is necessary.

No opportunity to observe No opportunity to practice or observe a specific skill.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 27

Evaluation Criterion

O ut

st an

di ng

Ve ry

E ffe

ct iv

Ef fe

ct iv

Im pr

ov em

en t

Po ss

ib le

Im pr

ov em

en t

Re qu

ire d

N o

O pp

or tu

ni ty

O bs

er ve

Comments

Knowledge of public health principles.

Applied public health principles to address identified public health issue(s).

Applied evidence-based concepts to making decisions.

Applied and demonstrated adequate technology skills.

Demonstrated clear and effective oral communication.

Demonstrated clear and effective written communication.

Prepared accurate and well documented work and reports.

Demonstrated familiarity with current professional literature and ability to research and evaluate information.

Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adapt to new and changing situations.

Accepted constructive feedback and used it to make improvements.

Demonstrated an ability to work with others collaboratively.

Arrived as scheduled and in professional attire.

1. Is the student completing the Practicum to your satisfaction per the Practicum Learning Agreement? Why or why not?

2. Do you feel the student is gaining any additional knowledge or skills from working with your organization?

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 28

Preceptor Affirmation of Practicum Hours Midterm (Due Week 5)

Date: Hours Completed:_______ (Verified on Verification of Practicum Hours and Activities Log) Midterm Preceptor Comments:

Student Comments:

Preceptor Signature: Student Signature:

Both Preceptor and student must sign the Student Evaluation - Midterm prior to submission to the Course Faculty.

I affirm that the student has spent ______ hours under my direction at Midterm.

Preceptor Signature:_______________________ Date:____________________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 29

Master of Public Health

Student Evaluation – Final (End of Course)

Student Name:____________________ Date:____________________

Preceptor Name:____________________ Agency/Organization:_______________________

Practicum Start/End Dates: From___________ To __________

Total Weeks:_______________ Total Hours:__________

challenges faced by public health organizations.

Grading Rubric

no major areas of necessary improvement that can be cited. Improvement Possible Performance is inconsistent, meets minimum standards only periodically and/or

only in certain areas. Improvement Required

Performance does not meet minimum standards and improvement is necessary.

No opportunity to observe No opportunity to practice or observe a specific skill.

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 30

Evaluation Criterion

O ut

st an

di ng

Ve ry

E ffe

ct iv

Ef fe

ct iv

Im pr

ov em

en t

Po ss

ib le

Im pr

ov em

en t

Re qu

ire d

N o

O pp

or tu

ni ty

O bs

er ve

Comments

Knowledge of public health principles.

Applied public health principles to address identified public health issue(s).

Applied evidence-based concepts to making decisions.

Applied and demonstrated adequate technology skills.

Demonstrated clear and effective oral communication.

Demonstrated clear and effective written communication.

Prepared accurate and well documented work and reports.

Demonstrated familiarity with current professional literature and ability to research and evaluate information.

Demonstrated ability to be flexible and adapt to new and changing situations.

Accepted constructive feedback and used it to make improvements.

Demonstrated an ability to work with others collaboratively.

Arrived as scheduled and in professional attire.

1. Did the student complete the Practicum to your satisfaction per the Practicum Learning Agreement? Why or why not?

2. Do you feel the student gained any additional knowledge or skills from working with your organization?

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 31

Preceptor Affirmation of Practicum Hours Final (End of Course) (Due Week 10)

Date: Hours Completed:_______ (Verified on Verification of Practicum Hours and Activities Log) Final Preceptor Comments:

Student Comments:

Preceptor Signature: Student Signature:

Both Preceptor and student must sign the Student Evaluation - Final prior to submission to the Course Faculty.

I affirm that the student has spent ______ hours (total for the Practicum) under my direction at end of Practicum.

Preceptor Signature:_______________________ Date:____________________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 32

Master of Public Health

Practicum Counseling Form This form is used to document the specific areas where the student requires improvement at any time during the Practicum. This form must be used to document and address any concerns based on the midterm evaluation. This form should be completed and submitted to the Course Faculty Member via email. Student Name:_______________________ Course Faculty:___________________

Preceptor Name:_____________________ Agency/Organization:_______________

Date:___________________

Areas for improvement discussed with the student:

List areas of concern identified by the Preceptor during the midterm evaluation where student failed at midterm:

Student responsibility/Plan of Action including dates for completion by student:

Faculty Responsibilities (Discuss with Preceptor and student, monitor student performance with regard to plan of action and timelines):

Note: Student should be contacted via phone and the Plan of Action should be delivered and confirmed via email.

Faculty Signature:__________________________ Date:_______________

Student Signature:_________________________ Date:_______________

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 33

Master of Public Health

Student’s Evaluation of the Practicum Experience

Complete this evaluation form and submit to the course instructor via the Dropbox in Week 11 of the Practicum course. All questions should be answered. If you need assistance, please contact your instructor. The Practicum is not considered complete until this form has been submitted. Student Name:________________________ Preceptor Name:______________________

Agency/Organization Name:____________________________________________

Practicum Start Date:___________________ End Date:___________________

Date Form Completed/Submitted:_______________________________________

Describe the initial goals and objectives of the project. Were the goals and objectives met? Why or why not?

Describe the major (3-5) activities related to your Practicum and how much time (%) was spent on each.

Do you think those activities contributed to your learning experience? If so, which activities did you find most helpful and least helpful?

What do you think were the most important skills that you gained through this experience?

List the core competencies addressed through your Practicum.

Would you recommend this agency/organization to others for a Practicum? Why or why not?

Describe your working relationship with the Preceptor.

How could this experience have been improved?

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 34

Master of Public Health

Preceptor’s Evaluation of the Practicum Experience

Preceptor Name:__________________________ Title:_______________________

Agency/Organization:______________________ Date:_______________________

South University appreciates your willingness to provide this experience for this student. It is very important that we receive your evaluation of the Practicum as it will assist us in improving the MPH program in order to better prepare our students. Please submit this form to the Practicum Coordinator via email.

1. Did you find the collaboration between the student and your organization to be beneficial? If so, what were the benefits received by your organization? If not, what did you desire for your organization to gain?

2. How could this experience have been improved for your organization? Please consider communication and coordination with South University as well as with the student.

3. Would you or your agency/organization be interested in being a Preceptor for a South University MPH student again?

Thank you!

Master of Public Health Practicum Packet 35

PRECEPTED COURSE POLICY
Student responsibility/Plan of Action including dates for completion by student: