The Graduate Certificate program in Health Communication is designed to provide research-based, professional study for graduate students interested in the role of communication in the health professions. The twelve-credit certificate focuses on components of health communication and their influence on individuals and communities as well as on knowledge creation and research translation and publication. The program emphasizes the role of theory, methods, and strategies in developing messages designed to improve health outcomes for individuals and communities. The Certificate provides both depth in the study of health communication and breadth through the inclusion of a set of elective health-related courses in Anthropology, Family Medicine and Nursing. The program is sufficiently flexible to accommodate students with broad interests and diverse backgrounds.

Admission to this program is contingent upon admission to the Graduate School. In addition, at least a 3.0 grade point average in the upper division of undergraduate coursework and a personal statement of one-two pages regarding interest in the program and career goals are required.

Twelve credits in the program as outlined below including a required three-credit communication course, six credits of electives and a three-credit elective health-related course. The Certificate allows maximum six credits to count toward both the Certificate and a relevant M.A. offered by the Department only when there is concurrent enrollment in the Certificate and the M.A. programs. Courses must be completed with a minimum grade point average of 3.0 or better, and must be completed within three years of the enrollment. Transfer of credit from other institutions may NOT be applied toward the credits required for the certificate. All course work must be completed in accordance with the regulations of the Graduate School and the College of Fine, Performing, and Communication Arts.