What is a Supervised Field Experience?
- A carefully supervised work or service experience that allows a student to address a public health issue or concern. The student has specific learning goals and reflects actively on what he/she is learning throughout the experience. The placement provides progressive experiences for integrating theory and practice
- An organized and carefully planned partnership between the student, faculty advisor, site supervisor and field experience coordinator with specified responsibilities for each party.
- One of three culminating events (comprehensive exam, field experience and special project) and a graduation requirement for College of Public Health students who are earning an MPH or an MSPH in Industrial Hygiene
Characteristics of a Supervised Field Experience include the following:
- Carefully planned, supervised and evaluated in order to earn academic credit
- Contains measurable goals and concrete learning objectives which directly relate to ASPH Interdisciplinary and Discipline-specific Core Competencies, a student’s academic department/concentration and personal career goals
- Helps to develop a student's academic, professional and personal development
- Can last from one to six months in duration
- May require a part-time or full-time (international placements) regular weekly commitment
- Generally a one-time experience, but some students may elect to participate in multiple placements
- May offer an hourly wage, stipend, tuition/travel reimbursement or no compensation
Note:
Full waivers for the field experience are rarely granted. Most students who seek a waiver receive a reduction in the number of required field experience hours instead. If the student or the faculty advisor requests a full waiver, a strong statement of need with signatures from the faculty advisor and department chair should be sent to the Associate Dean of Academic Affairs for approval.