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.