Public Health, Pregnancy and Parenthood

Program Overview

This postgraduate course in Public Health, Pregnancy, and Parenthood provides a comprehensive understanding of public health issues related to maternal and child health, focusing on the crucial 1001 days from conception to a child's second birthday. Through a blended learning approach, participants gain insights into tackling public health challenges and explore the social, political, and policy context of maternity care in the UK. The course equips students with the knowledge and skills for careers in public health, maternal and child health, research, education, and policymaking.

Program Outline

Public Health, Pregnancy and Parenthood

Degree Overview:

This postgraduate course equips students with a comprehensive understanding of public health issues related to maternal and child health, particularly focusing on the crucial 1001 days from conception to a child's second birthday. Through exploring various public health challenges, participants gain valuable insights into tackling frequently encountered problems and delve into the social, political, and policy context of maternity care and other health services in the UK. The course is led by renowned experts in the field, offering a unique opportunity to learn from leading professionals.

Outline:

This 9-week course runs over three terms (April, May, and June) and involves attending university one day per week. The program structure includes:

• 7 weeks of teaching: This intensive period provides participants with a solid foundation in key public health concepts, relevant theories, and practical interventions designed to improve community health outcomes.
• Week 8 presentation: Students present their research project, sharing their findings and demonstrating their understanding of the course material.
• Week 9 consolidation session: This final week focuses on consolidating the acquired knowledge and reinforcing key takeaways from the program.

Assessment:

The course assessment comprises two components:

Call to Action Presentation:

• 5-minute presentation addressing a critical public health issue related to pregnancy or early child/parenthood.
• This presentation allows participants to demonstrate their ability to research and present information effectively on a chosen topic.

Call to Action Report:

• 2,500-word report delving deeper into the chosen public health issue addressed in the presentation.
• This report requires in-depth research, critical analysis, and a comprehensive understanding of the relevant public health concepts and interventions.

Teaching:

This program employs a blended learning approach, utilizing diverse teaching methods to create a stimulating and engaging learning environment.

• Pre-recorded lectures: These lectures provide participants with a foundational understanding of key topics at their own pace.
• Face-to-face lectures: Interactive lectures led by experienced professionals offer opportunities for discussion and clarification.
• Student-led activities: Presentations and other activities encourage active engagement and deeper understanding of the subject matter.
• Online learning: Participants have access to online resources and platforms for additional learning and interaction.
• Group discussions: Collaborative discussions foster critical thinking and allow participants to learn from each other's perspectives.
• Self-directed learning: Students are encouraged to take ownership of their learning journey through independent research and exploration of relevant materials.

Careers:

This course lays the groundwork for individuals seeking careers related to public health and maternal and child health. Potential career pathways include:

• Public health professionals working in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organizations, and community health centers.
• Researchers conducting studies and generating evidence to inform public health policies and interventions.
• Educators teaching future generations of public health professionals and raising awareness about critical issues.
• Policymakers working to develop and implement effective legislation and regulations to improve population health.

Other:

• The course offers 15 credits towards eligible postgraduate programs, allowing continued study towards higher qualifications.
• The program adopts a flexible learning format, enabling individuals to study and achieve their goals at their own pace.
• Credits earned from this course can be applied towards postgraduate degrees, including the MSc Enhanced Midwifery Care program.

Note:

The course is offered by the School of Health & Psychological Sciences at City, University of London.