PRACTICUM

The practicum experience is a highlight of the academic program in Health Policy and Management and General Public Health for full-time students. The practicum experience provides students with the opportunity to integrate and apply knowledge gained in the classroom and to obtain the practical skills necessary for careers in health care.

During the practicum (internship), students work under the supervision of a preceptor in administrative, research, or program activities. The practicum is usually undertaken during the summer months between the second and third semesters. The practicum is usually paid, individually selected, and tailored to meet the needs and interests of each student. The experience enables students to clarify their career goals and often leads to permanent health policy and management positions upon graduation.

The Director of the Practicum Program begins meeting with students to guide their selection of a summer internship shortly after students arrive on campus. Recent practicum placements include Holy Name Hospital, New York City Department of Health, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, UNICEF, US Government Accountability Office, New York Presbyterian Hospital, Senate Offices (both state and national), World Health Organization, Novartis, and International Center for Health Outcomes and Innovation Research.

The practicum experience culminates in a fall seminar that involves the students, the entire faculty, and HPM alumni. The seminar includes presentation skills training and integrates the academic and experiential components of the MPH program.