Frequently Asked Questions

What does it mean that the Graduate Certificate in Health Professions Education is based on an "educational research" foundation?

Educational research, as the systematic and rigorous investigation of instructional topics, is key to understanding educational practice (learning, teaching, assessment, curriculum, evaluation in the health professions). The Graduate Certificate in Health Professions Education develops a strong educational research-based perspective for students as they tackle learning and instructional problems.

Are there benefits to the interprofessional approach in the Graduate Certificate in Health Professions Education?

Yes. Working together with health educators from diverse fields (Medicine, Nursing, Allied Health, Pharmacy and Dentistry) serves to expand students’ understanding of learning, and provides the opportunity to see how instructional theory plays out in a full range of health professions education situations.

Is graduate education in health professions education something new?

Graduate education in the health professions has snowballed over the last 10 years. Several factors account for this. First, innovation in the health sciences demands new ways of teaching and assessment. Second, educational science has evolved and provides cutting edge solutions for practice in health professions education. Third, accreditation guidelines demand a high level of educational competence. Fourth, the economic climate calls for effective and efficient and economically feasible instruction.

Do you offer a Master of Health Professions Education?

Yes. The Masters of Health Professions Education is now being offered. The Graduate Certificate in Health Professions Education will provide the foundation for this advanced study.

What are the qualifications of the faculty in the Graduate Certificate in Health Professions Education?

All faculty have significant experience in health professions education and advanced degrees in a health sciences field or in education. All faculty publish research regularly and attend conferences in the field.

Do I have to take the courses in a specific order?

No. You may take most of the courses at any time. However, we suggest that you take Research Methods or an equivalent course before Program Evaluation in Health Professions Education.

When do the classes meet?

Classes are blended or online. Classes may meet every other week in the School of Medicine from 1-2:50 on Friday or at other times dependent on student availability. On weeks when the classes do not meet in person, there are generally online meetings with required coursework.

How long will it take to complete the program?

If you take two courses per semester, you can finish in a year. If you take one course per semester, you can finish in two years. You have up to five years to complete all the coursework for the certificate.

Is additional work outside of attending class required?

Yes. The Graduate Certificate is a rigorous academic program and it is project-based. Students complete readings and projects in each course and participate in discussions. Plan to spend at least three hours per week in preparation.

Is attendance at the course meetings required?

Absolutely. This is addressed in the syllabus by each professor but attendance is generally required and documented.

Are faculty available at times other than class times to provide assistance?

Yes.All faculty are available both online and in person.

Is there financial aid available to offset tuition?

Yes. Please review our tuition rates. 

Discounts and assistance information