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INFORMATION FOR

The Applied Practice Experience (APE)

The applied practice experience (APE) is a graduation requirements for all two-year MPH students. The APE meets Council on Education for Public Health guidelines for applied public health practice and is required by all students completing their MPH at an accredited school or program. The APE provides a robust opportunity for the application of public health knowledge and skills, exposing students to real-world challenges and application of what they have learned in class. Students work with local, national and international organizations and often describe this time as seminal experiences, not just in their education, but in their life journeys. This Public Health Practice experiences typically occur in the summer after students' first year. They can take the form of a summer internship but can also be a volunteer or other placement with a community organization. These experiences are carefully planned and supported by the Career Management Center and the Office of Community & Practice (OC&P). Students may apply for funding assistance for unpaid internships from the Downs Fellowship, Stolwijk Fellowship and many other funds through the school in the spring prior to their internship.

APE Requirements and Criteria

Who

All MPH Students

  • Dual degree students should confirm with OSA for specific requirements
When

Flexible; after the first year

Preceptor Credentials

Holds a master’s degree or higher, or significant related experience

Academic Requirements
  • Public/population health focus
  • Approved by OC&P
  • Must include community engagement
  • Must meet 5 competencies
  • Must produce at least 2 shareable deliverables
  • All forms completed
Required Steps
  • OC&P approved Work Plan
  • Midpoint Check-In
  • Final evaluation with proof of competencies met
  • Minimum of two uploaded deliverables
  • Must adhere to registration and withdrawal deadlines
Funding

YSPH Funding is available for unpaid APE Work Plan-approved summer projects only. For deadlines and information, contact the Career Management Center (CMC). More information can be found here.

Please note: Students will be required to submit to CMC a PDF of their OC&P-approved Work Plan for consideration.

PUBH521 Projects & Internship Deadlines

Summer

  • Registration: automatic*
  • Student Task: find placement
  • Work Plan Due: by 5/31
  • Project/Eval Due: by 8/31
  • Evaluation Revisions Due: by 10/1

Fall

  • Registration: self register
  • Student Task: find placement
  • Work Plan Due: by 9/15
  • Project/Eval Due: by 12/15
  • Evaluation Revisions Due: by 12/31

Spring

  • Registration: self register
  • Student Task: find placement
  • Work Plan Due: by 12/15
  • Project/Eval Due: by 3/15
  • Evaluation Revisions Due: by 3/31

*APE info session pre-requisite

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Learn more about student practice experiences