Certificate in Multilingual and Public Health Competencies

The Certificate in Multilingual and Public Health Competencies equips students to apply public health in today’s multilingual world through a combination of coursework and language study. Students complete classes in public health while also building proficiency in another language or earning credit for existing skills. By completing the certificate, students will strengthen professional communication, gain formal recognition for bilingual competencies, and be prepared for careers in government, schools, community agencies and health care, as well as for graduate study and bilingual career pathways.

Admissions

Must be a Public Health major at SF State. Students interested in the certificate will meet with the Program Coordinator of Public Health and/or the chair of Public Health and MLL to discuss their course selection. Following the meeting, students submit a short statement of purpose that includes a list of classes they intend to enroll in along with their certificate application (PDF) via email to the Department of Public Health (mfeinmanwelcher@sfsu.edu).

Students will be connected to the coordinator of the language program whose language the applicant intends to pursue. The coordinator will evaluate existing proficiency levels and advise the student on the most level-appropriate language class. ACTFL-based exit proficiency tests can be taken upon request and will provide the student with additional certification regarding language proficiency. Depending on score, students may also petition for Credit-by-Examination. 

Program Learning Outcomes

1. Public Health Foundations: Demonstrate a foundational understanding of public health, public health systems and multi-level determinants of health.
2. Health Equity: Describe strategies that promote health equity in diverse populations both in the U.S. and globally.
3. Language and Cultural Proficiency: Demonstrate ability to communicate about health and health care issues in a language other than English.