Health Communication

Website: https://communication.utah.edu/certifications/health-communication-certificate.php

The Interdisciplinary Certificate in Health Communication is an 18-credit hour program offered by the Department of Communication. The University of Utah is the primary institution for educating health providers and ancillary professionals in the state of Utah.

Health communication is a crucial concern and currently a top priority for medical and health institutions and agencies, as the nature, forms, and functions of health care and health information shift dramatically in contemporary society. This certificate responds to that increasing interest and demand for greater awareness and understanding of health communication.

Multiple units and programs across the University include some emphasis on health communication in teaching, research, and service. However, prior to this certificate, there was no formal program for University audiences to gain and demonstrate qualifications and competencies in health communication.

Faculty in the Department of Communication created this certificate program to meet the needs of students, providers, and professionals across the institution and improve the overall quality of health communication in the state of Utah. Graduates face increasing competition for desirable jobs post-graduation. Accordingly, there is a clear need for the University of Utah to provide our students with opportunities to gain and demonstrate expertise in specialized areas. The Interdisciplinary Certificate in Health Communication helps meet that need. The certificate is available for both undergraduate and graduate students who are currently University of Utah students.