Global health refers to health issues that transcend national boundaries. Unprecedented challenges brought on by issues such as shifting migration patterns, climate change, conflict, pandemics, technological advancement, global commerce, among other issues, are at the center of today's work. A certificate in Global Health will prepare you to work in settings that increasingly demand interdisciplinary and global thinking skills and develop global solutions to the world's most pressing challenges and complex health problems.
The certificate emphasizes an integrative problem-solving approach to global health based in health equity. The certificate provides a global perspective to the degree through focused coursework and a field practicum. Certificate course content covers a range of issues relevant to global health such as community-engaged research and practice, health education, health equity, health policy, ethics, human rights, epidemiological trends, infection prevention and control, evaluation of global health programs, international affairs, development, among many others.
Academic Requirements
- PUBHLT 2025 Concepts and Methods in Global Health (2 credits)
- PUBHLT 2173 Transforming Global Health Education Into Action (3 credits)
- One course from the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs is required from the list of approved classes (3 credits)
Note: Core courses cannot overlap with any other departmental requirement. Overlap is permitted for the remaining required courses and these may also fulfill departmental requirements.
Co-curriculars
You will be able to engage in various co-curricular opportunities offered throughout the year. These consist of events such as symposia, film and video programs, workshops and lectures covering a wide range of topics.
Global Health Certificate Checklist
Admissions
Admissions decisions will be made by the director of the certificate program. The requirements for admission for the Global Health Certificate are equivalent to those for an MPH degree.
Current graduate-level Pitt Public Health students can apply by emailing a brief statement to Hadley Zonay, admissions coordinator, including name, current program, and the term in which you would like to join the certificate. In addition, you are required to submit a statement of purpose and objectives (no more than 1500 words) which should address the following:
- Reason for interest in global health
- Previous experience in global health (if any)
- How the certificate will contribute to career goals
All other applicants should follow application instructions at