Public health

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Area

Medical and Health Sciences

Sub-Discipline

Health Sciences

Pontificia Universidad Católica de Chile

Pontifical Catholic University of Chile

  • City: Santiago,
  • Commune: Santiago,
  • Region: Metropolitan Region
goals

General Objective: To train postgraduate students who can effectively lead the development of public health strategies and actions, according to the needs of the population, in the context of Chile and Latin America, integrating an approach of equity, social determinants, and human rights into their practice. Specific Objectives: To integrate public health theories and models to address the needs of each context with an innovative approach, valuing and appropriately integrating their diversity and cultural aspects. To identify and analyze relevant health situations, considering their determinants and the available scientific evidence, and to be proactive in the appropriate resolution of problems. To develop a critical and up-to-date perspective for the proper planning, implementation, and evaluation of public policies, plans, and health programs. To develop innovative improvement proposals to solve real problems and/or to enhance the health of the population, with particular attention to addressing chronic conditions and psychosocial health problems. To efficiently manage available resources to respond appropriately to the health problems of their population. Apply intermediate-level quantitative and qualitative research tools to better understand and address relevant public health problems. Integrate a public health perspective into the clinical and preventive-promotional practice of health services, with an emphasis on primary health care. Lead relevant public health initiatives and change processes aimed at reducing health inequities, working in interdisciplinary teams and with an intersectoral approach. Appropriately incorporate the use of Information and Communication Technologies (ICTs) to improve public health practice. Incorporate analytical methodologies for detecting and addressing relevant ethical conflicts in public health decision-making. Demonstrate a proactive capacity for continuous learning and contribution to the field of public health, both personally and within the work team.

Applicant Profile

University graduates from various disciplines related to Public Health, interested in training in this field and achieving excellence in Chile and/or other Latin American contexts. To apply to the program, applicants must submit: an application for admission to the University, an updated Curriculum Vitae with relevant certificates, an official transcript of undergraduate studies, previous degrees and diplomas, and a cover letter outlining their motivation, areas of interest, and career aspirations. Two (2) letters of recommendation and an ALTE2 English proficiency certificate are also required at the time of application (equivalent certificates accepted by the University may be submitted; otherwise, reading comprehension will be assessed during the interview process). Applicants from abroad must submit legalized documentation certifying their Bachelor's degree or equivalent university professional qualification.

Graduate profile

Upon completion of the program, graduates will be equipped for the proper practice of Public Health, contributing to the effective and efficient resolution of community health problems. They will have acquired a broad understanding of the foundations, methods, values, and ethical framework of contemporary Public Health, as well as a deep comprehension of health problems and their social, environmental, biological, and health service and/or system determinants. Graduates will operate with a paradigm of innovation, excellence, and engagement with real-world situations, working in interdisciplinary teams and collaborating with networks. They will possess the necessary skills to exercise a high level of leadership and professionalism in Chile and/or Latin America, in the various fields of Public Health. They will be able to critically evaluate the relevant aspects of problems within their context and the available evidence for appropriate decision-making. They will have the necessary tools for lifelong learning, as well as the foundation for developing and potentially deepening their applied research in Public Health.

Lines of investigation

Development of Health Policies, Systems, and Services. Chronic Health Conditions and Cancer. Infectious Diseases. Environmental and Occupational Health. Social and Behavioral Sciences in Health.