Designed for both novice and experienced nurses, KU's Public Health Nursing specialty supports the transition to leadership positions in public/community health or population-focused health care, including community-based assessment, program planning, interventions and outcomes.

The specialty emphasizes a systems approach, integrating both social determinants of health and evidenced-based practice in health promotion, disease prevention and chronic disease management for targeted populations.

You'll also learn advanced skills including leading and influencing local, state, regional and national public health agendas with expertise in advocacy, social justice, policy development and analysis, development of community partnerships and grant development. With the exception of Professionalism & Scholarship Workshop (NRSG 935) and DNP Synthesis Workshop (NRSG 954), all required courses are offered online.

Job Outlook

Graduates will find employment in the Health and Human Services sector, academic health centers, global health and as leaders in community-based, non-profit and advocacy agencies. You'll be prepared for responsibility of major programs or functions within organizations, developing strategies and visions for nursing entities and/or securing an organizational culture committed to advancing population-focused nursing and interprofessional collaboration.

Sample Plan of Study - Preferred Plan of Study (PDF)