Public Health Institute

The Public Health Institute is a seven-credit academic program comprised of a one-week spring prep course, a two-week intensive course at the end of May, and a summer-long internship with an affiliated course (either through Public Health or Interdisciplinary Studies, depending on an individual student’s course needs). Combined, this program allows W&M students to work, learn, and live in D.C. for the summer. See the Credits and Course Info page for more detailed information.

This course will explore health impacts in D.C. and how to advance health throughout the population. In addition, the course will discuss  individuals and organizations who work to improve health in our nation's capital. Students will learn what it means to work in the public health field. Learning about health in D.C. and considering solutions to complex public health problems will help students prepare for their summer internships and future work and study beyond the D.C. experience.

In the two-week intensive May course, students will hear from speakers and conduct site visits at organizations who are working to enhance health in D.C. Through these site visits and guest lectures, students will learn about the benefits and challenges of working in a variety of public health settings. Students will connect with individuals and organizations who will provide invaluable insights and connections to help students advance in their potential future careers. Discussions, readings, and assignments will give students an excellent foundation for studying and working in a wide variety of fields.