Public health is a vital field dedicated to improving the health and well-being of communities through preventive care, education and policies. Public health professionals, including public health nurses, are at the forefront of combating epidemics, managing health education programs and promoting healthy lifestyles. As healthcare systems increasingly emphasize prevention over treatment, the role of public health workers becomes even more critical.
Fortunately, educational institutions like Southern Illinois University Edwardsville (SIUE) recognize the need for these skilled professionals. The school offers an online Master of Public Health (MPH) program, which equips graduates with the comprehensive knowledge and skills needed to excel in public health. Importantly, it prepares them to sit for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam, a credential that enhances their professional standing and employability in diverse public health roles.
Growing Demand for Healthcare Professionals
The demand for healthcare professionals, from physicians to epidemiologists to nurses with various specializations like public health, is surging across the U.S. The state of Illinois, in particular, stands out due to its increasingly acute need. According to the American Immigration Council, between 2017 and 2021, online job postings for healthcare workers in large metro counties in Illinois increased by nearly 60%, while numbers increased by over 245% for small/medium metro counties and over 105% for rural counties.
Furthermore, for nurses considering careers in public health, ChicagoBusiness.com states that Illinois is projected to experience a significant shortage, with an estimated 15,000 nurses needed by 2025. Factors contributing to this shortfall include pandemic-induced burnout and a rise in violence against healthcare workers, both of which have led to increased retirements and a higher rate of professionals exiting the field.
Understanding the Need for Public Health Professionals
Public health professionals are uniquely positioned to meet Illinois’ healthcare demands. They work across various settings — from community health centers to government agencies — to design and implement health programs that target specific population needs. Their roles often extend beyond clinical care to include advocacy, policy development and community education, all of which are crucial in managing and preventing diseases.
Beyond the need for public health professionals, there is a great opportunity within this specialty. The financial incentives for pursuing a career in public health are strong. According to Salary.com, the average salary for a public health specialist in Illinois is $144,421, which reflects the high demand and the critical role these professionals play in healthcare. This earning potential makes an MPH degree an attractive investment for those looking to enter or advance in this field.
Successful Public Health Efforts in Illinois
Illinois has seen several successful public health initiatives. For example, the Illinois Department of Public Health (IDPH) and the Illinois Public Health Institute (IPHI) have been instrumental in advancing state-wide efforts to combat public health crises, including the recent COVID-19 pandemic.
Additionally, these organizations have made significant strides in addressing chronic conditions such as Alzheimer’s. The Alzheimer’s Association notes that public health approaches to managing Alzheimer’s in Illinois have included community-based screenings and extensive public education campaigns, vital for early diagnosis and management.
SIUE’s Online MPH Program: Extending an Influential Impact Throughout the State of Illinois
The online MPH program from SIUE is also poised to make a difference in the state. Through a curriculum that blends theory with practical applications, students learn to devise effective health interventions and strategies. For example, the Public Health Policy and Administration course and Public Health Interventions course solidify students’ ability to serve and excel in this much-needed field.
The program’s flexibility allows working professionals to earn their degrees without interrupting their careers, which is crucial in a state where the demand for public health services outpaces the supply of qualified professionals. Students can choose from six start dates per calendar year, allowing them to select a schedule that best suits their unique needs.
Public Health Professionals: Essential to Illinois’ Future
While the shortage of healthcare professionals in Illinois is concerning, it is not without a solution. SIUE’s online MPH program provides the necessary training to meet this demand and helps bolster the state’s public health infrastructure through strategic education and community involvement.
By pursuing an MPH, healthcare professionals in Illinois are not just advancing their careers; they are also playing a pivotal role in improving the health and well-being of their communities. Whether fighting infectious diseases, managing chronic health issues like Alzheimer’s or shaping health policy, public health professionals are essential to the future of healthcare in Illinois.
Learn more about SIUE’s online Master of Public Health program.
