CPH Blog: Top 5 Differentiators That Set Mason’s College of Public Health Apart

George Mason University’s College of Public Health (CPH) is the first and only college of public health in Virginia, but that’s not the only thing that sets it apart from other health care-related colleges. Learn about the top 5 unique aspects of Mason’s CPH below!

1. Interprofessional Academics

At Mason, public health is an interprofessional field. This means students are prepared for a variety of careers within one major. For example, those in the nursing program are also trained to understand community and global health practices; nutrition students gain experience in public health; and students studying social work can also go on to work in disaster recovery management.

We provide a curriculum focused on evidence-based, interdisciplinary research and practice, the social determinants of health, and leadership development. Students also have ample opportunities for hands-on learning and gain a variety of real-world experience that broadens their knowledge of many different fields of health care and public health.

As a result, our graduates are equipped with problem-solving and leadership skills to address public health and health concerns around the corner and around the globe. Choosing a major at Mason doesn’t box students into one career option. Instead, our CPH programs open doors to a variety of career paths.

2. Inclusivity

We see inclusivity as the College’s biggest strength and as the best way to achieve access, equity, and representation in public health.

More than 60% of our student body is from historically underrepresented identities and reflects the rapidly diversifying communities we serve. Pell-eligible students comprise 39% of our undergraduates, with graduation rates well above the national average. And 38% of our undergraduates are first-generation college students.

We’re committed to preparing a workforce filled with professionals who have experience working with underserved communities and understand the importance of representing those communities in public health.

Our students, from those seeking a Bachelor of Social Work (BSW) to Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) candidates, are out in their fields serving diverse communities so they can understand and work effectively in cross-cultural environments to advance the public’s health and well-being.  

3. Interdisciplinary Faculty-Student Collaboration

Mason is the largest research university in Virginia, and students have the opportunity to collaborate with professors who are experts on a range of topics. There is an interdisciplinary approach to faculty collaboration in that students not only work with professors in their program, but also, with faculty across other CPH programs. Through this collaboration, students explore their interests and develop research, analysis, and critical thinking skills.

Inside the classroom, faculty engage students to think across disciplines and to find creative solutions to real-world problems. Professors work alongside students as partners working toward a common goal: to strengthen public health, starting in our own communities and expanding beyond into global health.

4. All Together Different

This idea of being fueled by different starts at the institutional level and encompasses every college within the university, including the College of Public Health.

Not only do we teach students to embrace being different, but we also encourage them to go out in their field and shake things up — to be disruptive innovators ready to transform the health care industry and change the world of public health.

Students aren’t taught to follow tradition or fall in line with the way health care has always been done. They’re pushed to ask the hard questions, challenge what they think needs changing, and never stop working to make a positive impact in their communities.

5. Health and Well-being for All

Helping people is the backbone of every program in the College. Whether a student hopes to be on the frontlines of care or work in an administrative capacity, they will be prepared to make a difference in their career and in the lives of others.

Learn more about the College of Public Health at George Mason University!