The New Master of Public Health (MPH) - A Unique Learning Experience

For 40 years, Dr. Abdur Rab has worked as a physician, researcher, regional advisor and country representative to the World Health Organization (WHO).

Throughout his career Dr. Rab has been responsible for the investigation of infectious diseases and epidemics which in Pakistan led to the eradication of the Guinea Worm Disease and served as a Technical Advisor to an international non-governmental organization (NGO) working in war torn Afghanistan.

As a WHO country representative in Sudan, he assisted and coordinated a response to the desperate needs of people in Darfur and throughout southern Sudan. And he has been involved in responding to emergency situations such as civil war and natural disasters including floods, drought and earthquakes.

Now he is bringing his experiences, knowledge and skills to develop, lead and direct the new Master of Public Health (MPH) which is the first degree being offered through the Schulich Interfaculty Program in Public Health.

Commencing in the fall of 2013, the new MPH will offer an experience like no other in North America. Students will be immersed in 12 months of study that includes a 12-week practicum and one week international field trip.

The development of this exciting new program is a critical goal in the Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry's ten-year strategic plan and is an integral part of the School's mission as a medical and dental school.

"The MPH continues the School's rich tradition of offering an exceptional learning experience. Once they have graduated, students will have the opportunity to lead change in public health across Canada and around the world," said Dr. Michael J. Strong, dean, Schulich School of Medicine & Dentistry.

The case-based method of learning is one of the aspects setting this program apart from others across the country. Students will study real-world public health cases and be challenged to make decisions about appropriate courses of action needed to tackle the problems.

Courses ranging from health promotion to social cultural determinants of health will form the foundation of the program as students work to successfully achieve their full potential as professionals and leaders. Program developers have worked tirelessly to bring together a fabulous array of faculty members from the eight faculties across Western and Brescia University College who are all partners in the development of this new program. Together they will teach and guide students in throughout their studies.

Dr. Rab, whose incredible field experience is complemented by his many academic endeavours will be joined by Dr. Regna Darnell, Dr. Mark Speechley, Dr. Charlie Trick and Dr. Marlene Janzen Le-Ber, who also serves as the Program's Associate Director, to name just a few.

According to Dr. Rab, one of the biggest public health issues we face today is the lack of skilled human resources in the field. Undoubtedly, this program will provide the foundation for those students who wish to make a difference at home and around the world.

To learn more about this exciting new initiative, watch our video.