thisisyesh

Hi!! I like to keep up with the MPH candidate postings because I want to see what the future cohorts are like - I'm currently a Western MPH student so I can attest to some of the backings that previous alumni have stated - it is a good program BUT like any grad program, make sure it fits your goals and objectives. Don't base your decisions on anonymous comments - reach out to current Western MPH students and alumni to get a good grasp of what the program is like now versus what how student outcomes turned out to be. The practicums are fine - everyone in the entirety of Canada applies for the same practicums - Western offers the internal pools which makes it a little easier to make choices. I have friends currently going to PAHO, working in local health units (I'm personally going to the Canadian Red Cross for the summer). Because of the pandemic however (and I'm sure other MPH grad students can agree), the number of practicums offered are lower AND it is harder to find a paid position just because of the job market. That's the reality - however, I do believe every single student has a practicum that they either found or the program helped them find. It's a 1 year program. Some other Canadian MPH programs are 16 months - they are JUST as condensed. We cover the same material. It's not supposed to be the be all, end all of education and if you cover something that you're interested in, you do what you're supposed to and go and be curious. And finally - get into touch with Linkedin MPH grads! They're the best resource - of course there will be grads with open to work on LinkedIn who graduated in the past year. WE'RE IN A PANDEMIC. Jobs are low everywhere - and it's also the same in public health. However, there are more grads who are offered jobs and can attest to the program. All in all, everything is anecdotal, but go out and do your research and TALK to the alumni. Not some random people on an anonymous forum. That being said, if you're interested in learning the pros and cons about the program (as it's current online version and pandemic state) please feel free to message and I'll pass on my linkedin. Good luck to all future MPH grads! And for those who didn't get in this year - don't lose hope, just redirect. Public health needs you all!