Fairfield-based Sacred Heart University announced this week it has earned its initial five-year accreditation for its master of public health program from the Council on Education for Public Health.
Sacred Heart is now one of four universities in Connecticut with an accredited master of public health (MPH) program, and one of 93 nationwide, according to an announcement.
Jaqueline Vernarelli, Sacred Heart’s MPH program director, said schools must meet nationally agreed-upon standards developed by public health experts to get accredited.
“By achieving accreditation, we can be assured that the program combines the most innovative educational methods with a community-focused program that sets students up for success post-graduation,” Vernarelli said.
Sacred Heart, a Catholic university, established its master of public health program in 2018.
Before the university could apply for and obtain accreditation for its MPH program, a full class had to graduate. The university began the process of securing the accreditation in 2020.
Prior to granting accreditation, an external council evaluated the university’s MPH courses, and professionals in the healthcare field reviewed its facilities.
The accrediting agency also required that 80% of MPH graduates be employed or enrolled in further graduate programs within a year of graduating. According to Sacred Heart, 100% met that criteria.
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