Auburn University is now offering an online graduate certificate in One Health.
One Health is a program that emphasizes the intertwining nature of veterinary, human and environmental sciences.
“The Auburn University One Health online graduate program clearly represents an area of crucial need and importance within our state as well as nationally and globally,” said Janaki Alavalapati, dean of Auburn’s school of forestry and wildlife sciences.
The program is offered by Auburn’s school of forestry and wildlife sciences through a partnership with the College of Veterinary Medicine and UAB’s school of public health.
“The One Health online graduate certificate is one of the first of its kind, providing students and professionals with the opportunity to gain graduate training in interdisciplinary health approaches through distance learning,” said Sarah Zohdy, assistant professor of disease ecology at Auburn.
Zohdy is internationally recognized for her research on vector-born disease. She said the skills and knowledge acquired in One Health will be a distinguishing mark for participants in the field because they will be able to address large-scale and intersectional issues.
“This program is ideal for individuals from any academic background who are interested in working toward a healthier world,” Zohdy said.
The online certificate requires 15 credit hours, which examines public-health threats, including infectious diseases and strategies for creating sustainable ecosystems on a local and global scale.
The course work, along with other graduate certifications offered through the University, can be applied toward a master’s degree. Prospective students must apply through the Auburn University graduate school, but the GRE is not required.
The concept of One Health is promoted by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. The idea comes from the premise that health-related interactions among people, animals and the environment have serious impacts on the disease risk, transmission and prediction efforts.
It is estimated that 60 percent of human-infectious diseases and 70 percent of emerging human-infectious diseases originate from animals, domestic or wild. These diseases include rabies, West Nile virus, Rift Valley fever and brucellosis.
The integration of the different disciplines covered under the program is a growing field because of the increased attention to climate change and population growth.
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