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Northwestern University Feinberg School of Medicine
Master of Public Health

Implementation Science in Public Health and Medicine Certificate

The Implementation Science in Public Health and Medicine Certificate is designed to provide targeted training in implementation science. Specifically, scholars will acquire advanced knowledge and skills needed to bridge the gap between the development of scientific discoveries and the implementation of those discoveries in public health and medicine.

The Certificate program combines cutting-edge didactics, applied learning, and one-on-one mentorship to provide scholars with the requisite skills to conduct implementation research and practice. Courses are taught by internationally renowned experts in implementation science methods; human-centered design; theories, models, and frameworks; and multi-level implementation strategies.

Scholars who complete the Certificate program will achieve the following competencies:

Competencies

  1. Describe the field of implementation science and its unique role in addressing gaps in health research and practice.
  2. Design rigorous studies and comprehensive evaluation plans for implementation research and practice.
  3. Apply appropriate theories, models, and frameworks for implementation research and practice.
  4. Design context-specific implementation strategies through the integration of multiple forms of evidence.
  5. Apply interdisciplinary approaches and methods to implementation research and practice.

Course Plan

The certificate is comprised of 5 course units. Scholars are welcome to enroll in individual courses or can choose to complete all courses to earn the Certificate. The Certificate can be completed in one year, with a maximum of five years. All courses are offered virtually.

PUB_HLTH 351 and PUB_HLTH 451 will begin in Winter 2025 and Spring 2026, with the full launch of the Certificate and all courses in Fall 2026:

  • PUB_HLTH 351: Introduction to Implementation (Fall)
  • PUB_HLTH 451: Advanced Topics in Implementation Science (Winter)
  • PUB_HLTH 452: Theories, Models, and Frameworks in Implementation Science (Winter)
  • PUB_HLTH 453: Human-Centered Design and Implementation Science (Spring)
  • PUB_HLTH 454: Applied Implementation Science (Spring)

Admissions

Admission is open to all constituents with a minimum of an undergraduate degree. Both Northwestern affiliates and non-Northwestern affiliates are eligible to apply.

Enrolled PhD and Master’s students in The Graduate School may pursue this certificate with the permission of their program. In order to petition to have a Graduate Certificate awarded and appear on the transcript, scholars must submit the Application for a Graduate Certificate once all Graduate Certificate requirements have been completed, but no later than the time that the student files for graduation (in the final quarter of study).

All other prospective scholars should apply for admission through SOPHAS Express. The deadline for applications is July 1, 2026 (for Fall 2026 start).

Tuition & Fees

The cost of the Implementation Science certificate is $4,400 per credit ($22,000 total). 

Depending on your employment status, you may be eligible for tuition benefits. Please visit the Employee Reduced Tuition Benefits page for more information.

 

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