MPH students complete an Applied Practice Experience (APEx) which is similar to an internship to apply classroom learning, develop practical skills, and demonstrate public health competency attainment.

The Applied Practice Experience (APEx) is a 120-hour (minimum) work/volunteer experience enabling graduate students to develop and demonstrate public health competencies while contributing to projects that benefit the organization.

The APEx site is selected by students based on their career and educational goals and typically occurs during the last semester.

The APEx contributes an important professional preparation dimension to the MPH program. MPH candidates have the opportunity to actively integrate theory and concepts with practical experience in a variety of locations and settings.

Faculty are dedicated to public health outreach and strongly believe in the value of experiential-based graduate education. Through the individualized APEx, students benefit by developing their skills and competencies outside the classroom setting; and the precepting agencies receive the benefits of the students’ enthusiasm, knowledge, and expanding skills.

Applied Practice Experience Information and Forms

• APEx Preceptor Guidelines – An overview of the requirements and preceptor responsibilities for the Applied Practice Experience.
• APEx Student Guidelines – An overview of the requirements, student responsibilities, and deliverables for the Applied Practice Experience.
• APEx Handbook  -A detailed list of responsibilities for the student, university, and field site
• APEx Timeline – A timeline of steps for MPH students to prepare and plan for their Applied Practice Experience.
• APEx Self-Assessment and Site Interest  – A brainstorming and self-assessment for students to complete when planning for their Applied Practice Experience.
• APEx Learning Agreement – Students must complete this agreement with their preceptor before registering for and beginning APEx contract hours. This agreement serves as confirmation of a student’s APEx placement.
• APEx MPH Competencies – Appropriate deliverables must demonstrate at least five public health competencies (three foundational and two concentration) and result in at least two products that are useful to the field site.
• Tips for Finding an APEx