Mercy College

What you'll study

This programme integrates psychological and sociological perspectives with public and community health practice. You will study core behavioural science subjects alongside community health modules that cover population health, prevention, and health promotion.

• Foundations: Introduction to behavioural science, developmental psychology, social psychology and sociology of health.
• Community health modules: Community health principles, disease prevention, health promotion strategies, and public health ethics.
• Research and methods: Research methods, statistics for the social sciences, programme evaluation and applied data analysis.
• Applied practice: Case management, health communication, cultural competence, substance use and mental health in community settings.
• Integration: Policy and advocacy, programme planning, grant writing and a capstone project or practicum placement in a community agency.

The curriculum is typically delivered through a mix of lectures, seminars, small-group workshops and supervised field placements. A substantial community-based practicum or internship gives hands-on experience working with local public health agencies, non-profits or clinical settings, and is a key component of the degree.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a recognised secondary school leaving qualification. Typical entry considerations include:

• Completion of secondary education with satisfactory grades; specific grade thresholds may vary by entry route.
• A background in English and a quantitative subject (such as mathematics or statistics) is normally desirable.
• A personal statement outlining interest in community health or behavioural science, and any relevant volunteer or work experience.
• References from a teacher, employer or community placement supervisor.
• Transfer students: previous college-level credits in social science or health-related subjects are considered; applicants should provide transcripts.

Additional requirements for some applicants may include an interview or a police/criminal-record check for placement eligibility. International applicants should demonstrate competence in English.

Career prospects

Graduates from this programme are prepared for a range of roles in community and public health, social services, and allied sectors. Common career paths include:

• Community health worker or community outreach coordinator
• Health educator and health promotion officer
• Case manager or patient advocate in healthcare and social service agencies
• Programme coordinator for non-profit organisations and public health initiatives
• Research or data assistant roles in health research units or local health departments

Many graduates also progress to postgraduate study (for example, an MPH, MSW, counselling qualifications or graduate programmes in public health and behavioural sciences) to specialise further or pursue clinical and leadership roles.

Why study at Mercy College

Mercy College offers a student-centred environment with a strong emphasis on community engagement and applied learning. The programme draws on faculty with experience in public health practice, social services and research.

• Close links with local health and social service organisations provide structured placement opportunities and community-based learning.
• Small class sizes and accessible faculty support allow personalised mentoring and academic guidance.
• Practical training and a supervised practicum ensure graduates leave with job-ready skills in programme delivery, outreach and evaluation.
• Flexible delivery options, including evening and blended classes, help students balance study with work or other commitments.
• Comprehensive student support services — from academic advising to career services — help with placement, internships and progression to postgraduate study.