Explore Rural Health in Alaska

The University of New England (UNE) is thrilled to announce the launch of the MPH Rural Immersion Experience in Alaska, a one-of-a-kind opportunity for students to engage in real-world public health practice. In partnership with the University of Alaska Anchorage (UAA) and the Rural Immersion Institute of the North (RIIN), the program offers a 10-day immersive public health experience designed for students seeking a deeper understanding of rural healthcare challenges and the unique dynamics of rural health practice in Alaska.

A Hands-On Learning Experience in Rural Alaska

Through this rural health immersion program, students will collaborate with healthcare professionals across Alaska to gain a better understanding of the challenges of rural healthcare delivery. Participants will start in Anchorage, where they will learn about Alaskan culture and meet healthcare professionals working in these communities. Then, students will be paired with healthcare providers in rural Alaska to gain hands-on experience in rural communities that have unique healthcare needs.

Our Alaska immersion program provides an exceptional opportunity to apply knowledge from MPH studies in real-world rural healthcare settings. It’s an immersive, interdisciplinary program that will help students understand the healthcare needs of underserved rural populations.

Cultural Immersion and Exploration in Alaska

In addition to healthcare experience, this program offers a cultural immersion—a chance to explore the Alaskan wilderness, including activities like glacial exploration and hiking in remote areas. Students will also have the opportunity to engage in activities to deepen their understanding of Native Alaskan traditions. Activities and locations may vary annually, ensuring that every year brings a new and enriching experience.

With this added layer of cultural competency, students learn to navigate diverse communities and understand the interconnectedness of culture and healthcare. The program culminates with a reflective session in Anchorage, where students will present their insights from both the healthcare experience and the cultural immersion aspect.

Apply Public Health Knowledge in Real-World Rural Settings

For UNE’s MPH students, this Rural Immersion Experience can also be counted as the Applied Practice Experience (APE), a vital part of the MPH curriculum. 

If you’re pursuing a career in global health, rural public health, or community health, this immersive experience will give you the tools and knowledge to understand rural healthcare challenges. By participating, you’ll gain invaluable insights into global public health practices and rural healthcare delivery while working alongside healthcare professionals who understand the intricacies of providing care in isolated and resource-limited communities.

Who Can Apply for the MPH Rural Immersion Experience?

This program is open to current MPH students who have completed their required coursework and are ready to begin their Applied Practice Experience (APE). While preference will be given to students in the Global Health concentration, students from all concentrations within the Master of Public Health program are encouraged to apply. Consult your advisor for any special considerations.

Apply Now for our MPH Program and work towards the Alaska Immersion Experience

If you’re looking to deepen your understanding of rural healthcare, gain hands-on experience in public health, and explore the wonders of Alaska, our MPH program is for you. Apply now and set yourself on a path toward becoming a leader in rural health and public health practice. 

Check out our Ghana Immersion Experience, also available for MPH students. 

For more information contact our Public Health team at publichealth@une.edu or visit the Master’s in Public Health webpage. 

Don’t miss out on this unique opportunity to immerse yourself in rural healthcare practice, experience Alaska’s culture, and enhance your public health career. Apply today for the MPH Rural Immersion Experience in Alaska and make a difference in rural health communities!