CERTIFICATE HEALTH GEOINFORMATICS
The Health Geoinformatics Certificate Program is designed primarily for health professionals and students who have completed a bachelor's degree (or equivalent) from an accredited college or university with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. Qualified candidates must demonstrate computer proficiency, although no previous experience with geographic information systems (GIS) technology is required. Advanced placement can be considered for applicants with previous GIS experience/training. In addition, interested Loma Linda University students, staff, and faculty who would like to learn about GIS applications in health may also apply.
LEARNER OUTCOMES
- Use knowledge in principles of geospatial information science as they relate to health research and practice
- Use state-of-the-art GIS software applications and techniques for accessing the spatially defined health information for building related, useful geodatabases
- Use effective geospatial data while producing and publishing customized maps and other visual displays of health data
- Employ GIS-based methods and techniques of spatial analysis that support health research and decision-making in public health practice and policy
- Competently apply geospatial technology and methods in at least one key area of health geographics, such as disease mapping, tracking and assessment of environmental hazards and exposure, health planning and policy, community health, health education and communication, analysis of access to health services, or health care geographics
- Implement and manage health-GIS projects in government, nongovernment, and community settings
ADMISSION PREREQUISITES
Applicants must have at least a bachelor’s degree (or equivalent), with a cumulative GPA of at least 3.0. For those who meet the foregoing basic admission prerequisite, the program is open to health professionals, students, current Loma Linda University students enrolled in a master’s or doctoral degree program, Loma Linda faculty and staff (tuition benefits may apply), and anyone interested in GIS applications in the health field.
To earn the certificate, students must successfully complete at least 27 academic units, as listed below.
CORE REQUIREMENTS
- ENVH 521 Cartography and Mapping (2)
- ENVH 522 Principles of GIS (3)
- ENVH 523 Practical Issues in GIS (3)
- ENVH 524 GIS Software Applications and Methods (3)
- ENVH 535 Integration of Geospatial Data with GIS (2)
- ENVH 536 Spatial Analytical Techniques and GIS (3)
- ENVH 526 Seminar in Health GIS
