Woman speaking with another woman while typing into computer

Public and Community Health

About Our Programs

Public and Community Health

Courses in our Health (HLTH) schedule of classes and course catalog support the study of both public and community health programs.

Degrees & Certificates

For program requirements and full course listings, view degrees and certificates information.

Associate in Science for Transfer

Public Health Science, AS-T Program Map
Please note: This degree program is under the responsibility of the Biology Department within the STEM Division.

Certificate of Achievement (CA)

Community Health Worker, CA Requirements

New! Certificate of Achievement in Community Health Work (CHW)

a female community worker in conversation with a man and woman

Our Fall cohort is full; check again later for Winter!

Our 15-unit certificate program combines health education and real-world job training to prepare students for a career in community health work in less than a year. Funding may be available for students who qualify!

CHWs can work in a variety of settings including clinics, hospitals, community based organizations, and health insurance organizations. CHW's focus on connecting people to resources aimed at ensuring health and reducing the burden of chronic and infectious disease.

Program recruitment is paused due to high demand.

Watch Our CHW Program Video

REQUIREMENTS

Timeline: Choose to start in September or January, finishing in two or three quarters.

Coursework: 3 classes plus an internship (15 credits)

Choose Hybrid or Online:

Option 1: Hybrid (some classes in-person, some asynchronous online)
Option 2: Fully Online (some classes asynchronous, some synchronous via Zoom)
- - Both options require an internship to be completed unless a student has prior experience working as a CHW (internship may be waived).

Prerequisites: English-language proficiency is required. All classes will be delivered in English. English speaking and writing skills are necessary. If English is your second language. we offer non-credit ESLL courses.

Questions? Email us at CHW@fhda.edu

More About the CHW Certificate Program

What you'll learn

The Certificate of Achievement in Community Health Worker is for people new to the field AND for existing community health workers who are in need of a certificate to comply with new requirements within the field.

Program Learning Outcomes:

Students will be able to apply informal counseling and motivational interviewing techniques when communicating with individuals, groups, and communities related to patient goals and outcomes
Students will be able to accurately disseminate culturally competent health education to individuals, groups, and communities
Students will be able to help patients navigate complex government applications for social services

What does a CHW do?

CHWs can work in healthcare spaces as part of a healthcare team helping patients with chronic disease and prevention. CHWs can also provide health education, serve as navigators connecting people to resources, or help people fill out complex government applications.

Is the CHW program the right fit for you?

If you have the following skillsets and interests, the CHW program is a good fit for you!

Outgoing, trustworthy, eager-to-learn, has leadership skills
Passionate about helping people, especially those within vulnerable populations
Willing to work in person at sites, including clinics and community-based organizations

What is the salary for CHWs?

In the SF Bay Area, CHW's earn an average of $20-$28/hr.

CHW Program: Personalized Schedule

No previous experience as a CHW

Hybrid and Fully Online Pathway:

Start in Fall or Winter
Internship in Spring
Program director will send you customizable schedule options
Limited spots in our program; first-come, first-served basis

Previous experience as a CHW

Hybrid and Fully Online Pathway:

Start in Fall or Winter
Internship consists of coursework only; no need to complete an in-person fieldwork experience
Program director will send you customizable schedule options

Top

Public and Community Health

About Our Programs