Strategies for Training & Professional Development

At a glance

Training and professional development strengthen the public health workforce by helping professionals learn new skills and advance their careers.

About

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) is dedicated to enhancing the capabilities of the public health workforce through targeted training and professional development programs. These initiatives are part of the broader CDC Moving Forward effort, which includes the formation of a new National Center for State, Tribal, Local, and Territorial Public Health Infrastructure and Workforce. This center aims to bolster the infrastructure and workforce necessary to meet the diverse public health needs of communities across the nation.

Important things to know

Innovative Leadership Development: The National Leadership Academy for the Public's Health (NLAPH) is pioneering leadership development by integrating leaders from various sectors to collaboratively improve community health and achieve health equity.

Public Health AmeriCorps Program: A collaboration between CDC and AmeriCorps has given rise to the Public Health AmeriCorps program, fostering the next generation of public health leaders.

Competency Models: Public health competency models are crucial tools in shaping a capable workforce that can address community health challenges effectively.

Process

Public Health Training and Career Advancement

The CDC offers a suite of training and professional development opportunities to empower public health professionals with the knowledge and skills necessary for career advancement and effective community health interventions.

Hands-On Experience through PHAP

The Public Health Associate Program (PHAP) offers a two-year, paid training experience within various public health agencies and organizations across the United States and its territories, providing invaluable on-the-ground training for individuals pursuing a career in public health.

Policy and legislation

Ensuring Competency in Public Health Practice

Policies are in place to ensure that public health professionals are equipped with the competencies needed to perform their roles effectively, which are crucial for both individual and organizational success.

Common questions

The CDC provides a comprehensive portal with training opportunities, continuing education offerings, and other educational tools for public health professionals.

PHAP is a competitive, two-year, paid CDC training program that assigns associates to work within public health agencies and organizations to gain hands-on experience.

This program, a collaboration between CDC and AmeriCorps, supports the recruitment, training, and development of a new generation of public health leaders.

Resources

CDC TRAIN: Access to public health learning products.

Public Health Grand Rounds On Demand: Monthly webcast for public health discussions and CE credits.

Public Health 101: Fundamental public health courses.

Public Health Law Academy: Free online trainings on public health law.

Grants Management Training Resources: Guidance on grant management and application processes.