Vision, Mission, and Values

Vision

To achieve optimal health in every population.

Mission

The Department of Public Health of Mercer University will produce public health professionals by integrating public health education, service, and research to engage diverse communities (primarily, but not limited to minority, rural, and aging populations) in improving population health and eliminating health disparities and inequities to advance health equity and social justice.

Program Goals

• Instruction: Implement active learning strategies to produce professionals who demonstrate mastery of all public health learning objectives and competencies, and engage with diverse communities and organizations in advancing health, health equity, and social justice.
• Research/Scholarship: Support advancement of the public health field by engaging faculty, students, and community partners in research and research translation that focuses on diverse communities to improve population health, eliminate disparities and inequities, and advance health equity and social justice.
• Service: Engage faculty and students in service to meet public health needs by working with communities and organizations that seek to improve population health and eliminate health disparities and inequities to advance health equity and social justice.
• Program Development: Develop and maintain infrastructure and resources that support faculty, staff, and students as they work to accomplish the mission of the public health program

Core Values

• Collaboration: working together and respecting each other’s contributions.
• Compassion: showing empathy and concern for the well-being of others.
• Competence: demonstrating mastery of skills of one’s profession or vocation.
• Equity: working for the application of justice to promote and improve health
• Excellence: performing at the highest level and exceeding the expectations of those we serve.
• Integrity: unwavering adherence to a professional and ethical code of conduct.
• Respect and Honesty: conducting ourselves in a manner that demonstrates the value of each individual.
• Service: offering our talents and skills toward betterment of our communities.
• Justice: committing to fairness and reasonableness in the treatment of others

Competencies and Profile of the Bachelor of Public Health Graduate

Graduates from Mercer University College of Health Professions with a Bachelor of Science in Public Health are well-equipped for both entry-level public health employment and further graduate-level education. They possess practical experience from working with community partners and engaging with public health professionals. Hands-on experience enables them to understand and address a wide range of health concerns affecting our population.

Our graduates are proficient in using and evaluating public health data, allowing them to assess the impact of public health policies and actions effectively. They have developed strong analytical writing skills and are adept at delivering oral presentations tailored to diverse audiences. This combination of practical experience and academic proficiency ensures they are prepared to make significant contributions to the field of public health.