*This program is pending approval from the US Department of Education for Federal Financial Aid / Title IV.*
Contact Information:
Melissa Krava, associate professor/program director
melissa.krava@ndscs.edu
701-671-2114
Delivery Methods:
Online
Program Information:
The Community Health Worker (CHW) certificate program at NDSCS prepares individuals to serve as vital links between healthcare systems and the communities they support. CHWs work to improve access to care, promote health education, and address social determinants of health by connecting individuals to resources and services. This 18-credit program combines online coursework with a required field-based internship, allowing students to gain practical experience within their own communities. Coursework covers advocacy and outreach, cultural competence, communication strategies, health promotion, and legal and ethical considerations in community health work.
The certificate is offered fully online for flexibility, and students complete an internship at a local site to apply their skills in real-world settings. Graduates are prepared for roles such as Community Health Advocate, Health Outreach Worker, Public Health Worker, and Program Coordinator. Employment opportunities for CHWs are projected to grow significantly as healthcare systems increasingly rely on community-based approaches to improve health outcomes, particularly in rural and under-served areas.
NOTE: This program requires access a personal laptop and printer, capable of completing the assignments/testing required by the program, with a current operating system and webcam/microphone. Tablets and Chromebooks are not compatible with online classes and testing.
For experiential hours, specific immunizations, criminal background checks, and health insurance are required by the program. Additional reequipments could include but not limited to; drug screening, finger printing, and state background checks dependent on experiential site-specific student prerequisites. *All requirements must remain current while in the program and will be at the students' expense.
Award:
Upon successful completion of the required courses, students will be awarded a Certificate in Community Health Worker.