Skip to Main Content

Health Policy Certificate

Program Code: U-HLTHPL-C
Plan Type: Certificate
Department: Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy
Website: healthpolicy.duke.edu/undergraduate-students 

Program Summary

Developed jointly by Duke-Margolis Institute for Health Policy and the Sanford School of Public Policy, this thematic certificate will provide undergraduate students with a cohesive program to study the policy foundations of the US health systems and health care. The program will be built on the Institute's strong interdisciplinary approach and include an introductory course on US health care systems, offer a range of health policy electives across campus, will include a large focus on the ability of policy to perpetuate and disrupt health inequities, and culminate in a capstone seminar. In addition, two substantial thematic experiences in health policy will be required. Students earning the certificate will gain health policy knowledge to apply in their careers and lived experiences.

More information is available at (healthpolicy.duke.edu). The certificate director is available to provide additional information and guidance. Contact the Faculty Director by email at beth.gifford@duke.edu.

Go to Programs by Department to view all related programs.

Academic Requirements

At least 4 units total to complete the certificate. At least 34 units total to earn a degree.

  • Introductory Course (1 unit)

    • HLTHPOL 165

  • Electives (2 units)

    • May be drawn from a list of pre-approved electives or may be selected from outside this list with the approval of the Faculty Director

    • Neither of the two electives may count toward the certificate if it is taken before the introductory course

  • Co-Curricular Experiences

    • 150-Hour Learning Experience

    • 300-Hour Learning Experience

    • E-Portfolio

  • Capstone (1 unit)

    • HLTHPOL 480

Sequencing is an important feature of the certificate. Students should declare their intention to pursue this certificate as early as possible, but no later than the drop/add deadline in the fall of their junior year. Also, neither of the two electives may count toward the certificate if it is taken before the introductory course. Finally, the capstone course may not be taken until the introductory course, two elective courses, and the two learning experiences are completed.

Bulletin Links