Frequently Asked Questions
Please view our webinar on the Certificate in Complex Humanitarian Emergencies here.
I am in my 2nd year, may I still apply to the program?
This is a rigorous program and challenging to complete in one year so we strongly recommend applying for it as early as possible in your academic career to give you the time necessary to complete the requirements. It is also a competitive program with only 20-25 students admitted each year. 2nd year student applications will not be considered, but if space is available you can contact the GH Department ADAPs to apply for enrollment in the desired course.
My practicum and/or thesis is not globally focused, can I still use it to fulfill the requirements for this program?
Yes, there are many skill sets that are learned in non-global setting but are applicable to humanitarian emergency work. For more information you can talk with your ADAP or faculty advisor.
I do not meet the criteria for the certificate program, can I still apply?
Only student applications that met the following criteria will be considered:
- Want to work overseas in emergency and post emergency settings as their career.
- Have international development and/or relevant field experience in resource poor settings.
- Are committed to building practical field epidemiological methods skills for resource poor settings.
Why are there criteria for applying to this certificate program?
This is a joint certificate program between Rollins School of Public Health and the CDC Emergency Response and Recovery Branch (ERRB). ERRB is heavily invested in this program and teaches the core required classes as well as a number of the electives. Through this certificate program, ERRB is committed to creating a cohort of professionals who will work in this field. The CDC will work with certificate students in developing thesis and work study opportunities and other research as well as networking opportunities for post-graduate work. Because of the investment made in the program and its students criteria were developed to ensure a demonstrated commitment to CHE-focused work is evident.
I am not a global health student, can I still apply?
Yes, the program was designed to be feasible regardless of the department provided the admission criteria are met.
What are the benefits of being part of the certificate program?
The CDC will work with certificate students in developing thesis and work study opportunities and other research as well as networking for post-graduate work.
I am a GLEPI student and cannot begin to take the courses for this certificate until my 2nd year should I still apply in my first year?
Yes. It is important to apply as early as possible. The core classes are limited in size and it is important to ensure certificate students get priority registration for them. So, GLEPI student should apply in their first year even though they likely not take the core classes until their second year.
Who do I talk to if I have questions regarding the certificate program?
There will be an information session every Summer and or Fall and those interested in the certificate are strongly encouraged to attend.
Any questions not covered in this session can be directed to devan01@emory.edu
Your ADAP can also provide you with additional information.
Can I still take the core classes if I am not accepted into the certificate program?
Core classes are limited in size and student interest often exceeds space available. Every effort will be made to accommodate students who are not part of the certificate program but priority registration will be given to student who have been accepted into the certificate program.