The University of Arkansas at Little Rock’s graduate program in health education and promotion has been ranked among the best in the country.

Intelligent.com, an online resource for degree ranking and higher education planning, has named the program in its list of the “Top 40 Master’s in Health Education Degree Programs for 2021.”

“I am extremely happy that this program has received this ranking as health education is a growing field within the public health domain,” Dr. Amar Kanekar, graduate coordinator of health education and promotion.

UA Little Rock’s Master of Science in health education and promotion degree is designed to provide professional educational opportunities and prepare students for careers as wellness directors, health education practitioners including certified health education specialists, researchers, health department personnel, worksite health promotion, and more.

“This program prepares students to be health education specialists,” Kanekar said. “The courses are designed to align its objectives with the areas of responsibilities and competencies set forth by the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing to enable students to take CHES and MCHES examinations.”

Students have the opportunity to improve their intellectual and professional skills through advanced classroom instruction, participation in behavioral research, and an opportunity to engage in community service and learning activities. Additionally, this program has a strong research focus as a requirement via a thesis or a project that hones student research skills and prepares them for pursuing doctoral-level education.  

The ranking is based on an assessment of 173 accredited colleges and universities in the nation. Each program is evaluated based on curriculum quality, graduation rate, reputation, and post-graduate employment. The 2021 rankings were calculated through a scoring system that includes student engagement, potential return on investment, and leading third-party evaluations.