CREATING OPPORTUNITIES FOR EARTH SCIENTISTS TO MENTOR PUBLIC HEALTH STUDENTS

Interdisciplinary graduate programs are common at many institutions, but require a long time commitment and may require supplemental training for students to obtain adequate exposure to diverse fields. Opportunities for students seeking only to familiarize themselves with science outside of their curriculum are more limited. Members of the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), Lakewood, CO, are collaborating with the Colorado School of Public Health faculty to create interdisciplinary practicum and capstone opportunities for students pursuing M.S. degrees in public health (MPH). As a requirement for graduation, the MPH students complete a 120-hour practicum that allows them to apply the knowledge, theories, and skills learned in their academic courses to relevant “real world” issues. These opportunities introduce students to applied geological knowledge and tools, and provide mentorship to support and engage students in utilizing these tools to address related public health issues. This collaboration has been a rewarding experience for students and participating members of the USGS and is providing the future workforce with specialized skills necessary to address multidisciplinary health issues. An overview of the program will be provided that includes developing a program, finding appropriate practicum projects, and overcoming disciplinary barriers.