Boston University\u2019s online Graduate Certificate in Foundations of Health Communication provides the essential knowledge, insights, and training to prepare you for work in the growing health and wellness industries, where business-to-consumer and business-to-business communication is vital. The curriculum provides a baseline understanding of health communication, including awareness of health systems and stakeholders, population-based research, campaign planning, and practice using health literacy strategies and plain language for diverse populations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Healthcare is entering a transformative period. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, by 2030 aging baby boomers will outnumber children for the first time. By 2034, more than 77 million (one in five residents) will be age 65 or older. In addition to this predicted demand for healthcare needs, an increase in chronic lifestyle diseases\u2014diabetes, blood pressure, asthma, arthritis, cancer, dementia, and other stress-related disorders\u2014is helping drive expansion of the wellness industry, the value of which is poised to grow by $1,299.8 billion through 2024, according to a report by Technavio. Healthcare organizations, along with the many health and wellness businesses affiliated with them, will all need professional health communicators.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
The certificate program develops the foundational and transferrable knowledge necessary for understanding and communicating with myriad audiences within the healthcare sector. For those whose work intersects with healthcare or wellness, the certificate provides an understanding of the systems, populations, policies, tactics, and practices necessary to implement effective communication within the bounds of regulatory, privacy, and ethical considerations.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Marketing communication professionals, brand specialists, consultants, journalists, analysts, clinicians, and business development professionals working in a health or wellness context have the opportunity to fill gaps in their existing knowledge, whereas those just beginning careers in these and related fields will gain the foundation to employ dynamic communication skills, understand the systems and complexities of the healthcare industry, and develop effective strategies and high-quality materials for stakeholder groups.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
A total of four courses (16 units) is required.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
(Four courses\/16 units)<\/p>\n\n\n\n