Communicating in Healthcare Certificate

Western Kentucky University (WKU) has evolved into a vibrant institution that blends tradition with a forward-thinking approach to education. The university is renowned for its commitment to student success, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs across various disciplines. WKU's faculty, comprised of dedicated scholars, fosters an engaging learning environment, encouraging students to explore, question, and innovate. One of WKU's notable features is its strong emphasis on hands-on learning experiences. The university provides numerous opportunities for students to engage in research, internships, and community service, preparing them for the challenges of the professional world. With a campus known for its welcoming atmosphere and a student body that reflects diversity, WKU is more than an academic institution; it's a community that nurtures intellectual growth, fosters leadership skills, and instills a lifelong love for learning.

The Communicating in Healthcare Certificate is designed to provide students with a deep understanding of the role of communication in healthcare contexts. This certificate will explore interpersonal as well as organizational factors affecting healthcare and will assist students in developing communication strategies and skills. Students completing the program not only will understand how to communicate more effectively within their health profession but also will know how better to communicate with patients to maximize compliance and enhance advocacy. This certificate provides 12 hours of advanced coursework in communication within the healthcare context. Students will take 6 credit hours of required courses related to health communication and health campaigns, and 6 credit hours of restricted electives from intercultural, group, interpersonal, or organization communication, and from healthcare administration, public health, or gerontology. All of the coursework can be completed online and in one year.