With the goal of building "an informed network of community health leaders across the state," New York State has established the Citizen Public Health Training Course, which is open to all New Yorkers who would like to learn about and prepare for public health emergencies.
In partnership with Cornell University, the State University of New York, and the State Department of Health, the virtual course was developed by Cornell's masters of public health program. No prior knowledge of health sciences is required of participants.
"We are determined to build back better, and part of that is making sure we are better prepared for the next pandemic," Gov. Andrew M. Cuomo said in a press release. "This innovative free program was developed by trusted experts and it will empower everyday New Yorkers with critical knowledge to better protect themselves, their families, and their neighbors from public health emergencies."
The eight-week course requires between two and four hours of time per week to complete. Participants can learn at their own pace via either live-streamed classes or recordings. Upon completion, a New York State Public Health Leader certificate will be issued.
Sign-up is available online here for sessions starting May 18, May 25, and June 1.
"Every challenge that we needed to overcome in our fight against Covid required us to work as a community to protect one another," Governor Cuomo said. "Government played a role, but everyday citizens made the difference. In that spirit, I encourage everyone to sign up for this program and become a public health leader with key knowledge for whatever the future may bring."
