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Master of Science in Health Sciences: Integrative Health and Wellness (MSHS-IHW) For health professionals 100% web-based
Admissions Process/Requirements
It's all about choices. Choosing the best graduate program to help you achieve your career goals. If you are a highly motivated, Bachelor of Science-prepared, and certified or licensed healthcare professional who wants to:
Then, the Master of Science in Health Sciences-Integrative Health and Wellness specialization (MSHS-IHW) is an excellent choice for you. The benefits of the programs are numerous. While learning about evidenced-based Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) modalities and integrative health care, you will have the opportunity to interact on a one-to-one basis with faculty and student colleagues in many health-related disciplines from all over the country and often, internationally. In addition, you will have an opportunity to:
What is the University of Medicine and Dentistry of New Jersey (UMDNJ)? UMDNJ is the state university of the health sciences. There are eight schools on five campuses across New Jersey. UMDNJ is the largest fully accredited health sciences center of its kind in the nation and a leader in health care research, education, and patient care. For more information about UMDNJ, visit www.umdnj.edu or take a virtual tour at http://www.umdnj.edu/vtourweb/campus.
What is the School of Health Related Professions (SHRP)? SHRP is one of eight schools at UMDNJ. Our specialization is two-fold: (1) preparing students for entry-level health care careers, and (2) educating health professionals for career advancement. It is the largest of UMDNJ's schools with more than 35 programs ranging from post high school through doctoral level education. SHRP offers courses on campus and online. For more information about SHRP, visit http://shrp.umdnj.edu.
Who offers the online Master of Science in Health Sciences-Integrative Health and Wellness Track (MSHS-IHW)? The program is offered collaboratively through the Department of Primary Care's Institute for Complementary & Alternative Medicine (ICAM) and the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies, both located in SHRP.
What is the Department of Interdisciplinary Studies? The Department of Interdisciplinary Studies is one of nine departments within SHRP. The department offers programs in Health Sciences at the undergraduate, masters and doctoral levels, and masters and certificate programs in Health Systems.
What is the Institute for Complementary & Alternative Medicine? The Institute for Complementary & Alternative Medicine (ICAM) is a university-wide initiative, housed in the School of Health Related Profession's Department of Primary Care. ICAM serves as a focal point for complementary & alternative (integrative) medicine within the University. Its mission is threefold:
The Master of Science in Health Sciences Integrative Health and Wellness Specialization is a 30 credit online master's degree offering specialized courses in complementary and alternative medicine and modalities (CAM). The program is designed for health care professionals who have earned a bachelor's degree, and where applicable, are licensed or certified to practice in their field, offering maximum flexibility in both delivery and content.
The program prepares students to meet the demands of an ever changing and broadening health care industry, and a clientele that expects their health care practitioners to be CAM-savvy.The curriculum consists of 12-credits of MSHS core coursework, and 15 credits of specialization coursework, including 3 required courses and several electives focusing on topics relevant to professionals working in the integrative health and wellness field. The program culminates in a 3-credit faculty-guided, self-directed graduate project designed to address a particular complementary or integrative health sciences issue or problem that is of interest.
Who teaches the online courses in the MSHS-IHW Program and Graduate Certificate in Integrative Health and Wellness? The online courses are taught by our experienced and dedicated faculty in the Departments of Primary Care and Interdisciplinary Studies, as well as expert adjunct faculty. Faculty are experts in their field with many years of professional and educational experience, including the delivery of high quality, student-centered, online education.
Are these programs accredited? UMDNJ is fully accredited by the Middle States Association of Colleges and Schools. There is no professional accreditation for graduate programs in Integrative Health and Wellness.
Who can apply to the MSHS-IHW? The program is designed for health care professionals who have earned a bachelor's degree, and where applicable, are licensed or certified to practice in their field. A health related professional is an individual trained by education and/or experience in the delivery of health care or related services, to include, but not limited to the following areas: communication disorders sciences; community health services; dentistry and allied dental services; dietetic services and nutrition science; diagnostic imaging; emergency medical and acute care/life support technologies; epidemiology; health care informatics; health services and health research management and administration; health and medical assisting; medical laboratory technologies; medicine; mental health services; nursing; optometry; pharmacy; public health; physical, vocational and psychosocial rehabilitation therapies; speech language pathology; (adapted from U.S. Department of Education, definition of health professions and related sciences, Digest of Educational Statistics, 1996 and Association of Schools of Allied Health, Definition of Allied Health).
PCAR 7115: Complementary and Alternative Medicine Seminar (3 credits) This multidisciplinary seminar focuses on building foundation knowledge about complementary and alternative medicine (CAM) and clinical applications for patient/client care and research. Federal regulations, cultural beliefs, scientific research and perceived benefits and risks are explored. Prerequisite: none
ICAM5100: Integrative Treatments for Common /Chronic Conditions (3 credits) This seminar will take an evidence-based, case study approach to examining complementary and alternative treatments such as acupuncture, homeopathy, biologically-based therapies, manipulative, and energy therapies thought to be effective for common medical and chronic conditions, which may include arthritis, diabetes, hypertension, chronic fatigue syndrome, fibromayalgia , coronary arterial disease, cancer and/or other conditions. Prerequisite: PCAR 7115
ICAM5200: Integrative Health Coaching and Self Care (3 credits) A process-oriented course designed to provide the skills and structural framework needed to coach and empower people to integrate behavioral and lifestyle changes such as exercise, better nutrition, stress management and spirituality into their daily lives. Initial assessment, identification of challenges, development of action plan, elements of healthy lifestyle, implementation of and supporting change, assessment of progress, and group process are explored. Prerequisite: PCAR 7115, or substantive prior knowledge and experience of Complementary/Integrative Medicine.
IDST5200: Principles of Transcultural Health Care (3 credits) As the world becomes more globally diverse, countries are developing national programs to address the value of cultural competency in reducing health disparities. Becoming culturally competent is one strategy that is used to improve quality health care and eliminate racial, ethnic, and gender disparities in health care. This course will provide an opportunity for students to be exposed to diverse views of health care and understand the perception and meaning of health and illness among recipients of health care from diverse backgrounds. Culturally competent care is becoming a concern and expectation of consumers. This course will also provide a safe and structured environment conducive to productive dialogue regarding areas of bias, racial identity, and self-assessment. Prerequisite: none
ICAM5405: Mind/Body Medicine (3 credits) This course will focus on the biochemistry of the mind-body connection. The role of the mind and emotions and their effect onthe immunological and other biological systems, as well as mind/body intervention strategies that are thought to promote health will be examined. Specific strategies may include relaxation, hypnosis, visual imagery, humor, meditation, yoga, biofeedback, tai chi, qi gong, cognitive-behavioral therapies, group support, and autogenic training. Prerequisite: PCAR 7115
ICAM 5305: CAM Journal Club (3 credits) In this course students engage in sustained critical enquiry around research relating to Complementary and Alternative Medicine (CAM) and Integrative Medicine (IM), together with guest lecturers including academic faculty and medical professionals. The course focuses on the review and critical analysis of the background, data, and conclusions of recent and landmark research articles in CAM/Integrative Medicine. Presentations will be followed by an exchange of ideas, and informed debate. The course aims to increase students’ familiarization with the advanced and “state-of-the-science” literature in CAM/IM, enable you to apply the principles of Evidence-Based Medicine (EBM) to CAM/IM theory and practice, and improve skills in academic debate, problem-solving, evidence-based clinical reasoning and independent learning. Prerequisites: PCAR7115, IDST6121, IDST 6000, IDST6400
ICAM5105: Integrative Nutrition (3 credits) This course approaches nutrition from an integrative perspective, examining both the evidence base and current guidelines for healthy nutrition, as well as trends within CAM arising from cultural and non-cultural traditions such as Ayurvedic, Chinese and Macrobiotic. Food and nutrition are considered within a larger context , including their interrelationship with lifestyle factors, emotional and spiritual issues, and health concerns, with a focus on illness prevention. Prerequisite: PCAR 7115
ICAM5205: Herbs and Dietary Supplements (3 credits) This class will provide a comprehensive overview of the most commonly used herbs, herbal remedies and nutritional supplements, including history, governmental regulation, preparation, traditional usage and scientific research, mechanism of action, potential side effects, and interactions with other herbs and prescription medications. Prerequisite: PCAR 7115
NUTR6505 : Ethical Issues in Health Care Practice (3 credits) This course provides an introduction to the knowledge and skills needed to identify, analyze, and strategize ethical resolutions to a myriad of health related ethical problems or dilemmas in micro (individual patient care) and macro (systems) areas while being clear when to seek outside professional guidance. Topics include informed consent for medical treatment and experimentation, scope of practice issues, issues of intellectual property rights of publication and research, and the ethical duties, obligations, and conflicting demands of the health care professional. Prerequisite: none
Are there prerequisites? You should possess good basic computer skills, including those needed for successful Internet browsing and searching, e-mailing and word processing. You must also have a remote (off campus) access to Internet services, to include at least Internet browsing capability and email. Specific information regarding minimum hardware and software requirements is posted at http://www.umdnj.edu/webctweb/browser.html Further requirements for admission to the MSHS-IHW Program are listed in a section below.
What are the course requirements for the MSHS-IHW? To accommodate your needs as a busy professional, the MSHS-IHW Program offers maximum flexibility in both delivery and content. All courses are offered online. The MSHS-IHW Program requires 30 credits beyond the bachelor's degree. The curriculum consists of 12-credits of MSHS core coursework, and 15 credits of specialization coursework, including 3 required courses and several electives focusing on topics relevant to professionals working in the integrative health and wellness field. The program culminates in a 3-credit faculty-guided, self-directed graduate project designed to address a particular complementary or integrative health sciences issue or problem that is of interest to you. The graduate project requirement can be completed off-campus under faculty guidance. You develop your program plan in consultation with your academic advisor, applying the following course and distribution requirements:
MSHS Core Courses (15 credits) IDST6121 Data Analysis and Interpretation I, 3 credits IDST5110 Health Services Issues and Trends, 3 credits IDST6400 Evidenced-Based Literature Review, 3 credits IDST6000 Research Methods, 3 credits IDST5200: Principles of Transcultural Health Care, 3 credits
Specialization Required Courses (9 credits) PCAR 7115 Complementary and Alternative Medicine Seminar, 3 credits ICAM 5100 Integrative Treatments for Common/Chronic Conditions, 3 credits ICAM 5200 Integrative Health Coaching and Self Care, 3 credits
Elective Course (Choose one: 3 credits) ICAM 5105 Integrative Nutrition, 3 credits ICAM 5205 Herbs and Dietary Supplements, 3 credits ICAM 5305 CAM Journal Club, 3 credits ICAM 5405 Mind/Body Medicine, 3 credits NUTR 6505 Ethical Issues in Health Care Practice, 3 credits
Graduate Project (3 credits) IDST6980: Graduate Project (or IDST6989: Graduate Clinical Project) Course descriptions may be found at: http://coursecatalog.umdnj.edu/shrp
When are the courses offered? The majority of courses are offered on a two semester academic schedule in the fall and spring, with limited course offerings in the summer semester. Fall and spring offerings normally last 15-16 weeks, while summer courses are typically 10 weeks long or less. Academic calendar information can be found at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/regist_02_reg_dates.htm.
What is the Graduate Project? The MSHS-IHW Program culminates in a 3-credit, faculty-guided, student-directed Graduate Project (IDST6980 or IDST6989) that generally addresses more practical problems or issues in integrative health and wellness relative to health care delivery. The Graduate Project is a prospectively planned and approved research, educational, administrative, community service, or clinical activity designed to support and enhance your ability to apply your graduate experience and achieve tangible outcomes. Your Graduate Project will allow you to select activities related to your employment role, investigate trends relevant to your particular work environment, and develop personally or professionally meaningful solutions to the issues and problems under study. The time spent on the Graduate Project generally involves between 120 and 160 hours spread over a full semester. You are required to submit a written report and make a formal presentation about your project at the completion of the semester. If you are unable to present your project in-person, the project must be validated via videotaped presentation and/or live teleconferencing.
Are there other methods I can use to obtain course credit? Yes, you have the option of pre-approved registration at other regionally accredited colleges or universities (including online courses), or portfolio assessment available for meeting the specialization and elective course requirements. These options are approved according to SHRP and program policies and procedures, and you must secure your advisor's approval before pursuing any of these alternative methods. More information about these options may be found in the SHRP Catalog at the following site: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/prospective_students/index.html.
What is portfolio assessment? Through portfolio assessment, you may be granted credit for significant non-collegiate learning experiences. After providing the required documentation, your learning experiences will be evaluated by the appropriate faculty. More information about portfolio assessment may be found in the SHRP Catalog at the following site: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/admissions/Admissions-FAQs.html#Portfolio or in the student handbook, at: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/current_students/pdf/handbook.pdf.
Can I receive transfer credit if I have taken graduate courses at other institutions? Yes, you may receive up to 9 transfer credits upon faculty approval for applicable graduate level courses taken at a regionally accredited college or university. Only graduate courses in which you received a grade of "B" or higher are considered for transfer, and all prior courses must first meet the standards of currency, rigor, and applicability as evaluated by program faculty, whose decision is final. After acceptance into the program, you will complete a "Transfer Evaluation Form" and SHRP faculty will evaluate your graduate courses completed at other institutions. More information about transfer credits may be found in the SHRP Catalog at the following site: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/prospective_students/index.html .
Are there any residency requirements for the program? No, there are no academic residency requirements for the MSHS-IHW Program.
How long does it take to complete the program? Is there a time limit? Although you can complete the MSHS-IHW Program in 2 years or less by attending full-time, you have up to 5 years to finish your degree requirements. Most students pursue the degree part-time over 3 years.
Who will advise me during the program? To facilitate your progression through the program, once you matriculate you will be assigned a faculty academic advisor who will assist you with your course selections and communicate with you at least once a semester during the course registration periods. In addition, the MSHS-IHW Track Coordinator and the MSHS Program Director are available to assist you in any aspect of the program. Your advisors and program officials will be available to you by phone or e-mail.
What are the tuition and fees for the program? The UMDNJ Board of Trustees approves tuition and fees on an annual basis. For more information, visit the SHRP Department of Enrollment Services/Registrar site at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/index.htm and click on the "Tuition and Fees" link.
How much will I pay for other program costs? The cost for books, supplies, and printing course materials averages $200 per course. You will also need reliable access to Internet services that includes at least Internet browsing capability and email. If you need to purchase computer hardware, software, or a printer, your costs will increase. Also, if you are a full-time student or a part-time student participating in a clinical Graduate Project (IDST 6989) or clinical Independent Study, you are required to have health insurance coverage and must comply with UMDNJ Immunizations and Health Requirements (see "Policies & Requirements" on the link: http://shrp.umdnj.edu/admission).
Is financial aid available for students in the MSHS-IHW Program? The best source of information on available financial aid is the UMDNJ Student Financial Aid Office. For more information, visit http://www.umdnj.edu/studentfinancialaid/index_new_brow.htm or call the Office at 973-972-4376. You may also be eligible for tuition assistance from your employer or for scholarships through your professional association.
Admissions Process/Requirements
What are the requirements for admission to the MSHS-IHW Program? You must be a health-related professional who meet the following requirements:
What are the Technical Standards for the program? The Technical Standards that apply to all SHRP programs may be found at http://shrp.umdnj.edu./admissions/admissions_tech.html. The Disability Compliance Coordinator may be reached at 973-972-8594.
Are there standardized test requirements for admission? You are not required to take any standardized test (e.g., GRE, MAT) for admission.
Is an interview required for admission to the program? No, an interview is not required for admission to the MSHS-IHW Program. However, questions about the program can be directed to Karen Malone, MA, Director of Education, ICAM, at 973-972-8640, or e-mail: malonek1@umdnj.edu.
What is the admissions selection process? Selection of applicants for admission is a competitive process that is the responsibility of the program faculty. Decisions are based upon a composite of your overall academic ability (as documented in academic transcripts) and professional aptitude and work experiences (as described in the resume and letters of recommendation). UMDNJ places no restrictions on prospective applicants because of their color, creed, race, sex, age, marital status, or national origin. The University recognizes the value of diversity and is committed to providing appropriate support to its student body.
How do I apply to the MSHS-IHW Program? You may apply online or you may complete a printed application form. Regardless of which method you choose, you are required to submit the following:
You are encouraged to use the UMDNJ- SHRP Department of Interdisciplinary Studies "Applicant Recommendation" form that can be downloaded at www.umdnj.edu/idsweb/documents/recommendation_form.pdf. If you choose to apply online, please go to the SHRP Enrollment Services - Admissions at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/admissions/index.html and click on the "Apply Online" link. If you prefer to use a printed form, go to the same site and click on "Application (pdf)". You can also request to have an application package mailed to you by calling, writing, faxing, or emailing the UMDNJ- SHRP Office of Enrollment Services at:
If you have any questions regarding the application process, please contact our Office of Enrollment Services using the information listed above.
How do I register for courses as a matriculated student? Once you are accepted into the MSHS-IHW Program and you submit the necessary paperwork and fees, you are considered a matriculated student. After communication with your academic advisor, you will register for courses online. For more information, visit the SHRP -Office of Enrollment Services "Registration Procedures" site at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/regist_03_reg_procedures.htm.
When do I register for courses? Prior to the beginning of each semester, SHRP holds a registration period. These dates change each semester. Registration deadlines are available by going to the SHRP Office of Enrollment Services "Matriculated Students Registration Dates" site at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/regist_02_reg_dates.htm. A "Course Schedule" can be found at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/course_schedule/index.htm. "Online Courses" can be found at http://shrp.umdnj.edu/online_courses/index.htm.
Can I take courses in the MSHS-IHW Program without applying or while waiting for my admissions decision? Yes, you can take up to 12 credits of coursework as a non-matriculated student without applying. All courses with a grade of "B" or greater taken within three years of acceptance into the MSHS-IHW Program may be applied to the degree program. However, taking courses as a non-matriculated student does not guarantee your acceptance into the program, nor does it provide you with the benefits of faculty advisement and early course registration during the priority registration period.
How do I register for courses as a non-matriculated student? If you are a non-matriculated student, you will register for courses through the UMDNJ-Center for Advanced and Continuing Education (CACE). You may register online or by mail or fax. Non-matriculated students are approved for courses on a space-available basis. Tuition and fee payments for non-matriculated students are due at the time of registration. For more information on registering for courses as a non-matriculated student, http://shrp.umdnj.edu/registrar/regist_03_reg_procedures.htm. To register online, go to https://registration.umdnj.edu/%7Ereg/appcsm/appcsm.html.
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