How Experiential Learning at the School of Public Health is Unique

The University of Texas School of Public Health in San Antonio is revolutionizing public health education through its innovative approach to experiential learning, offering students unique opportunities to make real-world impact while developing essential professional skills.

As the first school of public health in San Antonio, the program distinguishes itself through its deep integration with the South Texas community and comprehensive approach to applied learning experiences.

"Our experiential learning model goes beyond traditional practicum requirements," explains Andrés Jaime, EdD, Director of Public Health Practice at the School of Public Health. "We've developed a unique framework that connects public health competencies with transferable career skills while honoring students' cultural capital."

This summer, the inaugural class of Master of Public Health students will begin their experiential learning journeys. Every student eligible to begin their practicum this summer has already made commitments with organizations collaborating with the School of Public Health. These partnerships will enable students to directly conduct research that benefits South Texas public health and people in the community.

What sets the School's approach apart is its recognition of students' existing cultural assets. The program helps students leverage their community and social networks, lived experiences, traditions, values, and linguistic abilities as valuable resources in public health practice.

"Effective public health professionals must understand the communities they serve," notes Dr. Jaime. "By incorporating cultural capital into the experiential learning model, we prepare students to address public health with greater effectiveness and cultural humility."

The School's Applied Practice Experience (APEX) requires students to complete 180 hours of public health community-engaged work while developing high-quality deliverables that advance their practicum sites' initiatives. Throughout this process, students engage in guided critical reflection, connecting their practical experiences with academic knowledge and career goals.

Students manage their progress through a digital platform, 12twenty, which streamlines the practicum site selection process, competency attainment management, and provides valuable career resources. The program culminates in a symposium where students showcase their work through digital poster presentations and network with potential employers.

As these inaugural MPH students prepare to begin their experiential learning this summer, they're positioned to make meaningful contributions to public health in South Texas while developing the professional skills and connections that will launch their careers.