Tulane Launches Celia Scott Weatherhead Public Health Workforce Academy to Strengthen Louisiana’s Public Health Workforce
The Tulane University Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is launching a new initiative designed to strengthen Louisiana’s public health workforce and expand access to graduate public health education for those already serving communities across the state. Beginning in Fall 2026, the Celia Scott Weatherhead Public Health Workforce Academy will offer eligible employees of Louisiana state and local public health departments the opportunity to earn a Graduate Certificate in Public Health at a 50% tuition discount. The academy was created in response to growing workforce challenges facing public health agencies nationwide, including staffing shortages, an aging workforce, emerging health threats, and increasing demand for specialized skills. Nationally, only 14% of governmental public health employees have formal training in public health.
Louisiana’s public health professionals are on the front lines of protecting and improving the health of our communities,” said Dr. Rodney T. Anthony, director of public health workforce development. “This academy provides an accessible pathway for public health practitioners to build new skills, strengthen their leadership capacity, and advance their careers while continuing to serve the people of Louisiana.
— Dr. Rodney T. Anthony
The academy’s Graduate Certificate in Public Health consists of five graduate-level courses aligned with national public health standards:
- Foundations in Public Health
- Biostatistics for Public Health
- Epidemiology for Public Health
- Health Systems Policy and Management
- Design Strategies in Public Health Programs
Designed specifically for working professionals, the program is delivered primarily online, allowing participants to balance coursework with professional responsibilities. Individuals located in the New Orleans area may also choose to attend regularly scheduled in-person classes. Most participants can complete the certificate within one year, depending on course pacing.
Beyond academic coursework, academy participants will receive comprehensive support throughout their educational journey. Students will participate in orientation programming, monthly progress check-ins, virtual office hours, peer engagement opportunities, and professional development activities designed to foster success both in the classroom and the workplace.
The academy also provides opportunities for mentorship, networking, and hands-on skills development through workshops on topics such as grant writing, crisis communication, cultural competence, data analytics, and program evaluation. Quarterly guest speakers will connect participants with public health leaders from Louisiana and across the nation.
Participants who successfully complete the certificate may choose to continue their education by applying to one of Tulane’s seven Master of Public Health programs. The certificate fulfills all MPH core competencies and represents approximately one-third of the coursework required for the full degree.
The inaugural cohort will be limited to 10 participants. Enrollment is now open for the Fall 2026 cohort, with future spring and summer entry opportunities planned.
Louisiana state and local public health department employees interested in learning more about eligibility and application requirements are encouraged to contact the Tulane Office of Public Health Workforce Development.
