The overarching mission of the Harvard School of Public Health (HSPH) is to advance the public`s health through learning, discovery, and communication. To pursue this mission, HSPH produces knowledge through research, reproduces knowledge through higher education, and translates knowledge into evidence that can be communicated to the public, policy makers, leaders, and practitioners to advance the health of populations. The Harvard School of Public Health Executive and Continuing Professional Education (ECPE) prepares public health and health care professionals and executives from all over the world for new levels of leadership and success within their organizations. ECPE has designed, developed, and delivered health care executive leadership education around the globe, with over 60,000 alumni.

The following attributes characterize the distinct quality of ECPE`s professional development experience:

Rank and Reputation
Continually ranked among the top universities in the world, Harvard`s reputation for excellence manifests itself through the success of our alumni. Results from program evaluations demonstrate that ECPE alumni overwhelmingly rate our programs as having met or exceeded expectations. Additionally, participants consistently report that they will apply what they have learned at their place of work and expect to yield a positive return on their educational investment.

Harvard Faculty
ECPE faculty members are drawn predominantly from the Harvard University system, complemented by industry leaders. As recognized experts in their specialty, faculty are often called upon to inform change in their respective fields, from shaping health care policy in Washington to impacting new guidelines and best practices in environmental health and safety procedures. Faculty have their finger on the pulse of cutting-edge change and upcoming developments.

Interactive Learning
The main teaching method of ECPE programs is interactive learning via small group discussions, case studies, and in-class exercises. Discussion groups meet often to review readings, respond to content questions, and share reactions. Participants are given the opportunity to share specific challenges and solutions. This process provides an opportunity to work closely with colleagues to solve real-world issues. Executive programs feature the Harvard case method of instruction, taught in a Socratic-style format, which facilitates practical application of concepts and creates a dynamic forum for the exchange of insights and experiences. Occupational programs often take advantage of field trips, lab sessions, and other hands-on training activities.

Participant Mix
When attending ECPE programs, you will have the opportunity to work and learn with participants from a variety of sectors within the health care industry and a range of countries. This diversity enables our participants to benefit from different perspectives and to leverage the experiences of others, as well as their own, to grow their professional insight. Learning through peer interaction and dialog enhances the Harvard experience, initiating dynamic discussion, and expanding networks. At ECPE, a diverse learning network and community is created where classmates and professors continue to exchange ideas, questions, and expertise long after the program closes.