Have you ever thought about how you could contribute to society? Going back to school and earning a graduate degree might be the answer to making the world a better place.
West Virginia University is currently educating the next generation of world changers, and you are invited to be a part of this. Read on to discover several graduate programs that will help you change the world for the better.
1. Political Science (M.A.)
What it is: This degree focuses on four main areas of study: American politics, comparative politics, international relations, and public policy. Upon graduation, you will have a deeper understanding of the political systems and powers that govern our nation and the world.
Careers: Law, politics, government, the military, private enterprise, and nonprofit service
How it can make the world a better place: The nation and the world are in need of the next great generation of leaders. With a graduate degree in political science, you will have the tools and experience to affect real, positive change. Whether working in the government or in the nonprofit sector, possessing a strong understanding of these political systems will help you to see the big picture and work for the betterment of society.
2. Design & Merchandising (M.S.)
What it is: Those pursuing a master’s degree in Design & Merchandising at WVU will learn how to design with a focus on environmental sustainability through the application of new materials and technologies in novel forms and product designs.
Careers: Fashion designers, purchasing agents, business owners, design managers
How it can make the world a better place: In this program, you'll focus on research addressing design interaction and inclusive design; environmental sustainability; applications of new materials and technologies; new forms and new product design; and new developments in the history of design criticism and curation. Merchandising involves the commercial dissemination of these designs and extends research into the area of consumer behavior.
3. Human and Community Development (Ph. D.)
What it is: The question of how to improve the society in which we live is one that must continually be asked and answered. This graduate degree offers students an opportunity to focus their studies and research in the areas of education and human resource development, social and cultural improvement of the community, government issues and policy, as well as economic growth and its impact.
Careers: Community development director, public and private institutions, and nonprofit agencies
How it can make the world a better place: By serving as a leader in community development you will work to make society a better place for all people, by promoting education, equality, democracy, fair treatment, civil rights, environmental responsibility and sustainability, and the overall advancement of communities. With a Ph.D. in Human and Community Development from WVU, you will be poised to work as a professional, meeting demands at the highest level of your chosen field.
4. Cultural Resource Management (Graduate Certificate)
What it is: This 15-credit graduate certificate program will give students the chance to take part in innovative research and collaborate with local organizations to survey historic buildings or trace a community back to its roots. Through these practical learning experiences, students will have the opportunity to directly impact the preservation efforts of different sites around the state and region — before graduation.
Careers: Archivists, curators, museum managers, museum directors
How it can make the world a better place: Cultural Resource Management professionals dedicate their careers to studying and preserving the past – learning about the culture and history of a people by maintaining the integrity of its most valuable historic structures, archaeological sites, and archives.
5. Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences (M.P.H.)
What it is: An M.P.H. in Occupational and Environmental Health Sciences from WVU prepares graduates to address the health consequences caused by occupational and environmental processes. This degree allows graduates to help solve current, relevant public health concerns. It addresses issues including environmental pollution, occupational health hazards, and work-related injuries.
Careers: Consultant, manager and leader in public health practice, government, or industry
How it can make the world a better place: Graduates of this degree are prepared to step into any workplace and immediately make a positive impact, by assessing safety standards and suggesting worksite wellness practices. They are also able to help protect public health from environmental contaminants, and design and implement strategies for societal wellness.
6. Health Services and Outcomes Research (Ph. D.)
What it is: The Ph.D. program in Health Services and Outcomes Research emphasizes population-based, health services delivery, outcomes, and policy research. Health services research examines how people get access to health care, how much care costs, and what happens to patients as a result of this care. Outcomes research refers to the scientific design, data collection, and analysis of the end results of medical care.
Careers: Health care field, public health care policy and advocacy
How it can make the world a better place: With health care at the center of so many political discussions today, this degree enables graduates to truly understand the most effective ways to organize, manage, finance, and deliver high quality health care, reduce medical errors, and improve patient safety.
Are you ready to change the world?
If your passion lies in making the world a better place, you should consider starting your journey with an advanced degree from West Virginia University — one that is designed to improve the overall health and well-being of our world.
Explore the importance of research and the value of R1 Institutions with our digital resource page — A Guide to Research-Based Graduate Programs at West Virginia University!
