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HLHSCI-140-86637 - Introduction to Public Health - Charlene Fields

Introduction

College of the Canyons | Fall 2025 (8/25/2025 – 10/18/2025)
Instructor: Charlene Fields, MPH, BSN, RN
Office Hours: Virtual by appointment

Hello and welcome! I’m Mrs. Charlene Fields, and I’ll be your instructor for  HLHSCI-140-86637  – Introduction to Public Health. I’m so excited to guide you through this dynamic and timely course. The first thing I want you to know is: Public Health is everywhere—in the air we breathe, the food we eat, the communities we live in, and the policies that shape our lives. Whether you're pursuing a career in health or want to be a more informed global citizen, this course is for you.

Course Description

In this course, you’ll explore the foundations of public health, including:

• The science and politics of health and prevention

• Social determinants of health (like income, housing, and access to care)

• Epidemiology and infectious disease control

• Chronic diseases, mental health, and health disparities

• Environmental health, climate change, and emergency preparedness

• The U.S. healthcare system and future challenges in public health

You’ll learn how public health systems work and how they impact your daily life.

What to Expect in this Course

This is a fully online, 8-week course delivered through Canvas. Expect to spend about 6–8 hours per week on coursework, which includes readings, videos, discussions, and assignments.

Technology Requirements:

• Reliable internet connection

• A device with video/audio capabilities (computer, laptop, tablet)

• Ability to use Canvas (mobile app or browser like Chrome or Firefox)

You’ll complete:

• Weekly modules with readings and video lectures (as available)

• Online discussion boards

• A group presentation project (asynchronous collaboration—no live meetings required)

• Two quizzes and a final exam

Types of Assessments

You can expect the following types of assessments (subject to change):

• Online discussion boards

• Short written reflections and assignments

• Group video presentation project

• Weekly quizzes

• Final exam (multiple choice and short answer)

Textbook Information

This course requires a textbook purchase:

Title: Introduction to Public Health
Author: Mary-Jane Schneider
Edition: 7th Edition (2022)
Publisher: Jones & Bartlett Learning
ISBN-13: 9781284209215

Access Link:

The eTextbook is available directly from the publisher via this link or check with the COC bookstore. 

Other Relevant Course Information

• Success Tip: Log in to Canvas by Day 1, read the syllabus, and check announcements regularly. Follow each week in order and do not jump ahead. 

• Support: I’m here to help. Please don’t hesitate to reach out if you have any questions or need support at any time.

• I’m looking forward to a fantastic semester together as we explore the world of public health!

• Warmly,
  Mrs. Fields

Additional Resources

Canvas

This course can be accessed on the first day of class via Canvas at . Log into Canvas using your CanyonsID single sign-on:

• CanyonsID Username is your COC student email address (Ex: username@my.canyons.edu)
• CanyonsID Password is your COC student email password

Please visit the Get to Know Your Online Classroom page for help logging into Canvas and for tips on using Canvas and Zoom. is also available 24/7 for any Canvas related issues.

Online Education

Check out the for more information on a variety of topics that can help you be a successful online student such as: exam proctoring, learning styles, computer skills, and tips for student success. If this is your first online course, feel free to take our online learning readiness assessment to assess your skills.

The Learning Center (TLC)

The TLC provides FREE online tutoring resources to COC students!

Academic Accommodation Center (AAC)

College of the Canyons AAC provides educational services and access for eligible students with documented disabilities who intend to pursue coursework at COC. A variety of programs and services are available which afford eligible students with disabilities the opportunity to participate fully in all aspects of the college programs and activities through appropriate and reasonable accommodations. For more information on their services visit the Academic Accomodation Center website.

Online Counseling

The Counseling Department offers appointments online. You can schedule an appointment by visiting the Online Counseling website. Counselors can help you map out a plan to reach your educational goals as well as advise you on course selection and registration.

Management of Stress and Mental Health

Often the pressure on our students is very strong, involving academic commitments, relationships, outside jobs and family pressure to name a few. The staff and faculty of College of the Canyons are here to see you succeed academically and care about your emotional and physical health. You can learn more about the broad range of confidential student services, including counseling and mental health services available on campus by visiting the Student Health & Wellness Center in the Student Services Building (across from the bookstore). The phone number is 661-362-3259 that you can call 24/7. You can also e mail for an appointment at StudentHealthCenter@canyons.edu. At the Canyon Country Campus the Health Center will be in the new Student Services Building.

Also, the National Suicide & Crisis Lifeline number is now 988. All students at COC are encouraged to enter that phone number in their cells. You can call it when you, or someone you know, is having thoughts of suicide or is in severe distress.

You can also now use the Crisis Text Line: Just text "Courage" to 741741. Someone will get back to you immediately. Its free, 24/7, and confidential.

Veterans Resource Center

The College of the Canyons Veterans Resource Center is a department within the Student Services Division at the college, created to help veterans and veteran dependents with applying to College of the Canyons, enrolling in classes, and requesting VA Education or Vocational Benefits. For more information please visit the Veterans Resource Center website, email veterans@canyons.edu or phone (661) 362-3469.

Library

The Library provides live online and in-person research help, access to a full range of e-resources and physical materials that support the curriculum, individual and group study areas, and much more!

Last updated: 07/09/2025 Sub#: 1947 Sub ID: 198344