Building an academic tobacco control program while forging links with practice: the University of Washington Tobacco...

Despite the tremendous impact that tobacco use and tobacco smoke exposure have on morbidity, mortality, and health disparities, few schools of public health in the U.S. offer courses of study on tobacco control or make it a priority in their curricula. An academic concentration in tobacco studies and a master's-level scholarship program were developed at the University of Washington School of Public Health and Community Medicine to support and encourage students to pursue tobacco-related coursework, seminars, internships, and thesis work. This article discusses the goals, strategies, and accomplishments of the programs, emphasizing a collaborative approach between the university and state and local health departments, nongovernmental agencies, and research organizations as instrumental to the program's success and ultimate continuation.