The New to Public Health Residency Program Supports Transition to Public Health Practice

Training and retaining a competent public health workforce are challenging. Residency programs for new and transitioning professionals are effective in other fields but rare in governmental public health. The New to Public Health Residency Program is a residency program for professionals entering public health practice. On the basis of the Foundational Public Health Services model, the program was designed using adult learning principles and best practices from nurse residency programs. Content created by public health experts is delivered over 12 months through online course sessions that include interactive learning activities. Additional program components include monthly synchronous online discussions and support from a mentor. Residents apply their learning through implementation of an evidence-based practice project at their workplace. The program is accredited for continuing professional development contact hours. Agencies with limited resources to support new public health employees may find the New to Public Health Residency Program a vital training resource.