Global Family Health and Wellbeing

The Bachelor of Science in Global Family Health and Wellbeing at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is a comprehensive undergraduate program designed to prepare students to address the complex health challenges faced by families around the world. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in public health, family studies, cultural competence, health promotion, and policy analysis to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to improve health outcomes for diverse populations. Students will explore a range of topics including maternal and child health, nutrition, disease prevention, mental health, and health disparities, with an emphasis on global perspectives and culturally sensitive practices. Through a combination of classroom instruction, hands-on field experiences, and community engagement projects, students gain practical insights into the social determinants of health and learn effective intervention strategies. The program encourages critical thinking and emphasizes research methods, data analysis, and program planning to enable graduates to design, implement, and evaluate health initiatives that promote wellbeing within families and communities worldwide. Graduates of this program can pursue careers in public health agencies, non-governmental organizations, international health organizations, healthcare providers, or continue their education through graduate studies in public health, social work, or related fields. The program is tailored to foster a deep understanding of how cultural, socioeconomic, and environmental factors influence health and wellbeing, preparing students to become compassionate, informed professionals dedicated to improving the quality of life for families across the globe.

Students must complete a minimum of 90 graduate credits, which includes a master’s degree. The master’s degree may be completed at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln or at another regionally accredited university. We will strongly encourage students to apply at the post-bachelor’s level. Up to 30 graduate coursework credits (excluding thesis credits) from the master’s degree may count toward the credits needed for the doctoral degree with the approval of the Supervisory Committee. A minimum of 45 graduate credits must be taken at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln after filing the Program of Studies.

Students graduating from a master’s degree program that does not require a thesis must demonstrate research competency prior to completing the doctoral comprehensive examination. Criteria for demonstrating research competency will be determined by the student’s Supervisory Committee. Research competency must be documented in the student’s Doctoral Portfolio (see below). 

Doctoral Portfolio

Students in the GFHW doctoral program complete a Doctoral Portfolio in partial fulfillment of their requirements for a Comprehensive Examination.

Component pieces of the Doctoral Portfolio include the following:

1.  Demonstration of professional level performance in teaching to be accomplished through one of the following:

1a. Full responsibility for at least one course at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln. Required documentation shall include:

• Course syllabus
• Student evaluations
• Evaluation of faculty supervisor that includes a live observation of teaching

1b. Extension/outreach options include:  translating research (e.g., developing NebGuide), direct teaching, program evaluation, and development of program.  Required documentation shall include:

• Description of the program, course, or program evaluation including syllabus and/or outline if available; or inclusion of the NebGuide(s).
• Description of how the NebGuide, course, program evaluation or program applies to your field of study.
• Description of the intended audience for the NebGuide, program, evaluation or course.
• Peer, supervisor or expert evaluation of the quality of the material and/or impact.

1c. For those on a clinical track, clinical supervision of a mental health professional trainee lasting at least 6 months.

Required documentation shall include:

• Statement of philosophy and approach to supervision
• Case example that illustrates your approach to supervision
• Evaluation of your supervision by your supervisor
• Evaluation of your supervision by your supervisee(s)

2.  Demonstration of global citizenry through international engagement in one or more of the following:

2a. Participation in a short- or long-term study abroad experience approved by the student’s Supervisory Committee.

2b. Attendance at a professional conference related to family studies, marriage and family therapy, global mental health or other area related to global family health in a country other than the United States and Canada.

2c.  Other international experience approved by the Supervisory Committee.

3.  Demonstration of competency in disseminating information relevant to Global Family Health through both of the following: 

3a. Two presentations at meetings of professional/academic organizations. One of these presentations must be at national/international meetings. Poster presentations are acceptable. The student should demonstrate that their contribution to these products is significant and that they took a leadership role in their development and/or in the work that lead to their development. Please also list any other presentations and indicate the significance of these presentations to your scholarship.

Required documentation shall include:

• One page listing all presentations that includes a brief statement of the content, the significance of each presentation to your scholarship and your contribution to each.
• A copy of the abstract and materials submitted for the presentation to be considered.
• A copy of the acceptance letters.
• Copy of the listing of the presentation in the conference brochure and conference materials.
• Copies of handouts and presentation materials.
• Copies of participant evaluations.

3b.  A minimum of one article in a peer-reviewed journal (accepted or published). Must have been submitted for publication after matriculation as a doctoral student. The student should demonstrate that their contribution to these products is significant and that they took a leadership role in their development and/or in the work that lead to their development.

Required documentation shall include:

• One page listing all publications and submitted manuscripts (indicate the status) that includes a brief statement of the significance of each article to your scholarship and your contribution to each.
• The most recent version of the manuscript (in the case of a manuscript, not yet accepted, with positive reviews, it should be in a state of readiness for resubmission).
• All correspondence with the journal, including editorial feedback.
• Evidence that the journal is peer reviewed (if not apparent).

4.  Demonstration of professional citizenship through both of the following.

4a.   Maintain simultaneous membership in two professional organizations for at least one year prior to comprehensive exam (e.g., AAFCS, AAMFT, APA, CFHA, CFHC, IFTA, ISSBD, SRA, SRCD, STFM, NCFR). Students should discuss potential organizations with their supervisory committee to determine best fit.

Required documentation shall include:

• List of memberships in professional organizations, including initiation dates.
• Proof of membership.

4b. Satisfactory participation in CYAF 99: CYAF Doctoral Colloquium.

5.   Participation in leadership and/or professional activities. Document at least two of the following (other similar activities may also be approved in advance by the Supervisory Committee):

• Reviewing proposals for presentations or publications.
• Service on departmental, university or professional organization committees.
• Membership on professional or service organization boards.
• Volunteer work at state, multistate, or national conferences.
• Election to office in state, multistate or national organizations.
• Appointment or election for committee involvement in state, multistate or national organizations.
• Moderation of a session at a professional meeting.
• Significant involvement in the departmental or college graduate student organization.

Doctoral Dissertation

Students conceptualize, design, conduct, analyze and inteprete an original research project supervised by their major professor and a committee made up of other faculty members. This project will be of sufficient scope to demonstrate research competence as an independent investigator, and of sufficient relevance to demonstrate potential for impact as a researcher. This will result in a written product, known as a dissertation, that the student will defend before their supervisory committee. The research leading to the dissertation is normally conducted after the student has passed the Comprehensive Examination requirement.

• Graduate Studies Application
• Unofficial Transcripts
• GRE
• TOEFL (if applicable)
• Resume
• Statement of Professional Goals
• Sample of Writing
• Three Letters of Reference

tuition_fees: The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers competitive tuition rates for the Global Family Health and Wellbeing program. Undergraduate students typically pay an estimated annual tuition of approximately $9,000 for in-state students and around $26,000 for out-of-state students. These figures can vary depending on the specific course load and academic year. Additional fees may include student fees, health insurance, and living expenses, which should be considered when planning financially for the program.

financial_aid_options: Students enrolled in the program have access to various financial aid options. The university provides federal and state financial aid programs, including grants, scholarships, and loans. Students are encouraged to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to determine eligibility for need-based aid. Scholarships specific to health and wellbeing fields are also available based on merit and academic achievement; these are awarded by the university or external organizations and require separate applications.

scholarships: The University of Nebraska–Lincoln offers several scholarships for students pursuing health-related degrees, including the Global Family Health and Wellbeing program. Examples include the Nebraska Opportunity Scholarship, which supports in-state students with financial need, and specialized scholarships for students interested in global health. Eligibility criteria, application procedures, and deadlines vary, so prospective students should consult the university’s scholarship office or website for detailed information.

work-study and part-time employment: The university participates in the Federal Work-Study program, enabling eligible students to gain work experience while earning money to help finance their education. Part-time employment opportunities are available both on-campus and through approved off-campus partnerships. These positions often relate to health services, research, or student support, providing valuable experience related to the field of family health and wellbeing.

cost of living: Beyond tuition, students should consider living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, and personal costs. Lincoln, Nebraska, has a relatively low cost of living compared to national averages, with average monthly living expenses estimated to be between $800 and $1,200, depending on housing choices and lifestyle. Budgeting for these expenses is essential in assessing the total cost of the program.

Budgeting and financial planning: Prospective students are advised to develop a comprehensive financial plan, factoring in tuition, fees, housing, supplies, insurance, and personal expenses. The university’s financial aid office offers counseling and planning resources to assist students in managing these costs effectively. Long-term planning for student loans and repayment options is also recommended to ensure manageable debt levels post-graduation.

Overall, funding for the Global Family Health and Wellbeing program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is supported through a combination of tuition payments, financial aid, scholarships, work-study opportunities, and careful financial planning. Students are encouraged to explore all available resources early to optimize their financial situation and focus on their academic and career goals.

The Global Family Health and Wellbeing program at the University of Nebraska–Lincoln is designed to prepare students for careers focused on improving health outcomes within families across diverse cultural contexts. This interdisciplinary program combines coursework in public health, family studies, sociology, and global health to equip students with a comprehensive understanding of the social, cultural, and environmental factors that influence family health worldwide. Emphasizing both theoretical knowledge and practical skills, the program provides students with opportunities for internships, research projects, and community engagement in international settings. Graduates of this program are prepared to work in international health organizations, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and research institutions, where they can contribute to developing policies and programs that promote family health and wellbeing globally. The curriculum covers topics such as maternal and child health, nutrition, mental health, infectious and chronic diseases, health education, and health promotion strategies tailored to diverse populations. Additionally, the program encourages cross-cultural communication, ethical considerations in global health, and collaborative problem-solving skills. The faculty members are experts in their respective fields, often engaged in international research projects and partnerships that enhance students' learning experiences. Students are also given opportunities to participate in study abroad programs, gaining firsthand understanding of health challenges faced by families in different regions of the world. The program aims to produce culturally competent professionals capable of addressing complex health issues through multidisciplinary approaches. Overall, the Global Family Health and Wellbeing program offers a unique blend of global perspective, practical experience, and academic excellence, preparing graduates to effectively contribute to improving family health outcomes worldwide.