Hi Kim,

I work as a health promoter at the Brant County Health Unit. Many health promoters I work with, including myself, do not have degrees or specializations directly in health promotion. In my case, I have a Masters of Health Science in community nutrition from the University of Toronto. The courses I took were however firmly based upon the principles outlined in the Ottawa Charter for Health Promotion. Others I know working in the health promotion field have backgrounds in community psychology, political science, adult education, nursing, social work, sociology, etc. Relatively few of the people I have encountered actually have health promotion specific degrees.

That's not to say that you shoudn't pursue one. I only mention this because you may not require such a degree to actually work in the field. Another important point is that health promotion is not a very regulated field such as dietetics, nursing, etc. But, this could change.

Another important consideration is whether to pursue a Masters degree or not. Most of the postings I see request a Masters degree either in health promotion or related health science. The job market appears to be much wider if you have a graduate degree.

Finally, I recently found a document online that inventories the health promotion programs and courses available in Canada. It may be of help. You can find it at http://www.utoronto.ca/chp/survey1.htm

I hope this helps. If you have any questions please give me  a call,

Steven

Steven Savvaidis
Health Promoter
Brant County Health Unit
194 Terrace Hill Street
Brantford, ON
N3R 1G7
Tel: 519-753-4937 ext. 242
Fax: 519-753-2140
e-mail: [log in to unmask]



>>> [log in to unmask] 08/15/00 03:24PM >>>
Good afternoon

I am interested in entering the field of Health Promotion. I would love to
speak to someone in the field about the best course of action to meet my
objectives.

Thank you very much in advance!

Kim Cochrane