Student FAQs

The Office of Field Practice is eager to answer your APEx questions. A list of frequently asked questions are listed below. Have additional questions? We look forwarded to hearing from you. 

Here are a few of the support services we provide.

• Attend Field Practice-sponsored seminars and presentations.
• Explore the Field Practice Canvas site regularly to find guidance and opportunities, as well as content of past presentations and notices about upcoming Field Practice activities.
• Read the Student Resource Guide for a detailed overview of the APEx.
• Ask for an individual appointment by sending your availability to msph-ofp@cumc.columbia.edu.
• Ask questions, send comments or requests to our general inbox: msph-ofp@cumc.columbia.edu.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between an APEx and an internship. An APEx must be planned, supervised, and evaluated by a Mailman faculty. An internship can quality as an APEx if it meets the approval of the advisor and satisfies the criteria for supervision, planning and evaluation. You can also complete an internship, but it cannot be credited as your APEx.      

Can I complete my APEx at my current work site? Yes. Agencies or organizations with projects and or initiatives designed to enhance the public health and well-being qualify as acceptable APEx site. However, it is important that the APEx is define as a separate activity that is distinct and separate from your current work roles and responsibilities. It must be a unique and separate project.

Are academic centers or departments affiliated with Columbia or other academic settings appropriate as an APEx site? APEx may take place in a wide range of locations including governmental, nongovernmental, nonprofit, industry, and for-profit agencies. To be appropriate for APEx projects, university-affiliated settings must be primarily focused on community engagement, and in collaboration with partners outside the university. The project should benefit both the community partner site as well as satisfy students required public health competencies.

Is there flexibility in the APEx timeline? Most students complete their APEx during the summer months between the first and second year of the MPH. There is flexibility in this timeline particularly for part time, accelerated, and students enrolled in the 4+1-degree programs. Depending on personal circumstances, students can be granted permission to fulfill the APEx requirement outside of the usual time frame.

Can I continue to be engaged at my APEx site after completing my APEx? Yes, many students continue to be involved with their APEx site and supervisor. Students are often interested in continuing with the work of their APEx site even though the required APEx time requirements and deliverables have been completed. This provides many students with additional work experience and allows them to further develop their personal networks.