“Helping shape tomorrow’s leaders in Infection Prevention and Control”

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Join our inaugural Infection Prevention and Control Internship Program (IPCIP) and combine classroom preparation with fieldwork to address public health challenges.

The Infection Prevention and Control Internship Program (IPCIP) at the University of Arizona's Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health (MEZCOPH) is a new initiative designed to address the growing demand for skilled professionals in infection prevention and control (IPC). Anchored by the expertise of Dr. Kate Ellingson, with over a decade of experience in healthcare-associated infection epidemiology and strong partnership with healthcare facilities and public health departments, this program offers unparalleled experiential learning opportunities for master’s students in Public Health.

Program Highlights

• Comprehensive Training: Begin your journey with a Spring 2024 specialized course, EPID 430/530: Infection Prevention in Healthcare and Congregate Settings, that consists of a deep dive into topics like protecting patients and healthcare workers from emerging infectious diseases, healthcare-associated infections, antimicrobial stewardship and resistance, techniques for safely caring for patients with high-risk devices and surgeries, as well as disinfection and sterilization. 
• Certification: Elevate your professional profile by preparing for and obtaining the entry-level certification: Associate in Infection Prevention and Control (a-IPC).
• Engaging Internships: Gain hands-on experience with our community partners, including healthcare facilities, public health departments, and other congregate care settings.
• Stipend & Other Perks: Benefit from a competitive $1,500 stipend, reflecting our commitment to dedicated and enthusiastic students. You will also receive an infection prevention and control textbook, and polo shirt for field work.
• Objective: Gain IPC knowledge, credentials, and field experiences that address infection control in varied healthcare settings. Examples of internship tasks include protocol development, study design, data analysis, making direct observations in healthcare settings, etc.
• Outcome: Beyond gaining invaluable professional experience, interns will play a pivotal role in strengthening public health infrastructure. This program not only equips students with the knowledge and certification essential for a career in IPC but also strengthens community partnerships and IPC infrastructure.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who is eligible to apply for this internship program?

A: The program is open to MPH students at the University of Arizona. There are currently four spots available for this cycle. To be eligible for this program, you must:

• Be participating in an in-person MEZCOPH MPH program
• Have a graduation date of August 2024 or later
• Have availability in Spring 2024 academic schedule to include program-associated course: EPID 530 (3 units, offered in-person, on Tues/Thurs from 4-5:15pm)

Can I participate if I am an online student?

A: Not at this time. Due to in-person requirements for the program's associated-course and internship sites, we are currently only able to support in-person MPH students.

What does the internship program entail?

A: The program includes a specialized 400/500-level course on Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology (offered in Spring 2024), preparation for the a-IPC certification, and hands-on internships with esteemed community partners.

Where can I learn more about a-PIC certification?

A: For detailed information about the a-PIC certification, including its requirements, benefits, and associated costs, please refer to the official website of the Association for Professionals in Infection Control and Epidemiology (APIC) or the specific body overseeing the certification. Funding for the a-PIC certification examination costs will be allotted for accepted applicants.

Are there any financial incentives for the interns?

A: Yes, each selected intern will receive a competitive $1,500 stipend.

What are the primary objectives of the internship?

A: The program is designed to provide experiential learning in IPC, foster academic-community partnerships, and address critical gaps in public health infrastructure.

Who will be guiding or mentoring the interns?

A: MPH interns will be paired with a PhD student also interested in infection prevention to assist in completion of internship activities. Each internship will involve a community site preceptor, and Dr. Ellingson will serve as the faculty advisor.

Where will the internships take place?

A: Internship opportunities are available with our community partners, including healthcare facilities, public health departments, and other congregate care settings.

How long is the internship program?

A: Students will enroll in Dr. Ellingson's course “Infection Prevention and Healthcare Epidemiology” during the Spring 2024 semester, and will plan to take the a-PIC certification exam during after or during internship activities in Summer 2024.

How does this program benefit MPH students?

A: Beyond providing specialized knowledge and skills, the program will greatly enhance the professional profile of MPH students, making them highly competitive in the job market. It will also foster deeper connections with community public health partners.

How can I apply?

A: Click here to access the application portal. Make sure to review the application requirements and submit all necessary documentation.

When is the application deadline?

A: The application portal is open now and will close on Friday, November 16th 2023. We will begin reviewing applicant submissions following the deadline.

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For more questions or additional information, please contact the program coordinator, Paulina Colombo, at paulinacolombo@arizona.edu