Academic Excellence and Innovation Fund awards grant for Master of Public Health curriculum

The Academic Excellence and Innovation Fund recently awarded Concordia Professor of Health and Human Performance Dr. Jennifer Janousek a grant for $1,606 to improve the curriculum for the graduate-level Master of Public Health (MPH) biostatistics course. MPH 505 is a healthcare- and public-health-focused course that instructs students in statistical methods used to collect population-based data as well as to use important statistical software.  

Janousek said that the updated curriculum for the course would include artificial intelligence (AI) tools, as well as professional development opportunities and STEM-focused learning.  

This initiative reflects Concordia’s vocations to prepare students for impactful vocations and underscores the university’s commitment to innovation in STEM education and public health training.

“The Master of Public Health program at Concordia University, Nebraska completed an innovative enhancement of its MPH 505: Biostatistics course. This redesign integrates AI tools, STEM-focused learning and professional development opportunities to prepare students for success in public health careers,” Janousek said.  

“The updated course features cutting-edge AI-driven data analysis tools, statistical software and informatics concepts designed to engage students and enhance their workforce readiness. Students develop practical skills through real-world projects, including creating AI-generated pivot tables, health data calculators and interactive dashboards. Graduates of the course earn professional development certificates in data science and analytics, positioning them as competitive candidates in the job market. This initiative reflects Concordia’s vocations to prepare students for impactful vocations and underscores the university’s commitment to innovation in STEM education and public health training,” she added.  

The Academic Excellence and Innovation Fund was developed as part of Concordia’s SALT and LIGHT strategic plan to encourage and celebrate faculty and student scholarship, with a particular focus on how different disciplines intersect with the Christian faith. Learn more about the fund here.