MPH 798 Capstone Seminar: Selecting a Topic in Public Health

Choose a topic that interests you and will hold your attention. If you do, the research will be more enjoyable! You can also subscribe to receive updates on the topic.  

Some resource suggestions:

• Search Medlineplus.gov with the words Public Health Issues
• Browse the PHPartners.org web site for other public health topics

Why You Should Stay Informed as a Public Health Professional - tips on ways to stay informed

 Can’t think of a topic to research? 

• Scan your textbook for broad topic ideas.
• Peruse current magazines and newspapers to see what catches your eye.
• Browse print and electronic encyclopedias.
• Look at "hot topic" databases, such as Points of View Reference Center, which feature articles on current events and controversial issues.
• Discuss potential topics with your instructor, your librarian or a classmate.

Before selecting a topic or starting your research, make sure you understand your assignment and its requirements. Consider the following:

• How many pages/words do you need to write?
• Do you need to include specific types of sources? (e.g. scholarly journal, book, etc.)
• When is the assignment due? How much time do you have to research?
• Is currency of information important?

When in doubt, consult with your instructor!

Consider looking at the Subject List tab available in many online databases. You may find terms like "public health" and "program planning" and/or "program evaluation" and/or "program effectiveness."  

• Browse the Subject List for main terms in Academic Search Premier
• Browse by subject in JSTOR 
  
• Browse through the Thesauri in the advanced search page of ProQuest Database for the terms
  
• Browse for relevant MeSH - Medical Subject Headings - in Medline
• You may find some controversial topics that deal with public health issues in the database Points of View Reference Center