Health promotion specialist : Entry requirements

Although this area of work is open to graduates of many disciplines, the following degrees are particularly useful:

• health promotion;
• health studies;
• public health;
• nutrition;
• dietetics;
• environmental health;
• behavioural science;
• social science;
• community and youth work;
• biological science;
• education.

Entry with an HND may be possible for candidates with extensive relevant pre-entry experience and/or a relevant professional qualification. A one year top up programme in health promotion is available for those with a relevant foundation degree or diploma.

Some jobs require a postgraduate diploma or MSc in a related subject such as health promotion, public health or health development, but this is dependent on the actual job role and employer.

Applicants should have an interest in health improvement and some employers will look for previous experience in this area. Related voluntary work or work shadowing may therefore be helpful.

Candidates need to show evidence of the following qualities and skills:

• oral and written communication;
• facilitation;
• networking;
• decision-making;
• motivation;
• empathy;
• negotiation;
• initiative;
• problem solving;
• time management;
• determination;
• creativity;
• research;
• project management.

They should also be good at building and maintaining relationships with individuals and organisations (including public, private, community and voluntary bodies).

To find out more you should visit public health organisations, such as primary care trusts and specialist health promotion units, and talk to practitioners. Think about the area of health promotion that you may wish to specialise in. You may be able to take short training courses in areas such as stopping smoking, working with patient groups (see the Expert Patients Programme) and other skills-based training, for example in research, teaching or counselling.

Competition for posts varies with geographical location and particular specialisms. Health improvement is very much on the UK government's agenda and there are increasing opportunities for individuals with relevant skills.

For more information, see work experience and internships and search courses and research.