Stafford C. Rorke, PhD, Brian Goslin, PhD, and William Andress, DrPH. Oakland University, School of Health Sciences, Rochester, MI 48309, 248-370-4313, andress@oakland.edu

Based on the Healthy People 2010 imperative that the “challenge of health improvement is a shared responsibility” requiring the active participation of professionals, educators, and community leaders; Oakland University, a mid-sized institution in southeastern Michigan, embarked upon an in-depth study to determine the feasibility of initiating a new baccalaureate degree in Wellness, Health Promotion, and Injury Prevention.

The feasibility study results led to the launch of the degree in September 2002 with subsequent strong growth in student enrollment despite unforeseen major budget cuts, and a growing unemployment rate in Michigan.

We highlight the development and growth of this new program at Oakland University as follows: 1) Summary of a 10-step-model utilized for the feasibility study, detailing conceptualization to realization. 2) Display of a concept design for this unique program that outlines the core curriculum and flexible options for students to choose from six different focus specialization areas. 3) Assessment of the program to date including growth patterns and projections, program enhancements since inception, and findings related to the efficacy of even limited health content in general education courses that leads to changed student knowledge, attitudes, and behavior.

Community leaders and educational administrators in particular should find that the 10-step model has utility and application in the planning process. Furthermore, educators and students in Health Education and Promotion may want to consider the cutting edge curriculum developed at Oakland University as a model that can be adapted to their own pedagogic environment.

Learning Objectives: At the conclusion of the session, participants will be able to

• Identify the necessary steps for developing and conducting a feasibility study related to curriculum change.
• Articulate at least two unique characteristics of Oakland University's Wellness, Health Promotion, and Injury Prevention Program that enhance its appeal to students considering careers in preventive care.

Keywords: Health Promotion, College Students

Related Web page: www.oakland.edu

Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: Oakland University
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Employment as a professor at Oakland University