Work Force Development and Training 

We recognize mental health and substance use as issues of rising importance in public health, and are dedicated to the expanding and investing in research, education, and partnership with practitioners in this burgeoning field. By taking a comprehensive approach to addressing the complex mental health challenges facing our country today, and by drawing upon top talent, innovative research, and a constellation of resources across our three university campuses, we are uniquely poised to help usher in a new era of integrated population health.

We offer training and professional development opportunities for both students and working professionals.

Ways to get involved


Healthcare workers

Perinatal Depression Provider Training


Healthcare providers play an integral role in identifying and managing (i.e. treating or referring to care) perinatal mood disorders among pregnant women. This training is designed to provide an overview of the harmful effects of depression and anxiety on numerous maternal and child outcomes, as well as enhance patient-provider communication using a 5As framework (i.e. Assess, Advise, Agree, Assist, and Arrange) to teach providers how to assess for depression and anxiety, advise the patient on treatment options, agree on a treatment plan, assist the patient in any problem-solving related to obtaining treatment, and arrange for support for the patient. communicate the current national guidelines, safety, and counseling strategies related to perinatal mood disorders. To learn more about this training click the following link: Perinatal Depression Provider Training

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Evidence-Based Public Health Training Course

We are working with the Prevention Research Center in St. Louis (PRC-StL) to scale up their Evidence-Based Public Health (EBPH) Training Course. We worked in partnership with the Rocky Mountain Public Health Training Center, Colorado public health agencies, and public health practice teams to plan and deliver a training in fall 2021.

September 9 through November 18, 2021, the Rocky Mountain Public Health Training Center offered an opportunity for public health professionals from rural Colorado to participate in a unique, online training series. The training covered core concepts like defining public health issues, conducting community assessments, prioritizing options, and evaluating program and policy impacts. To learn more about EBPH training course Click the following link:  Training Course

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Training and Online Learning

The RMPRC partners with the Rocky Mountain Public Health Training Center (RM-PHTC) on training and professional development opportunities. RM-PHTC is one of the 10 Regional Public Health Training Centers designated by the Health Resources & Services Administration to provide training to professionals addressing public health issues. RM-PHTC works in partnership with subject matter experts to develop a skilled workforce, prepared to address public health needs in their communities.  Dr. Elaine Scallan Walter, Director of the RM-PHTC, is Director of RMPRC’s Training Sub-Core. To learn more about the RM-PHTC click the following link: RMPHTC

Academic Programs 

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MPH in Population Mental Health & Wellbeing 


The Master of Public Health in Population Mental Health & Wellbeing centers on the study of mental health and substance use from a population perspective. This program is among the first in the country; only one other CEPH-accredited school currently offers an MPH concentration in mental health and substance use. Students in this concentration will learn about the etiology of mental health and substance use disorders; best practices for addressing these issues at a population level with primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention efforts; and the existing and upcoming models for integrated health systems. To learn more about this program click the following link: population mental health wellbeing

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Certificate in Population Mental Health & Wellbeing

This certificate prepares current and future public health professionals to respond to the challenges of preventing and treating mental health and substance use conditions and to promote overall mental well-being at a population level. In this program, students address the unique problems that face behavioral health, such as misinformation and the stigma that interferes with help-seeking behaviors, lack of behavioral health training in the workforce, and a failure to invest in mental health promotion and early intervention. This certificate is designed for those seeking to build expertise in behavioral health issues and for members of the behavioral health workforce looking for a population-based perspective. To learn more about this certificate click the following link: Certificate in Population Mental Health Wellbeing
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MPH in Community and Behavioral Health

 This two-year master's program will give you the tools you need to work on the front lines of public health, investigating, applying, and evaluating solutions to critical health issues. You'll learn how to assess community needs, develop programs, and alter policies promoting health, preventing disease, and enhancing quality of life. In addition to the public health core areas, you'll take classes in research and evaluation methods, program planning and implementation, community health assessment, and electives of your choice. You also have the option to add an emphasis in global health. To learn more about an MPH in Community and Behavioral Health click the following link: mph in community and behavioral health

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Research and Practicum

We have a variety of research and practicum opportunities for students including:

  • Curriculum development
  • Literature searches
  • Quantitative data analysis
  • Qualitative research and data analysis
  • Survey development and implementation

If you are interested in becoming involved, please send your resume and a brief description of your area(s) of interest to the appropriate faculty using the following link: faculty or staff member.

Rocky Mountain Prevention Research Center (RMPRC)

Colorado School of Public Health

CU Anschutz

Fitzsimons Building

13001 East 17th Place

3rd Floor East

Mail Stop B119

Aurora, CO 80045


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