Community Health Worker

Program Description

The Community Health Worker program is a 20-week, non-credit program that combines 128 hybrid classroom hours with 60 service learning hours. The classroom instruction covers topics such as the role of community health workers, public health, chronic disease management, mental health, health outreach, community organizing and advocacy, client-centered counseling, conducting client interviews, care management and home visits. The service learning experience provides individuals with the opportunity to learn and participate in resource gathering, networking and outreach, and job shadowing.

Eligibility Requirements

Enrollment in the community health worker (CHW) program is highly selective and seats fill quickly. All candidates that apply will be required to:

  • Be at least 18 years of age.
  • Have a high school diploma or equivalent.
  • Demonstrate academic and career readiness.
  • Demonstrate passion for community health work.
  • Intend to work as a CHW in Missouri.

Applicants may also be required to:

  • Register with the Missouri Family Care Safety Registry if required for service learning.
  • Submit an employer commitment letter if completing as part of employment.
  • Demonstrate interest in and intent for employment within the behavioral health workforce.

Technology Requirements

The CHW program is currently being delivered in a hybrid format. Students will need the following technology to participate in the program:

  • Desktop or laptop computer with an updated operating system (e.g. Windows, Mac, Linux) NOTE: Cell phones will not be sufficient for completing the coursework requirements in this program.
  • Webcam and microphone
  • Reliable, high-speed internet connection
  • Updated Internet browser (Apple Safari, Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox)
  • Adobe Reader or alternative PDF reader (free)
  • Microsoft Office NOTE: Students have access to MS Office 365 with their student email.

Clinical and Field Work

Some degree and certificate programs offered by the College require students to obtain community health service learning experience as part of their course work. Hospitals and health facilities may mandate that a criminal background check and/or drug screening be conducted prior to placement in a clinical setting and as part of an employer’s screening process. Students not passing these checks may be prohibited from participating in the community health service learning experience, thus rendering the student ineligible to satisfactorily meet the course/program requirements, and/or ineligible for hire.

Program Cost

Grant funding is available for those selected.

Program Location

William J. Harrison Education Center

Financial Aid Eligibility

This program is not Federal Aid/Pell Eligible.

Upon Successful Completion

Candidates are eligible to apply for the Community Health Worker credential through the Missouri Credentialing Board.

Interested in this program?

Start the enrollment process by visiting the Community Health Worker page.