Hosting a Fellow

As a service fellowship, the Public Health Prevention Service (PHPS) assigns qualified fellows to work in public health agencies and organizations for two years. CDC encourages health agencies to take advantage of this opportunity to provide a practical learning experience for PHPS fellows and address their organizations' public health priorities.

PHPS Benefits

The PHPS program provides ongoing support for both the host organization and the fellow to ensure a beneficial experience for all parties. PHPS provides salary and employment benefits for the fellow and covers PHPS-related training expenses. Prior to receiving a field assignment, all PHPS fellows must meet the following qualifications:

• Master's degree in public health or a management-related field
• Strong interest in a leadership and management career in public health
• At least one year of public health work experience
• One year of on-the-job training at CDC

Host Organization Responsibilities

The host public health organization is responsible for providing the fellow with

• Challenging and meaningful work in program management in order to meet PHPS’ performance requirements
• Training and learning opportunities that allow them to develop and apply their skills
• Ongoing mentoring and supervision of daily work activities, including periodic assessments of performance, portfolios, and professional development
• Office space and equipment required for completing the assignment
• Funding to cover travel expenses for assignment-related activities and professional development opportunities

Mentoring is a critical aspect of all assignments. Health organizations are expected to devote time and resources to mentoring fellows. Assignment supervisors should be involved in the fellow’s projects.

Apply to Host a PHPS Fellow

The application period for public health organizations is closed for 2012.

The steps of the process and the 2012 timeline are outlined below. Download the updated Guide for Health Organizations to Request a Fellow [PDF - 305KB] for instructions and a sample application.

Step 1: Application

Submit a completed application that describes the proposed assignment during the open application period. The host application period generally opens in November or December and closes in January. PHPS hosts conference calls during this timeframe to provide assistance in preparing an application.

Step 2: Open Recruitment

If your application is selected, you will be invited to participate in open recruitment. During this two-week period, public health organizations are encouraged to discuss their potential assignments with PHPS fellows.

Step 3: Interview Day

After open recruitment, selected public health organizations are invited to formal interviews with PHPS fellows in Atlanta, Georgia. Primary supervisors are expected to participate. The public health organization is responsible for all travel-related expenses.

Sample Timeline

Please note: The dates below provide an example timeline and are subject to change from year to year.

More Information

For more information, contact:
Public Health Prevention Service Office
Phone: 404-498-6120
Email: PHPSAssignments@cdc.gov