By Ariana Bryant

“Baby Boomers!”

That’s the word Dr. Karen Sodowsky uses to describe the importance of the Health Communication Certificate. “Baby boomers comprise the largest generation in history, second only to the current Millennial generation,” she said. “They’re getting older and will increasingly need the aid of more healthcare professionals.”

The Certificate is an excellent choice for students looking to find a career within the healthcare industry, according to Sodowsky. “It gives students an advantage. Because the healthcare field is a steadily growing industry, this certificate will attract the attention of employers in this field.”

It provides a great deal of flexibility and opportunity in the area of healthcare, according to Sodowsky. Several VSU Speech Communication graduates who earned the Certificate are currently working in a variety of healthcare careers.

“We have graduates who work as pharmaceutical representatives for large companies,” Sodowsky said. “Some work in healthcare public relations, and one graduate in particular works as a liaison between the Special Olympics and the medical professionals who participate in the organization’s events.”

Currently the Certificate requires nine specified hours in Speech Comm and one outside course. Her vision for the future is very clear: “I would love to have the Speech Communication Program offer two specialized courses in health communication,” she said. “It’s possible that the certificate could then become a minor or even an emphasis.”

Dr. Deborah Robson and Dr. Carl Cates worked with Sodowsky, who has a strong professional background in the field of health communication, to develop the certificate eight years ago.  It continues to grow in popularity.