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 organizations 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 paid 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 supervising and mentoring fellows. Assignment supervisors should be involved in the fellow’s projects.

Apply to Host a PHPS Fellow

The application period for health organizations is now closed.

The steps of the process and the 2013 timeline are outlined below. Please review the updated Guide for Health Organizations to Request a Fellow [PDF - 319KB] for background information and data about the PHPS program and application guidelines. To access the application visit PHPS Host Site 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 March and closes in April. 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, health organizations are encouraged to discuss their potential assignments with PHPS fellows.

Step 3: Interview Day

After open recruitment, selected health organizations are invited to formal telephone interviews with PHPS fellows. Primary supervisors are expected to participate.

2013 Timeline

More Information

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