UAB launches new graduate certificates with focus on healthcare innovation, leadership

—

August 6, 2025

(UAB – The University of Alabama at Birmingham/Facebook, YHN)

This fall, the University of Alabama at Birmingham is expanding its academic offerings with 10 new graduate certificates and a new undergraduate degree program. The programs are available across a range of disciplines, with many offered fully online to accommodate students wherever they are.

“At UAB, we’re continually evolving to meet the needs of our students and their desire to make an impact on the world around them,” said Janet Woodruff-Borden, Ph.D., senior vice president for Academic Affairs and provost. “These new degree programs reflect our commitment to student success — offering more pathways to meaningful careers, deeper learning, and long-term impact.”

Several of the new programs focus on preparing students for leadership roles in health care:

Health-focused Graduate Certificates (offered online)

The Graduate Certificate in Artificial Intelligence in Health Services trains students to apply AI tools in patient care, administration, and data analytics.
The Graduate Certificate in Healthcare Innovation, offered through the Marnix E. Heersink School of Medicine, is designed for professionals seeking to combine medical knowledge with business and technology skills.
The Graduate Certificate in Nurse Leadership in Population Health supports nurses pursuing careers in community health, disease management, and public health initiatives.
The Graduate Certificate in Occupational Health Nursing offers training in disaster preparedness, industrial hygiene, ergonomics, and emergency management.
The Graduate Certificate in Dissemination and Implementation Science in Health Care focuses on translating health research into practical applications.

Other New Graduate Certificates

Nonprofit Management for Social Work Professionals, which prepares social work students to lead nonprofit organizations at various levels.
Cultural Resource Management of Archaeology, which trains students in the preservation and promotion of cultural heritage.
Maternal and Child Health Policy and Leadership, offered through the School of Public Health, with coursework covering reproductive and perinatal health, health behavior, and policy development.

eSports Programs

UAB also introduced both undergraduate and graduate certificates in eSports Performance Management and Coaching, in addition to a new Bachelor of Science degree in the same field. These programs explore topics such as team management, player development, and the business of eSports.

Coming in Spring 2026

Looking ahead, the School of Nursing will launch a Post-Graduate Certificate in Addictions Nursing in spring 2026. The program will be delivered online and will prepare nurses to treat patients of all ages impacted by substance use, including those exposed in utero or in early childhood.

Sherri Blevins is a staff writer for Yellowhammer News. You may contact her at [email protected].