Schedule
Foundations of Community Health Worker runs September 1 - November 1, 2026.
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Master in-demand community health worker skills in eight weeks or less
Jump into community health work (CHW) with this introductory CHW course designed to empower you as a patient advocate and healthcare ally. Led by a seasoned community health expert, this course delves into the fundamental principles of community health, arming you with the knowledge and skills to navigate the complexities of healthcare systems and best support individuals from diverse backgrounds.
Throughout this community health worker training, you will cultivate communication and relationship-building skills, essential for connecting with patients and facilitating patient access to available health resources. You will also gain a deep understanding of social determinants of community health and learn to identify and address disparities in healthcare access and treatment, positioning yourself as an advocate for health equity and social justice. Whether you are embarking on a new career path in community health, seeking to expand your skill set as a healthcare professional, or simply driven by a passion for improving health outcomes in your community, this CHW course offers an opportunity to make a tangible difference in the lives of others.
Format
Self-paced course that is 100% online to fit into your busy schedule.
Cost
Foundations of Community Health Worker registration is $450 plus a $35 registration fee.
Why take Community Health Worker?
Professional Career Advisement
Receive a personal advising session with your instructor and gain confidence in your future career.
Change lives, build your future
Be the bridge between patients and care while securing a future in one of the fastest-growing healthcare professions.
What students are saying about Community Health Worker*
✓ Increased knowledge, skills, and understanding of the subject matter.
✓ Were highly satisfied with the overall experience of the course.
✓ Agreed that the subject matter was organized and presented effectively.
*Fall 2025 post-course survey results.
Course Details and Learning Outcomes
Students in this CHW training course will learn the basic concepts of community health workÌýand the patient-centric concept of assisting patients along the health care continuum. Students will develop the skills necessary to effectively communicate and build relationships with CHW network patients within the complex systems they live in. Students will also learn how to evaluate and locate local and rural health care resources and support systems in relation to an individual’s health. Consideration of varying stages of care, community and social determinants that impact physical health, and reducing disparities in access and treatment will be reviewed. Barriers to community health care, problem-solving, and managing information and resources will also be discussed. Learn the role that community health workers play in making sure that patients get the care they need.
After successful completion of Foundations of Community Health Worker, learners will earn a certificate of completion and a digital skills badge embedded with the competencies learned. You can include these items on your resume, LinkedIn page, portfolio, or share it with an employer.
Students can also convert the course to three credits and continue to an ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï certificate or degree. SeeÌýFAQsÌýfor more information.
- Discuss and reflect on professionalism through adherence to organizational rules and regulations, ethical principles, and boundaries of the navigator’s scope of work.
- Define the impact of individual health beliefs and behavior on health care decisions.
- Integrate knowledge of the social and emotional aspects of health into patient/client, caregiver and family interactions and support.
- Describe basic knowledge of health promotion, disease prevention and common disease care continuums.
- Apply understanding of the health care system to improve client/patient care.
- Identify resources and appropriate referrals to reduce patient/client barriers to care including reduction of health disparities and access issues.
Are you interested in taking the Community Health Worker state exam?
The ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï Community Health Worker Certificate will provide students with the knowledge and skills needed to fulfill established Colorado Community Health Worker Core/Professional Competencies in the field and practice of Community Health Workers.
ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï your Foundations of CHW instructor
Community Health Worker instructor
Allison Draayer, LCSW, is an ÍøÆØ³Ô¹Ï faculty member with over 10 years of healthcare experience. She is originally from the Chicago area but moved to Denver in 2008. She has a degree in Communications from Calvin College in Michigan and received a master’s in social work from the University of Denver in 2014. Allison currently works as the Director of Community Care at a health center in Colorado. She is passionate about serving others and improving health care for the underserved.
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Career Launchpad Frequently asked questions
Frequently asked questionsContact us
Email usPhone: 303-615-1234
Office Location:
Jordan Student Success Building
3rd Floor – #330
Auraria Campus
Mailing Address:
Metropolitan State University of Denver
Innovative and Lifelong Learning
P.O. Box 173362
Campus Box 6
Denver, CO 80217-3362