Skills for Healthy Aging Resources and Programs (SHARP) is a newly designed certificate program in Evidence Based Health Promotion (EBHP) for older adults that will be offered at both College of the Canyons and Santa Barbara City College. Starting Fall 2011 at College of the Canyons, this 4-course, 12-unit certificate will be offered in one semester.

What is Evidence Based Health Promotion (EBHP)?

According to the National Council on Aging¹, EBHP is "a process of planning, implementing, and evaluating programs adapted from tested models or interventions in order to address health issues" in individual and community settings. It focuses on populations—like older adults—emphasizing both prevention and treatment. The U.S. Administration on Aging has sponsored EBHP and disease prevention programs within the areas of chronic disease self-care, physical activity, fall prevention, nutrition, depression and/or substance abuse since 2003. These programs are currently being offered to older adults by our community service providers in settings such as senior centers, hospitals, health clinics, and senior housing.

¹National Council on Aging, Center for Healthy Aging. (2006). "Using the Evidence Base to Promote Healthy Aging."
To download the PDF, click here.

Goals & Objectives

The SHARP certificate orients students toward careers in aging and/or supplements other health professions majors. Potential employment pathways into the field of healthy aging may include—but are not limited to—planning, administering and evaluating programs, and teaching or facilitating programs. Students will use their fieldwork practicum to collaborate with community partners and gain strong practical experiences supporting, conducting and teaching EBHP community-based programs.

SHARP Recruitment Brochure