Infection Prevention
Pathways Program
(IP Pathways)
Preparing the next generation of infection prevention leaders
An academic-practice partnership at the University of Michigan School of Public Health that builds a strong, diverse, and workforce-ready pipeline of infection prevention professionals for Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Since its inception:
759 students trained
115 paid internship placements
Graduates working in infection prevention programs across the United States
Three Pathways. One Goal.
IP Pathways integrates education, certification, and hands-on experience to prepare the next generation of infection prevention leaders.
1
Education
Applied Courses with Infection Prevention Professionals
Courses are taught in partnership with infection prevention leaders from Michigan Medicine and other healthcare organizations, integrating academic instruction with real-world case studies, mentorship, and practical insights.
2
Certificate Program
Certificate in Healthcare Infection Prevention & Control (CHIP)
The Certificate in Healthcare Infection Prevention & Control (CHIP) provides focused training in surveillance, clinical microbiology, infectious disease epidemiology, and foundational infection control principles. CHIP equips students with the knowledge and practical foundation needed for early-career infection prevention roles and preparation for the Certification in Infection Prevention and Control (CIC®) examination.
3
Internship Program
Healthcare-based Infection Prevention Experience
Students complete internships in healthcare and public health settings where they gain hands-on experience with surveillance, outbreak investigations, regulatory reporting, and quality improvement. Placements have included hospitals, outpatient healthcare settings, and the Michigan Department of Health and Human Services (MDHHS). These experiences provide students with meaningful project work, professional mentorship, and often serve as a direct pathway to infection prevention careers.
By integrating education, certification, and applied experience, IP Pathways ensures students enter the field with both deep knowledge and practical skills-ready to protect patients, healthcare workers, and communities.
Strengthening the Workforce
Building a strong, diverse infection prevention workforce in Michigan and the Great Lakes region.
Job-Ready Graduates
Providing healthcare organizations with well-prepared interns and graduates who are ready to contribute from day one.
Bridging Academia and Practice
Connecting academic expertise with real clinical and operational practice to solve today’s infection prevention challenges.
Improving Patient Safety
Enhancing patient safety and health system resilience across the region.
Ready to Take the Next Step?
Current graduate students at Michigan in any program
Join the next generation of infection prevention professionals and make a difference in patient safety and public health by applying for an internship.
Not currently enrolled in a University of Michigan graduate program?
Together, we are building the future of infection prevention.
Learn how you can support IP Pathways and help grow the next generation of leaders.