Using Public Health Coursework to Reduce Harms Related to College Student Drinking

Abstract

Harm related to alcohol consumption is widespread on college campuses. It can lead to increased sexual violence, dropout rates, car accidents, and many other issues. Drunk driving is a prevalent issue to millions of college students. Countless efforts have been made to reduce drunk driving in this population, with limited success. Through the Public Health Theories and Practice class at Carroll College (PH333), research was conducted to reduce drinking and driving. Students also completed a readiness assessment, 20 interviews, focus groups, 20 environmental scans, and an outlet density scan. With this input, they then created marketing campaigns and community educational events. Not only are the students in the course more knowledgeable of the harms related to alcohol abuse, but because of their hard work, their peers also show increased harm reduction behaviors.