The University of New Mexico is in the early stages of planning for what could be the first school of public health in the state.
University President Bob Frank says that setting up the school would take years and include getting accreditation.
Schools of public health train health care professionals in everything from epidemiology to biostatistics to health administration.
Programs across the country range widely, but many focus on graduate-level academics.
The university is working with New Mexico State University and state health officials to determine whether UNM should go forward with a new program.
Both universities officer a master's degree in public health.
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Information from: Albuquerque Journal, http://www.abqjournal.com
Copyright 2012 The Associated Press.