There are two categories of POLHN courses: Self Paced and Instructor Led.

Self-paced courses can be taken anytime from anywhere through the POLHN web site. These courses are designed as self-study units and include interactive instructions with a final examination. The courses can be reviewed by going to the POLHN web site (www.polhn.org),  clicking on "Login as guest," clicking on  "Self Paced Courses" and then clicking on the desired course. Guests have access to all of the course materials except the final examination. In order to receive course credit, participants must fill out the POLHN application form. Once it has been submitted, participants will receive a username and password which will allow access to all materials including the final examination. Students may take as much time as needed to go through each course and then take the final examination. Upon passing it, a Certificate of Achievement is available to save or print.

The Instructor Led courses are offered from various academic institutions, hospitals and WHO through the POLHN web site. Continuing professional education (CPE), undergraduate, and postgraduate courses relating to health are offered at specific times during the year and are listed on the web site. Undergraduate and postgraduate course credit is available but students must meet the entrance requirements of the particular academic institution. For academic credit courses, students must submit an application to the particular institution as well as the POLHN application. Most academic courses are offered on a semester basis while CPE courses are offered at various times during the year as listed on the web site.