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Medical Team Discussion

Masters of Public Health 

A Master of Public Health (MPH) degree equips professionals to improve community health through research, policy, advocacy, and education. MPH graduates work in diverse settings, including government agencies, community-based organizations, non-profits, and healthcare organizations, tackling population health issues across the lifespan to improve   health equity. The degree provides a broad understanding of public health principles, including biostatistics, epidemiology, program evaluation, and health policy. 

 

MPH graduates can pursue a wide range of careers, including epidemiologist, health educator, health services manager, environmental specialist, and public health administrator.

The majority of Master of Public Health (MPH) programs open applications in late summer or early fall, with deadlines typically between November and March for fall admission. Many programs use the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS), a platform that allows you to apply to multiple public health programs by uploading your materials once.

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Important: Not all MPH programs are on SOPHAS. Some use their own systems, so it’s essential to check each program’s application process early.

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General timeline:

  • August to September:

    • Start researching programs, noting which use SOPHAS and which don’t. Begin drafting your personal statement and updating your resume or CV. Reach out to potential recommenders early and confirm application deadlines.

  • October:

    • Request official transcripts and finalize your statement. If any programs require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), schedule your exam around this time.

  • November to January:

    • Submit your applications. The majority of programs fall within this window. For programs with rolling admissions, applying earlier can improve your chances of admission and financial aid.

  • To pursue an MPH a bachelor's degree is required 

  • Most programs require at least a 3.0 GPA from an accredited undergraduate university (there are some special case by case situations where a lower GPA is considered, typically if there is a high GRE score)

  • Strong preparation in areas like math, statistics, social sciences, biological sciences, and physical sciences can be beneficial

  • Demonstration of strong written and oral communication skills are also beneficial

  • The majority of Master of Public Health (MPH) programs no longer require the Graduate Record Examination (GRE), especially those focused on health behavior, policy, or generalist tracks. However, some programs , particularly in biostatistics or epidemiology, may still require or strongly recommend it.​

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  • Important: Each program sets its own GRE policy. Some may list it as optional, while others may require it depending on the concentration. If required, plan to take the GRE at least two to three months before your earliest application deadline.

Most MPH programs evaluate applicants beyond their grades/GPAs. Highlighting your work and volunteer experiences on your applications demonstrates your ability to balance school with the skills that you learned and applied during your work and volunteer activities. If you engaged in sports or other team-based activities, it is also recommended to share this in your application.

When considering who you should ask to write your letters of recommendation, think about people that really know your academic skillsets that align with public health. For example, are there professors that could discuss your math and/or statistics skills and others that can share about your critical thinking and written and oral communication skills? Are there professors or supervisors that can speak about your work ethic and other strong characteristics that would help you to succeed in an MPH program? 

  • The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) represents over 150 accredited schools and programs of public health. ASPPH helps to convene public health professionals, generate evidence, and advocate for policies that improve the health and communities.

  • The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is the accrediting body for schools and programs in public health. 

  • To learn more about specific MPH programs, visit their website.

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