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Public Health 

A career in public health offers the opportunity to make a meaningful impact on communities and populations worldwide. Public health professionals work to prevent disease, promote wellness, and create policies that foster healthier environments. This field combines science, advocacy, and education to address complex health challenges and improve quality of life on a broad scale.


There are several academic pathways for those interested in public health. 


Doctoral programs provide advanced expertise and leadership training for those committed to shaping health systems and policy. The PhD in Public Health emphasizes research and scholarship, preparing graduates to lead studies, publish findings, and teach in academia. In contrast, the Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) focuses on leadership and practical application, equipping professionals to manage large-scale programs and drive policy decisions. Together, these degrees empower graduates to influence the future of public health through innovation, evidence-based strategies, and strategic leadership.


The Master of Public Health (MPH) is the cornerstone of public health education, preparing professionals to lead initiatives in research, policy, advocacy, and community health. Graduates work across government, healthcare, non-profits, and community organizations to address population health challenges and advance equity.

 

This degree provides a strong foundation in biostatistics, epidemiology, program evaluation, and health policy, equipping students to analyze trends, design interventions, and drive meaningful change.

 

Next, we’ll explore essential details of the MPH journey: prerequisites, entrance exams, and the application process.

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

​​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. Here are some programs we have experience with: 

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