masters vs phd in public health

Master of Public Health

Gain the intellectual foundation and specialized skills you need to lead change and make a difference in communities around the world.

The Harvard Chan School master of public health degree will provide you with the breadth of knowledge, subject-specific expertise, specialized skills, and powerful global network you need to forge the career you want in public health. Whether you are a medical doctor, an established public health professional, or new to the field of public health, flexible degree formats and an array of options for specific fields of study will provide you with the right mix of grounding in the core disciplines of public health and a specialized focus to meet your individual goals.

Harvard Chan School MPH graduates have achieved some remarkable things. They have led global efforts to eradicate diseases such as smallpox and Guinea worm disease. They have led departments at hospitals and health care agencies. They have become leaders of ministries of health, humanitarian organizations, corporations, academic institutions, and government agencies. They have developed life-saving vaccines. They have served as surgeons, primary care physicians, and veterinarians. They have become best-selling authors. And they have even become heads of state.

The master of public health degree opens an extraordinary number of pathways to a meaningful career. Which one will you choose?

The Curriculum: Intellectual Breadth + Career Specialization

The innovative MPH curriculum—the culmination of a multi-year planning process at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health—is designed to open clear paths to action-oriented professional careers. The new curriculum aims to instill “T-shaped” competencies, providing deep knowledge in an area of specialty (the vertical bar of the “T”) coupled with the breadth of knowledge (top horizontal bar) needed to work effectively across many disciplines and fields of inquiry.

As a Harvard Chan MPH student, you will enjoy unique educational experiences both in and out of the classroom. You will build skills not just in analytical and quantitative methods, but also in problem solving and the application of public health training in real-world situations. And you will work with a remarkable group of peers from around the globe, and with faculty members who are global leaders in their fields.

Learn more about the MPH-45 curriculum and the MPH-65 curriculum .

The Format: Flexibility That Fits Your Experience, Your Life, and Your Goals

The School offers two variants of the MPH degree designed to fit the needs of students with different educational goals and varying levels of professional experience and prior education:

• The MPH in epidemiology is a hybrid online/on-campus program completed part-time over two years.
• The MPH generalist is a fully online program completed part-time over two years.
• The clinical effectiveness field of study offers a summer-focused option in addition to the full- and part-time options.
• Most fields of study offer part-time options completed over two to three years to some students.
• The 65-credit MPH (MPH-65) is for individuals with a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of two years of contiguous full-time work experience in an area relevant to public health by the time of matriculation. While internships and work experience obtained during your undergraduate degree program are valuable, these do not count towards the required two or more years of contiguous full-time work experience. You can complete this full-time program in three semesters with a summer practicum experience between the second and third semesters. Part-time options are available to some students.

Our Community: Committed, Accomplished, Collaborative

As a Harvard Chan MPH student, you will work in a collaborative classroom environment alongside talented students from around the world and from a variety of academic and professional backgrounds. You will take advantage of the extraordinary resources of Harvard University and Boston’s Longwood Medical Area—home to Harvard Medical School, Brigham and Women’s Hospital, Boston Children’s Hospital, the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, and other world-class health facilities. You will meet global leaders and work with world-renowned faculty members. And when you graduate, you will benefit from Harvard’s unparalleled global network of alumni leaders.

Fields of Study

When applying to the MPH-45 or MPH-65, you must choose one of the following specialized fields of study. Eligibility requirements vary by program format and field of study.

MPH-45 Fields of Study

• Clinical Effectiveness (CLE 45-credit academic year and summer-focused options)
• Epidemiology – Online / On-Campus (EPI 45-credit)
• Generalist – Online (GEN 45-credit)
• Global Health (GH 45-credit)
• Health and Social Behavior (HSB 45-credit)
• Health Management (HM 45-credit)
• Health Policy (HP 45-credit)
• Occupational and Environmental Health (OEH 45-credit)
• Quantitative Methods (QM 45-credit)

MPH-65 Fields of Study

• Health and Social Behavior (HSB 65-credit)
• Health Management (HM 65-credit)
• Health Policy (HP 65-credit)
• Nutrition (NUT 65-credit)

Learn more about the MPH fields of study.

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Home » Degrees » Doctorate » DRPH

Explore Doctor of Public Health Programs (PhD & DPH)

Pursuing higher positions in public health can prove to be beneficial for individuals with leadership characteristics. Those in public health that seek the most out of their degree should consider enrolling into Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health or Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) in Public Health programs across the country.

The Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) and the PhD in Public Health are advanced terminal degrees for public health, meant for experienced public health professionals that already have their Masters in Public Health (MPH) or similar degree. Specific degree nomenclature varies based on university and specific public health school. Some offer DPH degrees, while other universities name the terminal degree PhD in Public Health, Doctorate in Public Health, or Doctoral Public Health.

These terminal degree programs in public health can prepare learners for careers in research, education, or even management within the public health sector. Graduate level public health specialists are in great need across the country to assist with nationwide epidemic research as well as the implementation of vital government programs.

George Washington University

School of public health.

Earn your DrPH online from the George Washington University. Our CEPH-accredited program combines interactive, online classes and an on-campus immersion to prepare you to become a thought leader. You will graduate poised to shape public health policy, programs, and initiatives in the U.S. and worldwide. No GRE required.

• Complete the online DrPH program in as few as 36 months. 
• The online DrPH program is CEPH accredited. 
• No GRE required.

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PhD in Public Health vs. Doctor of Public Health

A PhD in Public Health will be focused on developing the skills needed to become an advanced researcher. The understanding of research theories and methodologies is an important part of this degree. Even though a PhD in Public Health is more narrowly focused, it lends itself to careers in various health sectors, such as academia, governmental agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.

A DrPH is an advanced graduate-level degree that focuses on the professional and practical elements of the field, rather than the academic. It is designed for public health practitioners and is geared towards practice and fieldwork. It is multidisciplinary and will cover everything from communications and marketing to advocacy and economics. It was developed to train students and practitioners for careers in public health leadership. 

Both the DrPH and PhD have career options in academia available to them. These two degrees are suited for individuals who have received an MPH or another graduate-level degree and have worked in their field for a number of years. The DrPH is ideal for the public health practitioner looking to advance their career to positions needing additional education. The PhD may suit an individual earlier on in their career who is looking to embed themselves in a career of research.

What are the Typical Pre-Requisites of a DrPH/PhD Degree?

As mentioned above, the prerequisites for advanced degrees require a master’s degree and post-graduate work experience. For some programs, if an individual applying does not have their master’s in public health they will require master’s level classes in public health up to a certain amount of credit hours. A recent Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score is often required along with academic transcripts. An additional requirement for admittance into a Doctorate program is a personal statement or statement or purpose.

Concentration Options for a DrPH/PhD

The degree options for a DrPH or a PhD become more specialized within those concentrations. Those receiving their PhD in public health will have to pick a program by the department they wish to specialize and conduct research in. This could be Health Policy and Administration, Health Economics, Health Systems, etc. A DrPH will also specialize by department, but will often pick from the core public health concentrations (Epidemiology, Environmental Health, etc.) along with a few additional departments (i.e. International Health and Social and Behavioral Sciences).

Online Doctor of Public Health Options

Entering the right educational program is important to the success of a career. Students that are interested in obtaining their degree online should research their chosen school’s accreditation status prior to applying. Since this program is highly research-oriented, learners are expected to take part in a lot of independent learning in an online environment.

Online Doctorate programs will have the same requirements and courses as a traditional degree. Online programs allow for greater flexibility with work and family life but also require self-discipline and accountability. Some online programs will require site visits to the campus or alternate sites for orientations, leadership development, adviser meetings, etc. Classes will be taught online either through live streams or recorded video. Online discussion forums and group work are also the main parts of the online curriculum. A dissertation is still a requirement for online doctorate programs and it may be required that it is presented in person.

Typical Curriculum & Classes

In general, the DrPH degree curriculum will consist of core courses, research courses, and a culminating project such as a capstone course, dissertation, or thesis. The core courses, much like the MPH, will cover the main concentrations in Public Health (Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Health Policy, etc.) and will also include statistics and data management. Each of these classes are taught with a focus on Leadership and Organization. Additional classes may include:

• Marketing and Public Relations
• Community and Cultural Understanding

These will guide the focus of the degree. A Dissertation or thesis is often required at the end of each semester, year or at the end of the program.

PhD in Public Health

The PhD in Public Health is much less straightforward and will vary significantly from program to program and within degrees. A PhD in Public Health is much more research-based and will cover topics ranging from disease and injury prevention to health informatics and communication. Many schools do not offer a PhD in Public Health per se, but in Health Policy, Bioethics, Environmental Health Sciences, Chronic Disease Epidemiology, etc. Each of these is rooted in public health but are much more focused in their scope. Because of this, classes and curriculum will be much more focused and centered around research.

Different Career Opportunities

After completing a DrPH or Ph.D. in Public Health, graduates may seek out positions in government agencies, healthcare facilities, or even community organizations. Professionals at this level have the capacity to become instructors of public health at universities, researchers for public health associations, and directors of nonprofit agencies.

Having a doctorate degree in this discipline gives learners the most education available for this field. With a Ph.D. in Public Health, professionals in the field may have access to careers working with government organizations in the planning, implementation, and training of important public health procedures. Organizations, such as  American Public Health Association ,  accept members that are in public health careers that desire to communicate their studies and policies on different platforms. Getting involved with a society such as this one can allow professionals to spread their work to educational and professional settings across the country.

Information updated as of April 2020

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A Guide To A Career in PhD After MPH in Public Health

Blog summary.

The principal purpose of doing PhD in a public health program is to become a teacher or a researcher in a college or university. There are multiple topics on which one can do a PhD program – such as international health, biostatistics, epidemiology, social, nutrition, and environmental science. Colleges offer online PhD in public health programs encompassing the specialization of ethics, food safety, pollution, scientific writing, epidemiology, and industrial hygiene. Most of the coveted jobs in the public health domain go to professionals with a relevant PhD and some experience. Taksha Smartlabz, in association with the University of Central Nicaragua (TSL-UCN), is the preferred institution for students who want to do a PhD program in public health.

Why Should You Pursue A PhD In Public Health?

What is a master of public health, details about the degree program, application procedure for public health doctorates, jobs for phd in public health, benefits of completing phd in tsl-ucn, become a public health officer.

People with a passion for healthcare services and practices will find that studying public health is a perfect career choice to advance their careers. PhD after MPH in public health enriches the student with knowledge about diseases and their statistical analysis. Public health professionals can develop better strategies in medication distribution and can resolve disease outbreaks.

Are you still wondering whether PhD in public health will advance my career? This article will provide you the essential information about PhD after MPH.

PhD in public health careers can offer an excellent salary. Still, a person must also know whether they will have a good chance of getting hired after they graduate. People with a doctoral program in public health have numerous job opportunities soon. By 2028 public health jobs will continue to increase by 30 percent, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS).

MPH allows students to develop the essential skills required to promote the well-being of people across the globe. When you pursue a PhD in public health, it indicates your intention to help people supporting healthy lives. Public health encompasses much more than traditional healthcare. PhD in public health practitioners work for social, environmental, and economic improvement. It focuses on a wide range of health problems. Some of the significant areas concentrated by public health are:

• Healthcare is unevenly accessed, and the results are diverse.
• Social isolation.
• Trauma and violence.
• Lack of access to healthy, food security, and affordable nutrition.

A Master of Public Health helps in gaining a deeper understanding of the challenges faced by communities worldwide. In addition, it provides solutions either through education, new public health policies, or research. 

The PhD in public health programs prepares students for teaching, researching in colleges and universities. Universities offer various courses like international health, biostatistics, epidemiology, social, nutrition, and environmental science-based on student interest.

Few colleges include online PhD in public health programs encompassing the specialization of ethics, food safety, pollution, scientific writing, epidemiology, and industrial hygiene.

In general, students who apply online for a doctor of public health degree will need to meet similar admission requirements. Students must have a master’s degree in public health with a GPA of 3.0 is the primary criteria for pursuing a PhD in the public health degree. GRE scores with transcripts and recommendation letters needed to be submitted by the applicants. Students who have completed doctoral coursework or public health professionals have a high chance of getting course admission. The standard application requirements are listed below.

• Transcripts The course list includes grades along with the courses taken by a student. For graduate and undergraduate studies, students must keep separate transcripts. Generally speaking, the more successful academic student have better chances of admission.
• Test Ratings GRE score is a mandatory requirement for public health doctoral programs. But still, few programs accept MCAT scores as they provide evidence of aptitude proficiency.
• Resume A resume shows the previous professional experience of the applicant to get admitted in the PhD after MPH .
• Purpose Statement The student outlines an essay about why the applicant must pursue the doctoral program in public health. The purpose statement must also add how the degree assists in achieving the professional objectives.
• Final Interview Interview conducted for the doctoral programs to assure whether the applicant is a good fit for the program. Students must prepare well to face the interview by providing the details to pursue the PhD after MPH .
• Recommendation Letters Students must get letters of recommendation from former professors or employees, or supervisors. Letters must state the student qualities that matching the degree program. 

Science Of Behavior

PhD in public health online opens up career options in behavioral science. Graduate schools educate individuals about behavioral and cultural issues. Public health professionals associate the social constructs and behaviors categorized under public health issues.

Biostatistics And Health Informatics

Public health fields use biostatistics to apply statistics. Data is dissected and interpreted by professionals in this field to address public health issues. For instance, statistics expertise researches about a drug’s performance or cancer risk factors. Biostatistics knowledge applies to the various sectors that include agriculture and genetics. You may be a good candidate for this career path if you enjoy the statistical aspect of research projects by pursuing a PhD after MPH .

Environmental Health Engineering And Science

Public and individual health is affected by the environment, according to environmental health scientists. Typically, ecological issues speak about air pollution, climate variations, chemical pollutants, and drinking water quality. The environmental health scientist is usually an industrial hygienist who takes care of employee health in the workplace. Safety professional works for the government, private sector, or environmental consulting firm. Public health heroes are often honored for their work.

Epidemiology

Epidemiologists research the disease pattern and work hard to improve public health by conducting community education programs. They gather information from the health practitioners and develop new health policies. Epidemiologists often establish communication with healthcare professionals, society, and policymakers to avoid future outbreaks. Pursue a PhD after MPH offers you a better knowledge about diseases and transits you into the epidemiology career.

Health Policy And Management

Health policy professionals offer services to increase the healthcare service effectiveness in the critical aspects of logistics, management, quality, and finances. Generally, a person with a PhD in public health can administrate teams, handles delicate tasks, and monitor projects developed. These professionals always look for better opportunities to increase the performance that aligns with the public health policy.

Managers Of Community And Social Services

Managers monitor community outreach organizations like abuse clinics, mental health centers, and homeless shelters. They take care of the funding proposals, budgets, recruit volunteers for the organization and train them. Managers prepare a plan to raise awareness about the social development programs.

Nutritionists And Dieticians

Clinical dietitians provide nutritional counseling to patients and help them develop healthy eating habits. Healthcare professionals prepare personalized meal plans for patients and work with other healthcare staff to improvise patient care. Furthermore, health educators may set up workshops, supervise food programs in hospitals, schools, and nursing homes.

Counselors In Substance Abuse, Mental Illness, And Mental Health

Generally, Counselors advise patients who suffer from mental issues like drug addiction, alcoholism, behavioral problems, and eating disorders. Counselors evaluate the patient’s mental health and suggest the right treatment programs to revive the patient’s health.

Nurses In Occupational Health

Nurses evaluate the patient’s health, register the symptoms, and assess test outcomes. Registered nurses look after the patients by giving the medicines and treatments at the right time. They connect the patients through emotional support. Nurses consult with doctors and assist patients in going home after the treatment.

Education Sector 

Education is usually associated with teaching at a school or university. With a PhD in public health, individuals can serve NGOs, Governments, and public health organizations by educating them on health and safety issues. By pursuing this career, you would be able to run programs or create brochures. You can build community health awareness with a healthy lifestyle through posters.

Higher Education Teaching Services

The primary advantage of having a PhD in public health online paves a pathway to a teaching career at universities. A PhD is usually one of the qualifications for a teaching position at a university. Higher education lecturers are free to design their coursework and the course contents than teachers in lower education, which permits the facility to concentrates on expertise areas. Part-time teaching positions are often available to doctoral candidates to assist them in student to teacher transition.

You may find numerous research opportunities and universities when you search for an online PhD in public health. Check out the universities that offer PhD in public health programs.

• Columbia Univerisity
• Texila American University
• Harvard University
• Emory University
• University of Michigan – Ann Arbor

Make Your Next Move Now!

 Are you a person with more interest in public health? The continuous evolution of the field has raised the need for public health practitioners. Experienced individuals of public health have deep knowledge in resolving the complex problems of communities across the world. It’s the perfect time to pursue an online PhD in public health . The doctoral program enhances your skills and lets you move to the leadership position in your career. A student studying MPH at TSL-UCN can take advantage of experiential learning opportunities to apply theories covered in lectures to real-world problems. Industry-aligned experiences with a wide range of networking opportunities make a massive difference in acquiring an online PhD in public health programs.

Develop your enhanced skills to become a public health officer. Join PhD in Public Health.

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Is a Ph.D. in Public Health Worth it – (Pros VS. Cons)

If you’re reading this, you may be asking the question, “is a Ph.D. in Public Health worth it?” Working in public health can be very gratifying, and this article will list 25 reasons why a Ph.D. in public health is worth it. But before you decide, please also check out the section about 7 reasons why a Ph.D. in public health may not be worth it for you. The goal of this article is not to persuade, but rather to give you the information you need to decide for yourself whether a Ph.D. in public is worth it for you.

WHAT IS A Ph.D. IN PUBLIC HEALTH DEGREE?

How long does a ph.d. in public health degree take, how much does a ph.d. in public health degree cost, what are the admission requirements for a ph.d. in public health degree.

-An application to the Ph.D. in Public Health Program -An undergraduate or master’s degree, which may or may not be in public health -Transcripts -An essay that explains why you want to enter a Ph.D. in Public Health program -A CV/resume -Letters of Recommendation -GRE Scores

IS A Ph.D. IN PUBLIC HEALTH WORTH IT? – THE PROS

Reason #1: a ph.d. in public health can lead to a career in a think tank., reason #2: a ph.d. in public health can provide you with the skills and knowledge to make a difference in people's lives on a large scale., reason #3: a ph.d. in public health can allow you to work on complex problems, such as managing epidemics or environmental disasters., reason #4: a ph.d. in public health can provide you with the skills to develop and implement public health policy., reason #5: a ph.d. in public health can allow you to work with diverse communities., reason #6: a ph.d. in public health can provide you with the skills to conduct groundbreaking research., reason #7: a ph.d. in public health can give you the chance to teach future generations of public health students and professionals., reason #8: a ph.d. in public health can provide you with the opportunity to work internationally, helping to improve global health outcomes., reason #9: a ph.d. in public health can make you eligible for senior positions within public health organizations, such as director or chief executive., reason #10: a ph.d. in public health can make you a credible candidate for an elected public position., reason #11: a ph.d. in public health can lead to a career as an epidemiologist., reason #12: a ph.d. in public health can give you the chance to collaborate with recognized experts in public health., reason #13: a ph.d. in public health can lead to careers with a great set of benefits., reason #14: a ph.d. in public health can lead to job security., reason #15: a ph.d. in public health can help you to become a public health program manager., reason #16: a ph.d. in public health can allow you to work as a public health advocate, raising awareness of important issues and campaigning for change., reason #17: a ph.d. in public health can help you become a published author., reason #18: a ph.d. in public health can lead to a career in entrepreneurship., reason #19: a ph.d. in public health can give you the ability to protect workers., reason #20: a ph.d. in public health can be a career for introverts., reason #21: a ph.d. in public health can give you the chance to work as a public health data analyst., reason #22: a ph.d. in public health can allow you to work as a public health communications specialist, developing and implementing strategies to raise awareness of important public health issues., reason #23: a ph.d. in public health offers unlimited potential for further learning., reason #24: you may be able to get a ph.d. in public health for free., reason #25: a ph.d. in public health qualifies you for jobs in multiple industries., why a ph.d. in public health may not be worth it for you – the cons, reason #1: you are not willing to spend many years in school., reason #2: research is not something that interests you., reason #3: a ph.d. in public health can be costly., reason #4: you do not like to teach., reason #5: you may be able to get some high-paying public health jobs without a ph.d. in public health., reason #6: you have plenty of financial obligations., reason #7: you don't think you'll use the skills you learn., what are the 3 main reasons behind the demand for ph.d. in public health degree holders, 1. to conduct important research:, 2. to teach future public health professionals:, 3. to provide leadership in public health:, what is the starting salary for ph.d. in public health degree holders, what is the average salary for ph.d. in public health degree holders, what are the 3 best jobs you can get with a ph.d. in public health degree, 1. epidemiologist:, 2. health policy expert:, 3. professor:, bonus 3 tips to make more money with a ph.d. in public health degree, 1. use your degree to pursue a career in the private sector., 2. take extra teaching jobs as a public health adjunct faculty member., 3. conduct research, is a ph.d. in public health worth it for you – my final thoughts, frequently asked questions answered, 1. what is the best age to do a ph.d. in public health degree, 2. how hard is it to get into a ph.d. in public health degree program, 3. do i need work experience to get into a ph.d. in public health degree program, 4. what is the minimum gpa to get into a ph.d. in public health degree program, 5. can i get into a ph.d. in public health degree program with a low gpa, 6. are online ph.d. in public health degree programs worth it, 7. are scholarships and grants available for ph.d. in public health degree programs, 8. can ph.d. in public health students have a life, 9. can i work part-time and successfully complete the ph.d. in public health degree program, 10. can i work full-time and successfully complete the ph.d. in public health degree program, 11. do students fail in ph.d. in public health degree programs, 12. will i ever regret getting a ph.d. in public health degree, 13. how much does a ph.d. in public health graduate make per hour, 14. how much does a ph.d. in public health graduate make per year, 15. will ph.d. in public health graduates be paid less in the future, 16. are all ph.d. in public health graduates successful in their careers, 17. are ph.d. in public health graduates happy with their jobs, 18. can ph.d. in public health degree holders become rich, 19. what are some ph.d. in public health degree alternatives, 20. what is the difference between a drph and a ph.d. in public health, 21. should i get a drph or a ph.d. in public health, 22. can ph.d. in public health graduates use the title dr, 23. are there any fully funded ph.d. in public health programs.

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Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)

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Onsite | Full-Time | 2 years

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About the MSPH in Population, Family and Reproductive Health Program

The two-year curriculum allows students to integrate coursework in life course, population, program management, policy, quantitative methods and core PFRH areas of interest with practical knowledge and skills. Students also choose courses based on their selected area of interest and career goals. The program promotes opportunities for students to engage in public health leadership, community-based research, program evaluation and application of research to current public health programs. Complementing the classroom training is a 680-hour field placement that may be completed in domestic and/or international settings. The field placement provides students the opportunity to integrate skills learned in the classroom with practical experience in their area of interest.

MSPH in Population, Family and Reproductive Health Program Highlights

2-year curriculum.

integrates coursework in life course, population, program management, and quantitative methods

4 areas of interest

take courses in 1 or more areas

Field placement 

both domestic and international

Master's Essay & Presentation

to apply newly honed skills   

What Can You Do With a Graduate Degree In Population, Family And Reproductive Health?

Sample careers.

• Policy Associate
• Program Officer
• Public Health Advisor
• Research Associate
• Research Data Analyst

Curriculum for the MSPH in Population, Family and Reproductive Health

Browse an overview of the requirements for this master's program in the JHU  Academic Catalogue , explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory .

Areas of Interest

The Department's current areas of interest in the MSPH program include:

• Child and Adolescent Health
• Maternal, Fetal and Perinatal Health
• Population and Health
• Women, Sexual and Reproductive Health

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page. This specific program also requires:

Prior Coursework

A general-level biology or biological science course, an upper-level mathematics course (calculus and statistics recommended), and a social science course

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores (GRE, MCAT) are  optional  for this program. The admissions committee will make no assumptions if a standardized test score is omitted from an application, but will require evidence of quantitative/analytical ability through other application components such as academic transcripts and/or supplemental questions.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

The Master’s Tuition Scholarship is available to students in good academic standing in a two-year, full-time master’s program. The MTS is a 75% reduction in tuition for year two of an eight-term program. Students have the option of distributing the scholarship entirely in their second year of study or receive a 25% reduction in tuition their first year and 50% in their second year.

Opportunities are available in the department for students to be Teaching Assistants or Research Assistants.

Questions about the program? We're happy to help. 

Academic Program Manager Kristen McCormick Master's Programs 410-955-1116 [email protected]

Academic Program Manager Gilbert Morgan Doctoral Program 410-614-6676 [email protected]

MS in Public Health

The distinctive mission of the Master of Science in Public Health is to prepare the next generation of researchers for global health and disease prevention around the world in order to advance global health research and reduce the burden of disease, especially in the worlds’ most vulnerable and risk associated populations. Graduates of the MS program will be prepared to contribute to the improvement of global health and the solution of disease prevention.

Please note: Only students in our existing Public Health PhD program who determine that the PhD track is not fit for them, or due to extenuating circumstances and are not able to continue toward the PhD, would be able to earn the MS in Public Health degree.

Students who wish to pursue fields outside of education can transfer from the PhD in Public Health to the MS in Public Health upon mastery of the required courses in the preparatory and concentration modules.

Learning Outcomes for the Concentration in Disease Prevention:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the major theoretical underpinnings of strategies for disease prevention.
• Explain the relationship between theory and research methods focused on understanding the association of risk, behavior, and vulnerability with respect to disease pathways.
• Analyze interrelationships among the determinants of illness and maladaptive health behaviors using theories of health behavior.
• Formulate research hypotheses in the intersection of health risk factors, health behavior, and health promotion and policies toward disease prevention.
• Compose research proposals and conduct original research resulting in discoveries that contribute to improved understanding of the role of behavior and health promotion strategies in mitigating the vulnerability to health risk factors in specific populations, with the goals of applying the knowledge to disease prevention.

Learning Outcomes for the Concentration in Global Health:

• Demonstrate knowledge of the major theoretical underpinnings of advances in global health research.
• Explain the relationship between theory and research methods focused on understanding the association of risk, vulnerability, and outcome in global health.
• Compare and contrast the health status of different populations with respect to their burden of disease.
• Formulate research hypotheses in the intersection of risk factors, vulnerable populations, and burden of disease.
• Compose research proposals and conduct original research resulting in discoveries that contribute to improved understanding of risk factors and variations in disease burden in a population, and strategies to alleviate the burden at the global level.

Time to Degree

Students cannot apply to the MS program and therefore there is no expected time to degree. Only students in our existing Public Health PhD program who determine that the PhD track is not fit for them, or due to extenuating circumstances are not able to continue toward the PhD would be able to earn the MS in Public Health degree.

Career Opportunities

The MS in Public Health prepares graduates to pursue careers in policy analysis, monitoring and evaluation of public health programs, and academic and programmatic research. They will engage and develop global health research at national and international government agencies, NGOs, the private sector and academic institutions.

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Masters in Public Health (MPH)

Programme coordinators.

Programme Director : Professor Mary Codd, Associate Professor of Epidemiology & Biostatistics

Programme Co-Director : Professor Patrick Wall, Professor of Public Health & Veterinary Medicine

Programme Objectives

The Masters in Public Health (MPH) is an internationally recognised degree which provides education and training in the core disciplines of Public/Population Health i.e. Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Health Education & Behavioural Sciences, Health Services Administration (Council on Education in Public Health, CEPH).  These skills are increasingly important in light of the challenges of providing appropriate, equitable and cost-effective health services in the 21st Century.  The perspectives and skills acquired are important to both employers and employees in Public Health. 

Following successful completion of the course, the postgraduate student will have acquired the following:

• Knowledge of the factors influencing health status.
• The epidemiological skills of study design and analysis.
• A proper understanding of the Public Health function.
• Ability to work as an active team member in planning, implementing, monitoring and evaluating health policy.
• Skills to assess the health status of populations.
• Critical appraisal and effective problem-solving attributes.
• An understanding of the organisation and financing of Health Services and their impact on population health.
• The capacity to integrate a range of disciplines effectively.

Programme Structure

This is a 90 credit taught Masters programme. Each student takes 70 credits of taught modules, of which 55 credits are for core modules and 15 for optional modules (see below).  In addition each student undertakes a 20-credit dissertation on an assigned topic.  

Students may opt to take a general MPH or one of a number of specialised MPH degrees - see below.  

Masters in Public Health (Nutrition)

This specialised MPH degree provides the skills to work in nutrition-related health promotion, in the health service, industry, government departments, education and research in public health nutrition. Applicants should hold a primary degree in a nutrition related subject. Students take the core modules and a selection of modules from the optional list appropriate to their discipline.

Masters in Public Health (International)

This specialised MPH degree provides the skills to work in an international environment, in surveillance, emerging infectious and chronic diseases globally and health policy with international relevance.   

Core Modules

• Fundamentals of Epidemiology 
• Biostatistics I
• Public Health Practice
• Chronic Disease Epidemiology
• Infectious Diseases Epidemiology
• Sociology & Social Epidemiology
• Health Promotion 
• Introduction to Environmental Science & Health
• Principles of Management, Health Economics & Health Policy
• Applied Research Methods & Data Management

Optional Modules

• Introduction to Diet, Health and Lifestyle
• Exercise in the Lifespan
• Clinical Trials
• Biostatistics II
• Risk Perception, Communication and Behaviour Change
• Nutritional Epidemiology
• International Health I
• International Health II
• Genetic Epidemiology

Dissertation

Each candidate must present a 20 credit dissertation on a subject allocated by the School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, which shall embody a detailed literature review, analysis of a dataset and a fully elaborated research proposal outline. 

Duration of Programme

The full time MPH extends over an academic year (September to July inclusive).  There is an option to take the MPH on a part time basis.  This can be discussed with the Programme Director.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should hold a primary degree at a minimum of 2nd Class Honours Grade 1 (H2.1) in a relevant discipline.  Queries may be directed to the Programme Director.  An interview may precede acceptance to the course.  

Candidates whose first language is not English and whose primary degree was obtained in a country where English is not the official language of instruction must provide proof of proficiency in English such as IELTS or TOEFL. The original certificate of completion of an English language test must be enclosed with the application. In all cases the test results must not be more than 2 years old. THERE ARE NO EXCEPTIONS TO THIS REQUIREMENT.

The following are the English language tests and scores accepted by this School:

IELTS [International English Language Testing System–Academic]

Minimum Overall Band Score of 7, with a result NOT LESS than 6.0 in EACH of the individual sections.

Application 

Applications are online.  (opens in a new window) Apply here.

For more information, please contact:

Postgraduate Administrator  UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science, University College Dublin Belfield, Dublin 4 Ireland

Tel.: +353 (0)1 716 3429 Fax: +353 (0)1 716 3421

e-mail:  [email protected] ' page" target="_blank" rel="noopener" tabindex="0"> (opens in a new window) [email protected]

NB: Information on the MPH programmes is subject to change.

• To apply, please click here.
• For information on fees and payments, please click here .

Professional Certificates

(opens in a new window) Professional Certificate in Epidemiology and Biostatistics 

(opens in a new window) Professional Certificate in Biostatistics 

UCD School of Public Health, Physiotherapy and Sports Science

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Master’s in Public Health vs. Master’s in Healthcare Administration

• Careers in Healthcare Administration

14 October, 2021

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UCLA Professor in Healthcare Management and Executive Director of Executive Programs in Health Policy and Management Leah Vriesman emphasized the opportunities for administrators to widen access to care and bring their expertise into a wide range of organizations. “It’s important that healthcare administrators understand community health and social determinants of health, and not only treat healthcare as a business,” she said.

An advanced degree can provide valuable experience in research-based decision-making that drives improvements at all levels of an organization. Professionals may benefit from earning either a master’s in public health or a master’s in healthcare administration , but there are significant differences between these two pathways. In this article, we’ll discuss the curriculum in an MPH vs. MHA program and the careers you can pursue with each of these degrees.

What Is a Master of Public Health (MPH)?

An MPH readies graduates for roles focused on improving health throughout a community. Public health professionals strive to find equitable solutions to public health problems, studying how issues like violence, injuries and infectious disease impact different populations and how systems of care address these needs. These experts are often at the forefront of implementing policies and practices that help people lead safer, fuller lives in preventive, acute, and post-acute/chronic settings. Students typically complete an MPH in two years through a combination of coursework and experiential learning, such as internships or field training .

What Is a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA)?

An MHA is an advanced degree for professionals interested in the practices of delivering and paying for care while using technological innovation to advance the industry. Through MHA coursework , students gain the interdisciplinary knowledge and hands-on experience to make data-driven improvements in their organizations. Graduates are prepared to incorporate new technologies into operations, manage staff, support patients and provide access to high-quality treatment for diverse populations.

MHA graduates work in administrative roles at healthcare facilities, but this degree can also be applied in payer organizations, nonprofits, and device and biopharmaceutical companies. Experts in healthcare administration are equipped to manage complex processes like supply chain management efficiently or data-driven analytics while following all relevant regulations and policies. With an advanced understanding of data collection and skills, HIPAA compliance, and organizational problem solving, these professionals lead the way in an ever-changing healthcare landscape.

Interested in the differences between a Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA), a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a Master of Business Administration (MBA) in Healthcare Management? This comparison table provides an overview of each degree’s distinguishing features, including curriculum content, potential career outcomes, average salaries and more.

Choosing the Right Healthcare Curriculum

An MPH or an MHA provides graduates with integral theoretical and practical knowledge to advance in the healthcare industry. Both are professional degrees that require a bachelor’s degree for admission, and many programs also require work experience in healthcare, administration or a related field. Students can often complete either an MHA or MPH in two years, depending on factors such as their prior educational preparation, current schedule and long-term goals.

A study led by UCLA Professor of Health Policy and Management Laura Erskine found that incoming students to healthcare administration and public health master’s programs indicated similar levels of interest in cost, networking opportunities and career options. When deciding where to apply, MHA students were somewhat more likely to look for a prestigious institution that’s earned broad name recognition and high rankings , but overall students were looking for many of the same things. Though the similarities between degrees make both appealing options for aspiring health professionals, there are nonetheless important distinctions in skills development and career outcomes.

Master’s in Public Health Curriculum

Usually housed in a school of public health, MPH programs encompass topics in the social contexts of communicable disease, mental health and health equity. Students examine the impact of race, gender, economic class and other factors on community wellness. An MPH curriculum develops data-gathering and analytical skills that can be applied across a wide spectrum of issues. Through classroom learning and practical experience, students learn to establish measures that improve health and limit risks.

To obtain accreditation, the CEPH requires public health graduate programs to feature coursework in five areas:

• Biostatistics
• Environmental health
• Epidemiology
• Health administration and policy
• Health behavior and promotion

Programs may build on these fundamentals with courses in:

• Global health
• Healthcare program evaluation
• Public health law
• Public health financing
• Qualitative and quantitative analysis

MPH students often complete a capstone or internship to gain firsthand experience in applying their knowledge to real-world problems. Some programs also require students to prepare for the job market by passing the Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam .

In a Master of Healthcare Administration program, students focus more on the economics, legal, human resources, and strategic discipline of running healthcare organizations. Additionally, this curriculum includes how to strategically lead employees and thoroughly plan finances, comply with ethical and legal guidelines, and form strategic partnerships or networks with other organizations. Professionals develop plans to improve costs for providers and patients, increase the quality of care and expand access to treatment.

MHA programs typically offer courses in:

• Healthcare accounting
• Ethics and law of healthcare
• Healthcare financial management
• Healthcare organizational behavior and leadership
• Strategic business policy
• Data analytics and visualization
• Quality management
• Healthcare marketing
• Human resource management
• Statistics for decision-making

MHA programs may also offer dynamic team projects such as business plan development, e-health hackathons and national health reform advocacy to prepare graduates for management and leadership roles. As with an MPH, master’s programs in health administration often require a capstone so graduates gain marketable experience in addressing an administrative issue at a working organization with a research-based strategy.

Healthcare Leadership Careers

Master’s degrees in public health and healthcare administration prepare graduates for leadership roles in a variety of work environments. Professionals may find careers with a master’s in healthcare administration at medical practices, pharmaceutical companies or insurance organizations. Careers with a master’s in public health might involve working at a governmental or nonprofit organization or also at healthcare delivery sites. Here are some possible roles for experts in each of these fields:

Master’s in Public Health Careers

• Biostatistician : Biostatisticians derive data from biological sources to study public health issues like disease, substance abuse and mental disorders. Their work may include studying the efficacy of a drug or examining how a large-scale intervention can reduce the spread of a disease.
• Epidemiologist : Universities and governmental organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and National Institutes of Health employ epidemiologists to study disease outbreaks and patterns of illness or injury. These professionals look at the sources of public health risks and make recommendations for preventative measures.
• Occupational Health and Safety Specialist : These public health workers use their advanced knowledge of population health to ensure an organization’s employees work in a safe environment that promotes wellness.
• Social and Community Services Manager : Nonprofits and governmental agencies often need individuals with a strong understanding of public health to administer critical services. In this managerial position, professionals oversee the distribution of resources and services to populations in need, such as homeless people and senior citizens.
• Health Policy & Management Professionals : There is some overlap between healthcare administration and MPH programs that have a strong program in health policy and management. Graduates often have taken policy-intensive coursework in maternal and child nutrition, tobacco and cancer control, nutrition, and pharmaceutical economics that lead them into management organizations with programs in these areas.

Master’s in Healthcare Administration Careers

• Central Admissions Director : This role manages and leads inpatient and outpatient admissions at hospitals, nursing homes and other facilities. In addition to tracking patient admissions and discharges, directors may also make recommendations for increasing the quality and availability of care. Directors hire, train and supervise other admissions staff.
• Chief Administrative Officer : In any type of healthcare organization, the CAO leads division operations, employees and clinical faculty to deliver healthcare services. This role could be in direct patient care such as a pediatric service line, or it could be nonclinical care such as supply chain management and inventory systems.
• Health Benefits Administrator : These professionals help other employees register for and navigate health insurance policies, including selecting the proper level of coverage and filing claims. The administrator may also be responsible to select a provider and the levels of benefits available.
• Hospital Chief Executive Officer (CEO) : Like many other businesses, hospitals have CEOs to direct operations like marketing efforts, hiring practices, safety policies and community engagement. CEOs must be effective leaders and communicators who develop strategies that keep a hospital financially sound while providing outstanding patient care.
• Informatics Manager : Informatics managers implement electronic medical record systems and train employees to use them. These administrators must understand the practice’s needs so they can optimize the system accordingly.
• Pharmaceutical Executive : Leaders at pharmaceutical companies make key decisions that determine how drugs and medical devices are developed, tested, manufactured, shipped and used. An executive’s duties may include managing inventory, building relationships with physicians and overseeing marketing efforts.
• Research Facility Administrator : Medications and other treatments are the result of painstaking research. These administrators work in academic or corporate laboratories, ensuring studies follow institutional and ethical guidelines. They manage budgets and keep facilities equipped with the resources necessary to meet their research goals.

Further reading : What Can You Do With a Master’s Degree in Healthcare Administration (MHA)?

Salary and Job Outlook

The US Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts that an aging population and expanded technology will lead to a rise in healthcare occupations through 2030. Medical and health services managers earn an average of $104,280 per year . The BLS projects that jobs in this field will grow by 32% between 2020 and 2030, much faster than the average of 8% for all occupations. Professionals with master’s degrees often have increased advancement opportunities, especially for top executive roles.

Similarly, public health professionals can leverage a master’s degree for positions that promote community well-being. For instance, the BLS expects epidemiologist jobs to increase 30% from 2020 to 2030. Biostatisticians earn a median salary of $93,290 and may see job growth of 33% in the same 10-year period. A Lightcast analysis of positions for policy analysts showed that expertise in public health and safety was one of the most in-demand specialized skills, appearing in about 15% of job postings over 12 months from 2020 to 2021.

Top Skills for Master’s in Healthcare Administration and Master’s in Public Health Jobs

Any career in healthcare requires a mix of hard and soft skills. Technical abilities in working with and protecting data are valuable as more health processes go digital. Soft skills like organization and communication are also vital for ensuring an organization progresses toward its goals with employees collaborating productively.

However, professionals in healthcare administration and public health often need distinct abilities to excel in their roles. Below is a breakdown of important skills needed for public health and healthcare administration professionals. Though the fields share a need for financial knowledge, administration generally requires more interpersonal, management-focused abilities. In contrast, public health workers often need more advanced skills in research, planning and other behind-the-scenes tasks that deal with broad populations rather than individuals.

In-Demand Skills

Source: Lightcast .

The UCLA Fielding School of Public Health’s online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) helps leaders build the specialized knowledge and leadership capabilities to guide organizations in an era of rapid change and complex challenges. Through coursework and faculty mentorship, MHA students learn principles of data analytics, organizational behavior, marketing, finance and business. The ongoing transformations in healthcare demand leaders with the skills to deliver innovation, drive efficiency, secure records and protect communities.

About the Online Master of Healthcare Administration at UCLA

The online Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) from the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health can prepare you for leadership roles in healthcare organizations. The MHA curriculum builds multidisciplinary skills in areas such as analytics, budgeting and effective communication. This program explores the concepts and strategies that managers and executives apply to achieve improved health outcomes and more efficient operations.

Courses in the MHA are taught by groundbreaking researchers and experienced professionals in both healthcare and management. Faculty members at the UCLA Fielding School participate in global efforts to improve the well-being of communities and lead research centers dedicated to pioneering work in public health. UCLA ranks No. 1 among public universities according to U.S. News & World Report.

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Fill out the fields to download a program brochure and request more information about the online Master of Healthcare Administration from the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health. You can also contact a program representative with your questions by calling toll-free at (877) 819-5033 .

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School of Public Health – Bloomington Bulletin 2024-2025

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Graduate Academic Programs

Master's degree programs, master of science in applied health science degree (m.s.a.h.s.), health promotion major, description of program, degree requirements, special opportunities.

Health Promotion enables individuals and communities to increase control over and improve their health. Graduate level students acquire skills for serving as health education and promotion specialists in educational, clinical, occupational, and community settings and for managing a diverse array of Health Education and promotion programs.

A minimum of 33 graduate credit hours is required for the Health Promotion program. A minimum 3.0 cumulative grade point average (GPA) is required for graduation. A minimum grade of C is required in each course. All electives for completing the degree must be approved by the advisor.

Required Courses (27 cr.)

Public Health Foundations Requirement (0 credits) All new master's degree students must complete the Public Health Foundations online course no later than the end of their first semester of graduate study. Complete details and registration information for this course can be found  iu.instructure.com/enroll/MNG3L6

Complete each of the following Research & Research Tool Courses: (6 Cr.)

• SPH-Q501 Introduction to Statistics in Public Health (3 cr.) Or Equivalent
• SPH B650 Quantitative Methods I for Public Health Research (3 cr.) Or B634 Sexual Health Research and Evaluation (3 cr.)

Complete each of the following Health Promotion core courses (6 Cr.):

• SPH-B 589 Theory & Conceptual Frameworks in Public Health (3 Cr.)
• SPH-H 500 Foundations of Health Promotion (3 Cr.)

Complete each of the following Health Promotion major courses (12 cr.):

• SPH H 519 Contemporary Issues in Health Promotion (3 Cr.)
• SPH H 552 Instructional Planning for Public Health Settings (3 Cr.) Or H633 Advanced Instructional Methods in Sexual and Reproductive Health (3 Cr.)+
• SPH-H 562 Health Program Evaluation (3 Cr.)
• SPH-H 662 Acquiring and Managing External Funds (3 cr.)

Complete capstone project/experience options (3 cr.):

• SPH X 580 Qualitative Research in Public Health (3 cr.) Or comparable independent research course as determined in consultation with an advisor

Elective Courses (6 cr.)

Complete 6 credits of graduate-level elective course work preferably with the following prefixes: B, F, H, N, P, Q, S or other to be approved by academic advisor, based on student career goals and interests.

Recommended Electives:

• SPH-B 602 Intervention Design (3 Cr.)
• SPH-B 630 Sexual and Reproductive Health Surveillanc (3 Cr.)+
• SPH-B 632 Sexual Health: Contemporary Discoveries and Controversies (3 Cr.)+
• SPH-H 518 Alcohol and Drug Education (3 Cr.)
• SPH-H 555 Issues in Human Sexuality and Health (3 Cr.)
• SPH-H 595 Practicum in Sexual and Reproductive Health Education (3 Cr.)
• SPH-H 697 Internship in Health Promotion (3 Cr.)
• SPH-S 552 Principles of Workplace Safety Behavior (3 Cr.)

+ Only students completing the Graduate Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health

Students matriculated into the M.S. in Health Promotion degree program may also wish to complete one of the alternate online graduate certificates listed below. Some graduate certificate course work may be taken as “electives”; however, concentration completion may require course work beyond the minimally required 33 credits. Interested students should plan their entire course of study, including all online certificate course work, in close consultation with their advisor.

Online Graduate Certificate in Gerontology and Health (12 credits) Successful completion of the following requirements earns the student an online graduate Certificate in Gerontology and Health.

Complete the following course.

• SPH-H 524 –or-- EDUC-P 513 Multidisciplinary Perspectives in Gerontology (3 cr.)

Complete three (9 cr.) courses from the following.

• EDUC-D 505 Adult Learning through the Lifespan (3 cr.)
• EDUC-D 506 Adult Education Planning and Development (3 cr.)
• EDUC-P 517 Adult Development and Aging (3 cr.)
• SPH-B 535 Contemporary Issues in Aging and Health (3 cr.)
• SPH-B 615 Health Longevity, and Integrative Therapies for the Later Years (3 cr.)

Online Graduate Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health (15 credits) Successful completion of the following five courses earns the student an online graduate Certificate in Sexual and Reproductive Health.

• SPH-B 630 Sexual and Reproductive Health Surveillance (3 cr.)
• SPH-B 632 Sexual Health: Contemporary Discoveries and Controversies (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 633 Advanced Instructional Methods in Sexual and Reproductive Health (3 cr.)
• SPH-B 634 Sexual Health Research and Evaluation (3 cr.)
• SPH-X660 Population Health Department (3 cr.)

Online Graduate Certificate in Safety Management (12 credits) Successful completion of the following four courses earns the student an online graduate Certificate in Safety Management.

• SPH-S 502 Instructional Strategies for Safety Education (3 cr.)
• SPH-S 513 Safety Management in Business and Industry (3 cr.)
• SPH-S 610 Occupational Risk Management (3 cr.)
• SPH-S 632 Safety & Health Program Design (3 cr.)

Online Graduate Certificate in Addiction Intervention (15 credits) Successful completion of the following five courses earns the student an online graduate Certificate in Addiction Intervention.

• SPH-H 664 Public Health Approaches to Substance Use Disorder Prevention for Adolescents and Young Adults (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 665 Substance Use DisorderTreatment for Adolescents and Young Adults in the Context of Public Health (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 670 Introduction to Co-Occurring Substance Use and Mental Health Disorders for Public Health Professionals (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 667 History of Public Health Approaches to Substance Use Disorder Treatment and Recovery for Adolescents and Young Adults (3 cr.)
• SPH-H 668 Motivational Interviewing (3 cr.)

Students develop professional skills through required capstone project near the end of the program of study that can be completed in a variety of settings afforded by the Bloomington community. Students can also be involved in research with faculty members and fellow students.

Prospects for employment are excellent. Sources of potential employment for program graduates are numerous and include public and private colleges; local, state, and federal agencies; international agencies; voluntary health agencies; professional associations; clinics, hospitals, and private health care facilities; business; industry; and the military. 

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