MPH Degree

If you’re interested in a master’s degree in public health, there are a number of different options you have for getting this kind of education. No one type of course is better than another; it depends on your personal preferences. Before you apply to any program, however, take a moment to consider all of the options.

Campus versus Online MPH Programs

If you’re on the fence about going back to school to get your master’s degree in public health, one of the reasons may be that you’re unsure how much time you have to spend on an educational program while you’re also working. This is perhaps the biggest benefit to finding online programs. If you’re a more hands-on learner, a traditional campus college may be best for you, but online MPH programs have a number of other benefits. In addition to being more flexible for working public health employee, online programs are also typically less expensive, and have the added benefit of allowing you to connect to other students and professors from around the world.

Full Time versus Part Time MPH Programs

For students who want to finish their education as quickly as possible, a full time program is the best option. In just one to two years, you can get your master’s degree and be working in an advanced position in the field of public health. However, this schedule doesn’t work for every student, especially if you’re currently already working in the healthcare field. So, part time programs that have your taking just one or two classes at a time (instead of three or four – or even more) are available for those who want to get a master’s degree more slowly, over the course of three or four years.

Accelerated MPH Programs

Some colleges offer accelerated MPH programs for students with unique education experience in the past. For example, if you already have a master’s degree or even a doctorate in a closely related field, you may not have to retake every class that is usually required for an MPH degree. Instead, you’ll “test out” of some classes, and be looking at a much shorter schedule, usually one year or less. Accelerated programs may also refer to special programs where students are encouraged to take classes through the summer, with few breaks. This allows you to complete your MPH degree as fast as possible.

Which program is right for you? Actually, there is not one right or wrong answer to that question. The program you should take to get your master’s degree in public health depends on your specific needs as a student and you career goals after graduation. Don’t forget that you can also consider related master’s degree programs, such as a master in health administration with a concentration in public health or a master’s of science in healthcare. There are lots of options for pursuing a career in public healthcare, and there are both scholarships and grants to help you pay for your education, no matter what type of program you ultimately choose.

Top Online MPH Degree Programs

A Master of Public Health online degree will open new doors to your career in healthcare and health education. The six specializations of the public health study – administration, behavioral sciences, biostatistics, environmental sciences, epidemiology, and health promotion – are all available at the following list of the top colleges offering online MPH degree programs.

	Capella University's Master of Public Health program prepares graduates for careers in public health management, social welfare, or research. The curriculum includes the behavioral, psychological, and social factors that contribute to the health of populations. Courses include International Public Health, Environmental Health Concepts in Public Health, and Principles of Biostatistics. Capella also offers MPH specializations in health management & policy and social & behavioral sciences. Learn more about Capella...
	Graduates of the Walden University Master of Public Health degree program or MPA in health policy program fill the increasing need for health professionals that must understand the development of healthy individuals, organizations, and communities. The programs provide core study in the public health field, uses a real-world teaching methodology, has industry leading professors, and includes a practical fieldwork practicum. Learn more about Walden...
	The MPH degree program at Grand Canyon University specializes in disease prevention and community health. Its curriculum uses a multidisciplinary approach emphasizing psychological, behavioral, and social factors influencing population-based health disparities. The program also includes a practicum and capstone project where students can design the program to best fit their area of specific interest. Learn more about GCU...
	The Kaplan University Master of Public Health degree program readies students for healthcare jobs in governmental, nonprofit, or private organizations. The online program provides students on-demand education on how to analyze and apply scientific research, prepare public health policies, develop health education programs, and review the impact of occupational and environmental factors. Within Kaplan's MPH program, specializations are offered in epidemiology, health education, and public health program development. Learn more about Kaplan...
	The Master of Health Administration program at the University of Phoenix prepares students to analyze current health care environments and have the tools necessary to improve their management. The MHA program in health care education features specializations including gerontology, informatics, and public health education. The University of Phoenix is one of the world's most recognized names in education. Learn more about University of Phoenix...