MPH Degree

Every year, a number of publications rank college programs for students. Although some just rank colleges overall, others specifically cover one program of study. As a potential student, these program rankings, but generalized and specific, are helpful in determining which college to attend if you’re interested in a Masters in Public Health (MPH) education.

One of the most popular college ranking list is compiled annually by U.S. News and World Report. This list not only gives you the more generalized look at master’s degree programs, but every few years, they also publish a specialized list for students interested in an advanced degree in public health. This is just a starting point, however. You can also check out other college program ranking lists, as well as check the current accreditation list with the Council on Education for Public Health, one of the national programs that accredits schools across the country and online.

The schools that top the rankings list change from year to year. However, these lists use common factors to develop the rankings every year, so some characteristics of top schools that should concern you include the following:

• Class size
• Professor education and publications
• Research resources
• College reputation
• Student graduation rate
• Availability of financial aid
• Number of students who find jobs soon after graduation
• Student selectivity

Keep in mind, however, that the parameters used by publications who rank MPH programs don’t necessarily tell the whole story. When researching colleges, it is important to find the school that is right for you, which doesn’t necessarily translate to be the school that is on the top of a ranking list. What are some other characteristics you can consider?

Internship Availability

When completing a MPH program, doing an internship may or may not be required. Either way, having this kind of experience on your resume is invaluable when you begin looking for a public health job after graduation. If there’s a specific employer that interests you, find out if they have an internship program and, if so, which colleges work with them to run these programs.

Flexibility

Flexible master’s degree programs are perfect for people who can’t afford to quit their job to be a full-time student in the traditional sense. Unfortunately, flexibility comes at a price, since it can take longer for you to get a degree if you aren’t a full-time student. Online programs are also typically more flexible, though these public health programs may not offer as many options when it comes to student activities, networking, and internship placement. It depends on the specific program you attend, so research the top-ranked programs carefully

Tuition Cost

While the cost of tuition shouldn’t be the primary reason you choose one college over another, this is a factor that you need to consider. The more expensive schools aren’t always the best programs, so again, research is key. Find out how your money is spent and what benefits you’ll receive by going to a more expensive school. Remember to factor in the grants and student loans you’ll be eligible to receive if you enroll in an MPH program, as well as campus opportunities for work, such as fellowship programs.

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...