The Master of Public Health is a graduate degree for current and future public health professionals or students who want advanced training and education in public health. MPH professionals work to protect and improve the lives of individuals and communities. Public health professionals with their MPH degree work in a variety of settings including:
- nonprofits
- hospitals
- government organizations
- health maintenance organization
According to PayScale.com, the average salary for an individual with their MPH is $64,974 with higher salaries for individuals in leadership roles.
Featured Programs
Rating and Ranking Methodology
We created this ranking to showcase the top Master of Public Health (MPH) programs in the United States. The ranking system is based upon a combination of important factors, including cost and student: faculty ratio. There are hundreds of MPH programs around the country, so we chose to focus on programs accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). CEPH accredited programs have completed an extensive review and meet national standards for public health education. We selected schools offering an MPH with at least one area of specialization, providing added value to students.
We considered student: faculty ratios in our ranking because we feel small class size is valuable when working on a degree as specialized as a master’s in public health. Average graduate tuition rates were collected from College Navigator. Where there are ties, the school with the lowest average graduate tuition is favored.
Student/Faculty ratio:
- 10:1 or less- 3 points
- 11:1 to 15:1- 2 points
- 16:1 and above- 1 point
Average Graduate Tuition Rate:
- Less than $10,000- 5 points
- $10,001 to $20,000- 4 points
- $20,001 to $30,000- 3 points
- $30,001 to $40,000- 2 points
- Greater than $40,000- 1 point
#35 –Brown University – Providence, Rhode Island
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $57,112/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Areas of Emphasis: Generalist; Epidemiology; Global Health; Health Behavior; Health Services; Maternal and Child Health; Mindfulness
Points: 4
Brown School of Public Health created a top public health master’s degree program to train future public health leaders who can conduct research, influence policy change, and make a positive impact on the health of a variety of populations. All students complete a thesis that may be:
- a program evaluation
- policy assessment
- research
An internship provides students with applied public health experience. Core courses include:
- Designing and Evaluating Public Health Interventions
- Biostatistics and Applied Data Analysis
- Applied Public Health: Policy, Leadership and Communication
Several dual degree programs are available for students to complete at an accelerated pace including an MPH/MPA, a give year UG/MPH, and a five-year MD/MPH.
#34 –Johns Hopkins University – Baltimore, Maryland
Bloomberg School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $55,350/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Areas of Emphasis: Aging and Public Health; Child and Adolescent Health; Epidemiologic & Biostatistical Methods for Public Health & Clinical Research; Food, Nutrition and Health; Food Systems and Public Health; Global Environmental Sustainability & Health; Health in Crisis and Humanitarian Assistance; Health Leadership and Management; Health Systems and Policy; Infectious Diseases; Social & Behavioral Sciences in Public Health; Women’s and Reproductive Health
Points: 4
The top Master of Public Health from the Bloomberg School of Public Health at Johns Hopkins University has set the standard for global public health. They offer an 11-month, full-time program and an online/part-time program that can be finished in two to three years. The interdisciplinary structure gives students a broad foundation with the flexibility to change focus areas. Required courses include:
- Population Dynamics and Public Health
- The Social Determinants of Public Health
- Negotiation and Mediation for Public Health Professionals
Students complete a 100-clock hour practicum experience that aligns with their professional goals. The capstone project serves as the culminating experience, allowing students to synthesize and apply their knowledge to a public health challenge.
#33 –Tulane University – New Orleans, Louisiana
School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $54,918/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 8:1
Areas of Emphasis: Community Health Sciences; Disaster Management; Epidemiology; Health Education and Communications; Health Policy; Health Systems Management; International Health and Development; Maternal and Child Health; Nutrition; Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences
Points: 4
Tulane University offers a top MPH for students with a passion for public health domestically and internationally. Tulane is the oldest school of public health in the country and the only combined school of public health and tropical medicine. There are 10 different MPH programs at Tulane, and each covers the five core areas of public health. Foundational courses include:
- Biostatistics
- Health Systems, Policy and Management
- Design Strategies for Public Health Programs
Tulane also offers several online MPH programs in areas like environmental health sciences and global community health.
#32 –Boston University – Boston, Massachusetts
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $54,720/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 10:1
Areas of Emphasis: Community Assessment, Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation; Environmental Health; Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Global Health Program Design, Monitoring, and Evaluation; Health Communication and Promotion; Health Policy and Law; Healthcare Management; Program Management; Chronic and Non-Communicable Diseases; Global Health; Human Rights and Social Justice; Infectious Disease; Maternal and Child Health; Mental Health and Substance Use; Pharmaceutical Development, Delivery, and Access; Sex, Sexuality, and Gender
Points: 4
Boston University School of Public Health offers a top master’s in public health that helps students transform lives and influence positive change. Their hands-on approach immerses students in difficult challenges facing health care professionals and gives them the opportunity to develop solutions that have a lasting impact. Full-time, part-time and hybrid program options are available, and the flexible format allows students to switch between full and part-time schedules. The integrated core curriculum provides students with a strong foundation to explore specialized training in one or two areas. A 240-clock hour practicum experience helps students develop professional skills, while the Integrative Learning Experience takes a deeper dive in the specialization area. All students are guaranteed scholarship aid, resulting in significant cost savings.
#31 –Harvard University – Cambridge, Massachusetts
Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $48,008/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 7:1
Areas of Emphasis: Global Health; Health and Social Behavior; Health Management; Health Policy; Occupational and Environmental Health; Quantitative Methods; Nutrition
Points: 4
The Harvard Chan School features one of the best public health master’s degree programs in the country. The curriculum has intellectual breadth while allowing students to focus on their career specialization. There are two MPH degree variants offered at Harvard, created for students with various experience and education levels. The 45-credit hour MPH is for students who have already completed a master’s, have at least five years of experience in the field, or are current medical or dental students who have finished their primary clinical year. This program can also be completed as part of a joint degree. The 65-credit hour program is a more traditional program that can be completed in three semesters with a summer practicum experience between semesters two and three.
#30 –Columbia University – New York, New York
Mailman School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
School Profile
Average graduate student tuition: $47,600/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Areas of Emphasis: Advanced Epidemiology; Applied Biostatistics; Child, Youth, and Family Health; Climate and Health; Comparative Effectiveness Outcomes Research; Environmental Health Policy; Epidemiology of Chronic Disease; Global Health; Health Communication; Health and Human Rights; Health of an Aging Society; Health Policy Analysis; Health Policy and Practice; Health Promotion Research and Practice; History, Ethics, and Law; Infectious Disease Epidemiology; Injury and Violence Prevention; Molecular Epidemiology; Population Mental Health; Public Health and Humanitarian Action; Public Health Research Methods; Sexuality, Sexual and Reproductive Health; Social Determinants of Health; Toxicology
Points: 4
The Mailman School of Public Health at Columbia University offers a unique Master of Public Health that is interdisciplinary, integrated, and collaborative. Most students can complete their degree in just two years, but an accelerated, one-year program is available to select students. The program is comprised of seven different elements that integrate with each other. These elements include:
- Core Curriculum
- Certificates
- Modules
- Discipline
- Practicum
- Leadership
- Integration of Science and Practice
Seasoned public health professionals can take advantage of the Executive Master of Public Health to gain an in-depth understanding of public health and develop the leadership and policy skills needed for career advancement.
#29 –Yale University – New Haven, Connecticut
Yale School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $43,300/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 6:1
Areas of Emphasis: Climate Change and Health Concentration; Global Health; Public Health Modeling; Regulatory Affairs Track; US Health and Justice Concentration
Points: 4
Yale School of Public Health features a top public health master’s degree taught by national and international leaders in the field. Students are encouraged to explore the interdisciplinary nature of the program by taking courses and forming collaborations with other areas of the university. The student: faculty ratio in public health is just 3.39, allowing students and faculty to partner in research and learning opportunities across 25 different research centers and programs. Yale also offers an Executive MPH in a hybrid format for working health professionals. This two-year, part-time program features four different program tracks.
#28 –Emory University – Atlanta, Georgia
Rollins School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $42,800/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Areas of Emphasis: Behavioral, Social, and Health Education Sciences; Biostatistics; Environmental Health; Environmental Health and Epidemiology; Global Environmental Health; Epidemiology; Global Epidemiology; Health Policy; Health Care Management; Global Health
Points: 4
With 10 different top MPH programs, Emory University offers a comprehensive public health program for students of various backgrounds. Each MPH program is unique and has its own set of requirements and expectations. All students complete a 200-400 clock hour applied practice experience in a public health setting. Core courses for all MPH programs include:
- Perspectives in Environmental Health
- Critical Issues in Global Health
- Behavioral Sciences in Public Health
Emory offers an accelerated MPH for external graduate/professional degree students and an executive MPH for professionals working in:
- applied epidemiology
- applied public health informatics
- prevention science.
#27 –Drexel University – Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Dornsife School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $35,181/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Areas of Emphasis: Community Health and Prevention; Environmental and Occupational Health; Epidemiology; Health Management and Policy; Global Health; Urban Health
Points: 4
The Dornsife MPH program at Drexel University is an interdisciplinary program that equips students with the skills needed to tackle tough public health issues. Online and on-campus program options are available, with a variety of concentration options. Program plans are offered in 12, 18, 21 and 33-month timelines. Students will complete over 300 hours of on-the-the job practice experience before completing their degree. Research opportunities are available with award-winning faculty. More than 16 different minors are currently offered to complement the MPH program, with additional options under consideration.
#26 –The George Washington University – Washington, DC
Milken Institute School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $31,770/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community Oriented Primary Care; Environmental Health Science and Policy; Epidemiology; Global Health Epidemiology and Disease Control; Global Environmental Health; Global Health Program Design, Monitoring and Evaluation; Global Health Policy; Health Policy; Health Promotion; Humanitarian Health; Maternal and Child Health; Physical Activity in Public Health; Public Health Communication and Marketing; Public Health Nutrition
Points: 4
The top value Master of Public Health at the Milken Institute of Public Health at The George Washington University is the only school of public health in Washington, DC. With exciting concentration areas like Community Oriented Primary Care and Global Health Epidemiology and Disease Control, GW is on the forefront of public health education. In addition to the residential MPH program, GW offers MPH@GW, an online MPH program taught by the same outstanding faculty. Students can take anywhere from 12 months to five years to complete the program depending on their schedule. Graduates are well prepared for exciting opportunities within the public health field.
#25 –University of Michigan – Ann Arbor, Michigan
School of Public Health-MPH in Population and Health Sciences
School Profile
Average graduate student tuition: $23,890/year in-state and $48,204/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 11:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Health Behavior and Health Education; Health Management and Policy; Nutritional Sciences; Population and Health Sciences
Points: 5
The School of Public Health at the University of Michigan offers a high-quality Master of Public Health online or on-campus. The residential two-year program is highly customizable and includes hands-on experience through internships. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience at the local and global level. This allows students to explore public health from diverse perspectives. The online MPH program is offered with a focus on population and health sciences. The University of Michigan is the top public research university in the United States according to the National Science Foundation. It awards more than $11 million in scholarships and tuition assistance.
#24 –University of Pittsburgh – Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Graduate School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $23,530/year in-state and $39,898/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 14:1
Areas of Emphasis: Behavioral and Community Health Sciences; Environmental and Occupational Health; Epidemiology; Health Policy and Management; Human Genetics; Infectious Disease Pathogenesis, Eradication, and Laboratory Practices; Infectious Disease Management, Intervention, and Community Practice; Multidisciplinary
Points: 5
The University of Pittsburgh Graduate School of Public Health offers eight different top public health master’s degree programs. Students gain the skills needed to work for an agency or an organization in the public health field. Optional graduate certificates are available in areas like:
- LGBT health and wellness
- global health
- health equity
A highlight of the program is the experiential learning component which is usually completed over the summer months. Pitt Public Health coordinates several programs with local and state agencies to provide professional development opportunities. One example is the Pittsburgh Summer Institute with the Allegheny County Health Department and the EXPO programs from the Mid-Atlantic Regional Public Health Training Center.
#23 –University of Washington – Seattle, Washington
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $18,198/year in-state and $32,439/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 20:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Global Health; Health Services; Nutritional Sciences
Points: 5
The University of Washington School of Public Health offers an exciting Master of Public Health featuring a new common core curriculum. This new curriculum integrates research and practice skills while exposing students to diverse perspectives and unique field opportunities. These core courses cover areas like public health interventions and determinants of health. Courses are taught using student-centered learning strategies, including case studies and working in small groups to solve problems. All students complete a supervised field-based experience in a professional public health practice setting.
#22 –Rutgers University – New Brunswick, New Jersey
Rutgers School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $17,736/year in-state and $30,144/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Global Public Health; Health Systems & Policy; Urban Public Health; Social and Behavioral Health Sciences; Public Health Nutrition; Occupational Health and Safety; Occupation and Environmental Medicine; Population Aging; LGBTQ Health; Leadership Practice and Research
Points: 5
Rutgers University is home to the only CEPH accredited graduate school of public health in the state of New Jersey. Their top MPH program includes nine concentrations, 10 different certificate options and a variety of global education and research opportunities. Students complete 45-credits and can complete their degree in about two years. Core courses include:
- Biostatistics
- Social and Behavioral Health Sciences in Public Health
- Leadership and Management Essentials for Public Health
Students can complete a certificate to enhance their skills and further develop their area of specialization. Current public health clinicians may be eligible for a 42-credit hour MPH program which helps them gain expertise in a specific area of public health.
#21 –University of Minnesota – Minneapolis, Minnesota
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $17,580/year in-state and $27,204/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community Health Promotion; Environmental Health; Epidemiology; Maternal & Child Health (standard & advanced standing options); Public Health Administration & Policy (also available in executive format); Public Health Nutrition; Public Health Practice (executive program)
Points: 5
The University of Minnesota emphasizes a multidisciplinary approach to public health through their MPH degree program. Their unique structure (six health sciences schools) is one of only a few such models in the country. This gives students the opportunity to work with faculty and staff with diverse knowledge and perspectives. The rigorous MPH program includes nine different concentration areas, several with executive or advanced standing options. Undergraduates in the College of Biological Sciences at UMN can earn their BS/BA and MPH together in just five years. Dual degree options are also available to students in areas like:
- business
- medicine
- nursing
- urban and regional planning.
#20 –University of Massachusetts – Amherst, Massachusetts
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $14,014/year in-state and $29,529/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Areas of Emphasis: Public Health Practice; Nutrition
Points: 5
The Master of Public Health at The University of Massachusetts Amherst was created in 2001 as the first fully-online, fully accredited MPH in the country. Since then, UMass Amherst has launched the only full-online, fully accredited MPH with a concentration in nutrition. Their MPH is a general concentration degree that allows students to tailor the program to align with their professional goals and interests. There are no residency requirements, making these programs a great choice for working professionals. Courses are offered in a flexible asynchronous format that allows students to log in at any time.
#19 –University of Illinois – Chicago, Illinois
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $13,276/year in-state and $23,850/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences; Health Policy and Administration; Maternal and Child Health; Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology; Public Health Informatics
Points: 5
The top Master of Public Health degrees offered by the University of Illinois Chicago prepare students from a variety of backgrounds for success in public health. UIC provides their public health students with an interprofessional education which helps them understand how their specific work adds value broader public health goals. An integrative learning experience serves as the culminating experience. Students create a high-quality written product that synthesizes their knowledge and skills in public health. All students complete an applied practice experience which gives them hands-on experience and practical skills in a public health organization. Joint degrees are also available in areas like business, social work, and urban planning.
Featured Programs
#18 –University of Maryland – College Park, Maryland
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $13,158/year in-state and $29,250/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Areas of Emphasis: Behavioral and Community Health; Biostatistics; Epidemiology; Environmental Health Sciences; Health Equity; Health Policy Analysis and Evaluation; Physical Activity; Public Health Practice and Policy (Online)
Points: 5
The University of Maryland has revamped their top Master of Public Health program to become a program of distinction. MPH and MHA students from all concentration areas complete 14 credit hours spread out over three semesters. These courses cover core areas in public health essential for both degree programs. Students complete the “Maryland Experience,” an internship unique to the Washington DC area that includes federal agencies and military organizations. A capstone project focused specifically on their area of concentration serves as the culminating experience. Full-time students can complete their degree in just two years.
#17 –University of Kentucky – Lexington, Kentucky
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $12,055/year in-state and $31,215/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Areas of Emphasis: Environmental Health; Epidemiology; Health Behavior; Population Health Policy and Management
Points: 5
The top public health master’s degree program at the University if Kentucky is a career-focused program that takes two years to complete. This 42-credit hour program includes core courses in:
- Data Analysis
- Public Health Systems Administration
- Epidemiology
All four concentration areas are offered in a traditional on-campus format. The Health Systems and Policy Analytics concentration is also available 100% online. Students come from a variety of backgrounds and experience levels. They do not need an undergraduate degree related to public health to be considered for admission. Graduates of this affordable MPH program work for organizations like the CDC and the National Institutes of Health.
#16 –Ohio State University – Columbus, Ohio
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $11,560/year in-state and $35,144/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biomedical Informatics; Biostatistics; Clinical Translational Science; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Health Behavior and Health Promotion; Program for Experienced Professionals; Veterinary Public Health
Points: 5
The Ohio State University features an innovative Master of Public Health that meets the needs of traditional students and current public health practitioners. The program is offered in a residential format and an online format for experienced public health professionals. Students are engaged in hands-on learning through an Applied Practice Experience, working alongside public health professionals. The culminating experience allows students to use their knowledge and skills to address a public health question or issue. OSU offers a veterinary public health specialization. This unique area of focus is one of only two in the entire country certified by the American College of Veterinary Preventative Medicine.
#15 –University of California – Berkeley, California
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $11,442/year in-state and $26,544/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Epidemiology/Biostatistics; Global Health & Environment; Health & Social Behavior; Health Policy & Management; Infectious Diseases & Vaccinology; Interdisciplinary; Maternal & Child Health; Public Health Nutrition
Points: 5
Berkeley Public Health prepares students to become public health leaders in one of six different specialized areas. Berkeley is recognized by the CDC as one of nine health promotion and disease prevention research centers in the U.S. Their MPH program offerings are consistent with their commitment to social justice. There are nine different concentration areas offered in a traditional on-campus format, giving students a variety of specializations. Mid-level professional can complete their MPH in a flexible online format, earning their degree in just 27 months. MPH students have access to a variety of resources including:
- one-on-one advising
- mentorship
- public health career information.
#14 –University of California – Los Angeles, California
Fielding School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $11,442/year in-state and $26,544/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community Health Sciences; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Health Policy and Management
Points: 5
The Fielding School of Public Health at UCLA offers a top MPH with specializations offered across the School’s five different unique departments. The UCLA Fielding School of Public Health was founded in 1961. It’s known as one of the most diverse schools, with students from over 25 different countries. MPH programs are offered in all five of the School’s academic departments. While most MPH program options at UCLA take two years to complete, they offer accelerated options for students with specific credentials, including a clinical doctoral degree. UCLA also offers an Executive MPH program for students working full-time while completing their degree. Courses are taught by world-renowned faculty. Hands-on training opportunities prepare students to become public health leaders.
#13 –University at Albany, SUNY – Albany, New York
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $11,310/year in-state and $23,100/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 18:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biomedical Sciences; Biostatistics; Environmental Health Sciences; Epidemiology; Health Policy and Management; Social Behavior and Community Health
Points: 5
The University at Albany-State University of New York is a top public research University located in the capital of New York. UAlbany offers a CEPH accredited Master of Public Health for full and part-time students. An online part-time MPH is available for working professionals. Core courses include:
- Health Care Organization Delivery and Financing
- Social and Behavioral Aspects of Health
- Biological Basis of Public Health
All students complete a 720-clock hour professional internship with two different public health organizations. Research internships are available in the world renown Wadsworth Center.
#12 –University of Florida – Gainesville, Florida
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $10,770/year in-state and $27,335/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental Health; Epidemiology; Population Health Management; Social and Behavioral Sciences; Public Health Practice
Points: 5
The Master of Public Health at the University of Florida provides students with everything they need to make a difference in the field of public health. UF offers many different unique concentrations to choose from in face-to-face and online formats. The on-campus MPH program is a two year, 48-credit hour program while the online MPH is less restrictive and meets the needs of distance students who may be unable to complete a full-time program. Combination programs are available in areas like:
- law
- medicine
- pharmacy
- veterinary medicine
Students and alumni have come from over 25 different countries to pursue this top MPH program.
#11 –University of Iowa – Iowa City, Iowa
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $10,079/year in-state and $29,026/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 16:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community and Behavioral Health; Epidemiology; Occupational and Environmental Health; Policy
Points: 5
The University of Iowa offers multiple top MPH programs to students with a passion for domestic and international public health. The curriculum follows the five core disciplines of public health and includes a 200-hour capstone practice in the field. Students can choose to complete an internship to gain additional hands-on experience. Full-time students can complete the program in four to five semesters. Some courses are available through distance learning. However, students should expect to complete at least 50% of the program on-campus in a face-to-face setting. Graduates are successful working for organizations like the Department of Health and Human Services and the Veterans Affairs Health Care System.
#10 –St. Louis University – St. Louis, Missouri
College for Public Health and Social Justice-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $20,880/year
Student to Faculty Ratio: 9:1
Areas of Emphasis: Behavioral Science and Health Education; Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness; Biostatistics; Epidemiology; Global Health; Health Management and Policy; Maternal and Child Health; Public Health Practice
Points: 6
The College for Public Health and Social Justice at Saint Louis University is the only accredited Catholic, Jesuit school of public health in the United States. SLU offers a top public health MPH degree taught by internationally recognized faculty. Required core courses include:
- Environmental and Biological Determinants of Health
- Assessment, Intervention Development, and Evaluation
- Generating Evidence from Public Health Data
Students complete an internship between their first and second year in the program. Scholarships and financial aid opportunities are available to students with high combinations of GPAs and test scores. Graduates pass the Certified Public Health exam at rates higher than the national average and 90% pass on their first try.
#9 –University of South Carolina – Columbia, South Carolina
Arnold School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $13,737/year in-state and $29,760/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Areas of Emphasis: Physical Activity and Public Health; Health Promotion, Education, and Behavior; Environmental Health Sciences; Health Services Policy and Management; Epidemiology
Points: 6
The Arnold School of Public Health at the University of South Carolina launched a new MPH curriculum that prepares students to tackle today’s public health challenges. This exciting new program includes a 16-credit hour integrated core curriculum that follows the standards set by the CEPH. Core courses include:
- Public Health Systems, Policy, and Leadership
- Transforming Health Care for the Future
- Practical Applications of Public Health Planning
Concentrations are available in five different areas and include a dual MSW/MPH and a dual MPA/MPH. All students complete an applied practice experience that could be a practicum, internship, or residency. This hands-on learning opportunity allows students to demonstrate competency in a public health setting.
#8 –University of Arizona – Tucson, Arizona
Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $11,938/year in-state and $32,065/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Environmental and Occupational Health with tracks in Environmental and Occupational Health (EOH) & Industrial Hygiene (IH); Epidemiology; Family and Child Health with tracks in Global Health and Maternal & Child Health; Health Behavior Health Promotion; Health Services Administration; One Health; Public Health Policy and Management; Public Health Practice
Points: 6
The Mel and Enid Zuckerman College of Public Health at The University of Arizona offers an interdisciplinary MPH that includes hands-on learning and specialized training. The program is designed as a two-year, full-time program, but part-time students are also welcome. Nine concentration areas are offered through the on-campus MPH program and three are available online. Dual degrees are available in unique areas like Latin American Studies and Mexican American Studies. MPH programs are taught by world-class faculty with a global view of public health.
#7 –University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill, North Carolina
Gillings School of Global Public Health-Master of Public Health
School Profile
Average graduate student tuition: $10,552/year in-state and $28,278/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 13:1
Areas of Emphasis: Applied Epidemiology; Environmental Health Solutions; Global Health; Health Behavior; Health Equity, Social Justice and Human Rights; Health Policy; Leadership in Practice; Maternal, Child and Family Health; Nutrition with Registered Dietitian (RD) Training; Nutrition; Population Health for Clinicians; Public Health Data Science; Place-Based Health
Points: 6
The University of North Carolina offers top on-campus and online MPH programs with 13 different concentration areas. Students can align their passion with an area of expertise, opening doors to a career that allows them to make a meaningful impact. Students complete a 200-clock hour practicum and a culminating experience that synthesizes the knowledge and skills acquired through the program. Full-time students can expect to earn their degree in about two years, depending on their concentration area. Whether choosing the online or on-campus path, students will collaborate and learn from leading practitioners in the field.
#6 –University of Georgia – Athens, Georgia
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $8,878/year in-state and $25,186/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Disaster Management; Environmental Health Science; Epidemiology; Gerontology; Health Policy and Management; Health Promotion and Behavior
Points: 6
There is a critical need for highly trained public health professionals. The University of Georgia created their top Master of Public Health to fill the demand. Their two-year MPH program is designed for professionals who want to expand their knowledge of public health as well as those new to the field. Students can choose from seven different concentrations and several dual degree options. All students complete a 300-clock hour internship. New students are admitted for the spring and fall semesters.
#5 -University of South Florida – Tampa, Florida
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $8,350/year in-state and $19,048/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 23:1
Areas of Emphasis: Applied Biostatistics; Behavioral Health; Epidemiology; Epidemiology & Communicable Disease; Epidemiology & Global Communicable Disease; Epidemiology & Global Health; Epidemiology & Maternal & Child Health; Environmental & Occupational Health; Global Communicable Disease; Global Disaster Management, Humanitarian Relief & Homeland Security; Global Health Practice; Health Care Organizations and Management; Health Safety and Environment; Health Policies and Programs; Infection Control; Maternal and Child Health; Nutrition and Dietetics; Public Health Education; Public Health Practice; Social Marketing
Points: 6
The Master of Public Health at the University of South Florida is a flexible program with on-campus and online program options. USF offers 19 different concentration areas in public health. Online MPH options are available to meet the needs of off-campus students. Core courses include:
- History and Systems of Public Health
- Population Assessment
- Translation to Public Health Practice
All students complete an applied practice experience and an integrated learning experience. Undergraduate students planning to pursue an MPH degree can take advantage of the Bachelor’s/Master’s Pathway program, saving time and money on both degrees.
#4 –University of Alabama – Birmingham, Alabama
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $8,100/year in-state and $19,188/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 19:1
Areas of Emphasis: Environmental and Occupational Health; Epidemiology; Health Behavior; Health Care Organization; Health Policy; Maternal and Child Health Policy and Leadership; Population Health
Points: 6
The School of Public Health at The University of Alabama Birmingham offers a practice based top Master of Public Health. Students from all concentration areas complete a common MPH core, developing the skills needed to succeed in the field. Online and on-campus program options are available to accommodate diverse student needs. Online courses are asynchronous, allowing students to complete coursework at convenient times. Online and on-campus students complete an Applied Practice Experience (internship) to get hands-on training in the community. Students use the knowledge and skills acquired through concentration courses to develop their Integrative Learning Experience (capstone).
#3 –University of Colorado – Denver, Colorado
Colorado School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $6,786/year in-state and $22,590/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 17:1
Areas of Emphasis: Applied Biostatistics; Community & Behavioral Health; Environmental & Occupational Health; Epidemiology; Health Systems, Management and Policy; Maternal and Child Health; Population Mental Health and Wellbeing; Animals, People and the Environment; Global Health & Health Disparities; Health Communication; Physical Activity and Health Lifestyles; Public Health Nutrition; Community Health Education; Leadership and Public Health Practice; Population Mental Health and Wellbeing
Points: 6
The Colorado School of Public Health offers a high-quality MPH at three collaborating institutions including:
- Colorado State University
- CU Anschutz Medical Campus
- the University of Northern Colorado in Greeley
Concentration areas are unique to each campus location. An online MPH is available in Leadership and Public Health Practice and Population Mental Health and wellbeing. Regardless of campus location or format, all programs are taught by world-class experts and include hands-on learning opportunities. Students can complete their MPH in two years.
#2 –Texas A&M University – College Station, Texas
School of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $6,677/year in-state and $18,700/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 21:1
Areas of Emphasis: Epidemiology; Biostatistics; Environmental Health; Occupational Safety and Health; Health Policy and Management; Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences
Points: 6
The affordable Master of Public Health from Texas A&M University offers a cross-disciplinary curriculum emphasizing practical skills. There are six available concentrations to choose from, each taught by highly experienced faculty. Students learn to solve real-world problems related to areas like environmental and occupational safety and health. Courses focus on:
- applied methods
- epidemiology of diseases
- interventions
- policy and ethics
Students come from a variety of areas and do not need to have an undergraduate degree in an area of public health.
#1 –East Tennessee State University – Johnson City, Tennessee
College of Public Health-Master of Public Health
Program Website
Average graduate student tuition: $8,640/year in-state and $23,760/year out-of-state
Student to Faculty Ratio: 15:1
Areas of Emphasis: Biostatistics; Community Health; Environmental Health; Epidemiology
Points: 7
Our choice for the best Master of Public Health is offered by the College of Public Health at East Tennessee University. Their CEPH accredited MPH program offers fully online or fully campus-based MPH programs. Foundational courses include:
- Health Systems, Regulations and Policies
- Community-Based Methods in Public Health
- Health Leadership and Management
A 300-clock hour field experience provides students with on-the-job training in a public health environment. Students can complete a graduate certificate in addition to their area of concentration to complement their MPH degree. Certificate offerings include epidemiology, gerontology, and health care management. ETU also offers joint MD/MPH and PharmD/MPH degree programs and an accelerated bachelor’s to MPH.
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