A Guide to Public Health Degree Options
Discover the various Public Health degree options available to you with our comprehensive guide. Explore program requirements, career opportunities, and more to find the perfect fit for your career goals.
The field of public health is an essential and dynamic area of study that focuses on the prevention of diseases, promotion of health education, and tracking the spread of infectious diseases within communities. With the rise in demand for public health professionals, many higher education institutions are now offering online degree programs in this field. In this article, we will discuss five different universities that offer online public health degree programs and compare their features, costs, and benefits.
Grand Canyon University
Grand Canyon University offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree that can be completed 100% online. These programs are designed for individuals interested in improving the health and wellness of their communities through various health-related settings, such as community-based organizations, government agencies, behavioral health agencies, primary care centers, and nonprofit organizations. The university has been regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) since 1968, ensuring a high-quality education. With a total cost of $17,800 USD for the MPH program, GCU offers affordable education for students across the country and around the world.
George Washington University
The Milken Institute School of Public Health at George Washington University offers an online Master of Public Health (MPH) program, MPH@GW, designed for aspiring public health leaders. Ranked No. 11 nationally by U.S. News & World Report, the program offers flexible scheduling, distinguished faculty, and a $10,000 scholarship for students who enroll in the upcoming cohort. The curriculum allows students to take a generalist approach or focus on a specific area of public health, with six elective course areas to choose from. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The estimated cost of the program is $81,000, reflective of the 2022-23 academic year tuition rate.
New Mexico State University
New Mexico State University offers a Master of Public Health program with concentrations in Health Behavior and Health Promotion (HBHP) or Health Management, Administration, and Policy (HMAP). Designed to accommodate working professionals, the program offers evening on-campus classes and asynchronous online courses. The cost of the program varies depending on the student's residency status, ranging from approximately $4,000 to $12,000.
Sacred Heart University
Sacred Heart University offers a 100% online, CEPH-accredited Master of Public Health (MPH) program that can be completed in one year. With a community health focus, the program empowers students to make a difference in their communities by building important skills such as public health and science communication and policy development. Admissions requirements include a bachelor's degree from an accredited four-year college or university, official transcripts, two letters of recommendation, a resume, a two-page essay, and a $75 application fee. Tuition details and financial aid options can be obtained by contacting the university.
Eastern Washington University
Eastern Washington University offers an online Master of Public Health and a Graduate Certificate in Public Health, both accredited by CEPH. Designed for busy professionals, the programs can be completed in as few as 14 months with 60 credit hours. The curriculum focuses on leadership expertise, managing and developing health services to combat health inequalities, and methods for addressing public health concerns. With a cost of $275 per credit hour and a total tuition of as low as $16,500, Eastern Washington University offers an affordable option for those seeking an online public health degree.
The field of public health is crucial in promoting and maintaining the well-being of communities across the globe. With the availability of online degree programs, individuals with a passion for public health can now pursue their education without compromising their work-life balance. Each of the universities discussed in this article offers unique benefits and opportunities for students to excel in their public health careers. By comparing the features, costs, and benefits of these programs, prospective students can make an informed decision about which university best aligns with their personal and professional goals in the field of public health.
