Dual MPH/MDIV Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The MDiv/MPH dual degree program at Andrews University offers a unique integration of theological training with public health expertise. The Master of Public Health (MPH) component focuses on preparing highly competent professionals to prevent disease, restore health, and implement evidence-based lifestyle solutions from a holistic perspective.

A key feature is the MPH concentration in Nutrition & Wellness, which includes a distinctive emphasis on vegetarian nutrition.

The program is guided by values such as wholeness (based on NEWSTART principles), inquiry, service, excellence, transformation, and diversity.

Accreditation by specific public health bodies (e.g., CEPH) is not mentioned in the provided program information.

Delivery Modes

The MPH program component is delivered in a fully interactive online format.

Students can complete the degree without any required on-campus time.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH program requires a minimum of 42 semester credits, structured as follows:

• Public Health Core (17 credits): Covering areas such as Introduction to Public Health, Biostatistics, Principles of Epidemiology, Principles of Environmental Health, Principles of Health Behavior, and Principles of Health Administration.

• Concentration in Nutrition and Wellness (15 credits): Including courses like Current Issues in Nutrition and Wellness, Vegetarian Nutrition and Disease Prevention, Fitness and Health Promotion, Grant Writing, Program Planning and Evaluation, and Integration of Spirituality in Healthcare.

• Research (8 credits): Comprising Health Research Methods, Research Seminar, and a Capstone Research Project.

• Practicum (2 credits): A field practicum experience.

Culminating activities for the MPH include a capstone research project, the field practicum, a written comprehensive exam, a professional portfolio, and an exit interview.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the MPH program (as part of the MDiv/MPH dual degree) must hold a bachelor’s degree or its equivalent.

A minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is required. Provisional admission may be considered for applicants with a GPA below 3.0 who demonstrate potential for success.

Required application components include:

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

• Three letters of recommendation from professional sources (e.g., advisors, professors, employers), excluding relatives.

• A resume or professional history detailing employment, research, or special projects.

• A 500-word Statement of Purpose outlining the reasons for pursuing the degree, future goals, unique contributions to the program, and commitment to a Christian educational atmosphere.

Co-requisite courses may be required for students admitted provisionally or before enrolling in specific MPH nutrition courses (FDNT 520, FDNT 565). These can be taken concurrently and include:

• Biology or Physiology or Anatomy and Physiology.

• Two nutrition courses (one introductory, one intermediate level).

Career & Practical Experience

The program aims to equip graduates for service in community and church settings, enhancing the health of populations through personal and community efforts. It prepares individuals for roles that combine ministry with public health practice.

Practical experience is gained through a 2-credit field practicum (PBHL 580). The university also highlights general mission opportunities for students.