Dual MS/MPH Program (Genetic Counseling)

Program Highlights

The Boston University MS/MPH dual degree program offers a unique opportunity to earn both a Master of Science in Genetic Counseling and a Master of Public Health. This program highlights the intersection of genetic medicine with the social, political, behavioral, and environmental determinants of population health. Key features include flexibility with hybrid/online public health coursework, overlapping credit hours counting towards both degrees, and a cost- and time-effective structure. Students are prepared to engage in advanced genetics and public health programming, care, and research, working at the Frontline of Medicine at Boston Medical Center.

Delivery Modes

The Master of Public Health coursework within this dual degree is offered in hybrid and online formats, providing flexibility for students. The entire dual degree program is designed for completion in 2.5 years.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH component requires 40 incremental credits, with 8 credits from the MS in Genetic Counseling degree counting towards the MPH. Prior to the start of classes, students complete SPH PH700 Foundations of Public Health (0 credits, online).

Core MPH courses include:

• SPH PH717: Quantitative Methods for Public Health (online/hybrid)

• SPH PH718: Leadership and Management in Public Health (online/hybrid)

• SPH PH719: Health Systems, Law, and Policy (online/hybrid)

• SPH PH720: Individual, Community, and Population Health (online/hybrid)

Students select a functional certificate in public health (e.g., Health Policy and Law, Health Communication and Promotion, Epidemiology/Biostatistics), take electives, and complete the SPH PH976 Practicum (aligned with the Genetic Counseling Capstone) and SPH PH845 Integrative Learning Experience. A Career PREP course (SPH PH746) is also included.

Admissions Requirements

To be eligible for the MPH portion of the dual degree, applicants must first gain admission to the MS in Genetic Counseling program at Boston University. Following admission to the Genetic Counseling program, students coordinate their application to the School of Public Health. The application deadline for the School of Public Health is May 1st for matched applicants who wish to matriculate into the dual degree program. All admitted MS GC students have the option to enroll in the MPH dual degree program.

Cost & Financial Aid

The approximate tuition for the 40 incremental credits of coursework required for the Master of Public Health degree within this dual program is $65,000. This cost is in addition to the tuition for the MS in Genetic Counseling degree. Specific details on other fees, financial aid, or scholarship opportunities for the MPH portion are not provided in the context.

Career & Practical Experience

This dual degree program prepares graduates for careers that bridge genetic counseling and public health. The curriculum includes SPH PH746 Career PREP to aid in career development. A significant practical component is the Public Health Practicum Experience (SPH PH976), which aligns with the Genetic Counseling Capstone project. This integrated experience allows students to enhance their skills in research design, execution, and community engagement.