MPH with Urban Health Disparities Emphasis/Concentration

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Master of Public Health (MPH) in Urban Health Disparities at Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science (CDU) is uniquely focused on addressing health inequities within underserved communities, particularly in an urban context. Key program highlights include its mission-driven approach, an academically rigorous curriculum centered on social determinants of health, and its location in South Los Angeles, providing direct exposure to relevant public health challenges. Students engage in a cohort model, benefit from intimate evening classes suitable for working adults, and have opportunities for community-based research, grant-writing, and health policy development. The program is nationally accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Delivery Modes

The MPH program is delivered in a hybrid format, combining in-person learning with other modalities. It operates on a full-time cohort model, with classes typically scheduled in the evenings (6 p.m. – 9 p.m. or 9:45 p.m.) three to four days a week, accommodating working professionals. Students are admitted in the Fall semester only.

Curriculum Overview

The competency-based curriculum requires a minimum of 45 semester credit hours, completed over five semesters. It includes 14 required core courses (3 units each) and one 3-unit elective.

Core subject areas cover:

• Racial & Ethnic Disparities in Health

• Principles of Epidemiology

• Environmental Determinants of Health

• Principles of Biostatistics

• Social and Behavioral Theories in Public Health

• Health Policy and Management

• Community Engagement in Public Health

• Research Methods

• Program Planning and Evaluation

• Health Communication & Data Visualization

• Race, Cultural Competency and Health

• Global Health Disparities

The curriculum culminates in an Applied Practice Experience (APE) and an Integrative Learning Experience (ILE). Elective options include topics like Conversations on Health and Politics, PH Thesis, Grant Proposal, Global Health Studies (e.g., Cuban Health System Model), and Independent PH Research.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the MPH program must possess an earned baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university, with a recommended minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale); however, applicants with a GPA below 3.0 may be considered on a case-by-case basis.

Application components include:

• Online application submitted through SOPHAS.

• A personal goal statement (two to three pages) addressing interest in public health, alignment with CDU's mission, career objectives, and a self-assessment of relevant skills.

• Three letters of recommendation submitted via the SOPHAS online form.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended. International applicants must provide a foreign credential evaluation (e.g., WES).

• A current resume or curriculum vitae.

Applications are reviewed on a rolling basis, with priority consideration given to those completed and verified by March 1st for Fall admission.

Cost & Financial Aid

For detailed information regarding tuition, fees, and potential financial aid opportunities, prospective students should consult the official Cost of Attendance page . CDU is a mission-driven university, and applicants are encouraged to explore all available financial resources.

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates of the MPH in Urban Health Disparities program are prepared for a variety of roles focused on improving community health and addressing health inequities.

Potential career paths include:

• Public Health Program Project Managers

• Environmental Health Officers

• Public Health Program Developers

• Grant Writers

• Researcher Assistants

• Public Health Investigators

Many graduates also pursue further advanced degrees in fields such as nursing (MSN), physician assistant studies (MHS-PA), or medicine (MD).

The program emphasizes practical experience through an Applied Practice Experience (APE). Students have conducted their APEs at various organizations, including:

• Los Angeles County Department of Public Health

• Kaiser Permanente Hospitals

• Cedar Sinai Hospital

• Martin Luther King Jr. Community Health Center

• AltaMed and APLA Health and Wellness

• BreastFeedLA

• Bridge to Home Santa Clarita Homeless Services