General MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Master of Public Health (MPH) in Community Health Education at East Stroudsburg University (ESU) emphasizes community engagement and small class sizes, preparing graduates to address local community health challenges. A key focus of the program is on rural health disparities and the unique needs of its region. Students develop a robust quantitative skill set.

The MPH program has been accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) since 1990, meeting rigorous standards for public health education.

Delivery Modes

The ESU MPH program is offered 100% online, with dynamic courses that include supplemental Zoom sessions for interaction with peers and faculty. Several completion paces are available:

• Accelerated 12-month track: For highly qualified and motivated students, involving ~14 credits per term.

• Traditional full-time: Students taking 9 credits per term can complete the program in two academic years.

• Part-time: Degree completion is also available for students needing more flexibility.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH program is a 42-credit curriculum that combines classroom experiences with service learning, and capstone experiences in practice and research. Students learn to:

• Develop a strong foundation in epidemiology, biostatistics, and program evaluation.

• Bring community partners together to address complex population health needs.

• Lead communities to better health in culturally sensitive ways.

• Identify and address root causes of disease.

All MPH students complete a six-credit applied practice internship with project partners such as hospitals, health departments, and non-profit organizations. An independent research capstone, the integrated learning experience, is also required, where students partner with a faculty member to address a community health issue.

Admissions Requirements

Applications for Summer/Fall 2025 cohorts are being accepted. Prospective students with questions should contact Dr. Lenhart by email at [email protected]. Detailed admission requirements and course descriptions can be found on the university's graduate catalog page .

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates are prepared for careers as epidemiologists, program administrators, program evaluators, and prevention coordinators in state and local health departments, government agencies, hospital systems, and health-related non-profit organizations. The program addresses various health conditions such as reproductive health, substance abuse, chronic diseases, infectious diseases, and environmental health.

Practical experience is integral, featuring a six-credit applied practice internship. Service learning is embedded in required courses, such as grant reviewing for the Pocono Mountains United Way. Students also complete an independent research capstone and may have opportunities to collaborate on research projects with The Institute for Public Health Research & Innovation.