Online MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The George Washington University's online Master of Public Health (MPH@GW) program is offered by the Milken Institute School of Public Health (SPH), connecting students with the epicenter of health policy in Washington, D.C. Key highlights include:

• Top-Ranked Public Health School: The Milken Institute SPH is ranked No. 12 on U.S. News and World Report’s list of best public health graduate schools.

• CEPH Accreditation: The MPH@GW program is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

• Distinguished Faculty: Learn from experienced faculty who are active health care leaders, scholars, scientists, and policy experts, providing valuable insights and professional network connections.

• Connect with D.C.: Engage with policymakers and advocates through in-person or live-streamed events.

• Scholarships Available: MPH@GW offers tuition scholarships, including up to $15,000 for eligible students and a guaranteed 50% tuition scholarship for current and transitioning federal professionals for upcoming cohorts (contact Admissions Counselor for details).

Delivery Modes

The MPH@GW program is delivered online, designed for aspiring public health leaders who need a flexible schedule. Students can opt to take up to 15 credits on campus. Program options include:

• Accelerated Program: Complete the program in as few as 12 months (one-year intensive) or 18 months. These options require full-time study and may have restrictions on employment.

• Customizable Program: Earn the MPH online on a full-time or part-time basis over two, three, four, or five years.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH@GW curriculum features a rigorous, interdisciplinary course sequence. Core courses cover topics such as epidemiology, managing organizations, global health systems, and health policy. Students can design their curriculum to fit career goals through elective course options and can deepen studies with optional concentrations:

• Health Informatics

• Global Health

• Climate Health

• Women, Youth and Child Health

A key component is the applied practice experience (practicum), where students address real public health challenges.

Admissions Requirements

MPH@GW seeks to educate future thought leaders, practitioners, policymakers, and scientists. Program start dates are available four times per year (January, April, July, September) with rolling admissions decisions. GRE scores are not required for admission but can be submitted to strengthen an application. Information about applying can be found on the MPH@GW admissions page .

Career & Practical Experience

The program prepares graduates for various public health careers. Potential roles include health and safety engineer, emergency management director, occupational health and safety specialist, health educator, policy analyst, and research analyst. Students complete a planned and supervised applied practice experience (practicum) at local, national, or international organizations. Examples of practicum settings include federal and state health agencies, health care startups, nonprofits, and policy institutes. The program also offers personalized support services and access to an extensive alumni network of over 300,000.