General MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree program at Loma Linda University is designed to provide broad preparation in the fundamentals of public health. It offers students the opportunity for specialization in various areas of interest, enabling them to tailor their education to specific career goals. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, starting with a foundational Public Health Core. Specific accreditation for the MPH program (such as CEPH) is not explicitly mentioned in the provided text.

Delivery Modes

The program includes on-campus components, as indicated by references to 'on-campus requirements'. Specific details about other delivery formats such as fully online, hybrid, full-time, or part-time are not explicitly provided in the text.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH curriculum begins with the Public Health Core (PCOR), where students from various specializations learn together. All LLUSPH students are expected to develop an understanding of the areas of knowledge basic to public health. Students accomplish this by completing three integrated, interdisciplinary public health core courses :

• PCOR 501 – Public Health for Community Resilience: Focuses on the health of communities and leads students to community engagement.

• PCOR 502 – Public Health for a Healthy Lifestyle: Focuses on the health of individuals while identifying factors influencing behavioral and physical health.

• PCOR 503 – Public Health and Health Systems: Focuses on health systems and includes policy and advocacy for health issues, as well as structure and function of health systems.

A significant component of the program is a 400-hour practicum, a supervised work experience where students apply classroom knowledge in a professional public health setting. This provides an opportunity to contribute to community health and gain practical experience. Learn more about the practicum .

Admissions Requirements

The admissions requirements described are in addition to the University admissions requirements . The minimum eligibility requirements for admission to the MPH program include:

• A baccalaureate degree or equivalent from a regionally accredited institution.

• A G.P.A. of 3.0 or above.

• Graduate Record Examination (GRE): The GRE is not required for applicants who meet the minimum GPA requirements. If an applicant does not meet the minimum GPA, the GRE is required for the application to be considered. Prospective students who wish to strengthen their application can submit GRE scores (attained within the last five years) as an option.

• Admissions decisions are based on a review of applicant’s transcripts, written statement, letters of recommendation, and GRE scores (if applicable).

Applicants must satisfy program-specific admission requirements. Satisfying minimum requirements does not guarantee admission. Religious affiliation is not a requirement; but students are expected to adhere to on-campus requirements of modest dress, abstinence from alcohol and smoking, and attendance at weekly chapel.

Career & Practical Experience

The MPH program prepares students for careers in various public health fields, supported by specialized concentrations. A key component for practical experience is the mandatory 400-hour practicum. This supervised work experience takes place in professional public health settings such as a hospital, local public health department, or community organization. The practicum allows students to apply learned knowledge, enhance their understanding of public health, and contribute to community health. Students present their practicum projects at quarterly poster presentations.