MPH with Epidemiology Emphasis/Concentration

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology program at Loma Linda University offers in-depth theoretical and practical training applicable to a wide array of public health challenges. The curriculum focuses on investigative methods integral to understanding how risk factors—such as nutrition, physical activity, stress, environmental exposures, and genetic predispositions—affect disease outcomes like heart disease, cancer, infectious diseases, and longevity.

A key feature of this program is its STEM-eligibility, as designated by the U.S. Department of Homeland Security. This allows international students on an F-1 visa to apply for a 24-month extension of their Optional Practical Training (OPT) employment authorization post-graduation, providing an excellent opportunity for gaining additional work experience in the U.S.

Delivery Modes

The MPH in Epidemiology program is offered in both online and in-person formats, providing flexibility for students. The program structure supports full-time attendance.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum is designed to equip students with the skills to transform research into actionable public health strategies. Core competencies developed include:

• Evaluate epidemiologic study design

• Critically review epidemiologic literature

• Analyze epidemiologic data using intermediate-level statistical methods and software

• Interpret epidemiologic findings to characterize the health of populations

• Report epidemiologic research results through oral and written reports

Students will engage with coursework covering the distribution and determinants of health and disease, incorporating statistical techniques and an understanding of environmental, genetic, and social factors. Further details on program requirements and specific courses can be found in the Program Requirements and Courses list .

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the MPH in Epidemiology program must meet the following criteria:

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution.

• Official transcripts from all universities attended.

• Three letters of reference.

• Official GRE scores (this requirement can be waived if the cumulative undergraduate GPA is 3.0 or higher).

Prerequisites for the program include:

• College Algebra or equivalent (calculus preferred).

• Three semesters or four quarters of undergraduate courses in the biological sciences.

Application deadlines vary for domestic and international students, as well as for online and in-person program formats. Specific deadline information is available on the university's program page.

Cost & Financial Aid

The estimated cost of attendance for the MPH in Epidemiology program, based on full-time enrollment for the 2025-2026 academic year, includes the following required program costs:

• Year 1 (9 months) Tuition & Fees: $31,047

• Year 2 (12 months) Tuition & Fees: $32,296

• Estimated Total Program Tuition & Fees: $63,343

Additional allowances for books, materials, supplies, and equipment are estimated at $862 for Year 1 and $312 for Year 2. These figures are estimates and may vary. Students can find detailed cost information for the online program and the in-person program .

The university also provides estimates for other educational costs, including living expenses (on-campus, LLU owned rental, off-campus), transportation, and miscellaneous personal expenses. These amounts are expected to increase annually. To qualify for financial aid, most students must be enrolled at least half-time (4 units per quarter for graduate programs).

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates of the MPH in Epidemiology program are prepared for a variety of roles. Possible careers include:

• Epidemiologist

• Parasitologist

• Researcher

• Infection Control Specialist

• Epidemiologist Investigator

• Data Analyst

• PhD Epidemiology candidate

• Positions in federal, state, and local health departments, academic and research institutions, health maintenance organizations, and hospitals.

International graduates may benefit from the program's STEM-designation, allowing them to apply for a 24-month OPT extension for practical work experience in the United States.