Combined BS/MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

Loyola University Chicago offers an accelerated BSPH/MPH dual-degree program, allowing students to earn both a Bachelor of Science in Public Health and a Master of Public Health in five years (a 4+1 model). This program is grounded in Loyola's Jesuit tradition of social justice and aims to prepare future public health leaders to promote health equity. The curriculum is competency-based, flexible, and community-engaged.

• The MPH program was ranked among the best graduate schools by U.S. News and World Report in 2021.

• The BSPH and MPH programs received accreditation renewal from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) for a seven-year term (through June 2028).

Delivery Modes

The BSPH/MPH program is offered in an accelerated format, designed for current Loyola BSPH students to complete both degrees in five years.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH component of the dual-degree program requires 30 credit hours. Up to 12 credit hours can be shared between the BSPH and MPH degrees. Students acquire foundational knowledge in public health and develop competencies in areas such as data collection and analysis, evidence-based approaches, health systems, policy, leadership, and communication. An MPH Applied Practical Experience (Practicum) is a key component.

MPH students can choose from three tracks:

• Public Health Policy & Management

• Epidemiology

• Global Health Equity

Admissions Requirements

Admission to the MPH portion of the dual-degree program is open to Loyola juniors in good academic standing in the Bachelor of Science in Public Health program. Applications are accepted from January through May 15 during the spring semester of the junior year via Graduate & Professional Enrollment Management (GPEM). Requirements include:

• Declared undergraduate major in Public Health.

• Junior standing based on credit hours earned.

• A minimum cumulative GPA of 3.3 for all coursework at Loyola.

• A minimum 3.5 GPA in at least five completed courses in Public Health.

• Two letters of recommendation (one from a faculty member teaching a required course in the major).

• A one-page statement of purpose (500 – 1000 words).

Cost & Financial Aid

The Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health and Loyola's Financial Aid Office are committed to helping students secure financial resources. Successful applicants for the BSPH/MPH program may qualify for the Returning Rambler Scholarship, which covers 25% of graduate tuition. For detailed tuition and fee information, please visit the university's Cost page . Information on financial aid and payment options is also available on the Loyola website.

Career & Practical Experience

The BSPH/MPH dual-degree program prepares graduates for leadership roles in the diverse and growing field of public health. Potential career paths include positions in health education, epidemiology, and environmental health across nonprofit, industry, and government sectors. The MPH curriculum includes an Applied Practical Experience (Practicum), providing students with hands-on experience in a public health setting.