Dual MMSC/MPH Program

Program Highlights

Mercer University’s College of Health Professions offers the Master of Medical Science/Master of Public Health (MMSc/MPH) combined degree program. This program is specifically designed to address the need for primary healthcare providers in rural and medically underserved communities. It aims to equip students to become well-trained, public health-minded primary care providers capable of addressing societal health concerns and evaluating community-based programming. The outcomes and learning objectives for both the PA and MPH programs are maintained, with students completing both programs sequentially with minor adaptations.

Delivery Modes

The MMSc/MPH combined degree program is delivered in a full-time, on-campus format. Students complete the MPH and PA components sequentially over nine semesters.

Curriculum Overview

The combined degree program is completed over nine semesters. The MPH component requires 33 credit hours completed in Year 1 (Fall and Spring semesters), covering core public health disciplines. Courses include Principles of Epidemiology, Basic Biostatistics and Health Measures, Environmental Health, Disease Prevention and Health Promotion, Public Health Management, Health Systems and Policy, Grant Proposal Writing and Development, Community Health Needs Assessment, Introductory Program Evaluation, Diverse Populations, and Health Equity.

Following the MPH coursework, students complete the Physician Assistant (PA) program, which consists of 128 credits over seven consecutive semesters (28 months).

Three MPH degree requirements (two electives and MPH Applied Practice) are fulfilled by selected cross-listed courses in the PA program. These include PA courses such as Medical Communication, Behavioral Medicine, Biostatistics for Clinicians, and Medical Nutrition serving as MPH electives. The PA Senior Seminar (PA 650) is dually listed as MPH 793 (Applied Practice Experience). Students must also complete 40 hours of public health service.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must apply to both the Master of Medical Science (PA) program and the Master of Public Health (MPH) program separately. After successful admission to the PA program, students with a strong academic record and demonstrated interest in community-based health promotion and injury prevention can apply to the MPH program via SOPHAS Express for combined degrees. The admission requirements for the combined degree track are the same as for each individual degree program.

Career Focus and Program Goals

The MMSc/MPH program targets students with strong academic backgrounds who are interested in community-based health promotion and primary care practice, particularly in rural and underserved areas. Graduates are prepared to serve as public health-minded primary care providers, equipped to address societal health issues and evaluate community-based health initiatives.