General MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

Michigan State University's Master of Public Health (MPH) program is designed to empower individuals with the knowledge and skills for careers dedicated to protecting the health of people and communities, addressing health disparities, and contributing to better health outcomes.

• 100% online curriculum, allowing students to work while pursuing their degree.

• Competitive in-state tuition rates for all students, regardless of residency.

• No GRE or any other graduate or professional school test scores are required for admission.

• Asynchronous learning format to accommodate busy schedules and diverse lifestyles.

• Personalized mentoring provided from the application process through graduation.

• Complimentary student membership to the American Public Health Association (APHA).

The Master of Public Health degree program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Delivery Modes

The MPH program at Michigan State University is delivered entirely online, offering significant flexibility for students, including working professionals.

• Format: 100% online.

• Pacing: Asynchronous learning allows students to access coursework at times that suit their schedule, though courses are not self-paced and have weekly participation expectations and deadlines.

• Enrollment: Options for both full-time and part-time study are available.

• On-Campus Component: No on-campus courses are offered by the MPH program. Students may request prior approval for public health-related on-campus courses as electives.

Curriculum Overview

The Master of Public Health program requires the completion of 43 credit hours. The curriculum emphasizes applied knowledge and practical training across core public health disciplines such as biostatistics, epidemiology, health policy and management, social and behavioral sciences, and environmental health sciences.

The general structure of the curriculum involves:

• Core Courses (typically 25-28 credits): Covering foundational public health knowledge. Examples include Introduction to Public Health (PH 801), Biostatistics for Public Health (PH 802), Epidemiology for Public Health (PH 803), Public Health Policy and Administration (PH 804), Social and Behavioral Aspects of Public Health (PH 805), and Environmental Factors of Health (PH 806).

• Concentration Courses (9 credits): Students select a concentration to specialize their studies. Options include Generalist, Rural Public Health, or Public Health Data Management and Analytics.

• Applied Practice Experience (APE - 3 credits): A supervised practical experience (PH 892) allowing students to apply their skills in a real-world public health setting.

• Integrative Learning Experience (ILE - 3 credits): A capstone project (PH 893) where students synthesize and integrate knowledge acquired throughout the program.

The program structure varies slightly based on the admission date, with specific curriculum details available for students admitted Fall 2024 and after, and those admitted prior.

Admissions Requirements

To be considered for admission to the Master of Public Health program, applicants must typically provide the following:

• A bachelor’s degree from a recognized, accredited educational institution.

• Submission of an Application to Graduate Study at Michigan State University with the application fee.

• No GRE or any other graduate or professional school test scores are required for admission (as per the program's website mph.msu.edu).

• Three letters of recommendation from professional or academic references.

• A personal statement describing interest in public health, understanding of the field, professional career goals, and relevant experiences.

• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.

• A resume or curriculum vitae.

• For international applicants: Official English language proficiency test scores (e.g., TOEFL, IELTS, MELAB).

The MPH Admission Committee considers academic attributes, personal motivation, and social awareness in its holistic review of applications.

Career & Practical Experience

The MSU MPH program prepares graduates for diverse careers as public health professionals. The curriculum's emphasis on applied knowledge is complemented by significant practical experiences.

• Culminating Experience: This includes the Public Health Applied Practice Experience (practicum) and the Public Health Integrative Learning Experience (capstone). Students apply public health concepts and theories in practical settings and demonstrate their integrated knowledge and competencies.

• Career Focus: Graduates are equipped for various public health roles. Concentrations such as Public Health Data Management and Analytics and Rural Public Health prepare students for specialized positions in these in-demand fields.

• Alumni Network: The program has a strong network of over 750 alumni ("Spartans in Public Health").

• International Opportunities: Michigan State University supports education abroad programs, offering potential for international public health experiences.