MPH with Applied Epidemiology and Data Analysis Emphasis/Concentration

The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Old Dominion University is designed to prepare students for entry and/or advancement in public health careers. It provides an understanding of public health sciences and equips students with knowledge and skills applicable in healthcare management, population-based research, and community public health practice. The program is suitable for students holding a bachelor’s degree from any academic discipline.

Program Highlights & Accreditation

Key highlights include a curriculum designed to produce invaluable professionals and leaders in public health services. Students can choose from several concentrations, including Epidemiology of Infectious Disease, Health Behavior and Health Promotion, and Global Environmental Health. The program emphasizes practical skills and theoretical knowledge to address contemporary public health challenges.

The MPH program's curriculum incorporates standardized competencies required for accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Delivery Modes

The program offers flexibility with traditional (classroom), online, and hybrid delivery formats. Students can pursue the program on a full-time or part-time basis. Full-time students can typically complete the program in five academic terms. Part-time students can arrange an individualized study plan.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH program requires a minimum of 43 graduate credit hours. The curriculum includes core courses, concentration-specific courses, electives, and a practical experience component.

Core Courses (19 credits):

• MPHO 600 Introduction to Public Health Practice (1 credit)

• MPHO 605 Introduction to Biostatistics for Public Health (3 credits)

• MPHO 608 Environment and Public Health (3 credits)

• MPHO 611 Social and Behavioral Sciences for Public Health (3 credits)

• MPHO 614 Principles of Epidemiology (3 credits)

• MPHO 616 Research Methods in Public Health (3 credits)

• MPHO 620 Health Management and Systems Thinking (3 credits)

Electives (9 credits): Students select three courses from a list including Integrative Learning Experience, Grant Writing, Principles of Toxicology, Global Health, and Interprofessional Study Abroad on Global Health. Other 600-level or higher courses may also be acceptable.

Practicum (3 credits): MPHO 669 Applied Practice Experience.

Concentration in Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases (12 credits):

• MPHO 712 Applied Biostatistics (3 credits)

• MPHO 716 Application of Epidemiological Methods (3 credits)

• MPHO 776 Global Health (3 credits)

• MPHO 717 Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases (3 credits)

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited U.S. or foreign institution. A minimum GPA of 3.00 is recommended for competitiveness. No specific prerequisite courses or undergraduate degrees are required, though coursework in statistics and research methods is encouraged.

Application components include:

• Completed graduate admission application.

• Two letters of recommendation (academic or employment supervisor).

• Unofficial transcripts from all degree-granting programs.

• A 500-word essay describing interests in public health and reasons for applying.

• TOEFL/IELTS scores for international applicants.

• Evaluation of transfer credits, if applicable.

The first application deadline is March 15, with applications accepted until July 15. Admissions are competitive and reviewed on a rolling basis.

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates are prepared for various roles depending on their concentration:

• Health Behavior and Health Promotion: Leaders, directors, managers, health educators, community health planners, program managers, and evaluators in public/private sectors.

• Global Environmental Health: Environmental health officers, public health emergency response coordinators, global environmental health analysts, food safety officers, environmental disaster specialists, health inspectors, bioterrorism preparedness coordinators, and consumer safety officers.

• Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases: Public health professionals focusing on the causes, patterns, and control of diseases and injury in populations worldwide, essential for surveillance and response to outbreaks.

The program includes an Applied Practice Experience (MPHO 669), providing students with hands-on experience in a public health setting.