Online MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

Old Dominion University's Master of Public Health (MPH) is an interprofessional online degree program designed to connect students with international and community organizations and health professionals. The program emphasizes both didactic and experience-based courses to provide a solid foundation in public health knowledge and practical application skills in areas like healthcare management, population-based research, and community public health practice.

The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Old Dominion University is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) through December 31, 2025. The program received its initial CEPH accreditation in June 2000 and was last re-accredited in June 2020. ODU is currently an approved applicant as a multi-partner school of public health. For more information about CEPH accreditation, students can visit the CEPH website or contact Ms. Stephanie Ewers, Director of Accreditation at [email protected].

Delivery Modes

The MPH program is offered fully online, providing flexibility for students. It supports both full-time and part-time study. The online learning environment includes live, regularly scheduled online class meetings and access to course materials online from any location. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Curriculum Overview

The MPH program requires a minimum of 43 credit hours. The curriculum includes a combination of core public health courses and specialized courses based on the chosen concentration. A key component of the program is a practicum, which can be completed in a community organization local to the student, allowing for real-world application of knowledge and skills. Online courses are offered in fall, spring, and summer.

Explore MPH Course Descriptions in ODU's Graduate Catalog .

Admissions Requirements

Applicants to the MPH program at ODU should possess an undergraduate degree from an accredited college or university. Key application components include:

• Unofficial transcripts from all degree-granting programs.

• A GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale is preferred.

• No GMAT or GRE is required for admission.

Prospective students may be able to take up to four courses (12 credit hours) as a non-degree graduate student before formal admission into the program. International students interested in the online program should contact the ODU International Admission Office .

Cost & Financial Aid

Tuition rates for the online MPH program, effective Fall 2024 and subject to change, are as follows:

• In-state Virginia Residents: $620 per credit hour (assumes residency requirements are met).

• Out-of-state Students: $642 per credit hour.

ODUGlobal offers various scholarship opportunities for online students. For more details on tuition, fees, and financial aid options, students can explore the ODUGlobal Cost & Aid resources and learn more about scholarships .

Career & Practical Experience

The MPH program, with its various concentrations, prepares graduates for diverse roles in the public health sector. Graduates will be equipped to assess population health needs, design and implement programs, manage administrative functions, conduct research, develop community coalitions, market health services, analyze disease epidemiology, and ensure quality in healthcare and public health services.

The program culminates in a practicum based in a community organization, providing students with hands-on experience. According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2024), employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2022 to 2032. Target careers for MPH graduates include:

• Medical and Health Services Managers

• Epidemiologists

• Environmental Scientists and Specialists, Including Health

• Medical Scientists (Except Epidemiologists)

• Social and Community Service Managers

• Compliance Managers