General MPH Program

Shenandoah University's Master of Public Health (MPH) program is designed for individuals passionate about promoting health, preventing disease, and transforming lives. The program provides an opportunity to analyze current health problems from diverse interdisciplinary and interprofessional viewpoints. A key focus is on rural and underserved populations, equipping students with training in public health issues pertinent to these communities. Students are also exposed to population health in these contexts through advanced coursework and practicum training.

The MPH degree prepares students for a wide array of public health positions addressing contemporary population health challenges. It is a widely recognized professional degree for those entering or advancing in the public health field. No specific accreditation like CEPH is mentioned in the provided text.

The Master of Public Health program at Shenandoah University is delivered entirely online. This flexible format allows students to complete their studies from anywhere globally. The program offers both full-time and part-time study options to accommodate diverse schedules.

The MPH program requires a total of 45 credits for completion. Core required courses comprise 33 credits, covering essential public health domains including:

• History and Philosophy of Public Health

• Social and Behavioral Aspects of Public Health

• Biostatistics

• Principles of Epidemiology

• Health Policy and Management

• Program Planning and Implementation

• Fundamentals of Program Evaluation

• Health Communication

• Rural Health System

• Public Health Perspectives on Chronic Disease

• Public Health Leadership and Professionalism

A significant component of the curriculum is dedicated to practical application, with 6 credits allocated to an Applied Practice Experience (PH 700, 4 credits) and an Integrated Learning Experience (PH 701, 2 credits). These experiences allow students to apply their knowledge and skills to real-world health problems.

Students will also complete 6 credits of elective coursework, choosing two courses from options such as Maternal and Child Health, Environmental and Occupational Health, Public Health Law and Ethics, Community Health Research & Assessment, and Global Health.

Detailed information regarding application deadlines, program prerequisites, and the application process for Shenandoah’s graduate Public Health programs can be found on the Application Information page .

Graduates of the SU MPH program are prepared for a wide range of public health careers. The employment outlook for public health professionals is strong and growing. Potential work settings include:

• Hospitals

• Health Departments

• Community organizations

• Government agencies

• Nongovernmental organizations (NGOs)

• Foundations

• Start-ups

• Pharmaceutical companies

• Consulting firms

• Private businesses and corporations

• Academic institutions

Students gain practical experience through practicum training, applying skills to health problems in rural or urban settings. The program also offers international learning opportunities, including participation in the World Health Assembly and Global Experiential Learning (GEL) trips to destinations like Haiti, Uganda, and Nepal.