Dual MD/MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The MD/MPH program at SUNY Downstate focuses on the health of immigrant and urban populations. A key highlight is that MD/MPH students receive priority access to the 'Global Health in Developing Countries' elective, which includes overseas travel to observe public health in resource-poor countries and deliver care. The curriculum emphasizes hands-on experience through classes integrating service learning and fieldwork opportunities at local or state health agencies or community organizations. The MPH program is structured to complement medical studies without interference. Students benefit from cross-disciplinary training with nationally recognized public health leaders passionate about reducing healthcare disparities.

Delivery Modes

This program is designed for medical students at SUNY Downstate, allowing them to earn an MPH degree concurrently with their MD degree. Students enroll in both programs simultaneously. The MPH component can be completed in one of two ways: by taking courses over three summers, starting before the first year of medical school, or by taking a 12-month hiatus dedicated to MPH studies between the third and fourth year of medical school. The program is delivered on-campus, integrated with the medical school experience.

Curriculum Overview

There is no credit sharing between the MD and MPH degrees; students must complete all requirements for both. Core public health classes cover essential topics such as:

• Biostatistics

• Epidemiology

• Health Systems Management

• Environmental Health

• Health Behavior and Risk Reduction

Additional courses and electives are determined by the student's choice of one of five advising concentrations. A significant component of the MPH program is the Culminating Experience, a required project that integrates theory and practice. For this, students can work with hospitals, community organizations, or government agencies. The program also provides a thorough grounding in both academics and professional ethics through courses, fieldwork, and service opportunities.

Admissions Requirements

The MD/MPH program is specifically for medical students enrolled at SUNY Downstate. Students are enrolled in both the MD and MPH programs simultaneously. Prospective students apply through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS) . For detailed admissions criteria, please refer to the MD/MPH Admissions page .

Career & Practical Experience

An MD/MPH degree from SUNY Downstate prepares graduates for diverse careers, particularly in academic medicine, and for leadership roles in community health, research, health policy, and governmental agencies. The program emphasizes practical experience through service learning integrated into classes and fieldwork at local or state health agencies or community organizations. The mandatory Culminating Experience project allows students to apply their learning in real-world settings such as hospitals, community organizations, or government agencies.

Common job titles for graduates include:

• Field Consultant

• Health Educator

• Epidemiologist

• Public Health Advisor

• Hospital Administrator

Graduates may find employment with organizations such as:

• NYC Department of Health and Mental Hygiene

• U.S. Navy

• Doctors Without Borders

• Arthur Ashe Institute for Urban Health