General MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The University of Lynchburg's Master of Public Health (MPH) program is designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills to improve the health and well-being of diverse populations. It emphasizes an innovative, student-centered environment fostering collaboration, creativity, critical thinking, and problem-solving. The program highlights its cost-effectiveness, claiming to be the most affordable MPH in Virginia. Graduates are prepared for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam, with Lynchburg graduates historically achieving a 100% pass rate. No specific program accreditation (e.g., CEPH) is mentioned in the provided context.

Delivery Modes

The MPH program is delivered 100% online and asynchronously, offering flexibility for students. It is designed for completion in 12 months (one year) through an efficient eight-week course structure.

Curriculum Overview

The program requires a total of 36 credit hours. The curriculum covers core areas of public health, including:

• Data analytics and assessment

• Needs assessment, program planning, and evaluation

• Communication

• Health equity and social aspects of public health

• Community partnerships

• Environmental health sciences

• Management, administration, and ethical issues in public health

• Leadership and systems thinking

• Biostatistical and epidemiological analysis

Students complete an experiential learning component through an internship, a community-based project, or research, including Public Health Practicum courses (I, II, and III). A Public Health Capstone Seminar (MPH 655) is also required. The program has a strong community health focus, incorporating health promotion and education methods, and develops skills in grant writing.

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university. The application process includes:

• Completion of the online application.

• Submission of an official transcript from the college or university where the bachelor’s degree was awarded.

• A statement of purpose addressing why the applicant wants to pursue the MPH and how it will assist in achieving career goals.

• A recent résumé or CV.

No GRE is required, and there are no specific course prerequisites. Priority application deadlines are June 15, 2025, and January 1, 2026. International applicants should note that admission to this online MPH program will not lead to a U.S. visa.

Cost & Financial Aid

The tuition for the Master of Public Health program is $608 per credit hour. With 36 credit hours required for completion, the estimated total program cost is $21,888. These figures are estimates and may vary. Information on graduate financial aid is available on the university's website.

Career & Practical Experience

The program prepares graduates for careers in public health and eligibility for the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) exam. According to program highlights, 100% of graduates are employed or furthering their education. Students engage in service learning (e.g., vaccination drives, food banks) and project-based learning, applying their knowledge to real-world community health challenges. The program also offers international study abroad opportunities (e.g., India, Costa Rica, Uganda, Rwanda) focused on global health issues, even for online students.