Online MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

• Ranked as the #1 online Master’s in Public Health (MPH) in the US for 2025 by Fortune Education .

• Previously recognized by STEPS (Student Training & Education in Public Service) as one of the best online MPH programs for 2022 (ranked #25).

• The School of Public Health at the University of Maryland is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Delivery Modes

• Primarily an online program (MPH-PHPP Online), with most courses offered 100% online.

• Hybrid component: One course, HLSA772 (Healthcare Leadership and Communications), requires four to five weekend days of in-person residency on the UMD College Park campus.

• Flexible study options: Can be completed in two years of full-time study or three years of part-time study. An 18-month continuous full-time option may also be available.

Curriculum Overview

• Total Credits: 45-credit degree program.

• Core Structure: Divided into three modules:

  • Module 1: Integrated Core (6 courses, 14 credits) - Covers evidence-based approaches to public health, health care systems, planning and management, policy, leadership, communication, ethics, epidemiology, and biostatistics.

  • Module 2: Cognate Courses (8 courses, 24 credits) - Focuses on public health management, health policy and services, health law and economics, public health research methods, and foundations of environmental health.

  • Module 3: Internship (4 credits) and Capstone Project (3 credits).

• Detailed course requirements can be viewed on the UMD Academic Catalog .

Admissions Requirements

• The program is designed for working professionals looking to advance their careers.

• Specific admissions requirements, including application components and prerequisites, can be found on the Graduate Application Process page .

Cost & Financial Aid

Information on tuition and fees for the Online MPH in Public Health Practice and Policy is available on the University of Maryland Extended Studies website. Please visit the Tuition & Fees page for detailed costs. Information regarding Financial Aid & Fellowships is also available.

Career & Practical Experience

• Graduates are prepared for careers in health care leadership and administration, federal, state, or local policy analysis, and research.

• The program aims to increase marketable expertise, professional flexibility and mobility, executive leadership competencies, career advancement readiness, and lifetime earning potential.

• Practical experience is gained through a required internship and a capstone project that integrates course learning.