General MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The University of Michigan-Flint’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program aims to cultivate responsible public health leaders capable of promoting and protecting population health. It focuses on achieving health equity in Flint and beyond, empowering students with knowledge and specialized skills to address public health challenges using an evidence-based approach. The program is grounded in foundational partnerships in the City of Flint and applies these principles globally. It is ranked among the nation’s best public health programs by U.S. News & World Report .

The Public Health Programs at the University of Michigan-Flint received accreditation from the Board of Councilors of the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) in June 2021. The accreditation term extends until July 1, 2026.

Delivery Modes

The MPH program is designed for flexibility, offering multiple delivery modes to accommodate student needs. It can be completed 100% online using Hyperflex technology, which allows students to choose weekly whether to attend in-person or online synchronously. Some classes are also available online asynchronously. Students have the option to pursue the program on a part-time or full-time basis. The program can also be completed on-campus with in-person courses.

Curriculum Overview

The curriculum consists of a minimum of 42 credit hours. It includes an Applied Practice Experience (internship) and an Integrative Learning Experience (capstone project) to provide hands-on experience. Students can customize their degree completion plans. Core courses include:

• HCR 500 – Epidemiology

• HED 540 – Health Behavior Theory for Public Health

• HED 547 – Biostatistics for Health Professionals

• PHS 500 – Social Determinants of Health

• PHS 501 – Public Health Administration and Policy

• PHS 503 – Welcome to Public Health

• PHS 520 – Environmental Health

• PHS 550 – Interprofessional Education in Public Health

• PHS 562 – Cultural Competence for Public Health Practice

Concentration options include Health Education and Health Administration. A dual Master of Public Health / Master of Business Administration (MPH/MBA) degree option is also available.

Admissions Requirements

• A bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution with sufficient preparation in algebra.

• Minimum overall undergraduate GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale.

• Application for Graduate Admission.

• $55 application fee (non-refundable).

• Official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended.

• English proficiency demonstration for non-native English speakers from non-exempt countries.

• Three letters of recommendation (at least one academic).

• Statement of Purpose (500 words or less) detailing:

  • Concentration of interest and how the MPH program aligns with personal purpose.

  • Preparation for the MPH program through coursework, work/volunteer, and life experiences.

  • Experiences with facing and overcoming adversity.

  • Congruence of characteristics and goals with the Program’s mission and values.

  • How personal/academic background and experiences will bring a unique perspective and contribute to the Public Health community.

  • Any special circumstances applicable to the application.

• Additional documentation for international students.

An interview may be required at the discretion of the faculty admissions committee. The program has rolling admissions with specific deadlines for Fall, Winter, and Summer terms.

Career & Practical Experience

Students gain practical skills through at least two resume-worthy community experiences: an internship and a capstone project. MPH students can also engage in public health research projects, leveraging resources from the entire University of Michigan system.

91% of graduates responding to an alumni survey reported gaining employment within one year of graduation. Alumni are employed at agencies such as Wayne County Health Authority, Genesee County Health Department, and Great Lakes Bay Health Centers. Common job titles include:

• Population Health Project Specialist

• Emergency Preparedness Coordinator

• HIV Prevention Manager

• Public Health Analyst

• Sexual Assault Prevention Educator