General MPH Program

Program Highlights

The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at the University of Pennsylvania is a university-wide, interdisciplinary, and interprofessional graduate program. It is designed to prepare students for leadership roles by integrating research, education, and service to promote the health of populations locally, nationally, and globally. A key feature is the 5:1 student-to-faculty ratio, ensuring students receive personalized mentorship throughout their coursework and Capstone projects.

Delivery Modes

The program offers flexibility, allowing for both full-time and part-time study. Students typically complete the program in two years as a full-time student or three years as a part-time student.

Curriculum Overview

Students must complete 14 course units and maintain a GPA of 3.0 or better, with a B- or higher in each course to receive credit toward the degree. The curriculum includes:

• Six required core courses: Introduction to Biostatistics (PUBH 5010), Introduction to the Principles and Methods of Epidemiology (PUBH 5020), Public Health Theories & Frameworks (PUBH 5040), Public Health Policy & Administration (PUBH 5050), Methods for Public Health Practice (PUBH 5060), and Public Health Law & Ethics (PUBH 5070).

• Two semesters of Capstone Seminar: Capstone Seminar I (PUBH 7080) and Capstone Seminar II (PUBH 7090).

• A Fieldwork Experience with a minimum of 125 hours.

Students also take 6 elective course units based on their chosen track. Up to 3 of these can be graduate-level public health courses from any department across the University, leveraging the program's interdisciplinary nature.

Admissions Requirements

Detailed admissions requirements are not specified in the provided context. Prospective students should refer to the official program website for comprehensive application information.

Career & Practical Experience

The program prepares graduates for leadership positions in public health. The Epidemiology Track specifically aims to equip students for roles such as research epidemiologist, data analyst, or epidemiologic practitioner.

Practical experience is gained through the mandatory Fieldwork (minimum 125 hours) and Capstone projects. The Global Health Track offers connections with the Center for Global Health, facilitating global experiences for Fieldwork or Capstone projects.