Accelerated BS to MPH Program

Program Highlights & Accreditation

The West Virginia University (WVU) Accelerated Bachelor’s to Master of Public Health (ABM) program offers a fast-track option for highly motivated undergraduate students in Public Health Sciences or Immunology and Medical Microbiology to earn both a B.S. and an MPH degree. The MPH program focuses on applying science, research, and theoretical knowledge to prevent disease and prepares students for careers providing evidence-based solutions to complex health issues. The program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), with learning outcomes based on its 22 foundational competencies organized into eight domains.

Delivery Modes

This is an accelerated, full-time program, typically involving on-campus study. Students admitted to the ABM program are generally required to maintain full-time continuous enrollment during fall and spring terms.

Curriculum Overview

The combined ABM program for Public Health Sciences majors requires completing 145 credit hours, encompassing general education, public health foundation courses, major-specific courses, and Master of Public Health program courses. The MPH curriculum is organized around three core disciplines of public health: Applied Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Public Health Practice and Leadership, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. A key component for all MPH students is the Applied Practice Experience, requiring a minimum of 180 contact hours in a public health-related agency. This experience allows students to apply academic knowledge in real-world settings and develop professional networks. Students also engage in integrated and interprofessional learning experiences throughout their curriculum. For detailed course requirements, refer to the WVU Catalog .

Admissions Requirements

Applicants must be enrolled WVU undergraduate students in a participating major. General requirements include a strong academic record and no documented infractions with student conduct offices or law enforcement. Specific requirements vary by undergraduate major:

• Public Health Sciences Majors: Must be enrolled in the B.S. in Public Health (Public Health Sciences major), have a minimum GPA of 3.5, earn a minimum grade of A in PUBH 205, and have completed 60-75 credits. The application (due March 1) requires a resume, personal statement, and two references. Apply via the Qualtrics application .

• Immunology and Medical Microbiology (IMMB) Majors:

  • Early Admission (First-Time Freshmen): Must be admitted to WVU as an IMMB major, have a high school GPA of 3.5 or higher, and place directly into CHEM 115.

  • Regular Admission (Currently Enrolled WVU Students): Must have completed 60-75 credits of BS IMMB coursework with a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher. Application includes a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.

For further details on admission guidelines, consult the WVU Catalog .

Career & Practical Experience

Graduates of the MPH program are prepared for careers in a variety of public health settings, such as health departments, clinics, and federal agencies. The mandatory Applied Practice Experience offers students the opportunity to explore public health careers, clarify their professional goals, develop contacts for employment (networking), and make meaningful contributions to participating agencies or organizations.