Public Health (MPH)

The Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) degree is designed to prepare graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to address public health challenges. The market demand for an M.P.H. degree is robust, driven by the need to address complex public health issues, policy initiatives, and the growing emphasis on preventive care and health promotion.

This program is appropriate for individuals wanting to advance their career in health care, or individuals who want to transition to a career in public health. Students will learn to develop and evaluate public health programs, utilize health informatics for data-driven decision-making, and respond effectively to biosecurity threats and emergencies. Graduates will be empowered to contribute effectively to the promotion of health equity and sustainable practices in diverse communities and address the multifaceted public health challenges of today and tomorrow.

  • Curriculum includes epidemiology, biostatistics and data analysis, health policy, environmental health, community health, and veterinary public health.
  • Specialized courses focus on Environmental Health and Human-Animal Health, through our program’s unique emphasis on the One Health approach, which recognizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health.
  • Our curriculum is carefully crafted to provide both theoretical understanding and practical skills.
  • A unique feature of the program is the integration of a simulated disease outbreak, offering invaluable hands-on experience in managing real-world public health crises.
  • The M.P.H. program is offered synchronous online (live learning required) with “low-residency” in-person/on-campus applied learning experiences such as a disease outbreak simulation as part of the Biosecurity, Emergency Response, and Outbreak Investigation course. The 42-credit program can be completed in two to four years based on how many credits you take per term.

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Master's of Public Health At-a-Glance

Prerequisite Course Requirements:

Laboratory science prerequisite courses (e.g., Biology, Chemistry) may be required based on the student's undergraduate major. Students may complete undergraduate prerequisites concurrent to other courses in the M.P.H. program, but a required M.P.H. course may not be taken before or at the same time as its prerequisite course requirement. The program will assess student performance and modify prerequisite course requirements as needed. Prior to enrolling in Introduction to Epidemiology and Biostatistics, students will be required to complete a 3-credit undergraduate statistics course.

Core Courses

Foundations of Public Health: Current & Emerging Issues

Introduction to Epidemiology

Community Health

Environmental Health

Public Health at the Human-Animal Interface

Health Information Systems & Informatics

Biostatistics & Data Analysis

Public Health Program Evaluation & Research Methods

Biosecurity, Emergency Response & Outbreak Investigation

One Health Seminar

Public Health Capstone Project

Electives

Population Health Management for Healthcare Leaders

Social and Behavioral Aspects of Public Health

Environmental Epidemiology

Environmental Policy & Regulation

Epidemiology of Zoonotic Diseases

Foodborne Diseases, Food Animal Production Systems & Food Safety

Core Course Descriptions

Through interdisciplinary perspectives, students will analyze the social, economic, and political factors influencing health outcomes while analyzing innovative strategies for prevention and intervention. Students will delve into current and emerging issues shaping global health. In this dynamic course, students will engage with contemporary public health challenges such as infectious disease outbreaks, environmental health threats, healthcare disparities, and the intersection of technology and public health.

Introduction to Epidemiology offers a comprehensive exploration into the fundamental principles and methodologies of epidemiology, the cornerstone of public health. Through a blend of theoretical foundations and practical applications, students delve into the intricate factors and relationships that influence the distribution and determinants of diseases within populations. The course begins with an examination of the historical evolution of epidemiology, tracing its roots from early disease surveillance to its modern-day applications in addressing global health challenges. Students gain insight into key epidemiological concepts such as disease causality, measures of disease frequency, and study designs. They learn to critically evaluate epidemiological literature and grasp the significance of epidemiological research in shaping public health policies and interventions. Throughout the course, emphasis is placed on epidemiological methods for investigating disease outbreaks, assessing risk factors, and evaluating interventions. By the end of the course, students emerge with a comprehensive understanding of epidemiological principles and their applications in promoting population health and preventing disease. Armed with critical thinking skills and methodological expertise, graduates are prepared to contribute to the field of epidemiology through research, practice, and policy development.

This course explores the multifaceted dynamics of community health within the framework of public health principles. Through a combination of theoretical exploration and practical application, students will examine the various factors influencing community health outcomes, including socio-economic determinants, environmental factors, healthcare access, cultural norms, and policy implications. Drawing from interdisciplinary perspectives, students will critically analyze case studies, research findings, and public health interventions aimed at promoting health equity and improving population health at the community level. Topics covered include epidemiology of community health, community-based participatory research methods, health disparities, program planning and evaluation, and strategies for fostering community engagement and empowerment. Through interactive discussions, group projects, and real-world simulations, students will develop the skills necessary to assess community health needs, design evidence-based interventions, and collaborate with diverse stakeholders to address pressing public health challenges. This course equips future public health leaders with the knowledge and tools to enact meaningful changes and advance health equity within communities.

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the fundamental principles and concepts of environmental health within the context of public health. As a core component of the Master of Public Health (M.P.H.) program, this course delves into an intricate relationship between environmental factors and human health outcomes. Through a multidisciplinary approach, students will explore the complexities of environmental hazards, risk assessment, exposure pathways, and the impact of environmental policies and regulations on population health. Topics covered include air and water quality, food safety, occupational health, climate change, and emerging issues in environmental health. Utilizing case studies, research findings, and real-world examples, students will develop analytical skills to assess environmental health risks and formulate evidence-based interventions to mitigate adverse health effects.

This course explores the intricate relationship between human and animal health, focusing on zoonotic diseases and their significant impact on public health. Students will explore the intricate relationship between humans, animals, and the environment, emphasizing the role of zoonotic pathogens in shaping global health challenges. The course will cover the environmental and socio-economic factors that contribute to the emergence and spread of zoonotic diseases, including agricultural practices, wildlife interactions, and urbanization. Through a comprehensive examination of epidemiology, transmission dynamics, and the One Health approach, students will gain a deep understanding of the complexities involved in managing zoonotic disease risks. The course equips learners with the skills to assess and prioritize public health risks associated with the human-animal interface, develop evidence-based strategies to prevent and manage zoonotic outbreaks, and effectively communicate the implications of these health challenges. By integrating interdisciplinary perspectives, students will be prepared to address current and emerging public health threats, making meaningful contributions to the development of policies and practices that protect both human and animal health.

This course delves into the foundational principles and practical applications of Health Information Systems and Informatics. Students will explore modern information architectures and essential technologies pivotal for supporting contemporary healthcare infrastructures. Emphasis is placed on understanding the limitations of healthcare technology and the role of informatics initiatives in optimizing information use to enhance service quality and operational efficiency. Through a comprehensive examination of electronic medical records, terminology standardization, and organizational strategies, students will gain insight into the implications of healthcare technology for diverse stakeholder groups. The course also equips students with the skills to evaluate public health informatics tools and systems. By investigating technology trends, organizational principles, and the theory behind information systems, students will be prepared to analyze, support, and maintain integrated information systems within healthcare delivery contexts.

This course provides a comprehensive introduction to biostatistics, emphasizing its application in public health. The curriculum covers fundamental statistical concepts and techniques essential for analyzing and interpreting public health data. Students will explore topics such as descriptive statistics, probability, hypothesis testing, confidence intervals, and regression analysis. Through a combination of lectures, hands-on exercises, and real-world case studies, participants will gain practical skills in data management, enabling them to conduct rigorous public health research and evaluation. By the end of the course, students will be proficient in using biostatistical methods to inform public health decisions, evaluate health interventions, and contribute to evidence-based policymaking. This course is ideal for those seeking to enhance their quantitative analysis capabilities and apply statistical reasoning to complex public health challenges.

This course equips students with the skills and knowledge needed to conduct rigorous evaluations of public health programs. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical applications, students explore various evaluation methodologies, including experimental and quasi-experimental designs, implementation science, and mixed-method approaches. Emphasis is placed on assessing the effectiveness, efficiency, equity, and sustainability of public health interventions across diverse populations and settings. The topics covered include evaluation planning, stakeholder engagement, data collection and analysis, evaluation ethics, and utilization-focused dissemination strategies. Using case studies and real-world examples, students develop proficiency in designing evaluation plans, selecting appropriate metrics, interpreting findings, and translating evidence into actionable recommendations for program improvement and policy decision-making. By the end of the course, students are prepared to critically evaluate public health programs, contribute to evidence-based practice, and advocate for informed policies that promote population health and equity.

This course delves into the critical intersections of biosecurity, emergency response, and outbreak investigation within the realm of public health. With a specialized focus on biothreat preparedness and risk assessment, students will gain comprehensive knowledge essential for effectively managing zoonotic and foreign animal disease outbreaks. Through a multidisciplinary approach, the course explores regulatory frameworks, and the roles of various agencies tasked with preventing and controlling such outbreaks. Topics include strategies for early detection, containment measures, surveillance systems, and the integration of epidemiological principles into emergency response protocols. A disease outbreak simulation provides students with hands-on experience in navigating complex biosecurity challenges. By the end of the course, students will emerge equipped with the expertise needed to safeguard populations against emerging threats and mitigate the impacts of infectious disease crises.

This seminar-based course, offered as part of the Master of Public Health (MPH) program, explores the foundational principles and applications of the One Health approach, which emphasizes the interconnectedness of human, animal, and environmental health. Through a series of seminars led by experts in the field, students will engage in contemporary topics that promote a multidisciplinary understanding of how the One Health domains (community health, environmental health, animal health) converge and contribute to emerging public health challenges and opportunities.

Students will attend and actively participate in the seminars, followed by reflective and analytical assignments designed to foster critical thinking and deepen their understanding of the complex interrelationships that shape global health outcomes. These reflections will not only focus on the seminar content but will also integrate broader One Health issues and opportunities, encouraging students to consider policy implications, ethical dimensions, and innovative strategies.

By the end of the course, students will develop a comprehensive understanding of the One Health framework and its relevance in addressing contemporary public health problems. They will be equipped to critically assess health issues from a holistic perspective, preparing them for leadership roles in health sectors that demand collaborative, cross-disciplinary solutions.

The culminating course in the Master of Public Health program offers students the opportunity to integrate and apply their knowledge and skills gained throughout the program by engaging in either fieldwork or an applied research project tailored to their interests and career goals. During the course, students collaborate closely with the instructor to design and implement a project that addresses a real-world public health challenge. Whether conducting fieldwork in local communities or delving into public health program or policy evaluation, students gain practical experience and contribute to positive changes in public health practice. Emphasizing critical thinking, analytical skills, problem-solving, and effective communication, this course prepares students to become versatile public health professionals capable of navigating complex issues and driving impactful solutions in diverse settings.

Elective Course Descriptions

In today's dynamic healthcare landscape, the shift towards population health management is imperative for sustainable healthcare systems. Designed as a cornerstone of the Master of Public Health Community Health Specialization, this course equips future healthcare leaders with the essential skills to navigate the complexities of population health management. Students delve into the fundamental concepts of population health, exploring strategies to transcend individual patient care and address the health needs of diverse communities. Through a blend of theoretical frameworks and practical case studies, participants learn to apply leadership principles to drive transformative changes within healthcare organizations. Emphasis is placed on understanding the methodologies employed by project managers to sustain population health teams amidst organizational shifts. From strategic planning to effective community health program implementation, students gain insights into fostering collaboration, optimizing resources, and achieving measurable outcomes in population and community health initiatives. By the end of the course, students emerge equipped with the visionary leadership acumen needed to champion sustainable health solutions at both population and community levels.

This course examines the intricate interplay between social and behavioral factors in shaping public health outcomes within communities. Through an interdisciplinary lens, students will explore theories, methods, and applications relevant to understanding and addressing complex health disparities and challenges. Topics include social determinants of health, health behavior theories, health communication strategies, community engagement, cultural competency, and policy implications. Utilizing case studies, research findings, and practical exercises, students will critically analyze the impact of social structures, cultural norms, socioeconomic status, and individual behaviors on health outcomes. Emphasis will be placed on developing interventions and strategies that promote health equity, empower communities, and foster sustainable changes. Through collaborative projects and discussions, students will hone their skills in designing, implementing, and evaluating evidence-based interventions aimed at improving population health and reducing health inequities. This course equips students with the necessary tools to effectively address public health challenges through a social and behavioral lens within diverse community settings.

This course is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the complex interplay between environmental factors and human health outcomes. Through a combination of theoretical learning and practical application, students will explore the principles of epidemiology as they relate to environmental exposures and gain the skills necessary to assess and mitigate environmental health risks. The topics covered will include the identification and assessment of environmental hazards, methods for investigating environmental health issues, and the interpretation of epidemiological data in the context of environmental exposures. Special emphasis will be placed on the design and implementation of epidemiological studies in diverse environmental settings and the ethical considerations inherent in environmental health research. By the end of the course, students will have developed a strong foundation in environmental epidemiology, enabling them to critically evaluate environmentalhealth literature, design effective interventions, and contribute to the promotion of public health through evidence-based practice.

This course provides a comprehensive examination of environmental policy and regulation within the context of public health, focusing on the intersection of environmental factors and human health outcomes. Students will explore the development, implementation, and evaluation of environmental policies at local, national, and international levels, with a particular emphasis on their impact on public health. Key topics include regulatory frameworks, environmental justice, risk assessment, pollution control, and sustainability. Through case studies and interactive discussions, students will analyze real-world environmental health challenges and assess the effectiveness of policy interventions. By the end of the course, students will gain the knowledge and skills necessary to critically evaluate environmental policies, advocate for evidence-based regulations, and contribute to the promotion of environmental justice and population health.

This course examines the fundamental epidemiology of prevalent and critical zoonotic diseases within the framework of veterinary public health. Through a comprehensive exploration of each disease, students will gain insights into the etiology, transmission dynamics from animals to humans, typical manifestations in both populations, diagnostic methodologies, and preventive/control strategies tailored to individual zoonoses. Topics include the epidemiology of zoonoses in small animal populations, wildlife, and laboratory animals, providing a holistic understanding of the interface between animal and human health. By the end of this course, students will be equipped with the expertise to contribute effectively to the surveillance, prevention, and management of zoonotic diseases, thereby safeguarding both animal and human populations against these significant public health threats.

This course explores the intricate interplay between foodborne diseases, food animal production systems, and food safety within the context of veterinary public health. Students will delve into the dynamics of the food chain, focusing on products of animal origin including milk, meat, eggs, and seafood, from farm to table. Special attention is devoted to pre-harvest safety issues, elucidating critical points where zoonotic food-borne pathogens infiltrate the food chain. Through detailed examination of the most prevalent foodborne bacterial and viral diseases, participants gain insights into their epidemiology, modes of transmission, and impact on public health. Emphasis is placed on preventative and control measures tailored to each disease, fostering a nuanced understanding of mitigation strategies. Furthermore, the course focuses on multifaceted food safety concerns such as antimicrobial resistance, hazard analysis, good management practices, meat inspection, and food safety training. By synthesizing theoretical frameworks with practical applications, students emerge equipped to address the complex challenges at the nexus of food safety, animal health, and public wellbeing.

Career Opportunities

Career opportunities exist in: Community Health (outreach specialist, community care coordinator, patient navigator, public health social worker); Public Health Education (public health educator, health teacher); Emergency Management (disaster relief coordinator, emergency management specialist, emergency preparedness researcher); Epidemiology (clinical trial researcher, field epidemiologist, veterinary epidemiologist, epidemiology investigator); Global Health (International aid worker, infectious disease analyst, policy analyst, global health educator, field consultant); Public Policy (Health care policy analyst, health care administrator,health care lobbyist, health services manager); Environmental Health (environmental safety engineer, environmental health specialist, Health and Safety director, health inspector)

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS*), the employment of healthcare occupations is projected to grow 13% from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations, adding about 2 million new jobs. Within this sector, specific occupations relevant to MPH graduates show strong growth prospects:

  • Epidemiologists: Employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 26% from 2021 to 2031. The increased demand for public health professionals who can analyze data and develop public health policies is a significant driver of this growth.
  • Health Educators and Community Health Workers: Employment in this category is projected to grow 17% from 2021 to 2031. This increase is driven by efforts to improve health outcomes and reduce healthcare costs by teaching people about healthy behaviors and how to access healthcare services.
  • Medical and Health Services Managers: This category, which includes public health administrators, is expected to grow 28% from 2021 to 2031. The growing complexity of healthcare services and the need for efficient management of public health programs are key factors contributing to this demand.

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Contact
Richard Maher, MBA, Assistant Director of Graduate Admissions