Brief Overview of Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs
Pursuing a Master's in Public Health (MPH) online offers you the flexibility to enhance your education and advance your career in this vital sector without having to put your life on hold. Online MPH programs are designed to provide you with the same rigorous curriculum as traditional on-campus programs, with the added benefit of studying at your own pace and on your schedule. Here's what you can expect from an online Master's in Public Health:
Comprehensive Curriculum: Online MPH programs cover a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, environmental health, and social and behavioral sciences. This ensures that you will be well-equipped with the knowledge needed to tackle public health challenges.
Interactive Learning Environment: With advancements in educational technology, online learning platforms offer interactive experiences that rival face-to-face instruction. You'll engage in virtual classrooms, participate in discussion forums, and have access to a wealth of digital resources.
Practical Experience: Many programs incorporate practical experiences, such as capstone projects or internships, which you can often complete at a location near you. This hands-on approach helps you apply theoretical knowledge to real-world public health issues.
Accreditation: Accreditation by bodies such as the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is crucial for ensuring the quality and recognition of your degree. Our rankings include accredited programs that meet rigorous academic and professional standards.
Flexibility: One of the key advantages of an online MPH is the flexibility it offers. Whether you're a working professional or have other commitments, online programs allow you to balance your studies with your personal life.
Networking Opportunities: Despite being conducted virtually, online MPH programs often provide networking opportunities through online communities, allowing you to connect with peers and professionals in the field.
Affordability: Many online programs offer competitive tuition rates and eliminate costs associated with commuting or relocating for school. Additionally, our proprietary algorithm takes affordability into account when ranking programs.
Program Outcomes: We evaluate the success rates of graduates, including employment outcomes and contributions to the field of public health, as part of our ranking criteria.
Accessibility and Student Support Services: Online programs typically offer robust support services, including academic advising, technical support, and career services to ensure you have a supportive learning environment.
Program Reputation: The reputation of a program can significantly impact your future career opportunities. Our rankings consider the recognition and respect that each program receives within the public health community.
When choosing an online MPH program, it's essential to consider how well it aligns with your personal and professional goals. The best online public health master's degree programs are those that provide a strong foundation in public health principles while also offering the specialized knowledge and skills needed to address today's global health challenges.
Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
#1 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Johns Hopkins University
Program Accredited By: Middle States Commission on Higher Education
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,027
Contact: mphprog@jhu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$87,345
Why We Picked It:
Outstanding reputation for public health programs, widely recognized faculty, substantial hands-on practicum experiences, and highest median earnings among listed programs. Offers flexible online learning and strong career prospects in a diverse range of public health fields.
#2 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Emory University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$2,300
Contact: emph@emory.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$75,572
Why We Picked It:
High cost per credit offset by high median earnings and an innovative approach to adult and part-time learning. Strategic plan emphasizes evolving educational offerings and expanding online options, maintaining its reputation for excellence in public health education.
#3 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
George Washington University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,835
Contact: admissions@publichealthonline.gwu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$82,209
Why We Picked It:
Ranked highly among public health graduate schools, offering flexible learning options and a $10,000 tuition scholarship. Program focuses on practical experience and provides a comprehensive network for graduates, despite its high cost per credit.
#4 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Oregon State University
Program Accredited By: Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$560
Contact: graduate.admissions@oregonstate.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$69,360
Why We Picked It:
Distinguished by affordability and the integration of a hands-on 200-hour professional internship. Unique linkage with the Extension Service and several specialization options, including an accelerated format and dual degree programs.
#5 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Illinois Chicago
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$730
Contact: rschroe9@uic.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$78,867
Why We Picked It:
Diverse online degree offerings in public health, including the notable 100% online MPH in Public Health Informatics. Focuses on leadership training and practice-based research, catering to a wide audience with different educational needs.
Top Career Paths by Salary for Public Health in 2024
| Career | Annual Median Salary | Hourly Median Salary |
|---|---|---|
| Clinical Research Coordinator | $144,440 | $69.44 |
| Health Services Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
| Healthcare Consultant | $104,830 | $50.4 |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $104,830 | $50.4 |
| Quality Improvement Coordinator | $104,830 | $50.4 |
| Wellness Coordinator | $104,830 | $50.4 |
| Biostatistician | $98,920 | $47.56 |
| Global Health Professional | $88,900 | $42.74 |
| Public Health Nurse | $81,220 | $39.05 |
| Emergency Preparedness Coordinator | $79,180 | $38.07 |
| Epidemiologist | $78,520 | $37.75 |
| Environmental Health Specialist | $76,480 | $36.77 |
Data sourced From O*NET OnLine by the U.S. Department of Labor, Employment and Training Administration (USDOL/ETA).
#6 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of New England
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$800
Contact: publichealth@une.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$74,421
Why We Picked It:
42-credit CEPH-Accredited program with specialization options and an experiential learning opportunity in Ghana. Offers robust student support and a flexible completion time, making it attractive for working professionals and career changers.
#7 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
San Jose State University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$450
Contact: master-public-health@sjsu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$74,606
Why We Picked It:
Accredited by CEPH and offers a specialization in Community Health Education with both on-campus and online learning options. Stands out for its strong commitment to health education and public health practice.
#8 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of South Florida
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $347
Out of State: $771
Contact: preadmissions@usf.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$70,137
Why We Picked It:
Offers a wide range of online graduate degrees and certificate programs with a focus on new technologies for course delivery. Supported by a robust Office of Educational Technology and Assessment, catering to a large student body with diverse specialization options.
#9 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Medical College of Wisconsin
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$950
Contact: gradschool@mcw.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Established program with a focus on public health practice, leadership development, and community engagement. Offers year-round applications and a diverse curriculum focusing on health equity and policy development.
#10 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Loma Linda University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$913
Contact: admissions.sph@llu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$78,691
Why We Picked It:
MPH in Epidemiology offered both on-campus and online, recognized as STEM degrees. Rich with practicum experiences and focused on practical training in epidemiology, contributing to its higher median earnings compared to some other programs.
Typical Tasks for Careers in Public Health
Administer medications intravenously, by injection, orally, through gastric tubes, or by other methods.
Administer medications to patients and monitor patients for reactions or side effects.
Advise clients or community groups on issues related to improving general health, such as diet or exercise.
Advocate for clients or patients to resolve crises.
Analyze and interpret statistical data to identify significant differences in relationships among sources of information.
Analyze changes designed to improve the environmental performance of complex systems and avoid unintended negative consequences.
#11 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
West Virginia University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$776
Contact: wvunlineInquiry@mail.wvu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$61,913
Why We Picked It:
Focuses on practical skills for managing programs and policies for improved public health outcomes. Online format with a total degree cost consideration for both residents and non-residents, aiming to prepare students for varied roles in public health.
#12 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Illinois Springfield
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $332
Out of State: $681
Contact: admissions@uis.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$69,103
Why We Picked It:
Highlights a multi-disciplinary approach in its MPH, incorporating practical experiences through Community-Based Participatory Research. Offers a supportive community and network, enhancing career prospects for graduates.
#13 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Florida International University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$600
Contact: onlineprograms@fiu.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$58,455
Why We Picked It:
Unique for being the only generalist MPH online program in South Florida, offering flexibility and national linkages for practicum experiences. Tailored for working professionals, with notable faculty research areas.
#14 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Augusta University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$430
Contact: admissions@online.augusta.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Offers a comprehensive curriculum focusing on health management, health informatics, and social and behavioral sciences. Accredited by CEPH, with a strong emphasis on leadership roles in healthcare and public health organizations.
#15 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
New York Medical College
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,255
Contact: shsp_admissions@nymc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Focus on social and environmental determinants of health and disease, catering to working professionals with its online and evening class offerings. Emphasis on addressing health disparities and providing education and policy development skills.
Technologies and Skills Used for Careers in Public Health
Analytical or scientific software
- IBM SPSS Statistics
- The MathWorks MATLAB
Cloud-based data access and sharing software
- Google Drive
- Microsoft SharePoint
Basic Skills
- Keeping track of how well people and/or groups are doing in order to make improvements
- Listening to others, not interrupting, and asking good questions
#16 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Liberty University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$565
Contact: residentgraduate@liberty.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$56,088
Why We Picked It:
Offers multiple specializations including Community Health Promotion and Global Health. Despite its higher cost, it provides comprehensive curriculum options and practical experience components, catering to a broad scope of public health interests.
#17 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Baylor University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,785
Contact: admissions@baylor.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Top-ranked program with experiential learning opportunities and a focus on community health science. High cost per credit is considered in the context of its overall quality and reputation in public health education.
#18 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
University of Kansas
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$700
Contact: edwardsinfo@ku.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Flexible online programs with a comprehensive background in public health practice, policy, and management. Catering to students seeking advanced education and training in public health with support for financial guidance and academia.
#19 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Program Accredited By: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
In-State: $217
Out of State: $637
Contact: spph@ttuhsc.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Generalist concentration with tailored coursework options for evidence-based preventive public health and interdisciplinary expertise. Focus on flexible learning environments and career support.
#20 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Andrews University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,267
Contact: enroll@andrews.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
Not Provided
Why We Picked It:
Offers two concentrations: Nutrition & Wellness and Health Education & Promotion. Engages a diverse faculty and student body, providing a broad spectrum of career opportunities and a focus on communities adopting a healthy lifestyle.
#21 in Best Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs in 2024
Mercer University
Program Accredited By: Council on Education for Public Health
Online Program Information:
Cost per Credit:
$1,009
Contact: mph@mercer.edu
Online Graduate Overall Median Earnings:
$47,251
Why We Picked It:
Generalist MPH degree with a history of training public health professionals to address health disparities and improve community well-being. Located in Georgia, it offers significant contributions to disease prevention and wellness in various sectors.
What Jobs Can You Get With an Online Public Health Master's Degree?
Earning an online Master's in Public Health (MPH) opens the door to a myriad of career paths in the dynamic and expanding field of public health. With our algorithmically ranked programs focusing on affordability, program outcomes, and flexibility among other factors, graduates are well-prepared to step into roles where they can make a significant impact. Here are some of the job opportunities you might pursue with an MPH degree:
Epidemiologist: As disease detectives, epidemiologists work in various settings, including state and local governments, hospitals, and international organizations, to investigate patterns and causes of diseases in humans. They strive to reduce negative health outcomes by conducting research, policy making, and education. Learn more at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).
Healthcare Administrator: Overseeing the operations of healthcare facilities, healthcare administrators ensure that organizations run smoothly while maintaining quality of care. They might work in hospitals, long-term care facilities, or clinics. Their role is crucial for the integration of healthcare services and administration.
Public Health Consultant: These professionals provide expert advice to organizations or populations on matters related to public health policy, program development, and research. Their work often involves analyzing data and trends to improve community health outcomes.
Biostatistician: Utilizing statistical methods to analyze data from medical and public health research, biostatisticians play a critical role in designing studies and interpreting results that inform health policies and treatment strategies.
Health Educator/Community Health Worker: These individuals develop programs and materials that promote wellness and educate communities about behaviors that can prevent diseases and other health issues. They may work for non-profits, government agencies, or private businesses.
Environmental Health Scientist: Addressing the impact of environmental factors on human health, environmental health scientists conduct research and advocate for policies to reduce harmful exposures. They often collaborate with industries and policymakers to protect communities.
Global Health Professional: Focused on improving health outcomes on an international scale, global health professionals tackle challenges such as infectious disease outbreaks, sanitation, and access to healthcare in low-resource settings.
Policy Analyst: Specializing in the creation of policies that affect public health, policy analysts research issues, suggest improvements, and advocate for change within governmental bodies or advocacy groups.
Public Health Program Director: Leading public health initiatives and programs, these directors manage teams, budgets, and project outcomes to ensure the success of public health services.
Graduates with an MPH can also find opportunities in academic settings as researchers or educators, contributing to the advancement of public health knowledge. The versatility of an MPH degree means that career options are not limited to the roles listed above but can also extend into areas like nutrition, maternal and child health, mental health services, and more.
To further explore government careers in public health, visit the official website for USAJobs, which features opportunities in federal agencies that focus on public health issues. Additionally, reputable organizations such as the American Public Health Association (APHA) offer resources for job seekers looking to advance their careers in this field.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Online Public Health Master's Degree Programs
What are the main advantages of pursuing a Master's in Public Health online?
- Flexibility: Online programs often offer asynchronous classes, allowing you to balance your studies with personal and professional commitments.
- Accessibility: You can access course materials from anywhere with an internet connection, eliminating the need for commuting.
- Diversity: Interact with a global cohort of peers and experts in the field, enhancing your learning experience and professional network.
How long does it typically take to complete an online Master's in Public Health program?
- Most online MPH programs take about two years to complete for full-time students. Part-time students may take 3-4 years, depending on the program's structure and flexibility.
Can I specialize in a specific area of public health in an online MPH program?
- Yes, many online MPH programs offer specializations such as Epidemiology, Community Health, Global Health, and Health Policy, among others.
Is an online Master's in Public Health as respected as an on-campus degree?
- Accredited online MPH programs are generally held to the same standards as their on-campus counterparts. Employers increasingly recognize the value of online education.
What are the accreditation standards I should look for in an online MPH program?
- Ensure the program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), which is the primary accrediting body for public health programs.
What are the technical requirements for enrolling in an online MPH program?
- A reliable computer with internet access, webcam, and microphone for interactive sessions.
- Up-to-date software required by the program which may include statistical analysis or data management tools.
Are there any in-person requirements for online MPH programs?
- Some programs may require occasional campus visits for orientations, workshops, or networking events.
- Practicum or field experience is often a requirement but can usually be completed locally.
What kind of support services are available to students in online MPH programs?
- Academic advising and career services
- Online library and research resources
- Technical support and online learning assistance
- Access to faculty and peer communication platforms
How do I choose the best online MPH program for me?
Consider factors such as:
- Our proprietary algorithm that ranks programs based on affordability, outcomes, accessibility, student support services, accreditation, flexibility, and reputation.
- Your career goals and preferred specialization areas.
- The balance between synchronous and asynchronous course offerings.
What career opportunities can I expect after graduating from an online MPH program?
- Graduates can pursue roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare facilities, and private sector firms. Positions include Epidemiologist, Health Educator, Policy Analyst, and Public Health Advisor.
Remember to always verify the accreditation status of any program you consider and review its curriculum against your career objectives. Choosing a program that aligns with your professional goals and learning style is crucial for your success in the field of public health.