Working professionals who are already in the public health field, or a closely related occupation, find that an online master’s in public health is their best option for advancing or moving into a public health career. First and foremost, public health master’s programs offer includes a variety of specializations, including health management, epidemiology, communicable diseases, and health education, among others. Therefore, a person can choose various career paths. Additionally, this means that it’s easier for a person to find a job. It’s possible for a person to attend a public health program without specializing, but the masters in public health specializations can help a person reach a certain goal or earn more money.
An online degree in public health is just as respected as one from a standard brick-and-mortar school, especially as well-respected institutions are starting to offer fully online programs. Often, the online program is nearly the same as the on-campus one, except for in a different format. For working adults who want to change careers or earn promotion, Best Health Degree editors has ranked the best online MPH programs in the US.
Our Method: Ranking the Best Master’s in Public Health Online Programs
Best Health Degrees is concerned with programs that make a real, positive impact on graduates’ careers, so in addition to focusing on only accredited, trusted institutions, BHD ranks programs according to verifiable factors. All programs are ranked by cost, salary potential, and reputation, with data from College Scorecard, IPEDS, Niche, and U.S. News.
1. Texas A&M Health Science Center
The Texas A&M Health Science Center online MPH in Epidemiology offers students who are interested in working with the public when it comes to general health and the prevention of disease. Students are taught how to identify patterns of disease in specific populations and how to communicate with the public to avoid potential outbreaks. Offered as an online course, it allows students to obtain their MPH no matter where they live.
The School of Public Health follows the standard of excellence that Texas A&M has had in place for many years. By offering online classes, such as the MPH program, the University offers individuals to obtain their degree in Epidemiology and still work full time and care for their families. The goal is to make the best educational opportunities available to anyone who is trying to advance their career.
Favorite Facts: Texas A&M offers one of the best online MPH programs in the area and ensures students can get the education they need to move forward in their careers.
Degree: MPH in Epidemiology
2. University of Florida
The University of Florida’s online MPH in Public Health Practice or Social Behavioral Sciences offers students who are ready to move forward in building a career in public health or social behavioral sciences a chance to reach their goals. The online program provides students with the tools and resources they need to work with the public as well as assist healthcare professionals when collecting information and determining solutions to potential health risks.
The University of Florida offers state of the art technology and resources to their students who attend class online. Each student receives the same quality of education as those who choose to come to the campus. By offering exceptional online degree programs, the University allows students who may not otherwise have been able to pursue their degree, an opportunity to do so.
Favorite Facts: The University of Florida prides itself on offering the very best online MPH degree programs in the southeast.
Degree: MPH – Public Health Practice or Social and Behavioral Sciences
3. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers 12 concentrations of Gilling’s MPH degree programs that have been developed to meet a variety of needs. Each Masters in public health online degree program gives students the information and experience they need to move forward in their chosen career. From working within the public health sector to finding solutions for at-risk populations, The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers many of the best online MPH programs available to students pursuing an education in behavioral sciences, epidemiology, and other related degree programs.
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill/ Gilling’s School offers each student a customized learning plan that is developed to meet their needs and allow them to graduate with a degree they can be proud of.
Favorite Facts: UNC and the Gilling’s School are well-known for their high standards and exceptional online programs.
Degree: Gillings MPH – 12 concentrations
4. Colorado School of Public Health
The Colorado School of Public Health offers an online MPH Leadership and Public Health Practice degree to allow those who are already working in the industry a chance to continue their education. Students who enroll in the online program receive the same course work as those in the classroom as well as all of the resources and state of the art technology that goes along with the class. Each degree program offered can be easily customized so the student gets the classes they want and the degree they need.
The Colorado School of Public Health combines the resources of the top three schools in the area, including Colorado State University, The University of Colorado, and the University of Northern Colorado. By sharing the faculty as well as the resources offered by each school, the Colorado School of Public Health offers students a unique opportunity to learn from the best educators in the state. The online programs allow students who are already employed an opportunity to return to school without leaving their job.
Favorite Facts: The Colorado School of Public Health understands each student’s needs and offers many of the best MPH online programs in the area.
Degree: MPH – Leadership and Public Health Practice
5. University of Massachusetts Amherst
The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers online MPH Public Health Practice or Nutrition programs designed to provide students with the necessary skills and resources they need to continue their education in the field of Public Health and/or Nutrition. Each online degree program has been developed to include the most recent protocols and standards found within the field of Public Health.
The University of Massachusetts Amherst has a reputation for having renowned faculty members on staff who are dedicated to their students. The University is able to provide state of the art technology that allows students who are taking the online courses to have the same educational experience as those who are sitting in the classroom. Students who are already working full time can earn their degree at their own pace while maintaining their obligations to their families and places of employment.
Favorite Facts: The University of Massachusetts Amherst offers the best online MPH degree programs available to students who want to advance their education and explore new job opportunities in the Public Health sector.
Degree: MPH Public Health Practice or Nutrition
6. University of Alabama at Birmingham
The University of Alabama at Birmingham School of Public Health offers six online MPH degree programs that students can now choose from. By offering multiple online MPH degree programs, students are able to get the education they need to continue to advance in their chosen career field. The goal of each concentration is to provide the information and resources students need along with the technology to support their learning.
The University of Alabama School of Public Health at Birmingham strives to provide the students who choose to take online courses, the best educational experience possible. This means that faculty members have years of experience and are just as dedicated to the students as the students are to learning. The goal of the school is to provide quality degree programs that will serve each student throughout the duration of their career.
Favorite Facts: With some of the best MPH online programs available, The University of Alabama continually provides students with the courses that are most beneficial to them.
Degree: MPH – 6 concentrations
7. University of North Texas Health Science Center
The University of North Texas Health Science Center provides multiple online MPH Professional option degree programs that allow students to return to school without leaving their job. The professional option provides students with additional training and skills to find solutions to many of the challenges society faces. Graduates are able to bring about positive change and work with other professionals to find options that benefit everyone.
The University of North Texas Health Science Center offers students the programs they are looking for that will provide them with a quality education as well as resources they can use to create a better future for themselves and their families. The convenience of an online degree program allows them to continue their education at their own pace without leaving their job or missing out on time with their family. Each program is tailored to the student to provide the best possible educational experience.
Favorite Facts: With some of the best MPH online programs being offered, the University of North Texas Health Science Center continues to provide students with the tools they need to succeed.
Degree: MPH Professional Option
8. University of Illinois at Chicago
The University of Illinois at Chicago provides online MPH degree programs in three different concentrations for students who are working in the public health sector and want to further their education. Each degree program provides the classes that are necessary for each graduate to perform their duties while working hand in hand with other professionals. The skills and resources are meant to be used throughout their entire career.
The University of Illinois at Chicago is one of the most well-respected schools in terms of healthcare and public service learning opportunities. The University has spent several years developing curriculums that are designed to ensure every graduate is fully prepared to take on the duties of any job they apply for within their chosen field.
Favorite Facts: The University of Illinois at Chicago is well-known for offering the best MHP online programs in the Midwest.
Degree: MPH – 3 concentrations
9. University of Missouri
The University of Missouri offers many of the best MPH degree programs available in terms of Veterinary Public Health and Health Promotion and Policy. Each online degree program is designed to provide the necessary knowledge and skills that each graduate will need as they continue to advance in their chosen career field. The best online MPH programs include as many tools and resources as possible that allow the graduate the best possible chances for advancement in their career.
The University of Missouri has a long-standing tradition of providing students in MPH and other degree programs the highest standard of education. This includes having faculty members who have years of experience and that understands that each student’s needs are different. By providing online degree programs, the University makes it possible for students to achieve their goals, no matter where they are located.
Favorite Facts: A Masters in Public Health from Mizzou online degree provides a student with valuable information on how to handle a variety of situations where they must work with other professionals to create positive solutions.
Degree: MPH
10. University of Arizona
The University of Arizona offers online MPH degree programs in three concentrations to allow students to choose which one best fits their needs. Each concentration focuses on different areas involving public health, environmental concerns, behavioral health, as well as many other factors that affect our society and populations at large. Students who sign up for online degree programs receive the same stellar education as those who come to the campus and sit in a classroom.
The University of Arizona has a solid reputation for being a proven leader when it comes to online degree programs in Public Health and other areas. From experienced faculty members to state of the art technology, students receive the very best in terms of education and experience. The goal of the University is to ensure each graduate is ready to step into their chosen profession and excel in every way.
Favorite Facts: By offering the best MPH online programs, the University of Arizona ensures that each student who graduates with their degree has the tools they need to advance in their chosen career.
Degree: MPH – 3 concentrations
11. University of San Francisco
The University of San Francisco provides online MPH degree programs focusing on three concentrations. Students who enroll in any of the University’s online MPH degree programs receive a course plan that is designed to address their specific educational needs. Each program ensures that when the student graduates and starts to work, they will have the knowledge, skills, and abilities to ensure their success. The skills they receive make it possible for them to work hand in hand with other professionals for the greater good of society and the public at large.
The University of San Francisco has offered the best in MPH degree programs. By offering those same MPH degree programs online, they allow students to continue their education while gaining hands-on experience. Students are now able to further their education without having to give up their job or put their family in dire financial straits. With an online degree, they can achieve their goals and continue to advance in the workplace.
Favorite Facts: The best online MPH programs of the University of San Francisco make it possible for an individual to get their degree from almost any location.
Degree: MPH – 3 concentrations
12. University of Kentucky
The University of Kentucky offers online MPH degree programs in both Health Systems and Policy Analytics so students can get the type of education they need to continue to pursue their goals. Each online degree is designed so that it can be customized to the needs of the students. By providing them with access to resources and faculty members who have years of experience, the University is able to ensure that each student has what they need to succeed.
For several years, the University of Kentucky has provided MPH degree programs to students who wanted to move forward with their career goals. Employing reputable professors and creating curriculums that provide in-depth learning opportunities, the University makes it possible for students to learn online while continuing to work and support their families.
Favorite Facts: Offering the best MPH online programs is one way that the University of Kentucky is helping students achieve their career goals.
Degree: MPH – Health Systems & Policy Analytics
13. Mercer University
Mercer University offers online MPH degree programs to students who want to continue their education while focusing their studies on public health. Each MPH program provides the necessary skills and training to help students find new and exciting opportunities in their preferred career. Faculty members work hand in hand with a variety of professionals to ensure each student’s education is thorough and provides them with the knowledge they need to succeed.
For over two decades, Mercer University has worked to develop MPH degree programs that were second to none in terms of quality material, exceptional resources, and reputable instructors. Each degree program is designed to meet the exact needs of the student. The online degree programs allow students to seek out new opportunities while taking care of their families and gaining on the job experience.
Favorite Facts: Mercer University offers many of the best MPH online programs available and allows students to choose the one that’s right for them.
Degree: MPH
14. North Dakota State University
North Dakota State University offers several online MPH degree programs to choose from. Each degree program offers the tools and skills the student will need once they have graduated and are looking to find the job of their dreams. With the best MPH online programs available to them, students can look forward to many opportunities once they graduate.
North Dakota State University strives to make every educational experience a good one. By offering both traditional classroom studies as well as online classes, they offer the best of both worlds to students who enroll. Online MPH degree programs are extremely convenient for individuals who have families to support. Coursework can be completed over time allowing the student the ability to work while going to school.
Favorite Facts: With three concentrations to choose from, students can pursue several different avenues that include Food Safety, American Indian Public Health, Management of Infectious Diseases, and Community Health Sciences.
Degree: MPH – 3 concentrations
15. Loyola University Chicago
Loyola University Chicago offers online MPH degree programs for students who are interested in taking their education to the next level. The online MPH degree programs have been developed to provide graduates with multiple opportunities for work within the public health sector after they receive their degrees. The best online MPH programs are offered to students who have a sincere desire to improve the world around them.
Loyola University is one of the most prestigious universities when it comes to advanced MPH degree programs. Students can choose to attend a traditional classroom or through advancements in technology, can now earn their degree online allowing them to work and take care of their family. This added convenience also allows them to earn their degree at their own pace and continue to gain experience in their chosen career field.
Favorite Facts: The goal of Loyola Chicago’s degree program is to provide the student with the education and abilities to make positive changes in both their local communities as well as at a global level if they choose to pursue that avenue.
Degree: MPH
Will Employers Trust an Online Public Health Masters?
Despite online degrees gaining in popularity, it’s important to find a school that has accreditation. Two agencies provide accreditation for a school: the U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA). The accreditation shows the school adequately educates students.
Additionally, a public health program accreditation indicates that a public health program meets certain standards. The most well-known accreditation is CEPH, which stands for the Council on Education for Public Health. So, how important is CEPH accreditation? This public health program accreditation is from an agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. CEPH accreditation criteria is rigorous. It ensures a program can adequately prepare a student for a career in public health; therefore, the answer to “how important is CEPH accreditation,” is very. Keep in mind, the CEPH accreditation criteria includes a thorough evaluation of the program’s curriculum.
Why Should I Choose a Career in Public Health?
So is public health a good career path? Many of the areas of public health are in demand, just like in other areas of healthcare. In fact, careers in public health like an epidemiologist are expected to grow up five percent by 2028, as noted by the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). On the other hand, careers in public health like a natural science manager is expected to grow by six percent by 2028, also noted by the BLS.
Public health degree careers offer individuals the option of many high-paying jobs. For instance, a natural science manager earns an average of over $130,000 per year. An epidemiologist earns an average of nearly $70,000 per year.
Another benefit of public health degree careers is the possibility of helping others. Many of the career paths within public health give a person the opportunity to work alongside other people or work to better the healthcare system.
Overall, if an individual is considering career choices and asking, “Is public health a good career,” a person should consider the benefit of a high wage, working with people, and the number of career paths.
Are Internships Important for Public Health Careers?
In most programs, public health internships are a requirement. Internships are an excellent way to learn about public health firsthand. As an intern, a person gets to shadow an individual who already works in the field. Even if public health internships aren’t required by students, it can help an individual be more prepared and make it easier when considering how to get a job in public health. Employers want to see that an employee has experience.
One of the major organizations that offers public health jobs is the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). CDC internships can help a student get his or her foot in the door and earn a full-time position, get to network, and have an opportunity to connect with other students. CDC internships also provide a student with a great deal of knowledge in public health care because of what a vital organization the CDC is in the United States.
Even if a student doesn’t get a CDC internship, plenty of other organizations offer MPH internship opportunities, which are also excellent ways about how to get a job in public health. MPH internship opportunities of any type give a student experience and can help him or her earn a full-time position or at least network at conferences to find a job.
Public health practicum opportunities are another option. The importance of practicum to students is the same as an internship. Generally, public health practicum opportunities provide students with at least 200 hours of supervised practice. The importance of practicum to students is that students can receive feedback from professionals while they’re actually working in the field.
What are the Most In-Demand Public Health Specializations?
One of the best masters in public health specializations is nutrition. With so much emphasis on the diet habits of Americans, this one of the more prevalent masters in public health concentrations.
A biomedical specialist is one of the masters in public health concentrations. This is one of the key areas of specialization in public health because it can prepare a person to find solutions for today’s health concerns. A private health consultant is one of the key areas of specialization in public health since it gives a student the opportunity to open a practice and provide advice on issues like public safety.
Another one of the master of public health specializations is a public health educator. This is one of the public health specializations that may allow a person to travel since these professionals are often necessary in other countries.
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