Online MPH programs
Online master's in public health (MPH) programs can prepare you for a rewarding career promoting public wellness. You'll study topics such as global health, health informatics, nutrition, community health science, and public health research.
Explore MPH programs
Why earn a master's in public health online?
Train for distinction
Specialize in a specific area of study, like public health management, health informatics, or epidemiology.
Get real-life experience
From fieldwork to capstone projects, an online MPH program offers practical experience.
Land leadership roles
MPH programs aim to train leaders in the public health field.
Explore online master's in public health programs
What is an online master's in public health?
A (MPH) can prepare you for impactful roles focused on improving through education, policy, or research.
MPH program graduates may become community health workers, epidemiologists, health educators, or public policy coordinators.
What can you learn in a master's in public health online program?
An online MPH program can equip you with the skills needed to become a public health leader. You'll learn how to effect positive change through research, policy, and education. In an MPH program, you will typically complete coursework and fieldwork. You may also complete a capstone project based on real-world scenarios.
Many MPH programs require students to select an area of concentration, such as global health, , , or public health management. Additionally, some students pursue a second degree, such as a (MBA), a (MSW), or a (MHA) in combination with an MPH.
Other concentrations offered may include:
- Food systems
- Global environmental
- Health systems and policy
- Maternal, child, and family health
- Nutrition and dietetics
- Public health
- and in public health
What can you do with a master's in public health?
Below is a list of potential with salary information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS). Note that some roles require specific areas of study within public health (e.g., ), further education, or licensure.
| Occupation | Median annual salary (2024) |
|---|---|
| Community health worker | $51,030 |
| Dietician or nutritionist | $73,850 |
| Epidemiologist | $83,980 |
| Health education specialist | $63,000 |
| Health services manager | $117,960 |
Additional career options for MPH graduates include:
- Air quality specialist: Air quality specialists test and analyze air quality against specific standards for governments, nonprofit or private organizations, and companies. These professionals typically choose to specialize in environmental health sciences.
- Grant writer: Grant writers working in public health create compelling proposals to secure funding for healthcare facilities, community organizations, and nonprofit organizations.
- Healthcare administrator: These professionals work in hospitals, residential care facilities, outpatient care centers, and other healthcare settings. They may focus on a particular area, such as insurance, staffing, or coordinating patient services. Some roles require state licensure.
- Health data analyst: A health data analyst researches and examines data to provide recommendations for employers, including government agencies, nonprofit organizations, health insurance companies, healthcare providers, and pharmaceutical companies.
- Public health nurse (PHN): These professionals collaborate with other healthcare providers to shape policies and services at community health centers, clinics, and schools. To become a PHN, you must also earn a certification from a registered nurse or nurse practitioner training program.
Admission requirements
Most online master's in public health programs require applicants to have a in public health or a related field, such as or health science. However, programs may accept applicants from diverse academic backgrounds, especially if they have relevant work or volunteer experience.
Two to five years of relevant work experience is generally preferred, but not always required. Applicants who already hold a graduate degree in a related field typically don't need to demonstrate work experience.
Online MPH programs don't normally require GRE scores, but you may include them to strengthen your application. TOEFL or IELTS scores may be required if English is not your first language.
Online master's in public health curriculum
Master's in public health programs include core coursework on public health systems and policy, biology and human disease, health law, ethics, research methods, and global issues.
Common MPH courses include:
- : Learn how to use biostatistical methods for public health research.
- Foundations of public health and public health policy: Study the role of public health in history. Analyze current challenges and learn about the future of the field.
- Fundamentals of epidemiology: Learn the principles of gathering and analyzing epidemiologic data.
- Social determinants of health: Evaluate how social, political, and economic factors influence public health, including how they create health disparities.
- Public policy and healthcare systems: Learn about current healthcare systems, as well as how to assess community health programs, improve performance, and meet objectives.
Expert insights on the value of an MPH with Dr. Courtney Haun
Dr. Courtney Haun, director of the healthcare administration undergraduate program at Samson University, brings deep expertise in healthcare policy, education, and research. Drawing on her MPH and Ph.D., she offers an expert perspective on the value of a public health degree and what prospective students should consider when exploring a career in this dynamic and evolving field.
Q: Is now a good time to pursue a public health career?
Haun: Absolutely. The events of the past several years have underscored the importance of public health not only in times of crisis but also as a foundation for long-term community well-being. We're seeing increased investment in public health infrastructure, data systems, and workforce development across sectors
From health equity and policy reform to digital health and epidemiology, there are more opportunities now than ever to make a meaningful impact.
It's a great time to enter the field with fresh ideas and interdisciplinary skills.
Q: Is an MPH worth it?
Haun: Yes, an MPH can be a smart and worthwhile investment, especially if you are looking to advance in leadership, policy, research, or practice.
That said, not all programs are created equal! I encourage students to look for programs that offer strong applied learning experiences, diverse faculty expertise, and opportunities for cross-sector collaboration.
Accreditation matters, but so does mentorship, flexibility in course delivery, and alignment with your career goals, whether that's data analytics, health promotion, or global health. Choose wisely!
Q: Is it difficult to make a career change to public health?
Haun: Public health is one of the most interdisciplinary fields out there, which makes it incredibly welcoming to career changers.
Nurses, social workers, policy professionals, and even business strategists bring valuable perspectives.
Q: What should career changers know before transitioning to public health?
Haun: The key is understanding how your existing skills translate and being open to filling any knowledge gaps through additional training or certifications.
Before making the switch, I always suggest reflecting on why you are drawn to public health and where you want to make an impact. That clarity will guide the kind of role or program that fits best.
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Frequently asked questions
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Earn a MicroMasters® program certificate instead! MicroMasters programs are a series of graduate-level courses from top universities designed to advance your career. MicroMasters program certificates showcase deep learning and in-demand skills to employers and can help you get started on a path toward completing an advanced degree.
Last updated July 17, 2025