Best Online Master’s in Public Health Programs of 2024
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- A master's in public health degree prepares graduates for in-demand public health jobs.
- You'll study environmental health, epidemiology, biostatistics, health promotion and education, and health policy during an MPH degree program.
- Jobs in public health, like epidemiologists, report much faster than average job growth.
- Online programs offer a flexible, affordable route to a public health degree.
Public health professionals investigate infectious diseases, develop and implement programs to prevent disease or injuries, detect preventable conditions early, educate the public about health and wellness, and implement policies that improve community health. A master's in public health (MPH) opens doors to many public health jobs.
So what can you do with a public health degree? A master's in public health leads to careers in health promotion and education, public health management, policy-making, research, and consulting.
If that sounds like the career you want, an online master's in public health might be the best fit.
Explore Featured Online Master's Programs in Public Health
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
What Can You Do With a Master's in Public Health?
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What It's About: These programs teach you how to improve the health and wellness of individuals and entire communities. With this degree, you may address life-changing issues such as the spread of infectious diseases, nutritional deficiencies, injuries and violence prevention and inadequate healthcare.
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Purpose: A bachelor's in public health can give you access to entry-level positions, but many jobs in public health require a master's degree. These programs help you develop essential research, data analysis, program development, and policy management skills.
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Place of Work: This degree can prepare you for a career in government, nonprofits, healthcare, education, or social services. You can work as an epidemiologist, health service manager, health promotion interventionist, or healthcare consultant.
Best Online Master’s in Public Health Programs
We use datasets from sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools.
BestColleges.com is an advertising-supported site. Featured or trusted partner programs and all school search, finder, or match results are for schools that compensate us. This compensation does not influence our school rankings, resource guides, or other editorially-independent information published on this site.
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The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
Houston, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditations: Council on Education for Public Health; Commission on Accreditation of Healthcare Management Education
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $287
Out-of-State | $1,075
Credits to Graduate: 45
Students who want to earn an online master of public health at UT Health at Houston can specialize in community health practice, environmental health, epidemiology, or health promotion and health education.
Each concentration requires a minimum of 45 credits, including six credits of practicum and an integrative learning experience. Full-time students usually complete their degree within 18 to 24 months.
Master’s students interested in policy research and practice may also pursue an online public health law research and policy surveillance certificate.
University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences
Little Rock, AR - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $460
Out-of-State | $460
Credits to Graduate: 42
The online master of public health at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences focuses on the most urgent public health issues impacting rural populations. The climate, rural, and global public health concentration explores the effects of anthropogenic climate changes in vulnerable communities.
In addition to coursework in core public health concepts, the curriculum requires two final projects: an applied practice experience preceptorship and a culminating integrative learning experience. Distance learners enrolled in this fully online concentration pay an in-state tuition rate and reduced fees.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditations: Council on Education for Public Health; Accreditation Council for Education in Nutrition and Dietetics
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,735
Out-of-State | $1,735
Credits to Graduate: 42
The University of North Carolina’s master of public health features three concentrations: leadership, applied epidemiology, and nutrition. Students select two of the three concentrations when they apply to the program.
The curriculum integrates online core and specialized coursework with an in-person, 200-hour applied practicum and an interdisciplinary, project-based culminating experience.
The conveniently scheduled master of public health offers full-time, part-time, and accelerated plans of study. Placement specialists help distance learners to find an in-person practicum close to their place of residence.
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center
Lubbock, TX - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $217
Out-of-State | $738
Credits to Graduate: 45
The master of public health program at Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center offers a flexible online curriculum that allows students to tailor coursework to their professional interests. Distance learners can finish the interdisciplinary master's within 15-24 months.
The generalist concentration, which emphasizes population health rather than individual disease states, consists of 18 credits in public health core courses, nine credits in methods and practice, and 12 credits in ethics and law electives.
Online students must complete their studies with either a culminating learning experience or a practice-based project.
University of Nebraska Medical Center
Omaha, NE - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $363
Out-of-State | $1,011
Credits to Graduate: 42
Distant learners pursuing a master of public health at the University of Nebraska Medical Center can specialize in several competency areas that prepare them for an array of public health careers.
The program offers seven online concentrations: biostatistics, emergency preparedness, environmental and occupational health, epidemiology, health promotion, maternal and child health, and administration and policy.
All students must complete 18 credits in public health core coursework, 6 credits in culminating applied practice and capstone experiences, and 21 credits focusing on in-depth study of their chosen concentration.
University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, NV - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $730
Out-of-State | $730
Credits to Graduate: 45
The online public health master’s at the University of Nevada, Reno offers a comprehensive curriculum that considers the impact of environmental, economic, and sociological factors on physical and community health.
Online learners must take 17 classes to complete the degree, including eight courses in the public health practice specialization. The specialization covers key areas in public health finance, project management, emergency preparedness, and information systems and data management.
The curriculum also requires a minimum of 150 hours of real-world field experience completed over three semesters.
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $550
Out-of-State | $550
Credits to Graduate: 48
The University of Florida's master of public health program provides fully online options that do not require campus visits. Distance learners follow the same curriculum as on-campus students but progress through the program at their own pace.
The online MPH requires five core public health courses covering biostatistics, environmental health, epidemiology, population health management, and social and behavioral sciences. The program offers concentration areas in public health practice, social and behavioral sciences, or population health management. All students must complete an applied practice experience and a capstone project.
Purdue University-Main Campus
West Lafayette, IN - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $555
Out-of-State | $750
Credits to Graduate: 42
The master of public health at Purdue University is a fully online program delivered in an asynchronous format that allows students to complete coursework at their convenience.
The MPH consists of fourteen courses that take two years to finish, not including the practicum and culminating experience. The curriculum features a family and community health concentration focusing on social factors, nutrition, communication, and other elements contributing to health disparities.
The practicum requires 200 hours of work experience in a real-world setting that matches each student’s professional interests.
University of Missouri-Columbia
Columbia, MO - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $575
Out-of-State | $575
Credits to Graduate: 45
Based on the One Health approach advocated by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, the online master of public health at the University of Missouri emphasizes the connection between the health of humans, animals, and the environment.
The program offers two concentrations. The health promotion and policy option explores behavior change theory and program planning and evaluation.
The veterinary public health option, the first fully online program of its kind in the nation, appeals to people with bachelor's degrees in animal science and biology.
MCPHS University
Boston, MA - 4 years
- Online + Campus
Programmatic Accreditation: Council on Education for Public Health
Cost per Credit:
In-State | $1,110
Out-of-State | $1,110
Credits to Graduate: 42
The Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences has a master of public health that is available on-campus or online, and provides in-depth study of research methods, environmental health sciences, and health policy.
In addition to studying core public health concepts and principles, distance learners pursue a community health concentration. This concentration integrates public health science, evidence-based strategies, and other approaches, preparing graduates to work with diverse communities in a culturally appropriate manner that optimizes health and quality of life.
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
Ranking Methodology Summary
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
Why Should I Get a Master's in Public Health Degree?
The degree will give you the knowledge and skills to pursue jobs in public health and healthcare. If you're still on the fence, consider the benefits of earning your master of public health degree — and why many grad students choose an online format.
"A career in public health is very rewarding. There are opportunities to address important issues facing the country and your community. There are a variety of positions so people with different interests and skills can find rewarding careers in a variety of employment settings…"
— Randy Schwartz, MSPH
Benefits of a Master's in Public Health
- Many in-demand public health jobs require a master's degree, including epidemiology positions.
- Strengthen your research and analytical skills during graduate-level public health courses.
- A master's degree helps you stand out in a competitive job market when you're competing with bio and chem majors.
- You'll gain valuable hands-on experience through field placements and practicums.
Reasons to Get Your Master's in Public Health Degree Online
- Getting your master's in public health online means more flexible options that fit your schedule.
- An online format makes it easier to compare programs and choose the best fit for your budget.
- You can earn a top-ranked public health degree without having to move or quit your job.
- Online programs connect you with local organizations to gain experience and build your network.
How Much Does an Online Master of Public Health Degree Cost?
The average per-credit tuition cost for an online master's in public health program can range from about $550 to $2,035.
Based on the 2020 NCES National Postsecondary Student Aid Study, the median annual tuition for all online health programs is $9,310. Although the study doesn’t provide specific tuition costs for an online MPH, this figure still gives you an idea of how much you can expect to pay per year in tuition and fees.
When researching online MPH programs, students should consider non-tuition expenses that can significantly increase the cost of completing any program. The NCES estimates that the median annual non-tuition costs (e.g. books, supplies, transportation) amount to about $14,910. An online program will not involve transportation costs unless there is an internship or externship requirement that involves in-person experiences.
Online in-state students attending public colleges tend to pay the lowest tuition rates, while students at private colleges often pay much more. Research to find out if certain schools grant waivers or don’t charge out-of-state fees for online programs. You can potentially save a lot on tuition if you choose an online MPH program at a public university — as long as you know that the program being offered is high-quality and fully accredited. When you think about all of these aspects of the cost of an online MPH program, doing your research is definitely time well spent.
Median Annual Tuition Cost of an Online Master's in Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences
Public Institution
$7,850
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$10,500
Median Tuition Cost of an Online Master's in Health Professions and Related Clinical Sciences (Two Years)
Public Institution
$15,700
Private Institution (Nonprofit)
$21,00
How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Master's Degree in Public Health?
Online master's in public health programs require about 42 credits and take two years of full-time study to complete. However, some accelerated tracks can lead to a degree in one year.
Required Course Credits
30-40*
*Depending on your program and specialization
Field Study Requirements
Yes*
*Depending on your program and specialization
Concentrations for a Master's in Public Health Degree
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Healthcare Management
- Nutrition
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Global Health
- Community Health Sciences
- Spatial Data Science
- Health Policy and Administration
- Environmental Health
How Much Money Can I Make With a Master's in Public Health Degree?
Salaries vary based on location, position, and experience level. For example, the BLS reports that epidemiologists earned a median annual salary of $78,520 in May 2022, with the top 10% boasting a yearly wage of $123,430.
However, those who work in scientific research services saw an average annual salary of $118,640, while epidemiologists who work in hospitals earned about $96,430.
"Salaries in public health vary by geography, setting, and experience. In some states, governmental public health positions pay very well … while similar positions in other states may not pay at the same level. Positions in the private sector generally have better salary levels than governmental and nonprofit organization positions."
— Randy Schwartz, MSPH
What Jobs Can I Get With a Master's in Public Health Degree?
With an MPH degree, you can pursue careers like epidemiologist, public health manager, health education specialist, or public health consultant. You can also work as a public health researcher, environmental health scientist, or biostatistician.
Your concentration and field placements during your MPH program will prepare you for particular jobs in public health. For example, you can emphasize leadership and administration during your coursework if you're interested in management roles.
Occupation | Average Annual Salary |
---|---|
Epidemiologist | $78,520 |
Medical and Health Services Managers | $104,830 |
Health Promotion Specialists | $59,990 |
Community Health Workers | $46,190 |
Senior Policy Analyst | $84,480 |
Healthcare Consultant | $84,800 |
Social and Community Service Manager | $74,240 |
Everything Else You Need to Know About Master's in Public Health Degrees
Is an Online Master's in Public Health Worth It?
The answer depends on your unique circumstances, interests, and career goals. If you're interested in public health careers in fields like epidemiology, a master's in public health will help you reach your goals.
"Public health is team and relationship-oriented and involves solving important issues such as reducing health disparities in populations. The opportunity to contribute to solutions on leading public health and health care issues makes for a rewarding job," said Randy Schwartz.
Earning your master's in public health online can pay off. Accredited online MPH programs meet the same high academic standards as in-person programs. And an online format makes it easier for many grad students to finish their degree.
Once you're ready to apply to programs, look for accredited programs with concentrations that match your interests. Ask programs about online student services and graduate placement data to find the right option for you.
What are the highest-paying jobs with a master's in public health?
The highest-paying jobs with a master's in public health include epidemiologist and public health administrator/manager. The best-paid epidemiologists reported a median salary of over $120,000 in May 2022. And the highest-paid medical and health services managers earned more than $200,000.
Environmental health scientists also report a high potential salary. The field's median pay was around $76,500 in May 2022, but the highest-paid environmental health scientists earned around $130,000 per year.
How do I become a public health nurse?
You can become a public health nurse by earning your RN license and studying public health. Many public health nurses enroll in BSN programs and take classes in community health, health science, and public health.
After completing the licensure process, nurses can pursue training in public health. The Certified in Public Health credential is one option. Nurses can also earn a public health degree. Alternatively, if you have a public health degree, you can enroll in a second degree BSN program to qualify for an RN license.
Is a master's in public health a hard major?
A master's in public health can be challenging. The degree requires strong analytical and research skills. Grad students examine complex health challenges that require understanding microbiology, data analytics, policy implementation, social and behavioral sciences, and epidemiology.
You'll also need solid communication and teamwork skills for your fieldwork requirement. Programs help students succeed by providing advising, mentoring, and support services. However, a master's in public health is a rewarding degree that makes a difference in people's lives.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges.