What is the advantage of an MPH degree over other master’s degrees in health?

The MPH degree is the master’s degree that best prepares students for a career in Public Health. This professional degree emphasizes public health practice. For example, an MPH degree requires a practicum that provides experience working in a public health setting. Master of Science degrees typically emphasize research and focus on a single discipline. However, should an MPH graduate decide to pursue research training, MPH graduates are competitive applicants for PhD programs.

What are the job prospects after graduating with an MPH degree at Illinois?

98% of our MPH graduates are employed or continuing education within 1 year of graduation.

Historically, there are many job opportunities for well-trained MPH students. The Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) expects that at least 80% of MPH graduates from accredited programs will obtain a job in a health-related field within a year of graduation (or go on to further educational training such as a Sc.D. or Ph.D. degree program).

What are the available concentrations within the MPH Program at Illinois?

We offer two concentrations:

• Epidemiology - Students in this concentration develop strong analytical skills to research the distribution and determinants of disease and other health-related events. Training includes a focus on using computer packages for data analysis and modeling. Graduates go on to work in roles such as epidemiologist, health data analyst, health planner, program coordinator and manager, and researcher. The MPH in Epidemiology is a STEM designated degree with CIP code 26.1309.
• Health Behavior and Promotion - Currently, chronic diseases (e.g., heart disease, diabetes, cancer, obesity) are the primary causes of morbidity and premature mortality. Students in this concentration focus on health behaviors because the epidemic of chronic disease is primarily driven by health behaviors, particularly tobacco use, lack of regular physical activity, and an unhealthy diet. Graduates go on to work in roles including community organizer, health educator, program coordinator and manager, outreach specialist, and worksite wellness consultant.

Is the MPH Program accredited?

Yes. The Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) accredits MPH programs. Our program has been accredited since June 2013. Prospective students can read more about the benefits of CEPH-accredited MPH programs on the CEPH website.

Does the MPH Program at Illinois offer a STEM designate degree (tied to visa status)?

Yes, the MPH in Epidemiology is a STEM designated degree with CIP code 26.1309. The MPH in Health Behavior & Promotion is not STEM designated.

Can I start the MPH program in the Spring or Summer semester?

No. All students begin the MPH program in the Fall semester.

Does the MPH program offer an online degree option?

The MPH program is an in-person program, where we value the small class sizes and close-knit connections among our students. 

Can I pursue the MPH program as a part-time student?

No. We only offer a full-time program beginning in the Fall semester.

Can I transfer credits from another institution?

Credits used as part of another degree cannot be transferred to the MPH program. Students cannot request to transfer courses from another degree that has already been awarded into the MPH degree.

If the credits requested to be transferred are not part of another degree, MPH students must meet with the MPH Program Coordinator to see if the desired credits will apply toward the MPH. However, please note that all MPH students must obtain at least 36 credit hours directly through the MPH curriculum and must be enrolled in the program for at least three semesters to meet MPH graduation requirements.

What are the minimum GRE score and GPA requirements?

We do not have minimum GRE score for admissions. Admitted students have a range of scores. We look at each candidate's application and qualifications as a whole. Applicants are required to have a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale) calculated from the last 60 hours (approximately two years) of undergraduate coursework. Students applying to the Epidemiology concentration should have strong scores in quantitative skills.

Is there a supplemental application for the MPH program at Illinois?

No. There is no supplemental or secondary application. Upon being offered admission, international students are required to complete additional forms related to visa requirements.