Degrees
Degrees in public health prepare graduates for the professional and academic challenges of the field, and equip them with the resources to solve and advance them. In addition to traditional in-person degree options, there are many schools and programs that offer nontraditional degree programs. These include certificate programs, online degree programs, executive programs, and summer institutes. The search for an academic program tool provides a complete list of options.
Bachelor’s Degrees
BS, BA, and BSPH
The Bachelor of Science (BS) or a Bachelor of Arts (BA) in public health provides the foundations for a future career in public health. Graduates are prepared for entry-level roles in employers such as health departments, non-profits, and the private sector. A BS, BA, and BSPH are not necessary prerequisites to apply for a graduate-level degree in public health.
Master’s Degrees
MPH, MHA, MS, and MHS
The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree is the most common graduate-level degree awarded by CEPH-accredited schools and programs of public health. The degree is suited for students interested in pursuing a professional career in public health, and is not primarily geared toward teaching or research. Common work environments include hospitals, consulting firms, international agencies, state and federal agencies, health departments, managed care organizations, community-based organizations, among others. Beyond the MPH, the Master of Health Administration (MHA) prepares students for careers in hospital administration, health policy, and health service management. Alternatively, the Master of Science (MS) and Master of Health Sciences (MHS), are academic degrees oriented toward students wishing to seek a career in teaching or conducting research at a college or university or other settings and who intend to go on to a doctoral degree.
Doctoral Degrees
PhD, ScD, and DrPH
The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree in public health is designed to prepare the student for a profession in teaching and research. PhDs and Doctor of Science (ScD) in public health continue their careers teaching at a university, conducting research in a national laboratory, or doing field work with populations across the globe. The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) degree is an applied research degree which prepares students for senior-level leadership roles in public health practice.