What’s the difference between an online MSPH and an online MPH degree?

There are several professional degrees available for students of public health. These include a Master of Public Health (MPH) and a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH), as well as a Master of Medical Science in Public Health (MMSPH) and Doctor of Public Health (D.Ph.). All are available online to a greater or lesser extent, mostly via dedicated schools of public health at established universities.

When searching through our database of schools, prospective students will see that the various MPH degrees on offer are similar, but not the same. While the core concentrations are usually a common factor, some programs offer a much wider choice of sub-concentrations while others tend to focus on their specialties. Students will also see that educational and enrollment requirements sometimes differ from school to school. The same applies to MSPH degrees that have many of the same courses as the MPH. However, it is accepted that an MPH is a professional degree, while an MSPH is more academic, requiring some focus on research and research methodology, as well as data processing and analysis.

In the US, anyone who has an undergraduate degree will usually be accepted for an MPH, provided they meet any other requirements, a specified GRE score for example. The same applies to the MSPH, which like the MPH is not considered by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) to be a clinical degree. However, in some countries, only medical graduates may enroll for an MPH while this is not a factor for an MSPH.

When considering the MSPH versus the MPH degree options of online study, those attracted to the MSPH are usually more interested in scientific concerns. They are also more likely to want to do research or to teach in the public health field. Many medical professionals, including doctors, dentists, nurses and veterinarians go on to complete an MPH when they want to move into state organizations, run community-based private health facilities, or when they want to become involved with international health initiatives.

Source:

http://masterpublichealth.com/master-of-science-in-public-health/