Your Options for Pursuing a Master in Public Health

Want to earn your MPH degree, but have a hard time going back to school and learning in a traditional classroom setting? Do you work part-time or full-time and want to schedule your courses around your busy work schedule? Or, maybe you do enjoy the classroom setting, and need that type of environment to keep you focused and motivated.

Whatever your needs, there is more than one way to earn a Master in Public Health, get an accredited graduate-level degree, and take that crucial step toward advancing your career. It is important to find a program that comports to both your lifestyle and your goals so that you can succeed in the MPH program of your choice. Luckily, the right program for you does exist.

On-Campus MPH Program

Attending a traditional, on-campus program is one way to earn your MPH degree. Courses are either set in the morning, afternoon, or evening during the workweek. There is a set number of units necessary to graduate, and often specific courses that are also necessary as set forth by your program. Sessions are generally split between the fall and spring semester, and the program typically extends for two years (two fall and two spring semesters).

On-campus courses are often held once or twice a week, depending on the number of units afforded and the length of the course. Students are expected to keep up with course assignments, readings, projects, and any other work the professor may assign. The advantage of this type of program is that many students find it easier to access the professor for questions, keep up with in-class discussions, and stay focused while in a traditional classroom setting.

Online MPH Program

The MPH online degree is becoming increasingly popular as an option for students to balance work, school, family commitments, and other personal responsibilities. With this option, you can earn your graduate degree remotely without having to commute to and from school or live full-time on campus. You will never have to physically step foot on a university campus and will not be expected to put your life on hold while advancing your education. Instead, depending on the course and the professor, you will be asked to log in at a regularly-set time and access in the course via your computer.

As long as the program in which you are enrolled in is accredited, there is no academic disadvantage to earning an MPH degree online. In fact, students often find this option most convenient and most suitable to their lifestyle. Students find that they are still able to finish the degree in the same amount of time and acquire the same level of knowledge as their peers who attended on-campus programs. As with a traditional on-campus program, you will still be expected to keep up with assigned course load and can also expect to graduate within two years.

Hybrid MPH Program

A hybrid MPH degree is a combination of an on-campus and online program. With this option, you get the best of both worlds as you will be required to enroll in online courses while simultaneously completing a supervised practicum. Students of hybrid MPH programs find that getting involved in a practicum affords them invaluable experience in the field, which later helps them find a job and be successful in their own career. This option is great for students who want hands-on experience, who work part-time, or who live in close proximity to a local public health facility.