Masters in Public Health Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Will my undergraduate degree be accepted for a Masters in Public Health degree program? That really depends on a few specific factors. The exact “type” of degree you hold doesn’t necessarily mean as much as the specific courses that you took during your degree program. Most masters in public health programs will require you to have a solid background in chemistry, biology, nursing, or medical and physical sciences. Experience with these specific subjects is much more important than any degree program.

• Will I need experience in the healthcare field to be admitted into a Masters in Public Health program? No, this is not specifically necessary, but it can certainly enhance your chances of acceptance. The impact that your professional experience in healthcare will have on your acceptance will be different depending on what type of school you apply to. More competitive schools will have stronger requirements, and some of them may require letters of recommendation from healthcare professionals.

• Are there standard GPA requirements to get into a Masters of Public Health program? The general standard for admission into any higher-level degree program is 3.0, but that can change dependent upon a number of factors. Things like your economic or family status can help sway that requirement, as can extensive and well-documented experience in the healthcare field.

• How long does it take to complete a Masters in Public Health? The answer to this really is dependent on the student and the amount of time he or she can devote to their studies. Full-time students will generally be able to complete their degree in around 2 years. Part-time students may take longer, with most part-time students finishing their degrees in around 3 years. On the whole, most students getting their Masters in Public Health are doing so while also working or raising children and are going part time.

• What types of classes should I prepare for? This degree covers a broad range of subjects, but you should be ready to take classes on nutrition, epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and management.

• Is financial aid available? The level of aid available varies on a school-to-school basis. Some schools will offer more independent grant and loan opportunities than others, but all schools will offer roughly the same level of federal financial assistance.

• Do I need to take the GRE? Again, that depends on the school you choose. Many colleges don’t require students pursuing a Masters in Public Health to take the GRE.