Our Master of Public Health program equips students to address the most pressing health issues through research and analysis, guided by an advanced understanding of the social, political and environmental factors that influence health outcomes. Courses are taught by faculty members recognized for their contributions to advancing population health.
Concentrations
Curriculum
Our curriculum is founded on the understanding that issues in public health are too complex for any one discipline to solve. The MPH program’s interdisciplinary emphasis equips students to identify the numerous factors that affect public health and strategically work across disciplines to create sustainable, comprehensive solutions. Among the features of our MPH program are:
- Transdisciplinary problem-solving courses that examine pressing public health issues from a multifaceted perspective. Courses cover topics such as global mental health, climate change, systemic food systems, reproductive health and harm reduction in community practice.
- Skill labs that provide training in areas such as statistical analysis, data management and visualization, and team leadership. These labs advance students’ research skills.
The MPH program requires a total of 52 credit hours. The order in which students take courses varies. See an example of one plan below.
Foundations of public health courses (15 credits)
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
- Health Behavior and Health Promotion
- Environmental Health
- Health Administration and Policy
Research methods courses (6 credits)
- Planning, Implementing and Evaluating Evidence-Based Programs
- Research Methods
Additional courses (3 credits)
- Public Health Seminar
- Foundations of Fieldwork
- Cross-Cutting Themes in Public Health
Practicum (3 credits). Students complete 360 hours of fieldwork at a self-selected site related to their chosen concentrations
Research methods courses (3 credits)
- Applied Linear Modeling
Transdisciplinary problem-solving in public health courses (6 credits)
MPH Capstone (2 credits). The capstone is a culminating learning experience that synthesizes foundational and specialized public health competencies.
Concentration courses and electives (11 or 12 credits). Nine credits apply to the concentration requirements, and two to three additional credits can be selected from a more extensive list of graduate-level courses.
Skill labs (3 credits). Students take three one-credit courses designed to provide in-depth study in essential public health skills.
Research outside the classroom
Extensive research opportunities exist for our students; 60% of MPH students serve as research assistants. Conducting research provides opportunities to bridge the gap between coursework and professional practice.
Practicum
MPH students complete 360 hours of fieldwork — called the practicum — typically during the summer between their first and second years. The practicum allows students to translate theories and skills learned in the classroom into real-world practice. Students emerge with a better understanding of how to bring positive change, with skills that make for strong teammates and leaders.
Apply
Join us in our commitment to building a healthier world for all.
The application for the Master of Public Health program must be completed through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS) – the centralized application service for public health. You must designate your chosen MPH program under Washington University in St. Louis – School of Public Health within the SOPHAS program finder.