Earning a MPH degree has never been more achievable than now. These affordable online MPH programs schools in the West can be completed independent of locale, making it possible for students to study when and where they wish at a price that is affordable. If you are employed full time or have responsibilities that keep you from relocating to a brick and mortar program, then perhaps one of these affordable online MPH programs can help pave your way to a rewarding career in public health. If you are interested in becoming more marketable in this growing field, check out these affordable online MPH programs in the West to find one that fits your career and educational goals as well as your budget.
Are you are interested in a career that enables you to make a difference in your local community or global health by protecting and promoting health? If so, an affordable online MPH degree from the West may help get you there. The MPH is the professional degree that prepares degree holders to solve public health issues at home or abroad. The MPH will equip you with the skills needed to succeed in a variety of environments including local, state or national public health agencies and domestic and international health care organizations.
This list of the 10 Most Affordable Online MPH programs in the West can help guide you to a flexible and affordable degree to help you get your start in this exciting field. Keep reading to find a public health online program that not only meets your academic and career goals, but is affordable as well.
Methodology
Out of an initial pool of 27 accredited fully online master of public health programs, 11 were chosen to be listed as the 10 most affordable online MPH degrees in the West (two programs were tied). All programs in the initial pool of online MPH programs are accredited by the Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH). Schools in the Midwest, Southwest and West were included in the initial pool, including the following states: Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Mexico, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, South Dakota, Texas, Utah, Washington, Wisconsin, and Wyoming. All programs are ranked according to tuition rates that were determined from the College Navigator website. Where both in-state and out-of-state tuition are listed, the out-of-state tuition rate was used for ranking purposes. Program information was compiled using school websites.
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- #1 California Baptist University
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- #2 National University
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- #3 New Mexico State University-Main Campus
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- #4 Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center
- #5 California State University-Northridge (tie)
- #5 San Diego State University (tie)
- #6 University of North Texas Health Science Center
- #7 Benedictine University
- #8 University of Alaska Anchorage
- #9 The University of Montana
- #10 University of Nevada-Reno
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10. University of Nevada, Reno
Online MPH
In-state tuition $5,814
Out-of-state tuition $22,356
The University of Nevada’s 45-credit MPH degree program focuses on general public health practice. A 100% online program from this National Tier 1 University (U.S. News & World Report), this program offers multiple start dates, with MPH candidates able to complete the program in as little as 24 months. This program promises to prepare public health practitioners to consider the impact of environmental, economic and sociological factors on health and well-being at the individual and community health level. This online MPH in public health practice program is designed to prepare candidates for successful employment in a broad array of public health areas. With a comprehensive curriculum that includes instruction in public health policy, finance and budget, health informatics, epidemiology and biostatistics, and social and behavioral sciences, students will be able to develop their interests. The 6 credit culminating experience includes an MPH capstone and a field study experience to gain hands on experience and networking opportunities. Whichever path students choose to follow, a master of public health from the University of Nevada will provide not only a strong educational foundation, but a strong return on investment as well. Whether working close to home or have plans to make an impact in global health, University of Nevada may be the school for you.
9. The University of Montana, Missoula
Online MPH
In-state tuition $5,166
Out-of-state tuition $22,986
Located in scenic Missoula, the mission of University of Montana’s MPH program is to provide distance learning opportunities that prepare students to improve the health of people in rural areas. This 42 credit MPH program allows full time students to complete the program in 2 years. Part time students complete their course of study in a minimum of three and a half years to accommodate candidates who are currently working full time. There are 9 credit hours of electives in the program that can be used to explore a variety of interests. Required capstone credits are used to expand the experience and interests of MPH candidates. Graduates of UM’s MPH program can expect to develop strategies for solving health-related problems and apply qualitative and quantitative problem-solving skills. Enhanced communication skills developed through this master of public health degree program will help students be well prepared for leadership roles in health services, disease prevention and health promotion.
8. University of Alaska, Anchorage
Online MPH
In-state tuition $9,234
Out-of-state tuition $19,422
The online degree from the University of Alaska can be pursued on a full time or part time basis, only requiring a campus visit to defend your MPH thesis. Students are able to gain real-world experiences while staying in their own community. This 42 credit master of public health degree focuses on the health care needs of Alaska and the circumpolar north, and provides a broad, interdisciplinary public health education. An ecological approach is taken, with students developing the expertise needed to protect and promote the health of varied populations. Graduate students learn to identify and assess community health needs, then plan, implement and evaluate approaches to address those needs. MPH candidates are required to complete a practicum to specialize in an area of interest, whether it be environmental health, health promotion, health education or global health. Graduate students are matched with a faculty advisor to guide their program. Faculty are specialized in a number of public health fields including health equity, international health, environmental health, social determinants of health, maternal and child health, circumpolar health, and tobacco prevention and control. Graduates can expect to qualify for public health work in areas such as occupational health, environmental health, food safety, health education and community health planning.
7. Benedictine University, Lisle, IL
Online MPH
Tuition $19,181
Benedictine University’s MPH program is a 58 credit degree. Students complete 6 eight-week sessions per year, with students taking between 2-6 years to complete the programs. In this experiential program, MPH candidates gain experience in research, analysis, policy, and management through an internship and course-work that includes hands-on requirements. Students have the option to earn a career-focused graduate certificate in addition the MPH in the same amount of time it takes to earn the degree. MPH graduates can expect to be prepared to work towards preventing and solving public health problems in individual and population health while making use of the most up to date theories and technology. Students may be able to complete their internship requirement at their current place of employment. With access to a full-time academic advisor, virtual career services, and around-the-clock access to the help desk, students also have access to an on-campus librarian to help with research. Benedictine University promises that MPH students will graduate with hands-on experience in research, public health policy, technology related to public health, healthcare management, and more.
6. University of North Texas Health Science Center, Fort Worth
Online MPH
In-state tuition $6,012
Out-of-state tuition $21,995
University of North Texas Health Science Center’s MPH program can be completed 100% online or through a combination of online and on campus classes. At UNT you can choose the pace that will give you success while balancing work and other responsibilities. With 5 eight week sessions per year, students can choose to complete one or two courses in each session. Part-time students can expect to complete this degree in 3 years, and full-time students in about 2 years. Students may easily take a break for a session if needed, adding to their program length. MPH candidates with at least 3 years of professional experience in public health can complete this program in 42 credits, all others in 48 credits. The practicum public health experience is arranged by students under their advisor’s guidance. Students local to the Dallas/Fort Worth area may take advantage of established public health community relationships. MPH candidates in other locations are coached to establish relationships with potential practicum sites and gain the experience desired from the practicum. The 600 hour practicum requirement may be fulfilled over multiple semesters. Students with professional experience that is in alignment with MPH competencies may apple for a waiver of up to 300 hours.
Tie for 5. California State University, Northridge
Online MPH
In-state tuition $7,176
Out-of-state tuition $16,680
CSUN’s online master of public health degree can be completed in 42 credits. This 2 year, seven-term online MPH program concentrating in community health education is designed to help candidates advance in the field of public health. Field training in public health provides practical experience that gives master of public health students the opportunity to develop skills and network for future employment. Graduates of this master of public health degree program go on to work in a wide range of settings that include local, state and national public health departments; nonprofits and community-based organizations; health education and advocacy; social work; health promotion; research; global health, and academia.
Tie for 5. San Diego State University, San Diego
Online MPH
In-state tuition $7,176
Out-of-state tuition $16,680
This fully online master of public health (MPH) program from San Diego State University is a rigorous 18 month program that is sure to challenge candidates, and is designed to meet the needs of working professionals. Students can expect to be prepared with skills to develop, implement and evaluate public health programs upon completion of the master of public health. This public health course requires 51 credits to complete, and includes 180 hours of practical field experience that is sure to give candidates added confidence and expertise. The completion of a capstone project is also required to further develop a student’s area of interest. Two 3-unit courses are completed in each eight-week session, with a one-week break between sessions. All public health course lectures are recorded for student access, allowing students to engage with the material at their own pace and schedule. This is an added plus for working professionals. Admission requires a minimum of 3 years of full-time work experience, preferably in a health care or public health related position.
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4. Des Moines University-Osteopathic Medical Center, Des Moines
MPH
Tuition $21,062
Des Moines University’s MPH program promises to prepare students to promote health across communities, impacting quality of life locally, nationally and in global health. Public Health professionals work in health systems to promote and protect health by preventing and addressing disease and educating about health behaviors. DMU’s rigorous master of public health program promises to equip students with the knowledge, strategy and skills needed to become an expert within the public health industry. In this master of public health program at DMU, students can specialize in one of 3 available concentrations. Concentrations include: public health practice, public health administration and policy, and health education and promotion. Students can expect to complete the MPH degree at DMU in as little as two years, but most take longer to complete. Students are required to earn 46 credit hours for this degree. That includes six hours of electives, as well as an applied practice experience (APE) and an integrative learning experience (ILE). These practical learning experiences are designed to help students dig deep to increase knowledge and provide networking experiences,
3. New Mexico State University-Main Campus, Las Cruces
MPH
In-state tuition $5,185
Out-of-state tuition $18,023
New Mexico State University’s online master of public health is an online MPH offering two concentrations. Students can pursue concentrations in health behavior and health promotion (HBHP) or health management, policy and administration (HMAP). Web-based technologies are utilized by students to complete coursework. This program seeks to meet the educational needs of working students and others for whom a brick and mortar program is not feasible. This reputable program prepares candidates for employment in a variety of settings, including state and federal agencies and community based organizations. This 100% online program has the same academic requirements as NMSU’s on campus MPH program. With 42 credits to complete, this master of public health degree typically takes students 3-4 years to graduate. A three credit field experience is an integral part of the MPH program at NMSU, allowing students to apply their knowledge in finding solutions to real world health issues. There are thesis and non-thesis options, depending on the chosen concentration. Check out NMSU’s new online cost structure, allowing online students a per-credit-hour tuition rate that is further discounted. Furthermore, there is an additional discount rate for those in active military service that are pursuing their degree online.
2. National University, San Diego
MPH
Tuition $15,912
National University’s master of public health program’s unique 4 week course schedule helps keep student motivation high by focusing on one class at a time. A total of 17 courses are required for any concentration (72 quarter units). With concentrations in mental health, health promotion or healthcare administration, National University’s master of public health (MPH) program promises to prepare graduates to be leaders in the public health field. Students will graduate from this master of public health program prepared for leadership positions in health promotion, disease prevention, community health, health communication, mental health, and public health administration. Graduates enhance their professional growth through internship and a capstone experience. Students will study the planning, organization, administration and policies that make community health organizations tick. Candidates will evaluate factors affecting health in a community, apply social and behavioral health concepts to public health problems while enhancing their skills in analyzing and interpreting health data. This MPH degree promises to teach students effective ways to share preventative health knowledge and establish public health initiatives in domestic and global health. This master of public health degree program emphasizes the development of problem solving and communication skills needed to work with diverse populations.
1. California Baptist University, Riverside
MPH
Tuition $13,680
This online master of public health degree requires 44 credits to complete, with the average student graduating from the program in just 16 months. Students in the online MPH program can expect to develop the knowledge and skills required for leadership positions in public health. Employment in areas such as emergency services, disaster preparedness, program planning and evaluation, health research, health services, and NIH grant writing can be possible for CBU master of public health graduates. This curriculum focuses on core disciplines in public health including epidemiology, biostatistics, social and behavioral sciences, environmental and occupational health, and management of public health services. Unique to this MPH program is the integration of a Christian perspective as it relates to health and wellness. A culminating experience requirement allows students to demonstrate public health knowledge gained throughout the MPH program. This culminating exercise can be fulfilled through a comprehensive examination, research thesis or project. Students completing a thesis or project will be required to prepare both an oral and written presentation. Two semesters of supervised public health practice experience is designed to help students demonstrate public health competencies through applied practice experiences, providing networking opportunities in addition to practical experience.
FAQs
Who should consider a degree in public health and study public health online?
Public health offers job opportunities to suit a variety of interests and skills. Whether you are more interested in number crunching, conducting research, or working directly with people, those who choose public health as a career gain satisfaction in knowing they are working to help improve the lives of others. These MPH programs can help students complete their master of public health and get to work in this important field.
How will an online master of public health degree from the West advance my career?
The master of public health degree will help prepare you with skills necessary for leadership in a health related agency or organization. The MPH can prepare you for employment in public health research or for further education in medicine. The concentration you choose to study and fieldwork in the MPH program will help guide your career opportunities in public health. Studying public health online is a good option for those wishing to solve complex public health issues and become public health leaders.
Why would I care what state the program is in if it’s an online program?
Tuition is based on state residency in most programs. Also, students may need to be on site for some campus requirements. If that would not be possible for you, be sure the program is 100% online with no campus requirement for comprehensive exams or other obligations. Online MPH students currently involved in global health and living in another country will find one of these 100% online programs would be very convenient.
What are the benefits to earning a MPH degree in an online format?
If flexibility is what you need due to work or personal obligations, a good online MPH program may be your ticket to advancing in the field of public health. Most programs are asynchronous, but some online MPH programs are synchronous and require scheduled times and participation in class live at that time.
How do I know if I’m a good fit for an online MPH degree program?
Successful students typically have good academic skills, the ability to learn and study independently, good organizational skills, and basic computer and technical skills. Students in an online MPH program need to be willing to devote the time and effort needed to be successful just as in a traditional course.
How long does the MPH online degree take to complete?
Full-time programs are typically 2-2.5 years long, while part-time students may take up to 7 years to complete, depending on the university. Some accelerated programs may be completed in about a year. Investigate your program of interest to see what time frame will work for you to graduate.
Do I need to have computer skills to complete my online MPH program?
Basic computer skills help online students be successful and confident from the get-go. Experience and knowledge in how to utilize the internet to find needed information, and a working knowledge of Word and Excel will help you to be efficient in the use of your study time. Know what computer knowledge is required to complete the program before beginning the first course. If you lack computer skills, find a way to gain some experience prior to beginning your online MPH program. If living in a remote area working in global health, reliable internet would be needed.
How can I finance my MPH online degree?
Online graduate programs may be financed through a variety of methods that may include loans, scholarships, savings, employer financing, or other means. Speak with someone in the financial aid office at your school of interest to discuss your financial needs and education goals. International students working in global public health can seek financial aid to complete their MPH online program.
What kind of bachelor’s degree is most beneficial to being accepted into an affordable and top notch MPH program online?
Online MPH programs are typically interested in a candidate’s overall past academic performance in addition to interest in public health rather than the title of the degree. There is no best degree to pursue as a bachelor’s degree. That being said, be sure to check and see if there are prerequisites at the bachelor’s degree level needed to apply to your mph online program of interest.
What can I do with a degree in public health?
With your master of public health online you will have the skills to address public health issues and concerns. Communication skills, leadership skills, and evaluation and analysis expertise will help you solve problems and make decisions in your role in public health. MPH degree holders can go on to practice and research opportunities in academia, government agencies, private industry as well as community based programs. Public health workers use their degree to develop health policy, protect human health, work in community health promotion or even in global disaster management. Online programs can pave the way to leadership in public health.
What kind of title would I have once I earn my MPH degree?
Job titles can include health communications specialist, health research scientist, program director, director of services, public health management analyst as well as many others. MPH degree holders work in the public or private sector, governmental agencies, academia, and research, as well as industry or community based organizations.
What is an entry level pay scale for a professional with an MPH online?
A wide range of salaries can be expected when entering the field of public health, depending on which direction you choose. Working in global health, community health promotion or a variety of jobs with health systems, it all depends. The Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.gov provides more information pertaining to the pay scale for public health workers in your area of interest as well as geographical area.
Can a graduate degree in public health really make a difference in the world today?
Public health initiatives have added 25 years to the life expectancy of people in the United States in the last 100 years. The Center for Disease Control tells us that public health’s greatest health improvements in the last century include workplace safety, infectious disease control, food safety, mother/baby health, decline in death from heart disease and stroke, motor vehicle safety, immunizations, family planning, fluoridated drinking water, and the hazards of tobacco use. Community health promotion and improving and implementing health policy can make a difference in today’s world. What health initiatives will make this next century healthier and what role will you play?
What is the professional organization for public health?
The American Public Health Association (APHA) is the public health organization for public health professionals. Their vision is to “Create the healthiest nation in one generation,” and they champion the health of all people and all communities. They strive to strengthen the public health profession and speak out for public health issues and evidence based policies. APHA influences federal policy and has close to 150 years of perspective, bringing together members from all areas of public health. APHA’s mission is to improve the health of the public and achieve equity in health status. Their values represent the beliefs of their members from all disciplines of public health and over 40 countries. Check out APHA at https://www.apha.org/about-apha
By Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDE
Carol graduated with her BS in nutrition from Montclair State University and her BSN in nursing from Rowan University. She is a Certified Diabetes Care and Educator Specialist (CDCES) experienced in working with adults and children living with Diabetes in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
MPH staff, 2023
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This concludes our ranking of the top 10 best online MPH in the West.
Source: College Navigator