If you have an interest in protecting and promoting health in your community, a master of public health degree can help advance your career in the public health field. Earning an MPH degree from a top school of public health can prepare you for future roles in agencies or organizations where you can have a positive impact on public health. The public health field involves a wide variety of areas as seen in the numerous concentrations that students can focus their studies in, including health promotion, global public health, public health nutrition, and more.
According to the American Public Health Association (APHA), professionals in the field of public health work to promote and protect the health of people and the communities where they live, learn, work, and play. Public health practitioners and researchers advocate for policies that can help build healthy communities at home as well as global public health. If you have an interest in health promotion and protecting health in your own community or internationally, earning a master of public health degree from a school of public health can advance career opportunities in public health practice and help you prepare for roles in the growing field of public health.
This list of the top 10 Best Master of Public Health Degree Programs in the Northeast will assist you in finding an excellent school of public health program to help you meet your career goals in public health practice. If you are interested in earning your MPH degree, are looking for a stimulating online or brick and mortar program, and are wishing to build professional relationships and network in the public health field, this article is for you. MPH programs with multiple concentrations to choose from can help you tailor this degree to meet your specific interests in public health practice. Read on to find a program that will help meet your academic and career aspirations.
- #1 John Hopkins University
- #2 Columbia University
- #3 Harvard University
- #4 George Washington University
- #5 University of Pittsburgh
- #6 Boston University
- #7 Yale University
- #8 University of Massachusetts
- #9 Drexel University
- #10 University of Maryland, College Park
Methodology for Best Northeast MPH Degree Programs
The pool of schools was developed from the College Navigator website. Schools were excluded if not accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). This MPH programs ranking was based on recognition by U.S. News, tuition, and additional concentrations offered by the school. Tuition costs posted here are from the College Navigator website and are used for comparison purposes. Students should confirm their official tuition costs with their school of interest. Information for program profiles is from school websites.
10. University of Maryland, College Park
MPH
In-State Tuition $12,294
Out of State Tuition $26,532
The University of Maryland at College Park’s school of public health offers a unique academic experience for students desiring to earn their MPH in the Northeast. Students can choose to focus studies in one of the seven concentrations offered; each program is 45 credits. One of the University of Maryland’s most appealing characteristics is its prime location. Located in the Capital Beltway, students can take advantage of unique opportunities and resources found in Washington D.C.: federal agencies, military organizations, non-profits, and state and local agencies. Students can truly capitalize on theses recourses not only to gain practical experiences but also to network for their future career opportunities. Prospective students should consider visiting the University of Maryland to talk with the faculty and staff, learn about the program and University, and begin pursuing a top MPH degree in the Northeast.
9. Drexel University
MPH
Tuition $33,156
Drexel University students can earn their MPH degree in just 5 quarters. Students at Drexel’s school of public health can specialize their MPH studies in epidemiology, health management, and policy, community health and prevention, or environmental and occupational health. The program helps students prepare to make a difference and approach challenges in the public health field. Students can prepare to influence the public health field in a variety of settings around the world, but note that Drexel University does have expertise in urban health among Northeast MPH programs. Students in the Drexel MPH program can also take advantage of the research opportunities available. A Master’s in Public Health degree can have a positive and influential impact on their career, but sometimes tuition can be a barrier for students to pursue their graduate degrees. Consider that numerous students at Drexel University benefit from scholarship funding to support them as they pursue a graduate degree. If you have an interest in the public health field but want a degree other than an MPH, consider the other unique degree options available through Drexel University.
8. University of Massachusetts, Amherst
MPH
In-State Tuition $13,210
Out of State Tuition $27,834
The University of Massachusetts at Amherst has several MPH programs for prospective students to explore. The UMass at Amherst MPH programs are offered through the School of Public Health and Health Sciences. Part of the school’s mission is using education, research, and outreach in order to improve the public’s quality of life. MPH concentration options include Biostatistics, Epidemiology, Environmental Health Sciences, Community Health Education, Health Policy and Management, and Nutrition. Students looking for the flexibility of an online program can find varied options at UMass. While not all of the programs are offered in an online format, several flexible options are available. The University of Massachusetts at Amherst also offers a variety of graduate degrees related to public health including a master of science degree as well as additional higher education degrees for students to pursue. The variety of programs at the University of Massachusetts school of public health allows students to specialize in their interests, and students also have the opportunity to learn through engaging in the practicum experience. Learn more about the admission process and academic opportunities available at the University of Massachusetts, a top choice among MPH degrees in the Northeast.
7. Yale University
MPH
Tuition $45,700
The Yale University School of Public Health offers a variety of degrees, including a Master of Public Health program. Yale University’s two-year master’s in public health program is made up of twenty course units that are completed over four semesters and includes a summer internship. Students study within one of six academic departments or the Health Care Management program and have the option to add one of six concentrations or tracks. Concentrations give students the opportunity to direct their internship experiences, and tracks are based on courses. Concentrations include: Climate Change and Health, Global Health, Public Health Modeling, and US Health and Justice. Tracks include: Maternal Child Health Promotion, and Regulatory Affairs. The online Executive MPH is a hybrid program, with some in person requirements. This two year part time program has four concentrations including: Health Informatics; Environmental Health Sciences; Applied Analytic Methods and Epidemiology; and Critical Topics in Public Health. The Advanced Professional MPH Program is the accelerated 11 month MPH program. This program is offered to those with significant experience and/or an advanced degree in a related field. Students in the traditional MPH degree program will complete a thesis or capstone project. Yale University’s school of public health offers opportunities for students to concentrate their MPH studies and encourages students to customize their program. Yale University takes your commitment to earning your MPH seriously and understands it is an investment from a variety of perspectives.
6. Boston University
MPH
Tuition $58,560
The Boston University School of Public Health offers a 48 credit master of public health program. Earning an MPH degree at BU gives students the opportunity to develop as a well-rounded professional and apply an evidence-based approach to the issues in the public health field. Graduates can take the skills and knowledge they develop at BU and apply them in a variety of settings as they collaborate with others to have a positive impact. Students enrolled in the Boston University MPH degree program engage in the core courses, pursue a certificate, and participate in a practicum experience. Certificates earned as part of the MPH degree program can include: Community Assessment, Program Design, Implementation, and Evaluation, Environmental Health, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Global Health Program Design, Monitoring, and Evaluation, Health Communication and Promotion, Health Policy and Law, Healthcare Management, Program Management, Chronic and Non-Communicable Diseases, Global Health, Human Rights and Social Justice, Infectious Disease, Maternal and Child Health, Mental Health and Substance Use, Pharmaceutical Development, Delivery, and Access, and finally, Sex, Sexuality, and Gender. If you have an interest in earning a master’s degree in public health, developing as a leader in the public health field, and a desire to influence, consider the MPH program at Boston University’s school of public health. In addition to the MPH program, BU offers a variety of influential and relevant graduate public health programs for students to consider.
5. University of Pittsburgh
MPH
In-State Tuition $24,118
Out of State Tuition $40,894
The University of Pittsburgh offers a top Master of Public Health program in the Northeast where students can focus their studies by choosing from eight different concentrations. In addition to the numerous concentration options available, Pitt Public Health also offers joint degrees, doctoral degrees, and other master’s degrees to help students meet their academic and career goals. MPH degrees offered include: Behavioral and Community Health Sciences; Environmental and Occupational Health; Epidemiology; Health Policy and Management; Human Genetics; Infectious Disease Pathogenesis, Eradication, and Laboratory Practice; Infectious Disease Management, Intervention, and Community Practice; and the Multidisciplinary Master of Public Health.
4. George Washington University
MPH
Tuition $32,850
George Washington University’s Milken Institute School of Public Health offers a Master of Public Health program and is recognized among numerous other rankings. This MPH program offers prospective students fourteen different concentrations to focus their studies. Students in the MPH program can choose to focus their studies in biostatistics, epidemiology, health policy, health promotion, and global environmental health, among numerous others. GW also offers an online degree option with no in-class requirements that can be completed in 12 months. The GW 12-month online accelerated program offers students the same curriculum as the traditional MPH curriculum. Prospective students can also pursue a variety of master of science degrees, an MHA program, joint degrees and higher levels of education for students to advance their careers in public health. Discover why the GW school of public health’s MPH is a top choice among MPH degrees in the Northeast.
3. Harvard University
MPH
Tuition $50,928
Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health has a clear mission to use learning, discovery, and communication to advance the public’s health. With an impressive history, a passion to make a difference, and unique academic opportunities, prospective students should consider earning their degree at Harvard University. Not only can students earn an MPH degree, but eligible students can also consider pursuing a joint degree, other master’s programs, summer programs, or doctoral degrees. The Harvard Chan School MPH is open to students with varying levels of education and work experience. Perspecitve students should review the eligibility requirements and field of study carefully. Prospective students who have an earned bachelor’s degree and have work experience in the public health field can consider six fields of study to focus their education in a 65-credit program. Prospective students who meet all requirements may be eligible to pursue the 45-credit program, choose from a variety of fields of study, and a hybrid epidemiology program. Harvard’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health also offers dual degree programs: MD/DO/MPH;DMD/DDS/MPH/ JD/MPH; and Master of Urban Planning (MUP)/ MPH. If you want to make a difference–if public health is your mission and you want to make the world a healthier place to live, consider Harvard University’s school of public health for your graduate education.
2. Columbia University
MPH
Tuition $50,496
The Columbia University Mailman School of Public Health offers an exciting academic opportunity for prospective students to earn their MPH degree. Prospective students should consider the two-year MPH program and their eligibility for the accelerated one-year MPH program as well. The MPH program curriculum integrates a unique balance of core courses, discipline of interest, practicum experience, leadership education, earning a certificate, and more. While many programs offer the opportunity to earn a certificate, Columbia University integrates the certificate program into the curriculum to give students advanced training. The student chooses to focus their studies in one of the six disciplines available, and this guides the student’s capstone or thesis, networking, and more. Learn more about the exciting academic opportunities at Columbia University’s school of public health, a leader among MPH programs in the Northeast.
1. Johns Hopkins University
MPH
Tuition $58,720
With a strong reputation, flexible learning schedules, and networking opportunities, the MPH program at Johns Hopkins University certainly offers prospective students an impressive list of reasons to consider their program. The MPH program from JHU’s school of public health can be completed in just 11 months, or if students want a more flexible option, online and part-time students can take between two to three years for program completion. Dual MPH degrees are also available in: MD/MPH, MBA/MPH, MSW/MPH, JD/MPH, LLM/MPH, DVM/MPH, and DNP/MPH. Students engage in the core curriculum, elective courses, and have the opportunity to participate in a practicum experience, field experience, and a capstone project. Students can also focus their studies, choosing from an impressive list of twelve MPH concentrations. Johns Hopkins University acknowledges the challenges of the curriculum and the value of the challenge because it prepares students to face public health issues from a local to a global level.
FAQ
What exactly is public health?
The American Public Health Association defines public health as something that “promotes and protects the health of people and the communities where they live, learn, work and play.” Public health professionals are involved in the quality of life, disease prevention and health promotion for all types of people. Public health professionals can work on a community and local level or a national and global level. The public health field involves education, research and program implementation and evaluation. Public health impacts everyone, and its public health leaders are professionals working to protect and promote the well being of everyone.
How will a Master of Public Health in the Northeast advance my career?
Earning your MPH degree through one of the accredited MPH programs can prepare you for public health leadership roles or work in an agency or organization. A master’s degree can also prepare you for further education and research. Most of the programs listed here have areas for students to concentrate their studies in and earn a certificate, which will additionally guide graduates as they pursue a role in the public health field. Many public health degrees require a capstone project to solidify skills and network.
What kind of bachelor’s degree is most beneficial to being accepted into one of these top MPH programs?
These best masters of public health programs are typically interested in a candidate’s overall past academic performance along with a demonstrated interest in public health rather than the title of the degree. There is no best degree to pursue as a bachelor’s degree to enter a master of public health program.
What is the benefit of earning a master of public health degree in a traditional format compared to the flexible online formats?
The academic field has a variety of ways to earn an advanced degree, and students can choose what is the best way to pursue further education. This list of public health programs offers prospective students a variety of flexible options and accelerated formats. Students can consider how they best learn, network, balance their schedules and finances, and choose a program based on what is the best academic and practical fit. There are benefits to both formats; students can choose whichever option is best to meet their goals.
What are the core disciplines of public health?
Most Master of Public Health curriculums have a foundation in the five core public health disciplines. These include epidemiology, biostatistics, behavioral science, environmental and occupational health, and curriculum design in health education. Core courses in the areas will be included in all master’s degree programs.
What is the significance of the CEPH accreditation?
The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is an independent agency that is recognized to accredit public health programs and schools of public health. This agency is recognized by the US Department of Education. The CEPH has a clear mission to assure quality public health education and training. CEPH has a vision to promote excellence in public health education, including in MPH programs. The mission and vision together can lead to a healthier world. The council’s goal is to improve public health by validating that public health professionals are receiving the appropriate education in order to identify, prevent and solve problems in the public health field. CEPH accreditation is a validation that the program is seen by the council as one that provides quality education. This accreditation also shows the public that public health professionals are meeting standards that promote excellence in public health. The CEPH website can provide you with additional information on the agency, history and additional meaning of the accreditation.
What is an entry-level pay scale for a professional with an MPH?
There is a wide range of salaries that you can expect to earn in the field of public health after earning an a degree from an MPH program depending on which direction you choose. Information from the Bureau of Labor Statistics at BLS.Gov can give you more information regarding the pay scale in your area of interest and geographical area.
How can I finance my degree?
Graduate school is often financed through a variety of methods that may include loans, scholarships, savings, employer financing, research fellowships or teaching assistantships. Financial aid packages vary, so talk to your school of interest about your goals and financial needs to pursue your master of public health degree.
How long does the MPH degree take to complete?
Full-time master of public health programs are typically two to two and a half years long, while part-time students may take up to seven years to complete, depending on the university. Some accelerated programs may be completed in about a year. Many public health degrees require a capstone project to help the graduate students apply their knowledge in a meaningful way.
How do I know what public health concentration is best to pursue?
With all the options available, it may be difficult to narrow down the master of public health degree concentration to pursue. What interests you in public health? Why do you want to pursue an MPH? Where do you see yourself working? What past experience do you have that you plan to draw on in your future work? Shadowing a public health professional in your possible area of interest may help you discover which direction to go in. Speaking with MPH graduate students and professors may also help guide you to the best concentration for you. Some of the most popular concentrations in public health include: Global Health, Women and Children’s Health, Epidemiology, Social and Behavioral Health, Community Health, Food and Nutrition, and health education.
What are some new or unique concentrations in master of public health programs that may be interesting?
One Health: The One Health concentration focuses on the interconnectedness of health among human, animal and environmental systems and how to work within a multi-disciplinary team.
Physical Activity: This concentration will help prepare MPH students for a variety of careers that involve developing, implementing and evaluating community-based programs designed to promote physically active lifestyles.
Indigenous People: A concentration related to indigenous people will help develop the knowledge of history, policy, health determinants and ethics needed to address and eliminate the inequities faced by Indigenous people that involve a broad array of topics related to health.
What are some of the dual MPH degrees out there?
Some professions are a natural match with a master of public health degree and some offer “dual degree” opportunities. Some dual degrees include: MPH/MBA, MPH/MPP, MPH/MHA, MPH/PA, MPH/MD, MPH/JD, MPH/MSN, MPH/MSW, and Occupational Health with the MPH. MPH students wishing to pursue one of the many MPH dual degree programs may be a good match for many. Medical students wishing to get their master’s in public health typically take one year off from medical school to work on their dual degree in public health. Choosing a public health degree program from one of the many public health schools takes time to explore.
What kind of job titles might I have once I earn my MPH degree in the Northeast?
Job titles you may have include health communications specialist, health research scientist, director of programs, director of services, or public health management analyst, to name just a few. You may work in the public or private sector, a governmental agency, academia, research, industry, or community-based organizations. Many positions include health communication as part of the job.
What can I do with a master in public health degree?
Graduates who earn an MPH degree can go on to practice and research opportunities in academia, government agencies, private industry, health services administration, public health education and community health education programs, among other things. With your Master of Public Health, you will have the skills needed when addressing public health issues. Communication and leadership skills, as well as evaluation and analysis expertise, will help you to solve problems and make decisions in your public health role. Master’s degree holders can also pursue their certification as a Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES).
How is the CDC involved in public health?
The Center for Disease Control and Prevention is a tremendous part of the United States’ public health system. The CDC has a large staff of over 14,000 public health workers in almost 170 different occupations in all 50 states and more than 50 countries. Because the CDC is connected to health departments on multiple levels and in so many places, they have an opportunity to understand public health disease patterns and respond appropriately. The CDC also works on practical safety issues like ensuring safe food and water, controlling disease outbreaks, and educating the public.
Will a graduate degree in public health really make a difference in the world today?
In the last 100 years, public health initiatives have added 25 years to the life expectancy of people in the United States. According to the Center for Disease Control, 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 health hazard of tobacco use. What health initiatives will make this next century a healthier one in the US and abroad? 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. With a vision to “Create the healthiest nation in one generation,” APHA champions the health of all people and all communities. They strive to strengthen the public health profession and speak out for public health issues and policies backed by science. APHA influences federal policy and has a nearly 150-year perspective, bringing together members from all fields of public health. Their mission is to improve the health of the public and achieve equity in health status. Their values reflect the beliefs of their members from all disciplines of public health and over 40 countries.
In addition to APHA, public health professionals can also check out:
- American Public Health Association
- American College of Healthcare Executives
- Your State’s Public Health Organization
- Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists
- National Association of County & City Health Officials
What if I cannot commute to any of these schools offering an MPH in the Northeast?
While some of these master’s degree programs do offer students the option to study remotely, it may be beneficial to consider talking with your school of interest about graduate housing and how you can meet your academic goals. No matter what format or program you choose, graduate students must focus on their goals and make the appropriate sacrifices to accomplish it. Future articles will list schools and programs in different areas of the country for prospective students to consider.
By Erin Padden RN, BSN
Updated June 2022
Erin graduated from Cedarville University in 2012 with a BSN. She currently works in the Medical Intensive Care Unit at the Hospital of the University of Pennsylvania while pursuing a Doctor of Nursing Practice at Thomas Jefferson University (an online/hybrid program).
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Source: NCES College Navigator