If you want to gain advanced training to have an impact on the health and wellbeing of your community, then earning your masters in public health online with no GRE may be the right path for you.
Online masters in public health programs can prepare you for various advanced positions in the fields of health promotion, policy development, health care, advocacy, and more.
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Your career in public health can be fine-tuned to match your personal interests and professional goals with the various specializations available in MPH programs.
Masters in Public Health Online with No GRE Programs
Online masters degree in public health programs are designed to provide you with an in-depth understanding of human health and how it interplays with the environment and community that people live in. There are also a number of MPH programs that don’t require you to complete the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) in order to apply.
Earning your MPH online no GRE may prepare you to take on a variety of roles in the field. Common public health career paths include:
- Epidemiologist
- Health education specialist
- Community health worker
- Public health caseworker
- Project coordinator
- Environmental health specialist
- Data analyst
- Health management specialist
- Infectious disease specialist
Types of roles that you may qualify for can vary depending on your level of experience, geographic area, and any areas of specialization that you pursue as part of your graduate studies.
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Public health graduate programs often require you to take a selection of courses that cover various public health topics. Some topics that you may study as part of your coursework include:
- Principles of public health
- Global health
- Statistical methods
- Disaster, crisis, and risk
- Health communication
- Health and the environment
- Health management
- Epidemiology
In addition to completing a number of public health graduate-level courses, you may also be required to complete an internship or thesis as part of your online MPH program. Specific requirements will vary from one program to the next.
Types of MPH Online Programs by GRE Requirements
There are different ways that schools incorporate, or don’t incorporate, the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) into their admissions process.
Some universities require your GRE score as part of your application without exception, others offer a GRE waiver option, and some schools don’t require GRE scores in any capacity.
Universities That Require the GRE Score
Some universities require GRE scores as part of your application process. They do not consider your application to be complete unless your test score is submitted. These schools do not offer any substitution in place of GRE scores and do not have waiver options.
Colleges That Offer GRE Waiver
Some colleges require GRE scores as part of your application but also have waiver options built into their application process. A GRE waiver can allow you to bypass the need to submit GRE scores.
This option is commonly offered to individuals who have previously completed a masters or PhD program or who have significant work experience in the field.
Grad Schools That Don’t Require the GRE
Some grad schools skip the GRE score requirement altogether and don’t ask applicants to submit GRE scores with their application package.
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In some cases, these schools may place more emphasis or importance on GPAs, letters of recommendation, or previous academic or work experience.
Common Online Master of Public Health Specializations
There are a number of different specializations within the discipline of public health. Specific offerings will vary from one school to the next, but here are some common specializations:
- Biostatistics. Topics of study can include collection and use of health data, data analysis, bioinformatics, and statistical theory.
- Child and Maternal Health. Courses may focus on child development, socioeconomic factors of health, mental health, and geographic impact on the health of mothers and children.
- Environmental Health. Subjects can include water quality and health, air quality and health, human and animal diseases, risks and hazards in the workplace, and the impact of geography on human health.
- Epidemiology. Topics of study can include human diseases, population health risks, statistical methodology, data analysis, and analysis of population health issues.
- Health Equity. Courses can cover topics such as social determinants of health, disparities in healthcare, and design and implementation of health policy.
Each specialization will offer a unique blend of coursework, allowing you to develop expertise in public health overall in addition to an advanced understanding of your specialty.
MPH Careers & Salaries
Public health positions exist in various industries, including state government, local government, hospitals, colleges and universities, and scientific research centers, among others.
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, pursuing an MPH without the GRE requirement can help you qualify for various careers in the field of public health.
| Careers | Annual Median Salaries |
| Political Scientists, Professional, Scientific, and Technical Services | $136,640 |
| Political Scientists, Federal Government | $133,460 |
| Medical and Health Services Managers | $104,280 |
| Epidemiologists, Research and Development | $99,020 |
| Epidemiologists, Hospitals | $84,420 |
| Life Scientists | $81,130 |
| Epidemiologists, Local Government | $70,470 |
| Epidemiologists, State Government | $68,500 |
| Survey Researchers | $59,870 |
| Health Education Specialists | $56,500 |
The Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts positive job outlooks for a number of roles in the field of public health over the next ten years. This includes positions like survey researcher (4% job growth), policy analyst (9%), health education specialist (12%), epidemiologist (30%), and medical and health services manager (32%).
Masters in Public Health Curriculum & Courses
Masters programs that don’t require GRE will still include various courses across the field of public health, some of which may include:
- Principles of Public Health: This course covers the fundamental concepts in the field of public health, including health systems, epidemiology, social determinants of health, and environmental health.
- Global Health Perspectives: You’ll review various perspectives in global health, including historical and current issues in the field.
- Research Methods: You’ll develop an understanding of research methodologies in the field of public health.
- Public Health and Policy: You’ll explore the relationship between healthcare and public policy, including how policy can advocate for or against improvements in the field.
- Healthcare in America: You’ll learn about the structure of healthcare in the United States, how the system is funded, and what sort of outcomes result from care.
- Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health: This course is a review of social and behavioral sciences, including research in each area, in relation to public health.
- Health Program Design: You’ll develop an understanding of how to evaluate, design, and implement health programs.
- Storytelling in Public Health and Public Policy: You’ll explore concepts underlying storytelling and advocacy in the field of public health and public policy.
- Strategic Health Communication: You’ll learn about the various ways that health communication can be achieved in a strategic and modern way through effective campaigns and addressing changing beliefs.
- Population Dynamics and Public Health: You’ll develop an understanding of public health through observation and study of a population, including birth rates, death rates, and other patterns.
Courses can vary from one school to the next and across the various specialties that may be available.
Online MPH No GRE Admissions Requirements
While admissions criteria for MPH programs can vary from one school to the next, some common requirements include:
- Undergraduate degree from an accredited institution
- Transcripts from undergraduate and any graduate studies
- Minimum GPA from previous studies
- Letter of intent
- Letters of recommendation
In some cases, online mph programs with no GRE admissions requirement may list the GRE as a requirement with the option of a waiver in place of actual test scores. Specific criteria will vary from one school to the next.
Accreditation
Regional accreditation is an important consideration when choosing an MPH no GRE online program, as this status is an indicator of the academic quality of a program.
The status of regional accreditation is granted to schools and programs whose educational offerings meet a certain set of predetermined quality standards. Attending an accredited program can impact your ability to transfer credits or enroll in other MPH programs down the road.
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In some cases, the accreditation of the program you attend can also influence the decision of hiring managers and potential employers.
Public Health Certifications
Professional certifications are available for MPH professionals. These certifications can help you establish your level of expertise in a particular area of public health, and they can act as a way to steer your career into a certain subfield.
Some public health certifications include:
- Certified in Public Health (CPH)
- Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES)
- Certified Public Health Administrator (CPHA)
- Certified Emergency Response Coordinator (CERC)
- Certified Physical Activity in Public Health Specialist (CPAPHS)
Certifications are generally regulated by various governing boards. Each may have different requirements to qualify for certification, such as years of experience in the field, attending an accredited MPH program, completing a certification exam, and so on.
Financial Aid and Scholarships
There are a number of financial aid options that might be available to you to help you fund your MPH degree. Financial aid options can include:
- Government aid. State and federal aid is often available in the form of grants and loans.
- Scholarships. Scholarships are made available by both private and public organizations. In some cases, scholarships are directed toward specific areas of study.
Financial assistance or funding may also be made available by the school you choose to attend. More information on financial assistance can be found on the US Department of Education’s website.
What Can You Do with a Masters in Public Health?
A masters in public health can help you qualify for a variety of careers in the field. Common public health positions include policy analyst, medical and health services manager, epidemiologist, life scientist, survey researcher, health education specialist, and community health worker.
Positions in the field of public health can be available in various areas, including the federal government, state government, research centers, universities, hospitals, and laboratories.
How Long Does It Take to Get a Master’s in Public Health Online?
The length of time required to complete a masters in public health can vary. If it’s a 36 credit hour program with no thesis requirement, it may be completed in 1 year with full-time enrollment, including summer classes.
Some factors can lengthen the amount of time required to complete your studies, such as needing to finish a thesis in order to graduate. Enrolling on a part-time basis, rather than full-time, is another factor that can impact how long it takes you to complete your degree.
What Jobs Can You Get with a Masters in Public Health?
The ability to qualify for various positions in the field can depend on a number of factors, including your geographic location, chosen industry, years of experience in the field, and additional credentials.
Some health professionals who hold a masters in public health work as epidemiologists, policy analysts, or health education specialists. Each position includes a unique set of duties, so the scope of work that you may be responsible can be broad.
Some positions are more focused on lab work, while others are more heavily based in the community and public interaction.
What’s the Difference Between an MPH vs. MHA Degree?
While both MPH and MHA degree programs are centered around the field of health and healthcare, each approaches the field from different perspectives.
- Master of Public Health: An MPH is focused on health sciences and practices. It studies information and research on population health and disease.
- Master of Health Administration: An MHA is focused on the business side of healthcare. It studies human resource management, administration of programming, and finances.
The key difference is that MPH programs focus on health sciences, while MHA programs focus on business.
Is an MPH Worth It?
Yes, an MPH is worth it for many professionals. The Bureau of Labor Statistics expects many positions in the field of public health to experience positive job growth over the next ten years.
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This includes positions like survey researchers (4% job growth), policy analysts (9%), and health education specialists (12%). Epidemiologists and medical and health services managers are expected to see significant job growth at 30% and 32%, respectively (Bureau of Labor Statistics).
Universities Offering Online Masters in Public Health Degree Programs
Methodology: The following school list is in alphabetical order. To be included, a college or university must be regionally accredited and offer degree programs online or in a hybrid format.
A.T. Still University offers a Master of Public Health online degree program. It consists of 64 credit hours. To be eligible for the program, applicants must submit an online application with official transcripts from all the schools they’ve attended, a resume, and an admissions essay. They must also have a minimum GPA of 2.5 or higher.
A.T. Still University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Baylor University offers a Master of Public Health degree. This public health degree online program requires students to complete 42 credit hours. To be eligible for the program, applicants must submit an online application with a current resume, official transcripts, 3 letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Baylor University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
Creighton University offers a Master of Public Health. Students may choose to complete one of two concentrations: Health Care Ethics or Healthcare Management. To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher, official transcripts, 3 letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume.
Creighton University is accredited by The Higher Learning Commission of the North Central Association of Colleges and Schools.
Des Moines University offers a Master of Public Health. Students may choose to add a concentration in Public Health Practice, Public Health Administration and Policy, or Health Education and Promotion.
The program can typically be completed in 2 years. Applicants must submit official transcripts, 3 references, a current resume, and a statement of purpose.
DMU is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Drexel University offers a Master of Public Health degree. Students must complete 56 credit hours to graduate. The program typically takes 2 years to complete. Applicants must submit an online application with official transcripts from all the schools they’ve attended, 3 letters of recommendation, a resume, and a statement of purpose.
Drexel University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Emory University offers a Master of Public Health degree. Students must complete 42 credit hours to graduate. Students may choose to add a specialization in Applied Epidemiology or Prevention Science. Applicants must have 3 years of work experience, a minimum GPA of 3.0, 3 letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a resume.
Emory University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
George Washington University offers an online Master of Public Health degree. Students may choose to take the 1 year program or the 18 month program. Students may add a concentration in Health Informatics to their degree. Applicants have the option to start the program at one of four start dates.
George Washington University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
National University offers a Master of Public Health degree. This online MPH program offers a number of classes that are 4 weeks long. Students may choose to add a specialization in Healthcare Administration or Mental Health. Applicants must have a GPA of 2.85 or higher to be eligible for the program.
National University is accredited by the WASC Senior College and University Commission.
New York Medical College offers a Master of Public Health degree. Students must complete either a thesis or a capstone project to graduate.
To be eligible for the program, applicants must have a GPA of 3.0 or higher from an undergraduate degree program and prior work experience. They must also submit a personal essay and recommendations.
New York Medical College is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
Northern Illinois University offers a Master of Public Health. Students may choose between thesis and non-thesis options. The non-thesis option requires 44 semester hours, while the thesis option requires 38 semester hours and a master’s thesis. Applicants must have a minimum GPA of 3.0 or higher and 2 letters of recommendation.
Northern Illinois University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Simmons University offers an online Master of Public Health degree. The program requires students to complete 45 credit hours and can typically be completed in 21 months. Those interested in the program may apply online through the school’s website. Applicants must submit transcripts, letters of recommendation, and TOEFL test scores.
Simmons University is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Tufts University offers a Master of Public Health degree. Students may add a specialization in Behavioral Science and Health Communication, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Service Management and Policy, or Nutrition.
Applicants must submit official transcripts, a resume, a statement of purpose, 3 letters of recommendation, and answers to 2 short essay questions.
Tufts University is accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.
The University of Montana offers a Masters in Public Health degree. Students must complete 42 credit hours and a capstone project to graduate. Applicants must submit an online application with 3 letters of recommendation, a personal essay, official transcripts from all the schools they’ve attended, and a current resume.
The University of Montana is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of Nevada—Reno offers an online MPH program. The program can typically be completed in 24 months. Those interested in the program must have an undergraduate GPA of 3.0 or higher and submit an updated resume, a personal essay, and 2 letters of recommendation.
The University of Nevada – Reno is accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.
The University of New England offers a Master of Public Health program. Students must complete 46 credit hours to graduate. Students may choose to take the Generalist track or the Epidemiology focus. Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree with a GPA of 3.0 or higher to be eligible for the program.
The University of New England is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
The University of Carolina—Chapel Hill offers a Master of Public Health degree. Students may add a concentration in Leadership, Nutrition, Applied Epidemiology, or Registered Dietitian.
The program is self-paced, allowing students to take 16 months to 5 years to graduate. The school offers rolling admission, and admissions counselors are available to help applicants with the application process.
UNC – Chapel Hill also offers a Doctor of Public Health online, though with some residency requirements.
The University of North Carolina – Chapel Hill is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and School Commission on Colleges.
The University of San Francisco offers a Master of Public Health. Concentrations in Behavioral Health, Community and Public Health Practice, and Health Policy Leadership are available for students in the program.
Applicants must submit an online application, transcripts from all the schools they’ve attended, 2 letters of recommendation, and a personal statement of interest.
The University of San Francisco is accredited by the Western Association of Schools and Colleges Senior College and University Commission.
The University of South Florida offers a Master of Public Health degree with 7 different online concentrations, such as Infection Control and Social Marketing. Those interested in studying at the University of South Florida must submit an online application with 2 letters of recommendation, a resume, and a personal essay.
The University of South Florida is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges.
The University of Vermont offers an online program for a Master of Public Health. This online MPH program requires students to complete 42 credit hours and an applied practice experience to graduate. Applicants must submit an online application with a resume, personal statement, 3 letters of recommendation, and official transcripts.
The University of Vermont is accredited by the New England Commission of Higher Education.
Walden University offers a Master of Public Health. Students must complete 64 quarter credit hours and an ePortfolio to graduate.
Those interested in the program may apply online through the school’s website with official transcripts from all previously attended schools. An enrollment specialist may be contacted to help through the application process.
Walden is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission.
Getting Your Masters in Public Health Degree Online
A public health career can allow you to explore the impact of disease, social determinants of health, and public policy on the health of populations.
Online MPH programs are often known for offering flexible schedules, enabling you to advance your training and expertise in the field while maintaining other responsibilities.
Positions in the field can range across various professional areas and may allow you to explore diversity in your career path, from policy analysis and lab work to community education.
If you’re ready to further your education in this growing field for health professionals, you can start by exploring online MPH degree programs from accredited universities.
