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Online Master's in Public Health (MPH) Programs in California: Finding the Right School

If you’re passionate about public health and ready to take your career to the next level, a master’s in public health (MPH) can position you as a leader equipped to tackle today’s critical health challenges. California, the nation’s most populous state, urgently needs skilled public health professionals to address pressing issues ranging from environmental threats to healthcare equity. Online MPH programs offer the flexibility to pursue your degree without sacrificing your current responsibilities.

This STEPS guide highlights California’s best online MPH programs, comparing key factors like curriculum specialties, tuition costs, and career outcomes so you can confidently choose the right program.

Author: Ellery Weil
Editor: Linda Armstrong
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Comparing California’s Online MPH Programs

California’s many colleges and universities mean that you’ll have plenty of options to consider when applying for online MPH programs. Some of these programs will be fully online, while others may be hybrid programs with mandatory in-person elements such as practicums and internships. Along with these considerations, you’ll also want to assess tuition costs, student services, and admission requirements. Plus, several schools offer specialization opportunities in areas such as community health and epidemiology. To aid in your search and analysis, we’ve profiled three high-quality California online MPH programs.

University of Southern California

The online MPH program at the University of Southern California (USC) is delivered via its medical school, the Keck School of Medicine, and is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The program has three start dates per year for maximum flexibility, and once enrolled, you can choose a concentration in biostatistics-epidemiology, health services and policy, community health promotion, and global health. Comprising only four semesters in length, this is considered an accelerated program, and USC prides itself on having the only online MPH in the country delivered through a highly ranked medical school. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited school for consideration.

Duration: 2 years

Mode: Online

Cost: $98,868

Curriculum:

  • Foundations of Public Health
  • Practice of Public Health
  • Principles of Biostatistics
  • Principles of Epidemiology
  • Plus four courses in your concentration

University of San Francisco

The University of San Francisco, a private Catholic university in the Bay area, offers a hybrid MPH program to be completed over the course of six semesters at either their San Francisco or Orange County campuses. Once enrolled in the program, you’ll be able to choose a concentration in either applied epidemiology and population health methods, behavioral health, community and public health practice, or health policy and leadership. Your concentration will determine much of your course schedule, in addition to your core course requirements. At the end of the program, you will complete an applied practicum and integrated learning experience to gain hands-on public health experience.

Duration: 3 years

Mode: Hybrid

Cost: $27,990

Curriculum:

  • Classes vary based on campus location and concentration

California State University—Northridge

The online MPH program at Cal State University Northridge is offered through their Tseng College of Graduate and Midcareer Education. Applicants should have an undergraduate degree from an accredited school with a minim GPA of 3.0, or, if you do not meet the GPA requirement, you must submit GRE scores to be considered for admission. Although this is a fully online program, you will also complete 300 hours of field research and a directed comprehensive project. Your supervised field placement will take place in your local community.

Duration: 2.5 years

Mode: Online

Cost: $33,936

Curriculum:

  • Current Issues in Public Health
  • Environmental and Occupational Health Problems
  • Advanced Concepts of Health Behavior
  • Cultural Issues in Healthcare
  • Program Planning and Evaluation
  • Curriculum Development in Health Education
  • Seminars: Epidemiology, Community Health Action
  • Research Design
  • Field Training
  • Advanced Biostatistics for the Health Sciences
  • Administration, Supervision and Consultation in Health Education
  • Communication in Health Education
  • Directed Comprehensive Project

FIND PROGRAMS NEAR YOU:

Get Answers: MPH Student FAQs

What kind of jobs can MPH graduates get in California?

After you finish your online MPH program in California, you’ll be eligible for a host of public health jobs in fields ranging from research to education to community service. If you choose an area of concentration as part of your MPH program, this may steer the direction of your future job applications and career. Some MPH graduates go on to complete PhDs in public health and pursue a long term career in academia.

How long does it take to complete an online MPH in California?

As you can see from the school spotlight profiles above, the time to complete an online MPH program in California is typically two years of full-time study, but this can vary. Some accelerated programs can be completed in less than two years. Plus, if your school offers the opportunity to study part-time, this will result in a longer overall time to complete your degree.

Can I work while I study my online MPH in California?

Some online MPH students choose to hold down a job, either in a relevant field or simply to help finance their degree. That said, full- or even part-time jobs can be difficult to juggle alongside a full courseload. Be sure that you can balance both your academic and professional responsibilities if you choose to work while you study.

Are there scholarships for online MPH students in California?

There are a variety of scholarships available for online MPH students in California. These include federal grants and loans, which you can apply for via the FAFSA, as well as any financial aid offered through your school, including need-based and merit-based aid. Finally, check out private scholarship funds for MPH students, graduate students, etc.

Are online MPH programs in California accredited?

It is crucial that your online MPH program be from an accredited school. Particularly important to employers and potentially to schools where you might pursue continuing degrees, accreditation means that your school meets certain standards and can legitimately award degrees. In addition while entire schools are often accredited, some programs may also hold programmatic accreditations.

Earnings and Careers for MPH Graduates in California

Content not available.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ 10th Percentile ↕ 90th Percentile ↕ Median ↕
U.S. Epidemiologists $54,950 $132,230 $81,390
California Epidemiologists $64,050 $138,320 $99,340
Los Angeles-Long Beach-Anaheim, CA Epidemiologists $68,350 $133,830 $86,460
Riverside-San Bernardino-Ontario, CA Epidemiologists $48,850 $115,890 $81,490
Sacramento–Roseville–Arden-Arcade, CA Epidemiologists $82,060 $137,030 $106,660
San Diego-Carlsbad, CA Epidemiologists $65,160 $123,640 $82,440
San Francisco-Oakland-Hayward, CA Epidemiologists $85,820 $192,300 $119,660
San Jose-Sunnyvale-Santa Clara, CA Epidemiologists $89,440 $142,950 $90,320

Source: Epidemiologists, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2023, U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics.

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

Area ↕ Occupation ↕ Curr. Jobs ↕ Proj. Jobs ↕ New Jobs ↕ Growth % ↕
United States Epidemiologists 10,000 12,700 2,700 27.00%
California Epidemiologists 1,200 1,500 300 25.00%

Source: Projections Central

Data based on national numbers, not school-specific information.

California Resources for MPH Students & Professionals

As a student in a California online MPH or as a public health professional it’s important for you to connect with other professionals, continue your education, and stay abreast of developments in public health. Here are a few of the resources to help you along the way.

California Association of Public Hospitals and Health Systems: This organization represents all seventeen of California’s public healthcare systems, both large and small. They are a trade association that works to advance public health policy and health equity across the state.

California Department of Public Health: The California Department of Public Health’s website includes information on various health topics that concern people around the state, such as the opioid crisis, air quality, prenatal screenings, and veterinary public health.

California Public Health Association–North: This branch of the American Public Health Association sponsors continuing education, networking, and more.

Public Health Services of San Diego County: This is a local public health office for one of the more populated counties in Southern California. Public health students can explore job opportunities, local initiatives, and more.

Southern California Public Health Association: Like its NorCal counterpart, this is a membership and advocacy organization that sponsors continuing education and more for public health professionals.

Ranking California’s Best Online MPH Programs

While the best school for you is based on a host of individual factors and circumstances, the following rankings offer a holistic way to assess some objective criteria. To devise the rankings we’ve taken into account multiple factors, including availability of online classes, resources available to online students, financial aid opportunities, graduation rates, and more. Check out the “methodology” tab for more details on the best online MPH programs in California.

1

University of California-Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

Why We Selected University of California-Los Angeles:
The Master of Public Health (MPH) at UCLA is a two-year professional degree offering broad training in public health and specialization in one of five core disciplines: Biostatistics, Community Health Sciences, Epidemiology, Environmental Health Sciences, or Health Policy and Management. The program includes an applied practice experience where students apply classroom knowledge to real-world problems. UCLA offers executive programs for working professionals, with weekend and summer sessions, and dual degree options combining MPH with fields like medicine or business. Admissions typically require a bachelor’s degree and GRE scores. Career outcomes include roles in public health agencies and healthcare organizations.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers generous tuition waivers for eligible students, significantly reducing overall college costs and making education more accessible.
  • Students benefit from specialized career tracks that align with high-demand industries, enhancing job readiness and employment opportunities.
  • Strong employer partnerships ensure high clinical placement rates, enabling students to gain practical experience and connect with potential employers.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$11,442
  • Student/Faculty Ratio18/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course68%
2

San Diego State University

San Diego, California

Why We Selected San Diego State University:
San Diego State University’s Bachelor of Science in Public Health covers epidemiology, environmental health, and behavioral science, requiring 51 upper-division units and a pre-approved international experience. The program develops public health programs for diverse populations, preparing graduates for careers in health administration, research, education, and policy. The Master of Public Health’s Health Promotion and Behavioral Science concentration requires 51 units over 22 months, emphasizing health inequities and a 180-hour field placement, with a 2.85 GPA and statistics prerequisite for admission.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers free tuition for eligible students, reducing financial burdens significantly.
  • It features high clinical placement rates, enhancing career readiness upon graduation.
  • The school provides employer partnerships and networking opportunities, securing post-graduation job prospects.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio26/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course64%
3

San Francisco State University

San Francisco, California

Why We Selected San Francisco State University:
San Francisco State University’s Bachelor of Science (BS) in Public Health is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for diverse roles in public health. The curriculum emphasizes epidemiology, health policy, community organizing, and social determinants of health, fostering skills in communication, critical thinking, and leadership. The program includes a capstone with a 150-hour internship for hands-on experience. Graduates pursue careers as health educators or environmental health specialists in government agencies, hospitals, and nonprofits. Admissions require a high school diploma and prerequisite courses; financial aid options are available. This program also prepares students for graduate studies.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing their financial burden significantly and enhancing affordability.
  • Students benefit from high clinical placement rates, ensuring practical experience and connections in their future careers.
  • Strong employer partnerships lead to job placement guarantees, providing students with a clear pathway to employment upon graduation.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course94%
4

California State University-Northridge

Northridge, California

Why We Selected California State University-Northridge:
California State University, Northridge offers a Bachelor of Science in Public Health that prepares students to plan, implement, and evaluate health programs. The program spans four years and requires 120 units, including courses in biostatistics, epidemiology, and health education. Tuition is about $27,060 per year for out-of-state students, with in-state tuition not explicitly stated. Admission requires a minimum 3.0 GPA and English proficiency. Graduates work in public and private health agencies, hospitals, and non-profits. The program also equips students to analyze health challenges and advocate for communities. CSUN offers a Master of Public Health for advanced study.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers significant tuition waivers, potentially reducing or eliminating tuition costs for eligible students based on financial need or specific status.
  • Prospective students benefit from substantial scholarship opportunities, including full tuition scholarships for those from families earning under $100,000.
  • The program emphasizes strong employer partnerships, ensuring high job placement rates and networking opportunities for graduates in relevant industries.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio26/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course95%
5

San Jose State University

San Jose, California

Why We Selected San Jose State University:
San Jose State University offers a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree requiring 42 units to complete. The program takes about 24 months, emphasizing practice-oriented, community-based training since 1970, and is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Prospective students need a bachelor’s degree and must meet specific prerequisites. Financial aid options, such as scholarships and loans, are available. Graduates can pursue diverse roles in health education, policy advocacy, and community health management, equipped to address public health and social justice issues effectively.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition waivers are available for students with financial need, enhancing affordability.
  • Scholarships are offered to recognize academic achievements and community involvement.
  • Networking opportunities through alumni and employer partnerships are provided.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio24/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
6

California State University-San Marcos

San Marcos, California

Why We Selected California State University-San Marcos:
The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at California State University, San Marcos, is a 42-semester unit program completed in approximately 16 months. It offers concentrations in Health Promotion and Health Education, and Global Health, with seven core courses and concentration-specific curriculum. International tuition is approximately $31,032 plus living costs. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, English proficiency, recommendation letters, and a professional goals statement. Graduates pursue careers in government agencies, healthcare organizations, academia, and private sectors, supported by an internship and hands-on training.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing financial barriers to education.
  • Specialized career tracks provide students with tailored paths for specific industries and roles.
  • Employer partnerships enhance job placement opportunities through established professional networks.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course86%
7

California State University-San Bernardino

San Bernardino, California

Why We Selected California State University-San Bernardino:
The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at California State University-San Bernardino is a two-year, 56-unit course for professionals advancing careers in public health management. It emphasizes health status/determinants, public health statistics, epidemiology, environmental health, and health systems organization. Annual tuition is approximately $14,657, with financial aid including scholarships, federal grants, and work-study. Admission requires a bachelor’s degree, a minimum GPA of 3.0, transcripts, a statement of purpose, and letters of recommendation. Graduates pursue roles as public health analysts, health educators, and community health workers, addressing contemporary challenges through real-world applications.
Program Highlights
  • The program offers generous tuition waivers for high-achieving students to significantly reduce their educational costs.
  • Students can benefit from specialized career tracks with direct employer partnerships that enhance job placement opportunities.
  • The school boasts a high clinical placement rate, ensuring students gain valuable hands-on experience before graduation.
School Details
  • AccreditationWASC
  • Average Tuition$7,176
  • Student/Faculty Ratio25/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course79%
8

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles

Los Angeles, California

Why We Selected The Chicago School of Professional Psychology at Los Angeles:
The Master of Public Health (MPH) program at The Chicago School of Professional Psychology in Los Angeles equips students with essential skills to address public health challenges. This 42-credit program typically takes two years to complete, requiring a 3.0 undergraduate GPA (lower GPAs considered), a $50 application fee, transcripts, resume, and personal statement. Tuition is approximately $20,844 annually, with financial aid available. Graduates pursue careers in government, nonprofits, and healthcare, emphasizing mental health and policy advocacy. Practical experience through internships and international fieldwork enhances readiness for impactful public health careers.
Program Highlights
  • This program offers significant tuition waivers for eligible students, reducing financial barriers to higher education.
  • It provides specialized career tracks and networking opportunities tailored to emerging industry demands.
  • The school partners with major employers to enhance job placement rates through collaborative career initiatives.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$22,554
  • Student/Faculty Ratio5/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course91%
9

University of California-Berkeley

Berkeley, California

Why We Selected University of California-Berkeley:
The University of California, Berkeley offers a 27-month Master of Public Health degree with customizable practice-based training to improve health outcomes for diverse populations. Specializations include Health Policy and Management, Epidemiology and Biostatistics, or Public Health Nutrition (among others). The program requires seven semesters of coursework and two campus visits. Tuition varies by residency, with scholarships and financial aid available. Admission requires a 3.0 GPA, GRE/GMAT scores, and recommendation letters. Graduates pursue careers in healthcare organizations, non-profits, and government agencies, with an average salary of approximately $111,830.
Program Highlights
  • Tuition fees are waived for eligible students, enhancing affordability.
  • Application fees are waived for qualifying applicants, reducing barriers.
  • Participating schools offer special discounts for first-generation college students.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$11,442
  • Student/Faculty Ratio20/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course69%
10

California Baptist University

Riverside, California

Why We Selected California Baptist University:
California Baptist University’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program offers concentrations in Health Education and Health Promotion, as well as Health Policy and Administration. The 48-credit-hour program focuses on core public health disciplines like epidemiology and environmental health, with tuition at $853 per credit hour and financial aid availability. Applicants need a bachelor’s degree, transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume. Graduates pursue careers in program management, policy analysis, and health education, with opportunities for international practicum experiences. The program is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).
Program Highlights
  • The program offers substantial tuition waivers for eligible students, significantly decreasing their overall college costs.
  • Participants benefit from high clinical placement rates, ensuring practical experience and job readiness upon graduation.
  • The school fosters strong employer partnerships, enhancing networking opportunities and job placement guarantees for graduates.
School Details
  • AccreditationWSCUC
  • Average Tuition$13,590
  • Student/Faculty Ratio19/1
  • % of Students in ≥1 Online Course54%
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Ellery Weil AUTHOR

Dr. Ellery Weil holds a bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Michigan -- Ann Arbor, and a master's degree and PhD in History from University College London, and has been writing professionally in the higher education sector for over six years. In addition to her work below, her writing has been published by Pearson, Arizona State University, BestColleges, A-List Education, and more.

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Linda Armstrong EDITOR

With more than 20 years of editing, writing, and content management experience, Linda Armstrong has worked in both print and digital mediums and has earned multiple international writing and editing awards. Specializing in behavioral and mental health treatment, she regularly writes/edits blogs, case studies, white papers, B2B/B2C copy, and more, covering topics ranging from mental health and allergy education to substance misuse and addiction treatment.

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