Online MPH in Epidemiology: Finding the Master's Program for You

Comparing Online Epidemiology MPH Programs

Earning a public health master’s degree with a focus on epidemiology is one of the most direct ways to enter the in-demand field of epidemiology. These programs are designed for working professionals, those with other public health degrees or experience, and recent graduates from bachelor’s programs.

You’ll find that there’s a robust selection of accredited online MPH programs focusing on epidemiology. To help you get a broader idea of what to expect in an online MPH in epidemiology, we’ve highlighted some prime examples of available programs below.

Get Answers: Online Epidemiology MPH FAQs

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

Degree completion varies based on the pace and flexibility of a program. Most online epidemiology programs last one to four years and require 42 to 80 credits.

As a full-time student, you can typically earn your MPH in epidemiology degree in about two years. Part-time students can expect up to four years. Some programs offer accelerated tracks or flexible pacing options, which impact degree timelines.

How much do online epidemiology MPH degrees cost?

The cost of earning a master’s in epidemiology online depends on a school’s tuition, in addition to other variables. These include scholarships, course load, prior academic training, and employer reimbursement.

Most schools provide resources and assistance for obtaining financial help. Temple University, for example, offers scholarships specifically for public health students and details external graduate funding on its scholarship and financial aid page. It also gives information on federal financial aid programs.

Most schools offering online MPH programs have similar financial aid offerings, although whether a school is public or private will impact the cost. All said, expect to pay $10,000 to $25,000 at a public university and $40,000 or more at a private university. If you need additional help in funding your online MPH degree, be sure to research the scholarships for public health students available from a variety of organizations, as well as other support services.

What are the admissions requirements for online epidemiology MPH degrees?

Each program has its own admissions requirements, but most expect the same core elements. Those include an online application, official transcripts, and a resume or curriculum vitae. Understanding the college admission process and preparing these documents ahead of time can help you prepare a competitive application.

Other common admission requirements are letters of recommendation and an essay in which applicants discuss their interest in public health and epidemiology. Some programs also require Graduate Record Examination (GRE) scores. Standardized test scores are often optional, however, or are only required if students have not taken certain coursework like high-level math.

How important is finding an accredited MPH program?

Accreditation, a process whereby an independent organization verifies that a school or academic program meets the required educational standards, is crucial to confirm for an online MPH program prior to applying. Accreditation can apply at both the institutional and programmatic levels.

Epidemiology master’s programs are accredited by the Council for Education in Public Health (CEPH). A program’s website should indicate this accreditation. You can also check CEPH’s list of accredited schools and programs.

Will I learn the same skills in an online epidemiology MPH program as in an on-campus program?

MPH epidemiology online programs cover the same topics and teach the same skills as traditional, on-campus programs. By requiring a practicum, online programs also have the same in-person requirements as on-campus programs. Fortunately, these in-person requirements can often be met near where a student works and lives.

Online MPH students should hone the same public health student skills they will need to succeed in their programs and graduate. Along with classwork, online students will often watch virtual lectures and engage in discussions on digital forums. Usually, online programs also make sure students get the same access to faculty as on-campus students.

Getting to Know the Online Epidemiology MPH Curriculum

Most MPH in epidemiology programs have two types of courses. The first category includes core classes in public health topics. The second type is specific to epidemiology and, in some cases, to a specialization in the field. The five course descriptions below can give you an idea of what to expect to study as an online MPH in epidemiology student.

Foundations in Public Health

A Foundations of Public Health course introduces the basic tenets of public health and the U.S. healthcare system. Students learn about principles — including social justice, human rights, racism, and public health programs throughout history — affecting how public health is run. This base of knowledge is important for fostering a proactive approach to preventing disease.

Introduction to Biostatistics

Critical data analysis is key for anyone wanting a career in public health and epidemiology. This class introduces the fundamentals of statistical methods and interpretation and covers descriptive statistics, regression, and correlation. The knowledge gained in this course is crucial for making accurate, data-driven decisions that improve lives through medical intervention and policy.

Qualitative Data and Mixed Methods Analysis

Qualitative data is collected through direct observation and sampling methods like questionnaires and interviews. This course is designed to introduce students to the process of analyzing qualitative data and managing it alongside quantitative data in a mixed-method analysis. Acquiring and applying this skill gives a big-picture understanding of how people live, their perceptions, and their motivations.

Ethical and Regulatory Issues in Human Research

Performing research on humans and human behavior helps healthcare professionals gain an understanding of the common biological processes and health problems people encounter. This class explains the ethical and regulatory considerations when designing and conducting research involving individuals. It protects participants and fosters public trust while adapting to challenges and providing a global perspective.

Practicum

To gain a better understanding of knowledge and skills learned in the classroom, students complete a practicum in which they apply concepts to issues in public health. Practical experience also allows students to exercise their problem-solving and communication skills. This real-world experience develops students professionally while additionally preparing them for epidemiology careers.

The Career Outlook for Epidemiology MPH Grads

Top Online Master of Public Health (MPH) Programs in Epidemiology

Schools eligible for this ranking of top online MPH programs in epidemiology are accredited, have at least one MPH program offered partially or fully online, and offer career placement and academic counseling services. Schools are first weighted based on online learning offerings, including the number of online programs and graduate students enrolled.

Other considerations of this ranking are affordability, student aid and tuition, student-to-faculty ratio, and more. To learn more about this process and what to look for in your personal program search, review the “About the Rankings” section below and check out these top programs.