Before you can enroll in a Master’s in Public Health program you need to fulfill the prerequisite admissions requirements. This is why it is so important to map out your career path while you are an undergraduate student so that you can effectively research the admissions requirements that you need to meet to enter into a graduate program.
Some schools are certainly more strict than others, but in most cases the degree and course requirements are similar across the board when a program has a programmatic or specialized accreditation.
If you are majoring in public health, here is what you need to know:
Degree Requirements to Enter Into a Terminal Master’s Degree Program
There is more than one kind of Master’s degree program majoring in Public Health. A terminal Master of Public Health, which is also referred to as a MPH program, focuses on theory and public health curriculum. This type of degree is designed for professionals who plan on working in scientific research, health education, biostatistics, and epidemiology.
To take a program with a scientific approach, you need to have an undergraduate degree in Public Health or a related health major. If you majoring in health but not specifically in public health, you may need to take additional courses to fulfill the course prerequisites that you have not fulfilled. Here are some of the courses that you are required to complete to study for an accredited MPH degree:
- One course in Algebra
- One course in Advanced Math
- One course in Statistics
- One course in human or general biology
Degree Requirements to Earn an MBA in Public Health
If you are looking to work in administration or management within the field of public health, an MBA degree may be a better fit for you. MBA degrees are graduate degrees, but instead of having a technical focus, they are more focused on business and leadership. A majority of MBA programs are globally focused and take a unique approach to instruction.
If you would like to enroll in a MBA degree program with a concentration in Public Health, the requirements for entry are a bit less strict. Since business schools want a diverse student base, students from all types of backgrounds can enroll. As long as your Bachelor’s degree was earned from a regionally or nationally accredited school, it does not matter what you majored in.
Admissions Test Requirements
Not only does it matter what and where you studied, it is also important to prepare for admissions tests so that you can show that you are competent enough to keep up with graduate materials. If you study for a Master’s, you need to take the Graduate Record Exam. If you go down the MBA route, you will be required to take a Graduate Management Admissions Test. You should check with the school you want to attend to see what the minimum score requirements are.
Once you hold a graduate degree in Public Health you will be qualified to work in a variety of different of capacities. Take a look at the mid and upper-level positions you can pursue in Public Health before you decide on a professional or terminal degree. After doing this, you can start to take the undergraduate courses that you need to get into a reputable Master’s in Public Health program.
