Top Universities for MPH in USA for International Students

Did you know that the employment of medical and health services managers is expected to increase by 28% from 2022 to 2032?

This indicates strong job growth and a high demand for professionals in the field of public health.

The USA is home to some of the world's leading public health schools, providing access to cutting-edge research and renowned faculty. Some of them are namely,

• John Hopkins University
• Harvard University
• University of California, Berkely

The Master of Public Health (MPH) in the USA equips professionals with the knowledge and skills to address critical public health issues. 

Also, the average tuition fees for a Master of Public Health (MPH) program in the USA generally range from INR 12L to 41L (USD 15,000 to 50,000) per year.

Investing in this career path comes with a substantial cost, but it is completely justified by the fact that the typical income for a public health officer in the United States is around INR 70L (USD 83,084).

Whether your passion lies in epidemiology, biostatistics, or global health, pursuing an MPH in the US can significantly provide the knowledge and skills necessary to address public health challenges. This academic pursuit offers opportunities for personal and professional growth while contributing to the well-being of communities on a global scale.

Key Highlights of MPH Programs in the USA

Note: This table provides a general overview. Specific details may vary depending on the university and program chosen

Why Study MPH in the USA?

Many students pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) in the USA due to the country's renowned educational institutions, diverse culture, and robust public health infrastructure. 

The USA offers many specialisations within the MPH program and provides practical experience and networking opportunities. 

Additionally, studying in the USA allows students to engage with various public health issues and gain a global perspective on healthcare challenges and interventions.

Here are just a few reasons why an MPH in the USA could be the perfect next step for you:

1. Strong MPH Programs

• The USA hosts top-tier public health schools, such as Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health, renowned for its comprehensive curriculum and world-class faculty.
• For example, Johns Hopkins offers various specialisations, such as epidemiology and global health, which provide students with in-depth knowledge and skills.

2. Industry Focus

• The USA leads public health research and innovation, with institutions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) offering cutting-edge facilities and resources.
• For instance, Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health students can collaborate on groundbreaking research projects with the CDC.

3. Cultural Experience

• Studying in the USA offers a diverse cultural experience that is crucial for understanding and addressing global health challenges.
• At UCLA’s Fielding School of Public Health, students interact with a multicultural student body, gaining insights into public health issues from different cultural perspectives.

4. Career Prospects

• International organisations, government agencies, and NGOs highly seek MPH graduates from US institutions.
• For example, graduates

What are the Top 10 Universities for MPH in USA?

Choosing where to pursue a Master's in Public Health (MPH) can significantly impact your career trajectory in public health and related fields. The United States boasts some of the world's top universities offering comprehensive MPH programs catering to various interests and specialisations. 

These institutions are renowned for their academic excellence, cutting-edge research opportunities, and diverse student communities, making them attractive destinations for aspiring public health professionals globally.

Here are some of the top universities in the USA that offer the best programs:

Note: The exchange rate can fluctuate, so these values are approximate.

What are the Top MPH Specialisations in USA?

The USA offers a variety of popular MPH specialisations, each catering to different aspects of public health. 

Here are the top MPH specialisations in the USA, including core focus areas and relevant universities:

1. Epidemiology

• Overview: Focuses on the study of disease patterns, causes, and effects in populations. Epidemiologists work to understand the spread of diseases and develop strategies to control and prevent them.
• Career Paths: Epidemiologists, public health researchers, data analysts, infectious disease specialists.
• Popular Universities: Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, University of California, Berkeley.

2. Biostatistics

• Overview: Combines statistics and public health to analyse data related to health trends and outcomes. Biostatisticians use statistical methods to interpret complex data and inform public health decisions.
• Career Paths: Biostatisticians, data scientists, health informatics specialists, and research analysts.
• Popular Universities: University of Washington, Harvard University, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

3. Health Policy and Management

• Overview: Focuses on the organisation, financing, and delivery of public health services. Students learn about health policy development, healthcare management, and leadership in public health.
• Career Paths: Health policy analysts, healthcare administrators, public health consultants, and program managers.
• Popular Universities: Columbia University, University of Michigan, George Washington University.

4. Global Health

• Overview: This course emphasises health issues that transcend national boundaries, with a focus on improving health and achieving equity in health for all people worldwide. Students explore global health governance, infectious diseases, and health disparities.
• Career Paths: Global health practitioners, international development workers, public health advisors, humanitarian aid workers.
• Popular Universities: Johns Hopkins University, Harvard University, Emory University.

5. Environmental Health

• Overview: This specialisation examines the impact of environmental factors on human health. It covers topics like air and water quality, toxicology, and occupational health.
• Career Paths: Environmental health scientists, industrial hygienists, environmental policy analysts, occupational health specialists.
• Famous Universities: University of California, Berkeley, University of Washington, University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill.

What are the Course Details of MPH in USA?

The Master of Public Health (MPH) program in the USA offers a diverse range of specialisations, each with its unique curriculum. 

While specific course offerings may vary by university, the core curriculum of most MPH programs includes foundational courses in public health principles, biostatistics, epidemiology, environmental health sciences, health policy and management, and social and behavioural sciences.

Here is a breakdown for you:

Core Courses

MPH programs typically include foundational courses that cover key public health disciplines:

• Epidemiology:
  • Study of disease distribution and determinants in populations.
  • Methods for outbreak investigation and data analysis.
• Biostatistics:
  • Application of statistical techniques to analyse public health data.
  • Focus on data interpretation and use in public health research.
• Environmental Health Sciences:
  • Examination of environmental factors affecting health.
  • Topics include pollution, occupational health, and environmental policies.
• Health Policy and Management:
  • Overview of health care systems, health economics, and policy analysis.
  • Management principles for health care organisations.
• Social and Behavioural Sciences:
  • Study of behavioural, social, and cultural factors in public health.
  • Health communication and community health promotion strategies.

Elective Courses

Electives allow students to specialise in areas of interest. Some popular specialisations and elective topics include:

• Global Health:
  • International health systems, global disease prevention, and health equity.
  • Examples: Global Health Policy, Infectious Disease Epidemiology.
• Maternal and Child Health:
  • Focus on reproductive health, child development, and maternal health policies.
  • Examples: Perinatal Health, Child Nutrition.
• Health Communication:
  • Strategies for effective health communication and media relations.
  • Examples: Health Campaigns and Digital Health Communication.
• Public Health Nutrition:
  • Relationship between nutrition and public health, dietary interventions.
  • Examples: Nutritional Epidemiology and Community Nutrition.
• Infectious Diseases:
  • Study of infectious disease transmission, prevention, and control.
  • Examples: Vaccinology, Tropical Medicine.

Internship Opportunities

Most MPH programs require practical experience through internships or practicums:

• Internship Placements:
  • Students are placed in local health departments, NGOs, hospitals, or international health organisations.
  • Real-world experience in applying public health principles.
  • Examples: Internship at CDC, WHO, and local public health agencies.

Capstone Projects

Many programs include a capstone project as a culmination of the MPH degree:

• Applied research projects addressing real-world public health issues.
• Students work under faculty supervision to design and implement their projects.
• Examples: Community Health Assessment and Public Health Intervention Evaluation.

Unique Program Elements

MPH programs in the USA often have unique elements that enhance learning:

• Interdisciplinary Approach:
  • Programs encourage the integration of various public health disciplines.
  • Collaboration with other fields such as medicine, law, and social sciences.
  • Example: Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health’s interdisciplinary courses.
• Dual Degree Options:
  • Some universities offer dual degree programs combining MPH with other degrees like MD, JD, or MBA.
  • It provides a broader skill set and opens diverse career paths.
  • Example: Emory University’s MPH/MBA dual degree.
• Global Health Practicums:
  • Opportunities for international fieldwork.
  • Students engage in global health projects, often in developing countries.
  • Example: Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health’s global practicum programs.

What are the Admission Requirements for MPH in USA?

Getting into an MPH program in the USA involves meeting specific academic and standardised testing benchmarks. 

Before delving into the dynamic field of public health with a Master's in Public Health (MPH) in the USA, it's essential to navigate through the admissions process, which comprises several key components. 

While individual universities may have specific requirements, here's a comprehensive breakdown of the common elements you'll encounter, providing valuable insights to help you prepare a robust application.

General Requirements:

• Bachelor's Degree: A completed bachelor's degree in any field from a recognised institution is typically required. However, some programs prefer applicants with a public health, biology, health sciences, or social sciences background.
• Minimum GPA: Most universities require a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, some top programs have higher requirements.

Standardised Tests (Optional):

• GRE (Graduate Record Examinations): While not universally mandatory, some universities require GRE scores. Check the specific requirements of your target schools.
  • GRE Scores: 150 to 160
• Prerequisite Courses: Certain programs require foundational statistics, biology, or social sciences coursework. Check the program description for specific prerequisites.

Required Documents:

• Official Transcripts: Submit official transcripts from all universities attended.
• English Language Proficiency Scores: If English isn't your native language, you must demonstrate proficiency through TOEFL or IELTS scores. Minimum score requirements vary by university.
  • IELTS scores: 6.5 to 7
  • TOEFL: 90 to 100
• Statement of Purpose (SOP): This essay outlines your career goals and explains why you're interested in pursuing an MPH program. It's crucial to highlight your relevant experiences and motivations.
• Letters of Recommendation (LORs): Two to three letters of recommendation from professors, supervisors, or healthcare professionals can strengthen your application.
• Resume: A current CV showcasing your academic achievements, research experience (if applicable), and any relevant work experience.

Additional Requirements (May Vary):

• Work Experience: While not mandatory for all programs, some might prefer applicants with experience in public health or healthcare settings.
• Research Portfolio: If you have research experience, showcasing it can strengthen your application.
• Application Fee: Each university charges an application fee that needs to be submitted with your application materials.

What is the Cost of Studying MPH in USA?

Earning an MPH in the USA equips you with valuable knowledge and skills, but it also requires an investment, which can depend on various factors.

Here's a breakdown of the financial landscape to help you plan effectively: 

Factors Affecting Cost:

• Public vs. Private Universities: Public universities generally have lower tuition fees than private universities.
• Location: The cost of living varies greatly across different states. Cities like New York or Los Angeles will be more expensive than smaller towns.
• Program Duration: Full-time programs are typically completed in 1-2 years, while part-time programs can take longer, impacting total tuition costs.
• Health Insurance: Health insurance is expensive and mandatory for international students.

Estimated Cost Ranges:

• Tuition: INR 15,60,000 - 54,60,000 
• Living Expenses: INR 7,80,000 - 19,50,000 (USD 6,100 - 15,250)
• Health Insurance: INR 78,000 - 2,34,000 (USD  610 - 1,830)

What is the Cost of Living in the USA?

Numerous Indian students are drawn to study in the USA because of its leading universities, with over 260,000 students currently enrolled, according to the US embassy. Nonetheless, the expenses related to living can pose a challenge. Even though salaries in the US are high, it is essential to manage finances effectively to prevent any financial strain.

Here's a breakdown of the estimated monthly living cost (excluding rent) for Indian students in the USA: between INR 92,000 and 1 lakh (USD 1,100 - 1,200). This can vary significantly depending on the city you choose and your lifestyle.

Here's a breakdown of the monthly cost of living in the USA for Indian students:

Note: The fees mentioned in the table are approximate per the currency exchange rates.

What are some Scholarships for MPH in USA?

International students pursuing an MPH in the USA have several scholarship opportunities available. These include university-specific scholarships, government-funded scholarships, and external funding options from various organisations and foundations.

Fact: Indian students who want to study in the USA can benefit from over 1100 scholarships available to help them ease their financial burden.

Here are some scholarships that can help you lessen your tuition fees:

These scholarships can significantly alleviate the financial burden of studying in the USA, making it more accessible for Indian students to pursue an MPH degree. Students are encouraged to visit the respective scholarship websites for detailed information on eligibility criteria and the application process.

Eligibility Criteria:

• Academic Excellence: Applicants must have a strong academic record, usually demonstrated by a high GPA or equivalent academic qualifications.
• Degree Requirement: Candidates must have completed a bachelor’s degree or equivalent from a recognised institution.
• Work Experience: Some scholarships require a minimum of professional work experience in a relevant field.
• Leadership Skills: Demonstrated leadership qualities through previous work, volunteer experiences, or extracurricular activities.
• Language Proficiency: Proficiency in English, often evidenced by TOEFL or IELTS scores.
• Nationality: Many scholarships are available only to students from specific countries, including India.
• Admission to a Program: Proof of admission to an accredited MPH program in the USA is usually required.
• Financial Need: For need-based scholarships, applicants must demonstrate financial need.

By following these steps and meeting the eligibility criteria, you can increase your chances of securing scholarships to pursue an MPH in the USA.

What are the Jobs After MPH in the USA?

Did you know that approximately 54,700 job opportunities for medical and health services managers are expected to become available each year, on average, over the next decade?

With the ever-growing focus on population health and emerging challenges like pandemics, the job market for MPH graduates in the USA is thriving. 

Imagine leveraging your expertise to tackle public health issues—from chronic disease prevention to environmental health—while having the flexibility to work in government agencies, non-profits, or even cutting-edge research institutions. 

What is the Career Scope after MPH in USA?

An MPH equips you with specialised knowledge in epidemiology or health policy and valuable transferable skills like data analysis and communication, making you a highly sought-after professional in today's dynamic healthcare landscape.

Let’s look at some of the top career scopes after MPH in the USA:

• Public Health Practice: MPH graduates often work in public health departments, focusing on community health, disease prevention, and health promotion.
• Epidemiology: Roles include researching disease patterns and developing strategies to control or prevent health problems.
• Health Policy and Management: Graduates can work in health administration, policy-making, or consultancy, influencing healthcare policies and managing health services.
• Global Health: Opportunities exist in international health organisations, NGOs, and governmental agencies addressing health issues worldwide.
• Environmental Health: Jobs in this area involve assessing and managing environmental factors that affect human health.
• Biostatistics: Roles include analysing health data to support public health research and policy decisions.
• Health Education: Positions in schools, community organisations, and healthcare facilities focus on educating the public about health issues.

What is the Average Salary after MPH in USA?

Many public health careers offer competitive salaries. While entry-level positions may start lower, some specialities like epidemiology and health services management can lead to annual salaries exceeding INR 54L (USD 65,000). 
 

Here are the top professions you can join after MPH in USA:

Note: The exchange rate can fluctuate, so these values are approximate.

What are the Top Recruiters after MPH in USA?

Government agencies (CDC, HHS), non-profit organisations (public health advocacy groups), and hospitals and healthcare systems (epidemiology, health administration) are among the top recruiters for MPH graduates.
 

Here are the top recruiters after you do MPH in the USA: 

• Centres for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)
• World Health Organization (WHO)
• Johns Hopkins University
• National Institutes of Health (NIH)
• United Nations Children's Fund (UNICEF)
• American Public Health Association (APHA)
• Mayo Clinic
• Kaiser Permanente
• Pfizer
• Gilead Sciences