Synchronous and Asynchronous
Content is usually available around the clock and is therefore self-paced (asynchronous). However, some courses require students to log in to live online sessions or virtual office hours (synchronous).
Group Contact
Students may also coordinate with classmates for occasional group work or study help. Interactive tools like online message boards, email, web chats, and social media encourage personal connections.
Onsite Requirements
Many Online MPH programs offer the majority of their coursework online. However, there may be some on-campus requirements where students may connect with their peers and professors. These may be offered in short, intensive courses that are placed in segments for classes that are not suitable for an online format (though this will vary). By necessity, many master of public health programs are blended online (hybrid) where a percentage of the program is completed on campus. Ideal candidates for an online MPH include those who are motivated and autonomous.
DID YOU KNOW? 31% of Health and Social Service Managers hold a master’s degree[i] (O’Net)
Types of Online Master’s Degrees in Public Health
Master’s degrees in public health are typically either professional or academic degrees – the Master of Public Health and Master of Science in Public Health[ii].
Online MPH Degree
The (online) Master of Public Health (MPH) degree is considered a practical, professional degree. The degree is focused on public health practice as opposed to research or teaching. Coursework for an Online MPH program usually has less focus on research. The curriculum generally includes a study of the five basic areas of public health[iii]:
- Epidemiology
- Public health administration and policy
- Biostatistics
- Environmental Health
- Behavioral/Social Science
Online MSPH Degree
The online Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) degree is an academic public health degree (rather than a professional public health degree) and is more research oriented. The MSPH degree requirements include additional coursework in areas such as:
- Research methods
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
- Public Health Studies
Most MSPH programs take an average of two years to complete. They may require students to write and defend a research thesis to fulfill degree requirements. Most MSPH programs do not have concentrations of study such as: community health, health education, and health communication or health policy.
Concentration Areas in Public Health
Students interested in focusing their master’s degree around a particular aspect of public health might review online Public Health Masters Degrees in:
Online Masters in Bioethics – if you enjoy studying controversial issues such as abortion, euthanasia, genetic engineering
Online Masters in Epidemiology – if you enjoy studying statistical methods, causal analysis, survey design, multiple regression, medical informatics, reviews of previous biomedical research, comparisons of healthcare systems, and practical applications of data.
Online Masters in Health Education & Communication – if you enjoy translating scientific language into understandable information, teaching others how to adopt healthy habits and lifestyles.
Online Masters in International Health – if you enjoy studying about immunizations and prevention of infectious diseases from spreading across borders.
Occupational Health and Safety – if you enjoy studying how to evaluate a workplace for safety, hazard prevention and employee wellness.
Take the Next Step
Once you have narrowed down the type of degree you are looking for, start browsing through the directory of sponsored online programs such as:
Request info from the graduate schools to get more details. Keep in mind that the the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is the programmatic accreditation organization which reviews and approves public health education programs throughout the United States. This will help you select a reputable program and quality online education.
Sources: [i] onetonline.org/link/summary/11-9111.00 |[ii] en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Public_health |[iii] en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Professional_degrees_of_public_health
