Public Health, M.P.H.

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(42 UNITS)

The purpose of the Master of Public Health program is to prepare public health professionals to draw on the knowledge and skills from a variety of disciplines and to define, critically assess, evaluate and resolve public health problems. MPH program graduates will have a common educational grounding that will enable them to work effectively with the broad spectrum of public health issues related to their public health careers.

Application Deadlines

The deadline for completing online applications is posted on the department website for the following fall semester (see Cal State Apply).

Admission to Graduate Standing - Classified

Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions section in this catalog for complete information. Additional requirements for acceptance in the MPH program include:

Copy of official transcript(s) from all college work
Two letters of recommendation with recommendation forms and waivers
A narrative statement (300-500 words describing how the program relates to professional goals)
A current résumé
Completion of three units of statistics and research methods (appropriate courses include statistics, epidemiology, research methods, program design and evaluation, etc.) with a “B” (3.0) or better
Appropriate educational background for the public health program. Professionals currently in the field can demonstrate proficiency by coursework or by portfolio review or similar supporting evidence.
2.7 cumulative GPA
A Graduate Records Examination (GRE) score
Paid or volunteer experience in public health, health education or related health area
Communication skills utilizing a second language encouraged

Admission to Graduate Standing - Conditionally Classified

It may also be possible for applicants who have minimal deficiencies in prerequisite requirements, as detailed above, but are otherwise highly qualified to be admitted in conditionally classified graduate standing, with provisions made for removal of deficiencies prior to the granting of classified standing. For further information, consult with the MPH Program Coordinator.

Graduate Study Plan

Thirty of the 42 units required for the degree are core competency classes, including a six-unit internship and 12-16 units of electives, 75 percent of which must be 500-level courses. Students work with a faculty adviser to select these electives to support career areas in health promotion, environmental and occupational health and safety, gerontological health, or in a special studies track such as health anthropology, health counseling or other special academic/career needs.

Core Course Requirements (30 units)

Electives (9-12 units)

Electives must be approved by an adviser.

Culminating Experience

PUBH 597 - Project (3) or
PUBH 598 - Thesis (3) or
Comprehensive Exam (0) *

Additional Information

* Students who select the Comprehensive Examination will be required to complete an additional adviser-approved 500-level course (3 units).