Best Online Master’s in Public Health Programs of 2025
Public health jobs are growing, and an online master’s can get you started without high costs. Explore our guide on the best online MPH programs.
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2025If you’re passionate about improving community health, consider a career in public health. In a public health role, you can address health concerns affecting various communities.
Take it from an expert: “A career in public health is very rewarding,” says Randy Schwartz, who has an MS in public health and over three decades of experience in health promotion and disease prevention. “There are opportunities to address important issues facing the country and your community.”
A master of public health (MPH) is one of the best ways to start your career in public health. And by earning your MPH online, you could save time and money on your degree.
Online MPH Program Highlights
- Choose from among concentrations such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy.
- In our 2024 Online Education Trends Report, 98% of online nursing and healthcare students and graduates say they would recommend online education to others.
- Similarly, over 9 in 10 nursing and healthcare students and graduates say they think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
- Learn how to implement policies and practices to address real-world health issues.
Best Online MPH Programs of 2025
How We Rank Schools
To create this ranking, BestColleges sourced the most recent data available from the National Center for Education Statistics and the U.S. Department of Education College Scorecard. We then ranked each school according to the top variables college students selected in our College Choice and Admissions Survey. To learn more, check out our full rankings methodology or read the summary below.
To qualify for our rankings lists, each school must be an accredited public or private, nonprofit institution. Each eligible school was then ranked based on a formula measuring:
- Affordability (30%)
- Student outcomes (30%)
- Reputation (20%)
- Diversity and social mobility (20%)
In addition, we only included colleges with graduation rates in the top third of all online colleges.
University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
Why We Chose This School
UNC's master of public health program prepares public health experts to address challenging health problems in and beyond North Carolina. The customizable curriculum blends classroom instruction with real-world experience.
The 42-credit curriculum covers MPH core courses such as public health solutions and data analysis for public health. You'll choose one of three concentrations: applied epidemiology, nutrition, or leadership in practice.
The program includes 200 hours of fieldwork experience in each concentration, building your expertise and marketability. The MPH features an interactive global classroom, one-on-one coaching, and free tutoring.
Highlights
- One of the nation's top public health programs
- Fully online program
- Full- and part-time enrollment options
Know Before You Apply
- About 25% acceptance rate for graduate school
- Students attend live classes
- Most expensive program on our list
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
$10,552
$28,844
Chapel Hill, NC4 yearCampus + Online
$10,552
$28,844
19%
25%
$7,020
$37,360
97%
32,496
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UNC's master of public health program prepares public health experts to address challenging health problems in and beyond North Carolina. The customizable curriculum blends classroom instruction with real-world experience.
The 42-credit curriculum covers MPH core courses such as public health solutions and data analysis for public health. You'll choose one of three concentrations: applied epidemiology, nutrition, or leadership in practice.
The program includes 200 hours of fieldwork experience in each concentration, building your expertise and marketability. The MPH features an interactive global classroom, one-on-one coaching, and free tutoring.
Highlights
- One of the nation's top public health programs
- Fully online program
- Full- and part-time enrollment options
Know Before You Apply
- About 25% acceptance rate for graduate school
- Students attend live classes
- Most expensive program on our list
San Diego State University
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$19,140
34%
56%
Why We Chose This School
SDSU's MPH in epidemiology is designed for early-career public health professions. You'll complete the 51-unit MPH in two years of full-time enrollment. You can also choose an online MPH in health promotion and behavioral science.
All MPH students explore core topics such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and health services administration. You'll get hands-on experience during a supervised field experience at an organization within your own community.
Students choose a capstone project or manuscript as the MPH's culminating experience.
Highlights
- Learn from renowned public health experts
- Online and mostly asynchronous
- Affordable tuition
Know Before You Apply
- Requires at least three years of work experience
- Not available in every state
- No part-time enrollment option
$5,742
$17,622
90%
37,539
Public
Yes
$7,176
$19,140
San Diego, CA4 yearCampus + Online
$7,176
$19,140
34%
56%
$5,742
$17,622
90%
37,539
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
SDSU's MPH in epidemiology is designed for early-career public health professions. You'll complete the 51-unit MPH in two years of full-time enrollment. You can also choose an online MPH in health promotion and behavioral science.
All MPH students explore core topics such as epidemiology, biostatistics, and health services administration. You'll get hands-on experience during a supervised field experience at an organization within your own community.
Students choose a capstone project or manuscript as the MPH's culminating experience.
Highlights
- Learn from renowned public health experts
- Online and mostly asynchronous
- Affordable tuition
Know Before You Apply
- Requires at least three years of work experience
- Not available in every state
- No part-time enrollment option
University of Florida
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,770
$27,335
24%
57%
Why We Chose This School
UCF's online MPH prioritizes flexibility with three online concentrations and a self-paced curriculum. The MPH core curriculum includes coursework in biostatistics, epidemiology, and environmental health.
You'll choose a concentration in public health practice, social and behavioral sciences, or population health management. We like that you can further customize the MPH with generous elective credit.
Online students finish their MPH with an applied practice experience and a capstone project. You'll get applied learning experience through an internship, volunteerism, and the final project. You can transfer up to nine credits into this MPH.
Highlights
- Convenient pre-recorded classes
- Lower-than-average tuition
- Part-time enrollment available
Know Before You Apply
- 39% graduate admission rate
- Public health practice concentration requires terminal degree/significant experience
- Large student body
$4,477
$25,694
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
$10,770
$27,335
Gainesville, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$10,770
$27,335
24%
57%
$4,477
$25,694
97%
54,814
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UCF's online MPH prioritizes flexibility with three online concentrations and a self-paced curriculum. The MPH core curriculum includes coursework in biostatistics, epidemiology, and environmental health.
You'll choose a concentration in public health practice, social and behavioral sciences, or population health management. We like that you can further customize the MPH with generous elective credit.
Online students finish their MPH with an applied practice experience and a capstone project. You'll get applied learning experience through an internship, volunteerism, and the final project. You can transfer up to nine credits into this MPH.
Highlights
- Convenient pre-recorded classes
- Lower-than-average tuition
- Part-time enrollment available
Know Before You Apply
- 39% graduate admission rate
- Public health practice concentration requires terminal degree/significant experience
- Large student body
Purdue University
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,718
$28,520
50%
35%
Why We Chose This School
The online MPH at Purdue was developed by an institution with a strong research reputation. It provides specialized training in family and community health. The core curriculum covers key concepts like epidemiology, environmental health, and public health administration.
We like that the concentration prepares specialists with effective communication skills and expertise in areas such as public health nutrition.
As part of a capstone project, MPH students learn how to develop a strong grant funding proposal for a partnering organization. To graduate, learners must complete a professional field experience.
Highlights
- Top-tier researchers in department
- Relatively affordable tuition
- Strong professional development opportunities
Know Before You Apply
- Limited elective credit
- 16-to-9 student-to-faculty ratio
$9,208
$28,010
91%
52,211
Public
Yes
$9,718
$28,520
West Lafayette, IN4 yearCampus + Online
$9,718
$28,520
50%
35%
$9,208
$28,010
91%
52,211
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The online MPH at Purdue was developed by an institution with a strong research reputation. It provides specialized training in family and community health. The core curriculum covers key concepts like epidemiology, environmental health, and public health administration.
We like that the concentration prepares specialists with effective communication skills and expertise in areas such as public health nutrition.
As part of a capstone project, MPH students learn how to develop a strong grant funding proposal for a partnering organization. To graduate, learners must complete a professional field experience.
Highlights
- Top-tier researchers in department
- Relatively affordable tuition
- Strong professional development opportunities
Know Before You Apply
- Limited elective credit
- 16-to-9 student-to-faculty ratio
Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$60,480
$60,480
8%
62%
Why We Chose This School
Working professionals can design Johns Hopkins' online MPH to suit their schedules and specialization interests. You'll complete the part-time program entirely online or in a hybrid format that includes some classes taken on campus in Baltimore.
We like that you can personalize half of the MPH with one of 12 concentrations, such as infectious diseases or aging and public health. You may also want to consider one of dozens of certificates covering a range of topics.
You can complete the MPH in up to four years, choosing from eight-week terms or intensive institute courses.
Highlights
- Renowned research institution
- Highly customizable curriculum with 12 concentrations
- All part-time students receive scholarships
Know Before You Apply
- Strong academic background required
- At least two years of health-related work experience or a doctorate required
- One of the more expensive programs on our ranking
$60,480
$60,480
98%
30,363
Private
Yes
$60,480
$60,480
Baltimore, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$60,480
$60,480
8%
62%
$60,480
$60,480
98%
30,363
Private
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Working professionals can design Johns Hopkins' online MPH to suit their schedules and specialization interests. You'll complete the part-time program entirely online or in a hybrid format that includes some classes taken on campus in Baltimore.
We like that you can personalize half of the MPH with one of 12 concentrations, such as infectious diseases or aging and public health. You may also want to consider one of dozens of certificates covering a range of topics.
You can complete the MPH in up to four years, choosing from eight-week terms or intensive institute courses.
Highlights
- Renowned research institution
- Highly customizable curriculum with 12 concentrations
- All part-time students receive scholarships
Know Before You Apply
- Strong academic background required
- At least two years of health-related work experience or a doctorate required
- One of the more expensive programs on our ranking
University of Maryland-College Park
College Park, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$16,238
$35,388
45%
27%
Why We Chose This School
UMD's MPH offers two unique concentrations that students compete as part of an online cohort. The 45-credit MPH requires a 2-3 year commitment depending on full- or part-time enrollment. All participants receive training in core areas such as epidemiology and biostatistics and the use of statistical software.
You'll choose either a physical activity or public health practice and policy concentration.
We like that students integrate their knowledge and get hands-on experience during a 200-hour practicum or internship and a capstone project.
The MPH is delivered entirely online except for a limited residency requirement.
Highlights
- Top-ranked school of public health
- Washington, D.C. metro area location provides access to job/internship opportunities
- Generous elective credit
Know Before You Apply
- Required 4-5-day residency for public health practice and policy concentration
- 40% graduate school admission rate
- MPH in physical activity admits for summer only
$9,889
$38,690
96%
40,813
Public
Yes
$16,238
$35,388
College Park, MD4 yearCampus + Online
$16,238
$35,388
45%
27%
$9,889
$38,690
96%
40,813
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
UMD's MPH offers two unique concentrations that students compete as part of an online cohort. The 45-credit MPH requires a 2-3 year commitment depending on full- or part-time enrollment. All participants receive training in core areas such as epidemiology and biostatistics and the use of statistical software.
You'll choose either a physical activity or public health practice and policy concentration.
We like that students integrate their knowledge and get hands-on experience during a 200-hour practicum or internship and a capstone project.
The MPH is delivered entirely online except for a limited residency requirement.
Highlights
- Top-ranked school of public health
- Washington, D.C. metro area location provides access to job/internship opportunities
- Generous elective credit
Know Before You Apply
- Required 4-5-day residency for public health practice and policy concentration
- 40% graduate school admission rate
- MPH in physical activity admits for summer only
Florida International University
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$911
$2,003
59%
67%
Why We Chose This School
FIU's online MPH prepares aspiring public health professionals for generalist practice and practitioners for career advancement. You'll take core courses such as biostatistics, public health epidemiology, and health behavior and public health.
The 45-credit online program includes elective training, including in AIDS epidemiology and responding to environmental disasters. You'll also gain marketable experience by completing a 200-hour practicum and culminating experience.
FIU's School of Public Health is one of the top recipients of National Institutes of Health funding. The school has state-of-the-art laboratories and engages in ongoing international research projects.
Highlights
- Top-tier public research institution
- One of the least expensive programs on this ranking
- Full-time and part-time enrollment options
Know Before You Apply
- Large FIU student body
- No specializations in online MPH
- Diverse academic backgrounds accepted
$6,168
$18,566
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
$911
$2,003
Miami, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$911
$2,003
59%
67%
$6,168
$18,566
92%
54,085
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
FIU's online MPH prepares aspiring public health professionals for generalist practice and practitioners for career advancement. You'll take core courses such as biostatistics, public health epidemiology, and health behavior and public health.
The 45-credit online program includes elective training, including in AIDS epidemiology and responding to environmental disasters. You'll also gain marketable experience by completing a 200-hour practicum and culminating experience.
FIU's School of Public Health is one of the top recipients of National Institutes of Health funding. The school has state-of-the-art laboratories and engages in ongoing international research projects.
Highlights
- Top-tier public research institution
- One of the least expensive programs on this ranking
- Full-time and part-time enrollment options
Know Before You Apply
- Large FIU student body
- No specializations in online MPH
- Diverse academic backgrounds accepted
University of South Florida
Tampa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,350
$19,048
41%
67%
Why We Chose This School
Students looking for a highly customizable public health degree should consider USF's online MPH. You can choose from seven concentrations, each with its own curricular requirements. The specializations include epidemiology, community health, and infection control.
A notable concentration focuses on global disaster management, humanitarian relief, and homeland security. Participants enhance their learning and build experience during internships and other experiential activities. We like that you have access to resources such as the public health online student organization to network with peers and public health professionals.
Students have access to other career development opportunities and virtual mental health services.
Highlights
- Students can complete multiple concentrations
- Reduced tuition rate for out-of-state students
- Strong support services for online learners
Know Before You Apply
- All MPH students must pass the CPH exam to graduate
- MPH only accepts applications for the fall term
- Large USF student body
$3,647
$11,963
92%
48,566
Public
Yes
$8,350
$19,048
Tampa, FL4 yearCampus + Online
$8,350
$19,048
41%
67%
$3,647
$11,963
92%
48,566
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Students looking for a highly customizable public health degree should consider USF's online MPH. You can choose from seven concentrations, each with its own curricular requirements. The specializations include epidemiology, community health, and infection control.
A notable concentration focuses on global disaster management, humanitarian relief, and homeland security. Participants enhance their learning and build experience during internships and other experiential activities. We like that you have access to resources such as the public health online student organization to network with peers and public health professionals.
Students have access to other career development opportunities and virtual mental health services.
Highlights
- Students can complete multiple concentrations
- Reduced tuition rate for out-of-state students
- Strong support services for online learners
Know Before You Apply
- All MPH students must pass the CPH exam to graduate
- MPH only accepts applications for the fall term
- Large USF student body
University at Buffalo
Buffalo, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$11,310
$23,100
69%
44%
Why We Chose This School
Buffalo's individualized online MPH allows students to build their own curriculum with coursework and hands-on practical activities. As an alternative to the individualized option, you can choose a focus area in addictions or health equity.
The 44-credit curriculum requires core courses such as the study of health behavior and an introduction to healthcare organizations. Elective coursework can include areas such as motivational interviewing and/or coaching for wellness.
You can complete the required field training at a site of your choosing. Plus, you'll address a public health topic in a culminating project and paper.
Highlights
- Fully online asynchronous program
- 100% job placement rate
- Many elective courses
Know Before You Apply
- Prerequisite coursework highly recommended
- Applications accepted for the spring or fall semester
- Transfer up to nine graduate credits
$7,070
$26,860
85%
31,887
Public
Yes
$11,310
$23,100
Buffalo, NY4 yearCampus + Online
$11,310
$23,100
69%
44%
$7,070
$26,860
85%
31,887
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
Buffalo's individualized online MPH allows students to build their own curriculum with coursework and hands-on practical activities. As an alternative to the individualized option, you can choose a focus area in addictions or health equity.
The 44-credit curriculum requires core courses such as the study of health behavior and an introduction to healthcare organizations. Elective coursework can include areas such as motivational interviewing and/or coaching for wellness.
You can complete the required field training at a site of your choosing. Plus, you'll address a public health topic in a culminating project and paper.
Highlights
- Fully online asynchronous program
- 100% job placement rate
- Many elective courses
Know Before You Apply
- Prerequisite coursework highly recommended
- Applications accepted for the spring or fall semester
- Transfer up to nine graduate credits
University of Nevada-Reno
Reno, NV4 yearCampus + Online
$5,814
$22,356
85%
30%
Why We Chose This School
The University of Nevada-Reno's online MPH requires a specialization in public health practice.
You'll take core courses covering topics such as health policy, biostatistics, and epidemiology in public health.
You'll receive training in public health finance, program development, and other key areas not covered by many programs. You'll complete at least 150 hours of field experience over three semesters.
Students must also write and present a capstone paper that highlights their expertise.
Highlights
- Prepares public health generalists
- One of the most affordable programs in this ranking
- Fully online curriculum
Know Before You Apply
- Not a customizable curriculum
- Requires a prerequisite statistics course
- Applications accepted year-round
$7,875
$24,831
80%
21,791
Public
Yes
$5,814
$22,356
Reno, NV4 yearCampus + Online
$5,814
$22,356
85%
30%
$7,875
$24,831
80%
21,791
Public
Yes
Why We Chose This School
The University of Nevada-Reno's online MPH requires a specialization in public health practice.
You'll take core courses covering topics such as health policy, biostatistics, and epidemiology in public health.
You'll receive training in public health finance, program development, and other key areas not covered by many programs. You'll complete at least 150 hours of field experience over three semesters.
Students must also write and present a capstone paper that highlights their expertise.
Highlights
- Prepares public health generalists
- One of the most affordable programs in this ranking
- Fully online curriculum
Know Before You Apply
- Not a customizable curriculum
- Requires a prerequisite statistics course
- Applications accepted year-round
Why You Should Get a Master’s in Public Health
Prepare for In-Demand Jobs: Many careers in public health, such as epidemiologist, require or expect you to have a master’s in public health.- Gain Experience: An online MPH provides you with real-world knowledge and experience in the field of public health so you can hit the ground running.
- Help Communities: A public health career lets you give back to the community by improving health outcomes.
Benefits of Getting an MPH Online
- An online master’s program allows for more flexibility with your schedule.
- In our survey, just over half of online master’s students and graduates say their classes allowed them to build their professional networks.
- In that same report, 56% of online master’s students and grads say the assignments in their classes could relate to future jobs.
- Online programs tend to be cheaper than in-person programs.
How to Choose the Best Online MPH Program for You
As you research online MPH programs, be sure to consider factors like cost, program length, accreditation, application requirements, available concentrations, and potential career paths.
How Much Does an Online MPH Cost?
Cost of Online MPH Degree, 2019-2020
Avg. Tuition & Fees
$12,780
Avg. Net Price
$9,293
Source: NCES PowerStats
According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average tuition and fees for an online MPH program were just under $13,000 in 2019-2020. With financial aid, this comes out to an average net price of around $9,000 per year.
In addition to tuition and fees, you’ll likely have to pay for course materials like textbooks. You may also need to pay distance learning or technology fees, depending on your school.
Some of the cheapest online MPH programs range from $7,000 to $16,000 — far cheaper than most other master’s programs, which typically cost tens of thousands of dollars a year.
You can save money on your online master’s in public health by submitting the FAFSA and applying for scholarships and other aid.
Find Financial Aid for Your Online MPH
How Long Does It Take to Get an MPH Online?
Typical # of Credits
40-60 Credits
Typical Program Length
2 Years
It typically takes two years — or a total of 40-60 credits — to earn an MPH online.
Each program has its own credit requirements and schedules that can affect your timeline. For example, some programs may only offer evening courses.
Consider an accelerated master’s program if you wish to jumpstart your public health career more quickly. Accelerated programs can help you earn your MPH online in less time, usually a year.
Concentrations for an Online MPH
Like many master’s programs, especially health programs, you can choose a concentration for your online MPH. Picking a concentration lets you develop expertise in a particular area of public health, preparing you for more niche roles.
Each concentration will have specific courses for you to take. Check online MPH program sites to see what concentrations different programs offer.
Here are some of the most common MPH concentrations:
- Biostatistics
- Community health
- Environmental health
- Epidemiology
- Global health
- Health policy and administration
- Maternal health
- Nutrition
Online MPH Application Requirements
Bachelor’s degree- Academic transcripts, often with a minimum 3.0 GPA
- Personal statement
- Online application
- Letters of recommendation
- Resume or CV
- English-language proficiency
Accreditation for Online MPH Programs
When you’re applying to online MPH programs, make sure the programs you’re considering are accredited. Programmatic accreditation means the program has been independently vetted to meet specific standards, and you can trust you’ll get a quality education.
The leading accreditor for MPH programs is the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). All of the best online MPH programs ranked above are CEPH-accredited.
Don’t forget to also check for institutional accreditation.
What Can You Do With an Online Master’s in Public Health?
With an online MPH, you can get a job as a community health worker, public health consultant, epidemiologist, or health education specialist. In these jobs, you can earn anywhere from $50,000-$135,000.
Note that you might have to pursue additional certifications or licenses if you want to be eligible for more specialized public health jobs or advance in your current role.
Public health is a generally well-paying field with strong job growth. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the projected job growth from 2023-2033 for the jobs below is much faster than the national average growth rate of 4%.
| Job | Avg. Annual Salary | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Community Health Worker | $51,030 (April 2024) | Helps people adopt healthy habits, advocates for their health, and implements community health programs |
| Epidemiologist | $83,980 | Investigates and tracks the spread of diseases and health conditions |
| Health Education Specialist | $63,000 | Manages health education programs to meet community needs |
| Medical and Health Services Manager | $117,960 | Plans and coordinates health and medical services in healthcare settings |
| Public Health Consultant | $82,300 (October 2024) | Creates strategies to address public health concerns |
Ask an Expert: How Much Money Can You Make in Public Health?
“Salaries in public health vary by geography, setting, and experience. In some states, governmental public health positions pay very well … while similar positions in other states may not pay at the same level. Positions in the private sector generally have better salary levels than governmental and nonprofit organization positions.”
Is an Online MPH Worth It?
To help you determine whether an online MPH program is worth it, start by comparing the cost of your prospective program with the potential salaries you could earn after graduation.
You should also consider the total time it will take to complete your MPH online, as well as to get any certifications you’ll need to jumpstart (or advance in) your career.
According to the National Association of Colleges and Employers (NACE), 83.4% of the class of 2023 master’s in public health graduates reported a positive career outcome.
Additionally, BestColleges’ own research found that 95% of online nursing and healthcare students and graduates think earning an online degree has had or will have a positive return on investment.
Lastly, don’t forget to think about your own interests in the public health space — and what you can accomplish with an MPH.
“Public health is team- and relationship-oriented and involves solving important issues such as reducing health disparities in populations,” says Schwartz. “The opportunity to contribute to solutions on leading public health and healthcare issues makes for a rewarding job.”
Education Beyond a Master’s in Public Health
Some healthcare and public health careers require a more advanced degree than a master’s.
A doctorate in public health — such as a Ph.D. in public health or a doctor of public health (DPH) — can set you up for a career as a public health professor, public health researcher, public health consultant, biostatistician, or epidemiologist.
If you want to pursue a more competitive or specialized job, pursuing a doctorate in public health could be worth it.
Frequently Asked Questions About Online MPH Programs
Most schools do not report individual programs’ acceptance rates. But based on fall 2023 university-wide acceptance rates reported by College Navigator, some of the easiest online MPH programs to get into may include those offered by the University of Nevada, Reno (85%), the University at Buffalo (69%), and Florida International University (59%).
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