Law and Public Health
Emory University's Law and Public Health program is a one-year, full-time Master of Public Health (MPH) degree designed for students who aim to understand and influence the legal frameworks shaping population health. Offered in an interdisciplinary academic setting, the program explores the intersection of public health practice, health policy, and legal regulation. Students gain foundational public health knowledge while engaging deeply with legal principles that govern healthcare systems, disease control, and individual rights. The curriculum is tailored for those interested in shaping health laws and policies that promote equity, prevent harm, and improve outcomes at community, national, and global levels.
By integrating coursework from public health and legal studies, the program equips graduates with the analytical tools to evaluate how laws impact public health systems and how evidence-based policy can lead to effective governance. Students work closely with experienced faculty and practitioners, participate in case-based discussions, and have access to practicum opportunities in legal health advocacy, governmental agencies, and nonprofit sectors. With Atlanta as a hub of public health leadership and innovation, Emory provides direct access to institutions like the CDC, legal reform organizations, and international health NGOs, enriching the practical dimensions of this specialized MPH track.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Law and Public Health
- Degree Type: Master of Public Health
- Duration: 1 year
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 03 May 2026
- Location: Emory University, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Legal and Public Health Foundations
- Introduction to Public Health Systems
- Health Law and Policy
- Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Social Determinants of Health
Semester 2 – Advanced Legal Applications in Public Health
- Public Health Ethics and Human Rights
- Legal Frameworks in Disease Prevention and Control
- Health Policy Analysis and Advocacy
- Capstone Project in Law and Public Health
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Law and Public Health MPH program are well-positioned for roles that demand expertise in both legal reasoning and population health strategies. Career options include positions in health policy consulting, government health departments, nonprofit advocacy organizations, and international public health agencies where legal compliance, regulatory design, and ethical oversight are essential. Professionals often take on roles such as public health advisors, legal consultants in health reform, or policy analysts focused on healthcare access, vaccination laws, environmental justice, and more. The interdisciplinary background also supports entry into doctoral programs or dual careers in law and health governance, especially for those aiming to influence systemic reform in the structure and delivery of public health services.
Why Choose This Program
This program offers a rare academic pathway that merges legal insight with public health expertise, preparing graduates to tackle challenges where law and health intersect. Emory’s commitment to interdisciplinary learning ensures that students gain a robust understanding of both legal systems and health science frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes practical experience, ethical reasoning, and policy-driven problem solving, making it ideal for professionals who aspire to shape public health law and policy at multiple levels. With its location in Atlanta—home to major public health institutions—students benefit from rich opportunities for internships, collaborations, and research that directly impact community well-being. For those seeking to lead with integrity, influence meaningful reform, and contribute to the advancement of health equity, this program delivers the tools and network to succeed.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 404 727 6123
Email: contentedit@emory.edu
Address: University of Emory, 201 Dowman Drive, Atlanta, GA 30322, United States
