Public Health in Health Policy
The Public Health in Health Policy program provides an in-depth academic foundation for understanding how laws, regulations, and governmental structures influence population health. Through coursework focused on policy analysis, epidemiology, health systems, and economic evaluation, students learn how public health decisions are shaped by political processes and regulatory frameworks. The curriculum emphasizes the integration of scientific evidence with policy development, enabling learners to assess health needs, evaluate legislative proposals, and understand the broader consequences of policy actions on communities, health systems, and vulnerable populations. This strong analytical focus prepares students to engage effectively with stakeholders across governmental and non-governmental environments.
In addition to its theoretical grounding, the program incorporates applied learning through case studies, research projects, and interaction with policy experts working at local, national, and global levels. Students benefit from faculty who bring extensive experience in government, public health law, and policy implementation, gaining insight into how policy decisions are crafted and evaluated in real settings. Collaborative assignments, seminars, and field-based activities strengthen competencies in policy evaluation, communication, and strategic planning, enabling students to translate complex evidence into actionable, context-sensitive policy recommendations. This interdisciplinary approach equips graduates with the tools needed to shape public health policy using sound analysis and a deep understanding of health systems.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Public Health in Health Policy
- Degree Type: Master of Science
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 January 2026
- Location: Johns Hopkins University, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Foundations of Health Policy & Public Health Science
• Principles of Health Policy
• Epidemiology for Policy Analysis
• Health Systems and Governance
• Public Health Law and Ethics
Semester 2 – Applied Policy Methods & Economic Evaluation
• Policy Analysis and Development
• Health Economics and Financing
• Quantitative and Qualitative Methods in Policy
• Communication Strategies for Public Health Policy
Semester 3 – Advanced Policy Applications & Systems Leadership
• Evaluation of Public Health Policy
• Global and Comparative Health Policy
• Leadership in Health Systems
• Elective in Social Policy, Health Reform, or Public Finance
Semester 4 – Capstone & Professional Practice
• Health Policy Capstone Research Project
• Seminar in Policy Implementation
• Strategic Decision-Making in Public Health
• Elective Module in Advocacy, Regulation, or Policy Innovation
Career Opportunities
Graduates of this program pursue influential roles in government agencies, public health organizations, policy research institutes, and non-profit advocacy groups, where they help develop, analyze, and evaluate health policies. Many work as policy analysts, health program advisors, legislative consultants, or regulatory specialists, contributing to initiatives that improve health equity, strengthen health systems, and guide resource allocation. Others enter roles in global health organizations, think tanks, or academic institutions, focusing on policy research, health reform, or international health governance. With strong capabilities in policy assessment, strategic communication, and evidence-based decision-making, graduates are prepared to lead initiatives that shape population health outcomes.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an excellent choice for students who want to understand the complex relationship between public health and policy-making while gaining the analytical tools needed to influence real-world decisions. The curriculum builds strength in policy interpretation, evidence-based evaluation, and strategic public health analysis, allowing learners to approach policy challenges with both scientific and political insight. Students benefit from access to faculty with deep policy experience, exposure to current health reform debates, and opportunities for applied policy research that reflect real governmental processes. Through interdisciplinary coursework, strategic communication training, and a capstone focused on practical policy development, learners gain the expertise needed to work confidently within public agencies, legislative environments, or global health organizations. Ultimately, this degree prepares graduates to contribute meaningfully to policies that shape health systems, advance equity, and improve population well-being.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 410 516 8000
Email: admissions@jhu.edu
Address: Johns Hopkins University, 3400 N. Charles Street, Baltimore, MD 21218, USA
