

The Master of Public Health is a one year full time program designed for students who want to develop expertise in public health practice, research, and policy. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, enabling learners to address health challenges, design interventions, and evaluate population health programs. Students gain expertise in epidemiology, health policy, biostatistics, and community health, equipping them to analyze public health issues and implement evidence based solutions. The program emphasizes both applied skills and research methods, preparing graduates for professional roles in public health practice, policy, and research institutions.
The program encourages interdisciplinary learning by integrating public health with social sciences, healthcare management, and statistical analysis. Students participate in fieldwork, data analysis projects, collaborative studies, and applied research guided by experienced faculty. Access to public health databases, community partnerships, and professional networks enhances both practical skills and theoretical understanding. By the end of the program, graduates develop competencies in program evaluation, health data analysis, policy implementation, and research communication, positioning them for careers in health agencies, research organizations, and non profit institutions.
Semester 1 - Foundations in Public Health
• Epidemiology and Disease Prevention
• Biostatistics for Public Health
• Health Policy and Management
• Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health
Semester 2 - Advanced Applications in Public Health
• Public Health Program Design and Evaluation
• Global Health and Health Systems
• Applied Research Methods in Public Health
• Independent Research Project or Professional Portfolio
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in public health research, community health, policy development, and health program management. Many work as public health analysts, epidemiologists, health policy consultants, and program coordinators, designing and evaluating health initiatives, analyzing population data, and advising organizations on health strategies. Additional opportunities exist in governmental agencies, international health organizations, non profits, and research institutions. The program’s emphasis on applied research, data driven analysis, and public health expertise equips graduates to respond effectively to health challenges and contribute strategically to population health improvement.
Students choose this program because it integrates public health theory, applied research skills, policy evaluation expertise, and community health strategies, providing a strong foundation for careers in public health and research. The curriculum emphasizes real world applications, interdisciplinary learning, and data driven analysis while fostering critical thinking, leadership, and professional competence. With guidance from experienced faculty, access to research resources and community partnerships, and opportunities for applied projects, students strengthen both analytical skills and practical public health knowledge. This program is particularly appealing to individuals who aim to design health interventions, evaluate population health programs, influence health policy, and contribute to improving global and community health outcomes.
For further information, please contact the graduate admissions office at:
Phone: 217-333-0035
Email: grad@illinois.edu
Address: The Graduate College, 507 East Green Street, Suite 101, MC-434, Champaign, IL 61820, United States