Public Health
The Public Health Master of Public Health (MPH) program at Pennsylvania University delivers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education that prepares students to address complex health challenges at both local and global scales. This full-time, two-year program emphasizes population health, prevention strategies, and data-informed decision-making through a curriculum grounded in evidence-based practice and public service. Students gain strong foundations in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health while also exploring the social determinants that influence health outcomes across communities. The program fosters critical thinking, ethical leadership, and interdisciplinary collaboration, ensuring students are ready to take on pressing health issues through both policy and practice.
The program’s academic approach blends rigorous classroom instruction with field-based learning, offering applied practice experiences, community engagement, and research opportunities throughout. Students work with faculty members who are recognized experts in health systems, infectious diseases, mental health, and health equity. Pennsylvania University’s extensive public health partnerships also provide pathways for internships and real-world projects, allowing students to apply theoretical frameworks to real-world interventions. By integrating coursework with experiential learning, the program empowers graduates with the skills, vision, and confidence to promote health, prevent disease, and lead change across a variety of public health contexts.
Key information
Key Facts
- Program Title: Public Health
- Degree Type: Master of Public Health
- Duration: 2 years
- Mode of Study: Full-time, On Campus
- Application Deadline: 15 May 2026
- Location: University of Pennsylvania, United States
- Field of Study: Public Health
- Language of Instruction: English
Program Structure
Semester 1 – Core Public Health Foundations
- Principles of Epidemiology
- Foundations of Biostatistics
- Health Systems and Policy
- Public Health Ethics and Law
Semester 2 – Population Health & Data Applications
- Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health
- Environmental and Occupational Health
- Data Management in Public Health
- Community Health Assessment
Semester 3 – Applied Practice and Fieldwork
- Program Planning and Evaluation
- Global Health Perspectives
- Practicum in Public Health Settings
- Elective: Health Equity or Maternal and Child Health
Semester 4 – Capstone Integration and Leadership
- MPH Capstone Project
- Public Health Leadership and Communication
- Evidence-Based Practice and Translation
- Seminar in Emerging Health Issues
Career Opportunities
Graduates of the Master of Public Health program are well-equipped to pursue impactful careers across a wide spectrum of health sectors. They may work as epidemiologists, public health analysts, policy advisors, or health promotion specialists in governmental agencies such as departments of health or CDC-affiliated programs. Others find roles in international health organizations, non-governmental agencies, research institutions, and hospital systems where they focus on community health outreach, program evaluation, or disease prevention strategy. With expertise in data analysis, policy interpretation, and cross-sector collaboration, alumni contribute to shaping health systems, managing public health crises, and reducing disparities in vulnerable populations. Their ability to turn complex health data into actionable insight positions them as vital contributors in designing and implementing sustainable health solutions around the world.
Why Choose This Program
This program is an exceptional choice for individuals who want to make a measurable difference in population well-being through scientific research, policy development, and community-based intervention. Pennsylvania University offers a rich academic environment with access to leading faculty, diverse practicum opportunities, and a curriculum aligned with global health needs. Students benefit from exposure to interdisciplinary thinking, collaborative research, and professional mentorship that fosters their development into ethical and visionary public health leaders. The program emphasizes practical skills, cultural competence, and innovation, making it ideal for those who are committed to solving real-world health challenges and promoting equity at every level of society.
Contact Information
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 215 898 5000
Email: admissions@upenn.edu
Address: University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA 19104, United States
