Hi everyone,
I am new to this forum and I have some general questions about MPH programs.
So my questions are
You need to do your homework, my friend. Answers will vary across programs.🙂
1) Are there any MPH programs that require a certain major? I know some master programs require a science major or math major. Generally, no. However, this varies across programs and departments. While many programs do welcome and accept applications from a variety of majors, almost all will prioritize your analytical/quantitative skills as determined by your background with math courses (e.g., undergraduate courses in statistics, calculus, or other higher-level math). This is primarily because a major component of the MPH is quantitative material. In addition, it may benefit - though it is not explicitly required - to have had some kind of major related to the department or track you wish to pursue. As such, many programs will say that someone with a social science background may be a better fit in the social and behavioral sciences department or track. Someone with international experiences, such as volunteer work, may be a better fit for the global health track of a department. This is not etched in stone, of course, but you can see why it may benefit some over others.
2) How much do MPH programs cost in general ( ball park)? Again, it varies across programs and across tracks. For instance, the departments at Columbia have different tuition rates (e.g., health policy with a globe health track versus biostatistics). Of course, there are in-state ($15-20k) versus non-state residency issues ($40k and above) to consider as well as public versus private universities. As a whole, graduate school is expensive. My suggestion is to look into the websites of the programs, which should have a very clear outline of the tuition, fees, etc.
3) When do most people apply for MPH programs if they want to attend in the fall semester? I have heard around December but earlier is better. This is not anyone's choice, as programs have deadlines. Yes, the December 1st and December 15th window is common, but deadlines can be as far as March. Again, I suggest looking to the programs' web sites. As a general rule with applications, the earlier, the better. Also, it is highly advisable to consider the rate at which the SOPHAS as well as the GRE send their materials. SOPHAS can take anywhere between 4-6 weeks to process your application and send to the schools. The GRE scores anywhere between 10-15 days to arrive at the schools. You need to factor these in when you are trying to meet a deadline. In my view a December 1st deadline is really November 1st.
4) Is it common for people to take a break from their MPH and come back to finish it later? I do not think it is common, though I am sure it happens. MPH programs are typically 1 or 2 years. There would have to be unique reasons for a student to take time off from the program given that it is typically short. Part-time or internet-based programs may be an option. Also, you may need to factor in some requirements for practicum experience. For instance, some global/international health tracks require practicum/fieldwork abroad, which can be anywhere between 1 month to 6 months. In addition, many programs have concentrations/tracks/certificates. If you are interested in these, some programs have specific onsite sequences of classes in order to complete these specializations. Taking time off may prove challenging.
Thanks for all your help.
