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School of Health Sciences

Public Health

Online Master of Public Health (MPH)

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No GRE/GMAT Required

About This Program

Develop a deep understanding of the scientific, psychological, and sociological elements that impact public health policy and practices today through American Public University’s (APU) Master of Public Health (MPH) program.                                 

As a student in APU’s Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH®)-certified master’s in public health online program, you will be challenged to develop solutions to address complex health issues, exploring community and global health, biostatistics, environmental health sciences, epidemiology, health policy and management, and social and behavioral sciences.                               

This research-based interdisciplinary public health master's degree features courses such as Quarantine and Disaster Health Management. A public health practicum provides hands-on learning.

The mission of the American Public University System (APUS) Master of Public Health (MPH) program is to prepare and educate students to promote health and well-being as public health practitioners through excellence in teaching, research, and service in preparation for leadership opportunities in a diverse and global society through a student-focused learning environment.

NOTE: This program has special admission requirements.

Our Master of Public Health is accredited by The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH®) through December 31, 2029. View our accreditation page for more details. A copy of the self-study and the final report from CEPH can be requested by emailing [email protected]. 
 
CEPH is an independent agency recognized by the U.S. Department of Education to accredit schools of public health and public health programs offered in settings other than schools of public health. 

Please be advised that due to the COVID-19 outbreak, many hospitals are not allowing internship placements at this time. We are making you aware as this may adversely impact your time to completion. Please speak with the practicum placement coordinator if you have questions by emailing [email protected].

CEPH® is a registered trademark of the Council on Education for Public Health. 

What You Will Do

  1. Evaluate screening methods of epidemiology using statistical analysis and the impact of disease occurrence, both past and present, on population health
  2. Evaluate the effects of environmental factors on the health of populations and discuss appropriate policies to prevent and manage environmental hazards
  3. Apply emergency preparedness and disaster health management to public health and healthcare settings
  4. Analyze health policies or regulatory systems to address the management of population health
  5. Develop programs and/or interventions that effectively address the social determinants of health and health disparities

View Program Outcome Assessment Results

Degree at a Glance

Accredited
CEPH Accredited
Number of Credits
47
Transfer up to 15 credits
Cost Per Credit
{{{GraduateTuition}}} | {{{GradPreferredMilitaryRate}}}*
{{{GraduateVeteranGrant}}}** | {{{GradOpportunityGrant}}}***
*with Preferred Military Rate
**with Veteran Grant
***with APUS Opportunity Grant
Courses Start Monthly
Online
and vary from 8 to 16 weeks

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Program Requirements Printable Catalog Version

Must take all courses for this section.

Course ID: 2836

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This course introduces students to the role of public health systems in America. The function of federal, state, and local public health agencies will be examined, as well as current political, environmental, epidemiologic, legal and ethical issues impacting the field public health. Students will also explore future challenges facing public health professionals in the 21st century.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2691

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This course is designed to give the student an in-depth understanding of the roles that government and the consumer (the patient) can, and do, play in the ever-evolving health care industry. This course places special emphasis on politics and ethics and the results when they clash, as well as how politics and ethics form the mental attitudes of decision makers. This course is rich in information on the various political and ethical dilemmas facing the patients in the new millennium.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 4507

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Biostatistics is a fundamental course in public health. This course will prepare the students to collect, analyze and present the data through the understanding of basic concepts, principles, and techniques/methods of statistics as applied to public health. Major topics will include descriptive statistics, statistical models, probability, probability distribution, point and confidence interval estimation, sampling, hypothesis testing, general principles of study design, and comparison of discrete and continuous data such as t-test, ANOVA, correlation, and regression. The lab portion of the course will focus on the application of Biostatistics by using statistical software. The students will learn to apply the concepts learned in the course (PBHE 520, Biostatistics with Lab.) Major topics will include descriptive statistics, probability, probability distribution, point and confidence interval estimation, sampling, hypothesis testing, and comparison of discrete and continuous data such as t-test, ANOVA, correlation, and regression. Students will develop advanced skills in SPSS to run statistical procedures and interpret output. Students will ask questions of data sets, write-up results in briefs, and develop the skills to critique analysis & findings in peer-reviewed literature. NOTE: Students are required to purchase and use the statistical software, SPSS, to successfully complete this course.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3885

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The study and analysis of a variety of environmental problems, issues, and exposures emphasizing the interrelationship between humans and the myriad environmental concerns.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3884

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This course reviews the conceptual, empirical, and theoretical contributions of the Social and Behavioral Sciences as they contribute to an understanding of health and illness.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3889

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This course is an analysis of public health program planning, implementation and evaluation, with examination of consumer participation, data collection, consultation, negotiation, training, budgeting, and writing program reports.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3888

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This course will investigate ethical issues in public health through discussion of case studies and applicable ethical theories.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2830

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This course is a fascinating study of the concepts of medical and healthcare issues in emergency management in mass-casualty and high-impact incidents. The student will learn about the planning and coordination--from the national to the local levels--necessary to respond to disasters that are natural (such as earthquakes, floods, tornadoes and heat waves); industrial, technological and transportation (such as hazardous materials, air crashes and mass gatherings); conflict-related (such as terrorist attacks and mass shootings); as well as the education, training and research done before, during and after these events.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 3628

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This course teaches the student to design their own empirical research, and evaluate the research of others, in any of the sub-fields of public health. The course begins with an introduction to the field of public health. It introduces the philosophy of social science and several theoretical approaches used in public health. The course then concentrates on teaching the details of public health research design. The course takes the student step-by-step through qualitative, comparative, and quantitative research design and analysis methods. (Prerequisite: PBHE520)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2693

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This course is a study of the forces that now shape, and will shape, health care in the new millennium. The emphasis is on administration. It also provides the student with a summary of the skills necessary to be an effective administrator in this evolving industry. Additionally, it details the various elements that exist in the current system, so as to provide the departure point for new ideas, proposals and restructuring under both voluntary and involuntary (legislated) provisions.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 2838

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This course is a study of the theoretical, historical, and contemporary issues associated with quarantine as a public health and safety measure. Students will learn of quarantine strategy, implementation, effectiveness, and debate. The course topics will include consideration of quarantine as a health and safety measure in the modern homeland security strategy.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2825

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This course focuses on the principles, types, and forms of health management systems that exist to serve public needs during society’s most threatening crises. Topics range from international and national political and policy views of disaster health management down to local levels where leading hospitals and emergency managers must respond to public health disasters on a daily basis.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2831

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This course provides a graduate level study of epidemiologic concepts and approaches to population problems in public health. It covers a wide spectrum of topics, to include outbreak investigation, test properties, and study design. The course will provide understanding of disease and disease transmission, rates and proportions associated with different forms of outbreak, and epidemiological risk management methods and measures. Students are required to utilize Epi info software to complete their assignments. (Prerequisite: PBHE550)
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session

Course ID: 4684

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This course is intended to give the student practical experience in public health. This practicum is spent in an appropriate program, under the guidance of an administrator qualified by education and/or experience. The practicum consists of a 180-200 hours supervised practical application of previously studied theory and is completed by the student throughout a 16-week course. Development and utilization of original activities is stressed, and periodic progress reports are required. Students must secure a supervised position prior to beginning this course. Students are encouraged to consult with their academic advisor with any questions, prior to registration. This course requires an additional cost for the use of Typhon student practicum tracking software, to be purchased by the student prior to the start of the practicum. This fee will be paid directly to the Typhon group. Typhon will give the students the ability to develop a professional portfolio and access the system for 5 years. (Prerequisite: Students may take the practicum after all other CORE courses are completed).
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 09/22/24 Spring 2024 Session C 16 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 10/20/24 Summer 2024 Session A 16 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 11/24/24 Summer 2024 Session K 16 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 12/22/24 Summer 2024 Session C 16 Week session
Select any courses that have not been used to fulfill major requirements. Credits applied toward a minor or certificate in an unrelated field may be used to fulfill elective credit for the major.

Choose 3 credit hours from this section.

Course ID: 5413

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This course serves as the culminating experience for the Master of Public Health degree. Students must pass this course for degree conferral. The Comprehensive Examination ensures that the student has mastered the program competencies, the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH®) competencies, and the knowledge expected of a professional in the public health field. The course is 8 weeks of self-study using classroom resources and resources from the courses throughout the MPH program followed by an exam structured to mirror the CPH (Certified in Public Health) Exam. The two-part comprehensive exam includes multiple choice questions that mirror the CPH exam followed by in-depth take-home essay questions that address University program and CEPH competencies. The multiple-choice question portion of the Comprehensive Examination will be proctored and students will follow the Comprehensive Exam policies and guidelines as written in the EOP Manual for Master’s Programs. Note: The CPH is an exam administered by the National Board of Public Health Examiners for professionals in the public health field (https://www.nbphe.org/). After successful completion of this exam, students are encouraged to sit for the CPH exam (but this is not part of the University’s MPH degree program). CEPH® is a registered trademark of the Council on Education for Public Health.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 07/28/24 Spring 2024 Session D 8 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 08/25/24 Summer 2024 Session B 8 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 09/29/24 Summer 2024 Session I 8 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 10/27/24 Summer 2024 Session D 8 Week session

Course ID: 2848

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This course will involve a major research paper or thesis option that demonstrates understanding of the program objectives. The research paper and thesis will demonstrate understanding of social science research methodology. A Research Manual with explicit guidance for the research paper and thesis option will be available. The student shall select their research paper or thesis option professor from designated APUS faculty. NOTE: This course may not be taken until all other courses are COMPLETED and student has a 3.0 GPA. THIS COURSE IS 16 WEEKS.
Registration Dates Course Dates Session Weeks
12/25/23 - 05/31/24 06/03/24 - 09/22/24 Spring 2024 Session C 16 Week session
01/29/24 - 06/28/24 07/01/24 - 10/20/24 Summer 2024 Session A 16 Week session
02/26/24 - 08/02/24 08/05/24 - 11/24/24 Summer 2024 Session K 16 Week session
03/25/24 - 08/30/24 09/02/24 - 12/22/24 Summer 2024 Session C 16 Week session

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Admission Requirements

All APU master's degree and graduate certificate programs require a bachelor’s degree (or higher) from an institution whose accreditation is recognized by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).

In addition, the following documentation is required for admission into this program, and must be provided prior to course registration:

  • Official transcripts showing a conferred bachelor's degree or higher
  • Your resume/CV
  • Statement of purpose and interest

Note

  • Courses in this program are open only to students admitted to the program. These courses will not be available as electives in another program or for non-degree-seeking students.
  • Please read all graduate admission requirements before applying to this program and be prepared to submit the required documentation including a legible copy of your valid government-issued photo ID (civilian students) or government-issued JST or CCAF transcript (military students).
  • There is no fee to complete the APU admission application for this program. View steps to apply.

An APU admissions coach will contact you via email or phone to assist you with the enrollment process, review your documentation, and to notify you when you have been admitted into the program and may register for courses.

Materials Cost

Most courses in this program use Open Educational Resources (OER). These teaching, learning, and research materials are made available to you at no cost, meaning there are minimal book costs associated with earning this degree.

There is a one-time fee for Typhon student practicum tracking software. This fee will be paid directly to the Typhon group. Technology fee: $85 per course 

Need Help?

Selecting the right program to meet your educational goals is a key step in ensuring a successful outcome. If you are unsure of which program to choose, or need more information, please contact an APU admissions coach at 877-755-2787 or [email protected].

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1The University reserves the right to accept or deny credits according to policies outlined on our University website. Please see the University's transfer credit policy webpage for complete information.

*Cost Per Credit Hour

The Preferred Military Rate is $250 per credit hour for undergraduate and master's-level courses. This rate is available to all U.S. active-duty servicemembers, National Guard members, Reservists, and military families, including parents, spouses, legal partners, siblings, and dependents.

See all military student benefits.

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