What is a Master of Public Health & What Can You Do with It?

The healthcare landscape is ever-evolving, and so is the need for skilled professionals who can address public health challenges on both local and global scales. A master of public health (MPH) is a dynamic and versatile option for those looking to make a significant impact on the well-being of communities and populations. 

Whether you’re passionate about disease prevention, health promotion, or policy advocacy, an MPH can open doors to a variety of fulfilling career opportunities. But what exactly is a master of public health, and what can you do with it? This article will provide an overview of the MPH degree and explore the career paths available to graduates.

What is a Master of Public Health?

A master of public health (MPH) is a graduate-level degree that prepares individuals to promote health and prevent disease at the population level. It equips students with the skills needed to analyze public health issues, develop programs, and implement policies that enhance the health of communities. The degree typically takes two years to complete and covers areas like epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health.

Why Earn a Master of Public Health?

There are many reasons why people choose to continue their education and pursue an MPH. 

Career Advancement Opportunities

One of the top reasons to pursue an MPH is the potential for career growth. Public health professionals are in high demand, and an MPH can position you for leadership roles in government agencies, non-profits, and healthcare organizations. Whether you aim to become a public health director, health policy analyst, or epidemiologist, an MPH can provide the qualifications needed to move up the ranks. Public health practitioners are highly valuable members of the healthcare sector.

Addressing Global Health Issues

If you are passionate about global health, an MPH can offer the knowledge and experience to work on international public health challenges and program planning. Many MPH programs have a global health focus, allowing students to study infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and health inequities in developing countries. Master of public health graduates often find roles with organizations like the World Health Organization (WHO) and international non-profits, where they can make a tangible impact on the health of underserved populations.

Versatile Skill Set

An MPH program offers a multidisciplinary education that combines science, policy, and practice. You’ll gain skills in research methods, data analysis, health communication, and program management, making you versatile in the job market. These competencies are applicable in various fields, including healthcare administration, academia, and consultancy, making it easier to switch industries if desired.

Making a Difference

At its core, public health is about improving lives and promoting well-being. If you want a career where you can directly contribute to the health of communities, an MPH is an excellent choice. From developing public health campaigns to advocating for health policy changes, you’ll be in a position to create positive outcomes that affect people’s quality of life. Contributing to public health education in the community helps prevent disease and other widespread health issues.

Strong Job Market

Public health is a growing field, and the demand for professionals is projected to increase in the coming years. With emerging health threats, aging populations, and the need for better health systems, there is a constant need for skilled public health experts. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts faster-than-average job growth in many public health-related occupations, offering a stable and lucrative career path for MPH graduates.

What Can You Do with a Master’s Degree in Public Health?

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists are at the forefront of disease control and prevention. They study the causes, patterns, and effects of diseases in populations, using data to inform public health policies and programs. With an MPH, you can work for government health departments, research institutions, or global public health organizations to monitor disease outbreaks, track the spread of illnesses, and implement preventive measures.

Health Policy Analyst

A health policy analyst evaluates and develops policies that improve public health outcomes. With an MPH, you’ll have the expertise to analyze data, assess current health programs, and recommend policy changes that address public health issues such as access to care, healthcare costs, and chronic disease prevention. Health policy analysts often work for government agencies, non-profit organizations, or think tanks.

Public Health Educator

Public health educators design and implement educational programs that promote health and wellness in communities. They often focus on issues like nutrition, exercise, mental health, and substance abuse prevention. With an MPH, you’ll be able to assess the needs of different populations, develop tailored health campaigns, and evaluate the effectiveness of these programs on community health.

Environmental Health Specialist

Environmental health specialists focus on the relationship between the environment and public health. They address issues like air and water quality, food safety, and exposure to hazardous materials. An MPH with a concentration in environmental health will prepare you to work in government agencies, private companies, or non-profits, where you can help reduce environmental risks and promote healthier communities.

Biostatistician

Biostatisticians use statistical methods to analyze data related to public health. They play a crucial role in public health research by designing studies, collecting data, and interpreting results. With an MPH in biostatistics, you can work in academia, research organizations, or healthcare companies to help inform decisions about disease prevention, treatment effectiveness, and healthcare policy.

Global Health Specialist

A global health specialist addresses health issues that affect populations worldwide, particularly in low- and middle-income countries. They focus on infectious diseases, maternal and child health, and health system strengthening. With an MPH, you can work for international non-profits, NGOs, or global health agencies, helping to design and implement programs that improve health outcomes on a global scale.

Public Health Administrator

Public health administrators oversee the operation of public health programs and organizations. They are responsible for managing budgets, staff, and resources to ensure the successful implementation of public health initiatives. An MPH provides the leadership and management skills needed to take on administrative roles in government health departments, hospitals, or non-profit organizations.

Infectious Disease Specialist

Infectious disease specialists work to prevent and control the spread of infectious diseases such as COVID-19, HIV/AIDS, and tuberculosis. They monitor disease trends, develop outbreak response strategies, and create public health policies. With an MPH, you’ll have the expertise to work in research labs, government health departments, or international organizations dedicated to combating infectious diseases.

Health Communications Specialist

A health communications specialist focuses on crafting and disseminating public health messages that inform and educate the public. With an MPH, you’ll be able to create campaigns on issues like smoking cessation, vaccination, and disease prevention, working with government agencies, media outlets, or non-profits to raise awareness and promote healthier behaviors.

Earn an MPH Online from Valparaiso University

A master of public health is a powerful tool for those who want to improve the health and well-being of communities. From epidemiology and health policy to global health and education, the public health career paths available to MPH graduates are both diverse and impactful. If you’re passionate about making a difference in public health, earning an MPH could be the key to unlocking a fulfilling and meaningful career.

Valpo offers a 100% online master’s degree in public health to prepare students for dynamic careers in healthcare. Our program provides flexibility and support to students interested in advancing their public health careers. To learn more, book a call or apply online!