Online healthcare degree programs are becoming more accessible as colleges and universities offer the traditional classroom experience in an online format. The convenience of online education is tantamount for those who wish to advance their careers and education; but, are unable to attend scheduled classroom experiences. Online degrees, sometimes called distant learning, allow students to work on coursework on their own time and at their own pace.
What’s Required For Admission An Online MPH?
A majority of online MPH programs require students to have a baccalaureate degree; although, some colleges and universities offer dual programs which allows students to work on their undergraduate degree and graduate degree simultaneously. These programs take longer to obtain but offers a good option for students who don’t have a previous undergraduate degree.
Admission Requirements For Online Students
There usually is no difference in admission requirements for online students. Students will be expected to meet the same requirements as on-campus students. Programs may expect a minimum GPA in undergraduate studies; and, some programs require completion of the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) for admission to graduate programs. Check with your school of choice to determine if this is a requirement and the scores necessary for admission.
Program Accreditation
Other than offering the public health concentration you’re looking for, the importance of program accreditation cannot be understated. Accreditation assures you that the program has been reviewed and satisfies professional standards. Public health education programs are accredited by the Counsel on Education for Public Health (CEPH). CEPH is a Department of Education, independent agency which reviews programs to meet standard public health educational requirements. While there are many online MPH degrees available, not all meet the CEPH standards. Prospective students are advised to look at programs that are accredited.
Internships and Capstone Projects
The completion of internships and capstone projects is standard for most graduate degree programs.
Internships provide several benefits for students in professional fields. These experiences allow students “real life” experiences in public health agencies by working with qualified preceptors and relates studies directly to practice. The number of internship hours required will vary from school to school and online programs will work with you to find internship opportunities in your home community and should be a consideration when choosing a MPH program.
MPH programs may also include capstone projects which requires students to identify public health topics, completion of in depth research on the topic and the writing of a comprehensive paper on the subject.
Tuition
Probably one of the biggest questions you may have is “what will this online degree cost”? There are some things to consider when determining if you can afford a particular program.
Base tuition costs are only part of the equation in choosing the right school and program. Additional fees, i.e., fees per online course, may be added to the base tuition cost which will drive up the cost. Some schools will also assess tuition based on state residency, even though the program is online.
Best Medical Degrees has researched 25 Most Affordable Online Master of Public Health programs which are ranked by base tuition cost, length of program, program accreditation and MPH concentrations. This will be a good place to start your search for the right Master of Public Health degree for you.
