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Overview of Masters in Public Health (MPH) at GWU
The Milken Institute School of Public Health at The George Washington University offers a Master of Public Health (MPH) program that prepares students to address critical public health challenges. The program’s mission is to train future leaders in public health who are equipped with the knowledge, skills, and values to improve the health of populations and communities.
The MPH program at GWU offers a rigorous curriculum that combines foundational coursework in public health with specialized training in areas such as epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy. The program is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of the principles and practices of public health, as well as the skills necessary to apply this knowledge to real-world settings.
The MPH program at GWU is led by a distinguished faculty of public health experts who are actively engaged in research, teaching, and service. The faculty’s expertise spans a wide range of public health disciplines, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and social and behavioral sciences. This expertise ensures that students receive the highest quality of instruction and mentorship.
Curriculum and Structure
The MPH program at GWU is a two-year, full-time program that consists of 42 credit hours of coursework. The core curriculum includes courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and social and behavioral sciences. Students also choose a concentration in one of the following areas:
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
- Environmental Health
- Health Policy
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
In addition to the core curriculum and concentration, students complete a practicum experience that provides them with hands-on experience in a public health setting. The practicum experience is an essential component of the MPH program, as it allows students to apply the knowledge and skills they have learned in the classroom to real-world settings.
Faculty and Expertise
The MPH program at GWU is led by a distinguished faculty of public health experts who are actively engaged in research, teaching, and service. The faculty’s expertise spans a wide range of public health disciplines, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and social and behavioral sciences.
Some of the notable faculty members in the MPH program include:
- Dr. Lynn Goldman, Dean of the Milken Institute School of Public Health
- Dr. Sandro Galea, Chair of the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
- Dr. Christopher Portier, Chair of the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health
- Dr. David Bishai, Chair of the Department of Global Health
- Dr. Judith Wasserheit, Chair of the Department of Health Policy
The faculty’s expertise ensures that students receive the highest quality of instruction and mentorship. The faculty are committed to providing students with the knowledge and skills they need to succeed in the field of public health.
Admissions Requirements and Application Process
Admission to the GWU MPH program is competitive and requires applicants to meet certain criteria. These include a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution, a minimum GPA of 3.0, and relevant work experience or research in public health.
The application process involves submitting an online application, providing official transcripts, submitting letters of recommendation, and writing a personal statement. Applications are reviewed by a committee who considers the applicant’s academic record, work experience, and personal statement.
Application Deadlines
- Fall semester: March 1
- Spring semester: October 1
Application Materials Required
- Online application
- Official transcripts
- Three letters of recommendation
- Personal statement
- Resume
- GRE scores (optional)
Career Outcomes and Alumni Success
Graduates of the GWU MPH program are highly sought after by employers in various public health sectors. With a strong foundation in public health principles and practical experience, they are well-equipped to make significant contributions to the field.
Employment Rates and Job Placement
GWU MPH graduates boast impressive employment rates, with over 95% securing employment within six months of graduation. The university’s Career Services Office provides comprehensive support to students, including career counseling, resume writing assistance, and job search guidance.
Research and Experiential Learning
GWU’s MPH program offers extensive research opportunities for students to delve into pressing public health issues. The university’s renowned Milken Institute School of Public Health boasts a faculty of renowned researchers and access to cutting-edge research facilities. Students have the chance to collaborate on projects with faculty mentors, engage in independent research, and present their findings at national and international conferences.
Internships, Practicums, and Field Experiences
Experiential learning is a cornerstone of the GWU MPH program. Students gain practical experience through internships, practicums, and field experiences at various public health organizations in the Washington, D.C. area and beyond. These experiences provide invaluable opportunities to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings, develop professional networks, and make a tangible impact on public health initiatives.
Internships are typically 12-week placements where students work under the supervision of experienced professionals. Practicums are shorter-term experiences that focus on specific skill development, while field experiences offer opportunities to observe and participate in public health programs in different settings.
Impact of Experiential Learning
Experiential learning plays a crucial role in student development. It allows students to:
– Develop essential skills in research methods, data analysis, and communication.
– Gain hands-on experience in various public health settings.
– Build professional networks and explore career paths.
– Apply theoretical knowledge to real-world problems and make meaningful contributions to public health practice.
Through these research and experiential learning opportunities, GWU MPH graduates emerge as highly skilled and well-rounded public health professionals, prepared to address the complex challenges facing our communities and populations.
Program Fees and Financial Aid
The MPH program at GWU is an investment in your future. The tuition and fees associated with the program vary depending on your enrollment status (full-time or part-time) and whether you are a domestic or international student. For the most up-to-date information on tuition and fees, please visit the GWU website.
GWU offers a variety of financial aid options to help students cover the cost of their education. These options include scholarships, grants, and loans. The FAFSA (Free Application for Federal Student Aid) is the first step in applying for financial aid. Once you have submitted your FAFSA, you will be notified of your eligibility for federal and state financial aid programs.
In addition to federal and state financial aid, GWU also offers a number of university-based scholarships and grants. These scholarships are awarded based on academic merit, financial need, or other criteria. For more information on GWU scholarships and grants, please visit the GWU website.
