Author: Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDCES / Reviewed by: Melissa Anderson
Key Takeaways:
- The #1 ranking school for a one-year MPH program is Johns Hopkins, followed by Harvard.
- One-year MPH programs are designed for professionals eager to accelerate their careers without the time commitment of traditional degrees.
- These programs emphasize practical experience through practicums and offer diverse concentrations like epidemiology and health policy.
If you are considering advancing your career in public health by pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, but want to complete your degree more quickly than a traditional program, check out these top one-year MPH programs.
Featured Programs
Professionals with this advanced degree can expect to accelerate their career opportunities and be prepared for roles in this growing field that strives to protect and promote health. If you are seeking to advance your public health degree, one of these top one-year MPH degree programs may be the one that will help you reach your goal more quickly. For those worried about finding internships, you will be glad to know internships for online students are on the rise.
Continue reading to see if one of these accredited MPH programs is the one to help you meet your educational and career goals.
Methodology for Accelerated MPH Programs
Ranking for the 10 Best One Year MPH programs was developed using an initial pool of programs derived from the College Navigator website. Only programs accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) were included for consideration.
The program ranking was based on national recognition of the program, concentrations available, and unique program traits. Tuition costs listed are from the College Navigator website and are used for comparison purposes only.
Tuition costs should be confirmed by applicants with schools of interest. Program information was from the program websites.
1. Johns Hopkins University
Baltimore, MD
MPH On Campus
Tuition $60,480
Website
This accelerated MPH at Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Public Health. It can be completed in just 11 months, starting in July and ending in May. Students can complete most of their 80 credits on campus in five 8-week semesters. Students can base their electives on professional interests and goals.
There are over 200 courses available on campus and online to build on knowledge and skills. They can choose one of 12 concentrations; students can choose from the following:
- Age and Public Health
- Child and Adolescent Health
- Epidemiologic & Biostatistical Methods for Public Health & Clinical Research
- Food, Nutrition, and Health
- Food Systems and Public Health
- Global Environmental Sustainability & Health
- Health in Crisis and Humanitarian Assistance
- Health Leadership and Management
- Health Systems and Policy
- Infectious Diseases
- Social & Behavioral Sciences in Public Health
- Women’s and Reproductive Health
Each concentration has about 20 required credits, leaving 20-30 credits for electives. The ability to customize a program is a crowning feature of this accelerated MPH program. It draws exceptional students from around the globe.
Pros:
- Solid alumni network
- Incredible research opportunities
Cons:
- Admissions process is very competitive
- High tuition costs
2. Harvard University
Cambridge, MA
MPH On Campus
Tuition $52,456
Website
Harvard University’s top-ranked T.H. Chan School of Public Health offers a 45-credit MPH program. It can be completed in just one academic year of full-time study. This accelerated MPH degree program is designed for those students who already hold
- A graduate-level degree
- Are currently medical or dental students who have completed their primary clinical year
- Have five years or more of relevant public health experience
Most fields of study can also be completed part-time, taking 2-3 years. Students complete an Applied Practice Experience, an Integrative Learning Experience, and required courses. This helps students develop knowledge and skills for the workplace.
MPH students may also enroll in elective courses offered by other Harvard faculties, MIT, or Tufts Fletcher School of Law and Diplomacy. MPH students can expect unique experiences in and out of the classroom, building the skills and knowledge needed to apply public health training in meaningful ways.
Graduates develop relationships with peers and faculty who are leaders in their field, opening opportunities at home and abroad.
Pros:
- World-renowned faculty
- Average student debt upon graduation is significantly less than the national average
Cons:
- Acceptance rate is much lower than national average
- Highly competitive atmosphere
3. Columbia University
New York, NY
MPH On Campus
Tuition $52,016
Website
This one-year accelerated MPH program from top-ranked Columbia University is offered in:
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Population and Family Health,
- Sociomedical Sciences
- General Public Health
Columbia University’s demanding program comprises five integrated components that build on one another. Candidates applying to this competitive program typically have:
- A doctoral or nearly complete doctoral degree
- A master’s level degree
- Five years of work or research experience
This program includes a practicum component. MPH candidates work alongside public health professionals, adding valuable experience and networking opportunities.
Pros:
- Renowned faculty
- Fantastic research opportunities
Cons:
- Stressful environment
- Campus space is limited
4. Emory University
Atlanta, GA
MPH On Campus
Tuition $45,800
Website
This one-year accelerated MPH program from top-ranked Columbia University is offered in:
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Population and Family Health,
- Sociomedical Sciences
- General Public Health
Columbia University’s demanding program comprises five integrated components that build on one another. Candidates applying to this competitive program typically have:
- A doctoral or nearly complete doctoral degree
- A master’s level degree
- Five years of work or research experience
This program includes a practicum component. MPH candidates work alongside public health professionals, adding valuable experience and networking opportunities.
Pros:
- Focus on global education and research
- Small class sizes
Cons:
- Highly competitive environment
- Cost
5. University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, CA
MPH Online
In-State Tuition $11,700
Out-of-State Tuition $26,802
Website
Berkeley Public Health offers an intensive accelerated MPH program designed to produce leaders. Students gain skills in health policy and management and master the competencies and knowledge to complement clinical education.
This MPH in Health Policy and Management requires 42 credits, which are to be completed over two semesters. There is also a six-week summer session that is completed before the fall semester. This program begins in July and is completed in early May.
Candidates for this accelerated MPH program are doctoral-prepared clinicians or those on that pathway. Graduates of this top program are sought after by domestic and global employers. They are valued for their leadership in improving health care.
Pros:
- Comprehensive graduate programming
- Excellent alumni network
Cons:
- Highly stressful academic environment
- High cost of living
6. George Washington University
Washington, DC
MPH Online
Tuition $33,930
Website
The Milken Institute School of Public Health offers GWU’s accelerated online MPH degree. This rigorous program requires students to take an average of 11.5 credits each quarter and includes a culminating experience. The requirements are identical to those of the traditional MPH program.
Students accepted to the accelerated program are not permitted to work during enrollment. GWU boasts of its students’ ability to generalize this degree and customize the curriculum with electives in:
- Environmental and Occupational Health
- Epidemiology and Public Health Research Methods
- Global Health
- Health Communication
- Health Policy
- Program Planning and Evaluation
Cohorts for this rigorous program begin in April and July. This program promises to prepare leaders for the ever-changing field of public health.
Pros:
- Challenging academics
- Great networking opportunities
Cons:
- Cost
- A lack of student sports has been reported
7. Yale University
New Haven, CT
MPH On Campus
Tuition $46,900
Website
This MPH program at Yale University can be completed in 11 months of full-time study. This rigorous program is for professionals with clear career goals in public health. Applicants to this degree are expected to have either a:
- Doctoral degree in a public health-related field
- Master’s degree with two years of relevant work experience
- Bachelor’s degree with a minimum of 5 years of related work experience
- Have completed their third year of medical, dental, or podiatric school in the US
This program offers six concentration tracks, including:
- Applied Biostatistics and Epidemiology
- Social and Behavioral Sciences
- Health Policy
- Global Health
- Preventive Medicine
- Occupational and Environmental Medicine
This one-year MPH program begins with a seven-week summer session and two semesters.
Pros:
- Groundbreaking research opportunities
- Highly distinguished faculty
Cons:
- Extremely competitive admissions process
- Reports of a lax grading system
8. University of California, Davis
Davis, CA
MPH On Campus
In-state tuition: $11,700
Out-of-state tuition: $26,802
Website
The University of California’s Davis campus is home to an accelerated MPH program offered through the School of Medicine. This vigorous program is designed to be completed in 10-12 months, saving time and money.
Students can choose between two areas of concentration: General Public Health and Epidemiology. With student cohorts of 40 or fewer, each cohort takes required core courses together, helping them develop strong connections with classmates. This accelerated MPH program includes a practicum in a public health setting.
It helps students to solidify both skills and knowledge. It also provides meaningful networking opportunities. This 56-credit MPH program focuses on the essentials of public health. Students will find:
- Small class sizes offering personalized instruction
- A history of successful job placement for graduates,
- A strong professional network in the field
Pros:
- Great networking opportunities
- Excellent academic reputation
Cons:
- Competitive admissions process
- Large student population
9. Northwestern University
Evanston, IL
MPH On Campus
Website
Tuition $51,869
Northwestern University offers an accelerated 12-month MPH program. It is ideal for students looking for intensive study coupled with practical experience. The program prepares graduates to bring skills and knowledge to their professional field.
There is an emphasis on data and analytic skills. Students can choose from four concentrations, including:
- Generalist
- Community Health Research
- Epidemiology
- Global Health
This program attracts a diverse student body that includes:
- Physicians
- Nurses
- Allied Health Professionals
- Social and Physical Scientists
- Health Researchers
Students can transfer credits upon approval, further saving time and money. Graduates of this program are well prepared to address public health issues on a community, state, national, or global scale.
Along with the required courses, students complete the Applied Practical Experience and Culminating Experience, which provides practical experience and networking opportunities.
Pros:
- Proximity to Chicago
- Rigorous curriculum
Cons:
- Quarter semester system can be a challenge
- Competitive student grading
10. University of Southern California
Los Angeles, CA
MPH Online
Website
Tuition $63,468
This robust one-year accelerated online MPH program is offered by USC’s Keck School of Medicine. With six concentrations to choose from, students can concentrate in:
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology
- Community Health Promotion
- Global Health
- GeoHealth
- Health Services and Policy
- Generalist
Students take 2-4 courses each term, including a practicum during the final semester. Applicants are accepted on a rolling basis, and accepted students begin in May. It is recommended that students in this accelerated MPH program not be employed while enrolled.
Pros:
- Strong Alumni Network
- Rigorous Academic Programming
Cons:
- USC has been involved in controversial situations in recent years
- Extremely competitive environment
Frequently Asked Questions
Why consider an accelerated one-year MPH program?
A one-year MPH program is a solution for students who are eager to begin their careers and don’t want to delay advancement with a traditional program. The accelerated MPH program is an excellent option for getting into the public health field faster.
What are some benefits of an accelerated MPH degree program?
Besides saving time and expense, obtaining a higher degree such as an MPH opens doors to greater career opportunities and higher salaries. Check out these top programs to find one that will help promote your career.
Do all accelerated MPH programs take one year to complete?
The programs listed in this article are one-year MPH degree programs. There are accelerated MPH programs that take longer than one year but less time than a traditional MPH program.
Why pursue a master’s degree in public health (MPH)?
Public health is a growing and exciting field. It is expected to grow, opening up opportunities for people with an advanced degree in public health. Public Health professionals can help to:
- Improve access to healthcare
- Control infectious disease
- Help reduce violence and substance abuse
- Reduce environmental hazards
These accelerated MPH degree programs can help graduates get into the field with the confidence and skills to make a difference.
How do I know which program is right for me?
A few factors to consider when choosing a program include:
- Curriculum
- On-campus or online community
- Alumni association
- Cost
Contact your school of interest directly to learn more and help you narrow your program choices.
What is the career outlook in public health?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics reports that the occupational outlook for public health will grow 13% from 2019 to 2029. Initiatives to improve health outcomes while lowering healthcare costs drive the anticipated growth in this field.
How much money can I expect to make as a public health professional?
While the Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) indicates average incomes for occupations, pay scales vary depending on:
- Experience
- Education level
- Location
- Organization type
For example, the median annual wage for health education specialists was $55,220 in May 2019.
Can someone with an advanced degree in public health really make a difference in the world?
Public health professionals often work with vulnerable populations, improving access to care. They may work directly in the field or support health organizations in various capacities; their work directly impacts the health and safety of communities at home or abroad.
Why does it matter if my program is accredited?
Accreditation ensures a quality program worthy of your time, money, and effort. If you are going to make an effort to pursue an advanced degree, consider accredited programs for quality assurance. The programs listed in this article are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).
How can I finance my online degree?
Often, students find academic funding opportunities by researching scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study. By speaking with someone in financial aid at your school of interest, you can find out what is available through the school.
What job titles do people with their MPH degree have?
Graduates with an MPH degree may hold titles such as health communications specialist, health research scientist, program director, public health management analyst, or public health researcher.
Public health professionals with their MPH degrees may work in the public or private sector, governmental agencies, academia, research, and industry or community-based organizations.
Can public health professionals really make a difference in today’s world?
The public health initiatives promoted over the last 100 years have increased life expectancy in the United States by 25 years.
According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), public health’s greatest achievements in the last century include infectious disease control, workplace safety, food safety, mother/baby health and wellness, declining death rates from heart attack and stroke, motor vehicle safety, family planning, immunizations, clean water and education on tobacco hazards. What future health initiatives will make the next century a healthier one?
What are the organizations for public health professionals?
The professional organizations in public health help emerging and established professionals gain access to:
- Networking opportunities
- Conferences
- Career Guidance
- Continuing Education
Organizations include:
- American Public Health Association
- United States Public Health Service
- Council on Education for Public Health
By Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDCES
December 2020
Carol graduated with her BS in Nutrition from Montclair State University and her BSN in Nursing from Rowan University. She is a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) currently working with adults and children living with diabetes in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
Related:
Sources:
- Bureau of Labor Statistics
- National Center for Education Statistics: College Navigator