MPH in Environmental Health

Students interested in studying the complex relationships between environmental factors and human health will find a fit in the Environmental Health (EH) master of public health (MPH) program. This program provides a uniquely interdisciplinary approach to examining the chemical, physical and microbial hazards that occur in the home, workplace and general environment. Between engaging elective courses in air pollution, climate change, epidemiology, toxicology and more and required real-world experience, this program will equip you with the skillset to tackle the most pressing environmental challenges of the future. Many students also choose to complete a certificate program along with their MPH. 

MPH-Description.png

Critical Skills Gained

  • Exposure Science
  • Mechanisms of Toxicity
  • Epidemiology
  • Biostatistics
  • Disease Ecology
  • Global Climate Change
  • Environmental Health Policy 

Job Opportunities

  • Federal Environmental Health Agencies
  • State Health Departments
  • Industry
  • Consulting Firms
  • Non-Profits
  • Universities 

Admissions

The full-time program is designed to take two years to complete; part-time can take up to five years, depending on the number of credits taken each semester. The Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health also requires that all students complete both a college-level biology and chemistry course prior to matriculation. For more information on prerequisites, GRE requirements, funding resources and more, please visit our FAQ page. 

The MPH program in Environmental Health is a STEM OPT approved program. You can find a list of eligible CIP codes here. For more information, please visit the Department of Homeland Security's website.

Visit RSPH Admissions for application guidance.

Admission Requirements

  • SOPHAS Application
  • College Transcripts
  • Two Letters of Recommendation
  • Personal Statement
  • Resume

Helpful Links

Department Requirements

DegreeCoursework Requirements GRE Scores
MPH At least one semester of college-level biology and chemistry required. See FAQs for details about these requirements.

Statistics, calculus, and organic chemistry also preferred		 The submission of GRE scores are optional for all candidates applying to MPH programs for fall 2024 admission. GRE scores are waived for applicants with a PhD from a U.S. institution.

MPH Degree Requirements

  • 42 Credit hours, including:
    • 14 Credits of core coursework
    • 17 Credits of required program courses (including 4 credits of Integrated Learning Experience (ILE))
    • 11 Credits of electives (more are optional)
  • 200 hours working in an Applied Practice Experience (APE)

Applied Practice Experience (APE)

An Applied Practice Experience (APE) is a unique opportunity for graduate students to integrate and apply practical skills and training learned through course work and prior experiences in a professional public health environment. All RSPH graduate students are required to complete an APE of at least 200 work hours in a public health agency, institution, or community under the supervision of site supervisor and the guidance of the Department. Although there are no credits associated with the APE requirement, the completion of the requirement is noted on the student’s transcript.

Learn more »

Integrative Learning Experience

In addition to the Applied Practice Experience, students are required to complete an integrative learning experience (ILE) project that demonstrates knowledge and skills gained in the MPH program. An integrative learning experience calls for students to integrate and apply the competencies they developed during the course of their study, practicum, and/or related field experiences. Some examples of what ILEs can be include conducting original research, analyzing data, interpreting study results, program evaluation, needs assessments, proposal writing and outreach work with community partners.

To help guide the ILE process, students enroll in EH 591 and EH 592 the fall and spring of year two, respectively. All students are required to formally present their projects prior to graduation. For examples of past ILEs organized by general topic, please visit our Interest Area pages.

Learn more »

Catalog & Schedules

RSPH Catalog

Academic Calendar

Enrollment Services & Course Schedules

 

Other Useful Info

Tuition Costs »

International Applicant Info »

Enrollment & Registration »

Student Resources »