Master of Public Health (MPH) Program
Lehigh University's Master of Public Health (MPH) degree prepares graduate students to work in a variety of local, state, national, and global public health research, practice, and policymaking settings. Students gain expertise in the core domains of public health, investigate and address the determinants of health using data science, and develop novel and effective avenues for disease prevention and health promotion.
The program combines foundational courses in public health with additional courses in data science, qualitative research methods, leadership, cultural understanding and health, and policymaking. Students gain knowledge and skills through coursework, experiential learning opportunities, research projects, and engagement with traditional and non- traditional partners to pursue a healthier world.
Advance health equity in a variety of local, state, national, and global health settings, including research, policy-making, and implementation.
Why Choose Lehigh’s MPH Program?
Comprehensive 42‑Credit MPH Degree
A generalist curriculum grounded in biostatistics, epidemiology, environmental health, leadership, policy, and qualitative methods.
Flexible Formats (In-person, online, or hybrid MPH)
In‑person at our Bethlehem campus
Hybrid or fully online MPH designed for working professionals and remote learners
Experiential Learning
Students complete practical training and a capstone project to apply classroom skills in real-world settings.
Accelerated 4+1 MPH Option
Current Lehigh undergraduates with a 3.5 GPA can enter the MPH program in their junior year, begin graduate coursework early, and complete both their bachelor’s and MPH degrees in just five years. Learn more about the 4+1 MPH.
MPH vs. MHA
An MPH focuses on improving population health through research, policy, and prevention, while an MHA (Master of Health Administration) prepares students to manage health systems and lead hospital operations. If you're interested in addressing public health challenges, influencing policy, or working in community health, the MPH is likely the better fit.
Careers in Public Health: Roles and Industries
A Master of Public Health degree opens the door to a wide range of careers focused on improving population health and advancing health equity.
Graduates of Lehigh’s MPH program are prepared for impactful roles across the public, private, and nonprofit sectors.
Typical MPH jobs include:
- Epidemiologist
- Public Health Analyst
- Health Policy Advisor
- Biostatistician
- Program Evaluator
- Health Educator or Health Promotion Specialist
- Environmental Health Specialist
- Global Health Practitioner
- Community Health Program Manager
- Research Associate or Scientist
Where do MPH Graduates Work?
- Government agencies (CDC, NIH, local/state health departments)
- Nonprofit and advocacy organizations
- Hospitals and health systems
- Academic and research institutions
- Global health and humanitarian organizations
- Corporate wellness and occupational health programs
- Consulting and policy think tanks
- Environmental and occupational health agencies
MPH Admission Requirements
Starting your application for our Master of Public Health degree is simple and straightforward. Here’s what you will need to complete your application:
Education: A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution. A minimum GPA of 2.75 is required; 3.0 or higher is recommended.
Official transcripts: Transcripts from all previous academic institutions are required. You may use unofficial transcripts to apply.
Letters of Recommendation: Two professional or academic references to speak to your abilities and potential.
Resume or CV: Outline your academic and professional experiences.
Personal Statement: Share your passion for public health and your career goals.
GRE: The GRE is not required.
Application Fee: $50
English Proficiency: Required for international applicants (TOEFL, IELTS, or equivalent).
Application Deadlines
Applications Open August 15
Final Deadline (International) April 1
Final Deadline (Domestic) June 15
Additional application information is available here.
Tuition & Financial Support
For the 2025–2026 academic year, the cost is $1,660 per credit.
Cost
Cost per credit hour $1,660
Total credits required 42
Estimated total tuition $69,720
Please note that this estimate covers tuition only; students are also responsible for university fees and other costs. For complete details, visit the Bursar’s Office website.
MPH Scholarships
All full-time applicants are automatically considered for merit-based scholarships, which cover 10% to 50% of tuition. Awards above 10% are highly competitive, and funding is limited—priority is given to early applicants.
For more information on tuition, scholarships, and funding, please visit this page.
Frequently Asked Questions about an MPH
An MPH prepares you for careers in epidemiology, health education, policy, global health, and health administration, among others. Check out our full list above!
No, many of our MPH students come from diverse academic and professional backgrounds but have an interest in improving public health and making a difference in their communities. While some students have experience in health or science, others come from fields like business, education, social work, or the humanities. What matters most is your commitment to understanding health challenges and developing the skills to create meaningful, evidence-based solutions.
Our MPH program is completed in 2 years full-time, although part-time and accelerated options are also available.
Yes! An MPH is a valuable investment in your future. It can open doors to higher earning potential, leadership positions, and careers that make a tangible difference in population health. Many of the most rewarding and influential roles in public health, policy, and health systems require the advanced training and credentials an MPH provides.
Lehigh's MPH does not require the GRE.