FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
General Questions about MPH
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Q: What is the advantage of an MPH degree over other health focused Master's Programs?
The MPH degree is a graduate degree that best prepares students for a career in Public Health. This professional degree emphasizes public health practice, but also allows flexibility for those interested in public health research. An MPH degree requires a practicum or a thesis, allowing the program to be tailored for individuals interested in practice and those interested in research. For those interested in further public health studies, MPH graduates are competitive applicants for Ph.D. programs.
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Q: How difficult is it to find a job after completing an MPH degree?
Historically, there are many job opportunities for well-trained MPH students. The Council on Education in Public Health (CEPH) expects that at least 80% of MPH graduates from accredited programs will obtain a job in a health-related field or go on to further educational training within a year of graduation. The need for public health professionals in both urban and rural areas in Oklahoma and throughout America remains high. By 2020, the Association of Schools of Public Health estimates that the country will need an additional 250,000 public health workers.
Questions about Acceptance for Prospective Students
- Q: What is the minimum GPA required as an undergraduate to be accepted into the MPH
program?The Oklahoma State University MPH program does not have a minimum GPA requirement; however, the program encourages students with a 3.0 and higher GPA to apply for the MPH program. GPA is just one consideration for the admissions committee and a decision will not be based on GPA alone. If your GPA is below a 3.0, we encourage you to explore taking up to 9 hours of coursework as a special student or our Public Health Certificate program.
- Q: How many credits is the program?
Oklahoma State University MPH students are required to successfully complete 42 credits for graduation. See the MPH Curriculum for more information.
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Q: Can I transfer credits into the MPH program from another institution?
Oklahoma State and the faculty in the MPH program will work with students to transfer applicable coursework to the program. Oklahoma State University does limit transfers to 9 semester credit hours.
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Q: Can I transfer credits into the MPH program from another institution?
Oklahoma State and the faculty in the MPH program will work with students to transfer applicable coursework to the program. Oklahoma State University does limit transfers to 9 semester credit hours.
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Q: How many graduate credits can I transfer from another degree or university?
The university will accept up to 9 semester credit hours, which is equivalent to 3 courses of 3 credit hours each.
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Q: What areas of specialization are available within the MPH program?
Students will gain a deeper understanding of rural and underserved populations through this social/behavioral MPH degree program. The program does not currently have additional areas of specialization however, provides an opportunity for an area of focus through guided electives. See the Areas of Focus page for more details.
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Q: Can I earn this degree online?
Currently, it is impossible to earn an MPH degree from OSU solely through online classes. The program, however, does offer some online classes and hybrid classes.
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Q: I am admitted to a different program at OSU; can I also get an MPH?
If you are interested in a dual-degree including an MPH, please reach out to the Program Director. You must apply and be admitted into the MPH program in order to earn an MPH while attending OSU.
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Q: I work full-time. Is the OSU MPH program flexible enough for me?
The Oklahoma State University Master of Public Health program prides itself on flexibility. We currently have many students enrolled in the program who work full time. Most classes are offered during evenings and nights, as well as online classes. In a typical year, a student may have on class start as early as 4:30 p.m. Most courses start at 7:10 p.m. and meet once a week. For more information, visit our Course Curriculum.
Questions about the MPH Certificate
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Q: If I am enrolled in a different program, but want to earn the MPH certificate;
am I allowed to use required credits for my program towards the credits needed for
the MPH certificate?
Yes, you can use up to 9 credit hours which will count in your other degree program and the Certificate of Public Health program, enabling the completion of the certificate in as little as 6 additional credit hours from your other degree program.
Questions about Financial Aid
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Q: Are scholarships available?
There are no MPH-specific scholarships at this time. However, there are many scholarships available that could help to fund your education. Click here to go to Scholarships and Financial Aid.
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Q: How do I apply?
To apply to the MPH program, click here! For more information, contact us!