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Master of Public Health (MPH)

ABOUT THE MPH DEGREE
The Master of Public Health (MPH) is the basic professional degree offered by the School of Public Health. It is required by statute for public health professionals working in certain classifications in many jurisdictions, and it is the oldest degree specifically identified with public health training. The MPH in Health Management and Policy prepares students to be leaders in administration and policy development regarding the organization, financing and delivery of a variety of public health services.   The MPH is particularly appropriate for individuals who plan to work in federal, state, or local health agencies, and for individuals who want to work in international health organizations. The degree is also highly suitable for individuals who envision public or private sector careers in areas such as environmental health, occupational health, disease prevention and control, injury prevention, substance abuse, health disparities and general community health.

CURRICULUM AND DEGREE REQUIREMENTS
The MPH curriculum consists of 60 credit hours, and is designed to provide students with an array of skills that will prepare them for careers in either the public or private sector.  The core curriculum  integrates coursework in  a variety of disciplines, including economics, epidemiology, law, organizational theory, political science, health service systems, and quantitative skills including accounting and biostatistics.  In addition to the core curriculum, MPH students are required to take a course in policy analysis methods (either HMP 610 Cost-Effectiveness and Cost-Benefit Analysis or HMP 640 Program Evaluation in Public Health). 

Through flexibility in the core requirements and electives, students can tailor their coursework to meet their intellectual and career interests.   We suggest that students refer to the Sample Curricula for guidance regarding key courses to take given specific career paths. Students are free to take elective courses within HMP, the School of Public Health, or at other graduate schools within the University of Michigan (such as the Gerald R. Ford School of Public Policy or the School of Social Work).

We believe that students' coursework should not duplicate their existing knowledge or competencies. Therefore, students are encouraged to seek exemptions in areas where they have proficiency. This allows students to expand their skills in other areas.