Why MPH?

[NCAR823]

Hello all!

I am currently considering a Master's in Public Health and am wondering what it was that got you here? If I could get a sample of some GPA/GRE stats and backround for interest in the field, it may help me verify if Public Health is the right track.

Currently, I am applying to a Master's in Speech-Language Pathology, though all my work experience directly relates to Public Health. If I don't get admitted into the Masters in SLP programs for 2014, I'm considering broadening my applications to include MPH programs. I am interested in Community Health and research, participate in 2 research studies, have started a literacy intervention program, speak 2 languages, and have numerous teaching certifications. 

 

Any input would be very helpful! I was considering a PhD in Public Health after my Masters in SLP, but have to hear back from schools before that path becomes concrete.

 

Best of luck in acceptances!

[grad2020]

1. Read through this website: http://www.whatispublichealth.org/index.html

2. For a prospective MPH program, read through the graduation requirements. Read all course descriptions for your particular concentration of interest. Find out about internship placements & research opportunities.

 

If you like how it sounds and the all the requirements, public health is probably for you. I was working for an intervention program at a university hospital. All my bosses had their MPH. I read through programs in detail and found the school + concentration for me. Couldn't be happier. Pursuing PhD now.

 

Good luck.

[soylatte5]

second grad2020's advice

 

I didn't really fully understand what public health was until I actually started school. I was drawn to PH based on reading about the research opportunities available during school/afterwards on various school websites. After one semester of courses in my MPH program, things started coming together and PH concepts simply made sense. What really draws me to public health is it's practicality - you really put into practice what you learn rather than simply try to expand theory (at least in the type of research I conducted and plan to continue with). PH is also so diverse that anyone with any background can easily carve out a niche for themselves whether it be lab based, field studies, evaluation, programmatic, etc. Entering the field of PH was one of the best decisions I've ever made. I've also applied to PhD programs this cycle. 

 

As far as GPA/GRE scores go, at least meet the minimum requirements and aim for the minimum GRE score at your reach school.