Yale MPH vs. John's Hopkins MSPH

[montaale]

So it's coming down to decision time and I am really stuck between two schools! At this point, I have ruled out some programs that were not going to be the best fit and have narrowed it down to Yale and John's Hopkins. The program at Yale is an MPH in the department of Epidemiology of Microbial Diseases and I would do the global health track as well. At JHU, it's a MSPH in the department of International Health with a focus in Human Nutrition. Unfortunately, I don't think I will be able to visit either of these schools before I have to make a decision so I could really use some help and input! If anyone has suggestions, has gone to school at either of these places or can just offer some general insight to the programs or school locations, that would be extremely helpful.

 

Thank you! 

[niihla08]

I don't know much about Yale. But here are the reasons I rejected JHU's offer (for MPH, so different program than yours):

 

1. After speaking to many students, one of JHU's big weakness is career support. You have to do a lot of the networking and legwork yourself when it comes to finding jobs. This is partly because many masters students get their Phds afterwards or are already MDs (at least in the MPH program). Going along with that, the program is more research based than practice oriented. Which is fine, it's just not what i'm looking for. 

2. Not a fan of Baltimore. At all. I live in Chicago so I guess I'm spoiled with living in such a wonderful city. However, DC is only an hour away so you can get great part-time internship positions at great DC companies/organizations/gov't. 

3. The program is huge. I know there are a lot of different masters programs in the SPH, but they all take many of the same types of classes so the class sizes are huge and you don't get much personal attention.

4. Cost

[montaale]

That is very helpful and I appreciate the response! Gives me something more too look into and consider, thank you!

[niihla08]

I would email each of them and ask them to put you in touch with a current student or two from your program. Honestly, I found this the most helpful thing. Make sure to ask them what the weaknesses of their program. I find current students are super helpful and can also put you in touch with the right people if needed. 

 

Also consider where you'd like to live after graduation. Hopkins has a stronger network in DC and Yale in NYC. 

 

Good luck!