Master of Public Health (MPH)

Address Public Health Challenges

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Focus on improving community health and wellness.

100% Online

Complete your degree online and asynchronously.

CHES Prep

Prepare for the Certified Health Education Specialist Exam.

Community Health

Work toward healthier communities.

Master of Public Health (MPH)

The University of Lynchburg’s Master of Public Health program gives you the knowledge and skills you need to improve the health and well-being of diverse populations around the world — and to lead others along the way.

Through evidence-based practice, you’ll develop a well-rounded, advanced understanding
of public health. You’ll learn to assess population needs and design and evaluate interventions. You’ll delve into policies influencing population health programs.

You’ll gain data collection and analysis skills and learn to apply these skills in real-world situations. You’ll also explore epidemiological research models, strengthen biostatistical methods, such as survey and surveillance design and delivery, build management and leadership skills, and explore how health policies and systems impact different communities from an equity perspective.

Plus, you’ll discover community health analysis tools that will equip you for success and learn how to apply your knowledge ethically.

In addition to the core public health courses, you’ll complete an experiential learning component either through an internship, a community-based project, or by conducting research. Upon successful completion of the program, graduates are eligible for certification as Certified Health Education Specialists by passing the National Commission for Health Education Credentialing exam.

Why choose the University of Lynchburg public health graduate program?

An innovative student-centered MPH program.

Choosing Lynchburg’s Master of Public Health means being part of an innovative, student-centered environment that emphasizes collaboration with faculty, students, and the community while promoting creativity, critical thinking, independent research, and problem-solving — essential tools to effect positive change in our communities.

What makes the Master of Public Health at Lynchburg unique?

CHES Prep

The Certified Health Education Specialist exam is an important step for public health graduates. It’s widely recognized by employers as a benchmark for excellence in health education and assures them that you’re competent in conceptualizing, planning, and implementing health education programs.

Our MPH prepares you for the exam, and Lynchburg graduates have a 100% pass rate.

Learning the core areas of public health equips you with an array of skills you need to be successful. Our Master of Public Health program prepares you with the essentials, including:

  • Data analytics and assessment
  • Needs assessment, program planning, and evaluation
  • Communication
  • Health equity
  • Community partnerships
  • Environmental health sciences
  • Management and administration
  • Leadership and systems thinking
  • Biostatistical and epidemiological analysis

At Lynchburg, we believe specialized training in health promotion and education methods is an important component of creating a healthier society. Our community health-focused training encompasses the study of health communication, program planning and evaluation, and program administration, all of which focus on creating a comprehensive understanding of the physical, social, and environmental needs of communities

Learning to write grants is a critical aspect of the Master of Public Health. At Lynchburg, you’ll learn how to craft compelling proposals that help you stand out from the competition and get community funding for health-related programs. You’ll gain an understanding of preparation, research, the grant process, and the criteria used to evaluate applications.

Our MPH students are making a positive impact in their communities. They have volunteered their time and energy to assist with various initiatives, such as organizing vaccination drives, collecting supplies for retirement homes, running food banks, and doing tick surveillance in local parks.

In collaboration with the University Research Center, MPH students learn about current challenges faced by different communities and determine how to best serve those in need. Whether working with organizations in Central Virginia or their community, students apply what they’re learning to solve real-world problems.

Lynchburg offers unique international study abroad opportunities for MPH students. Even as an online student, the program provides the chance to learn about global health issues while exploring other cultures. In recent years, students have traveled to India, Costa Rica, Uganda, and Rwanda.

These culturally enriching experiences focus on community health initiatives like improving water quality. After traveling abroad, participants have a greater appreciation for how health issues can be addressed in different communities around the world.

Students gain an understanding of the complex structure and functions of the U.S. health care system. They learn about public health practices and the legal and regulatory frameworks for public health. Additionally, students develop skills in key managerial tasks and styles, as well as organizational and community assessment techniques. Moreover, they’re able to analyze trends in the U.S. health care system and identify areas of improvement.

Program-wide Student Learning Outcomes:

  • Apply advanced and specialized medical and public health knowledge by training within population and public health, including:
    • Medical knowledge in environmental health
    • Principles and practice of epidemiology and biostatistics
    • Professionalism and ethics
    • Diversity and equity in public health
    • Community-level health needs assessment and implementation
    • Data analytics and assessments
  • Analyze skills needed to provide leadership at local and global public healthcare institutions.
  • Design, develop, and execute projects that improve patient and community health-related outcomes.

Curriculum and Resources

2025-26 Academic Year Information

Master of Public Health

  • MPH 605 Public Health Needs Assessment & Planning (3 Credits) 
  • MPH 610 Biostatistics (3 Credits) 
  • MPH 615 Environmental Health (3 Credits)                                        
  • MPH 620 Social Aspects of Public Health (3 Credits)                                   
  • MPH 625 Public Health Implementation & Evaluation (3 Credits)  
  • MPH 630 Epidemiology (3 Credits)                                                                 
  • MPH 635 Community Health Administration (3 Credits)                                
  • MPH 640 Ethical Issues in Public Health (3 Credits)                                      
  • MPH 653 Public Health Practicum I (3 Credits)                                    
  • MPH 656 Public Health Practicum II (3 Credits)                              
  • MPH 657 Public Health Practicum III (3 Credits) 
  • MPH 655 Public Health Capstone Seminar (3 Credits) 
  • MPH 658 Global Public Health (3 Credits) 
  • MPH 659 Practical Application of Public Health (3 Credits) 

Total credit hours: 42

Interested in applying to the MPH program?

We’re committed to providing the best possible learning environment so our graduates are well-prepared to meet the challenges of a career in public health.

  • Priority deadlines: January 1, 2026 and June 14, 2026
How to Apply
  • Complete the online application.
  • Submit an official transcript from the college or university where your bachelor’s degree was awarded.
  • Submit a statement of purpose on the following topic:
    • Why do you want to pursue the Master of Public Health, and/or how will this degree assist you in achieving your career goals?
  • Submit a recent rĂ©sumĂ©/CV.

Learn more about the application process if you are one of the following:

  • Student seeking a second master’s degree.
  • Non-degree graduate student.

International Applicants

Admission to the Master of Public Health program will not lead to a visa for international students.

Admission Requirements
  • Bachelor’s degree in any field from a regionally accredited institution.
  • 2.75 minimum undergraduate GPA.
  • Official transcripts for all previously attended undergraduate and graduate institutions.
  • Current CV or resume.
  • GRE and GMAT are not required.
  • English language testing when English is not a first language.

Admissions

Master of Public Health (MPH) Faculty

Program Director | Faculty Contact

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Headshot of Alfred Douglas

Alfred Douglas ’23 DMSc, PA-C

Adjunct Faculty in the Master of Public Health Program ...
Headshot of Eddie Amberg

Eddie Amberg ’22 DMSc

Adjunct Faculty in the Master of Public Health Program ...
Luis Munoz '21 MPH, '23 DMSc

Luis Munoz ’21 MPH, ’23 DMSc

Adjunct Faculty in the Master of Public Health Program ...
Headshot of Matthew Noll

Matthew E. Noll ’23 DMSc, PA-C

Adjunct Faculty in the Master of Public Health Program ...
Patrick T. DePriest Sr. '22 DMSc

Patrick T. DePriest Sr. ’22 DMSc

Adjunct Faculty in the Master of Public Health Program ...
Rachel Seccia

Rachel Seccia ’23 DMSc, MPAS, PA-C

Adjunct Faculty, Master of Public Health ...
A man and woman wearing black shirts talking and walking down a path in the woods.

As a Lynchburg MPH student, you'll:

“The University of Lynchburg and the professors in my department have set me up for success."

- Lacey Teal ’21, ’24 MPH

Graduate Tuition

Below is an overview of the cost of the program:

Master of Public Health (MPH)

$ 608 Cost Per Credit Hour
  • Credit Hours: 42
  • Estimated Cost of Completion: $25,536

LET US KNOW YOU'RE INTERESTED.

WE'LL BE IN TOUCH!
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