Public Health, M.P.H.

Application Deadlines

The deadline for completing online applications is posted on the department website for the following fall semester (see Cal State Apply). Mailed applications need to be postmarked by the same deadline. However, the deadline may be changed based upon enrollment projections.

Admission to Graduate Standing - Classified

Students must meet the CSU requirements for admission to a master’s degree program. Please consult the Graduate Admissions  section in this catalog for complete information. Additional requirements for acceptance in the MPH program include:

• Copy of official transcript(s) from all college work sent directly to the MPH Graduate program coordinator
• Two letters of recommendation with recommendation forms and waivers (posted on the department website)
• A narrative statement (300-500 words describing how the program relates to professional goals)
• A current résumé
• Completion of three units of statistics and research methods (appropriate courses include statistics, epidemiology, research methods, program design and evaluation, etc.) with a “B” (3.0) or better
• Appropriate educational background for the public health program. Professionals currently in field can demonstrate proficiency by coursework or by portfolio review or similar supporting evidence)
• 2.7 cumulative GPA
• A Graduate Records Examination (GRE) score
• Paid or volunteer experience in public health, health education or related health area
• Communication skills utilizing a second language encouraged

Admission to Graduate Standing - Conditionally Classified

It may also be possible for applicants who have minimal deficiencies in prerequisite requirements, as detailed above, but are otherwise highly qualified, to be admitted in conditionally classified graduate standing; with provisions made for removal of deficiencies prior to the granting of classified standing. For further information, consult with the MPH Program Coordinator.

Graduate Study Plan

Thirty of the 42 units required for the degree are core competency classes, including a six-unit internship and 12-16 units of electives, 75 percent of which must be 500-level courses. Students work with a faculty adviser to select these electives to support career areas in health promotion, environmental and occupational health, gerontological health, or in a special studies track such as health anthropology or health counseling or other special academic/career needs.

Total (42 units)