FAQs - Master of Public Health

Admission Questions

When is the application deadline?

The MPH application cycle is currently open for candidates who want to enroll in the fall 2024 cohort. Applications to the MPH program are reviewed on a rolling basis, but candidates are encouraged to apply early for interview preference.

Is there a minimum GPA requirement to apply to the MPH program?

Competitive candidates for admission will have a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in all college and graduate work.

Is the GRE required for admission to the MPH program?

The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is not required for admission into the MPH program.

Are there prerequisite courses for the MPH program?

While it is not required, the MPH program recommends candidates have previous coursework completed in social and behavioral sciences, human biology, and math or statistics.

Is previous work experience required for admission to the MPH program?

While the MPH program does not have a work experience requirement as part of the admission process, our program is made up of individuals with varied professional backgrounds. Some students have recently graduated college while others have years of working experience within the healthcare industry.

Will I be interviewed as part of the application process?

Yes. The MPH program invites selected applicants to participate in an interview with members of the faculty prior to making a final admission decision.

I am an international student, is the TOEFL (English proficiency) exam required?

The admission committee will determine if the TOEFL is required upon evaluation of the application. Additionally, candidates with degrees earned from foreign institutions must have their academic transcripts translated and verified by World Education Services (WES), an international credential evaluation service.

I'm a current BW student or graduate. Do I have to submit my transcripts?

The admission office will work with current BW students and graduates to retain official BW transcripts. If official transcripts from other institutions were already submitted to BW for prior coursework, the admission office may be able to utilize those during the admission process. Please contact a member of the admission staff for more details.

Program Questions

How is the MPH program structured?

The MPH program begins in January or August and is offered part-time to accommodate working professionals. Through this cohort program, classes meet Friday evenings and Saturday mornings (two weekends a month) on The MetroHealth System campus in Cleveland or at Baldwin Wallace's campus in Berea. Classes are also offered in a hyflex or online format. Typically, it takes three years to complete this graduate program.

Can the program be completed in less than three years?

Possibly. Candidates may work with the MPH program director to determine availability of completing credit requirements in a more streamlined approach.

Can students transfer in coursework to the MPH program?

Candidates who have already completed graduate coursework may work with the MPH program director to determine eligibility for transfer credit. Up to three credits of graduate coursework may transfer in depending on course content.

Is there an online option to complete the program?

Yes, the MPH program provides flexible options for students to complete their studies through online or in-person delivery.

Is BW's Master's in Public Health accredited?

Per accreditation guidelines, the program can seek accreditation by the Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH), the nodal accreditation agency for public health education, after graduating its first cohort. The program plans to begin the CEPH accreditation process in 2023. More information about accreditation can be found here.

I am interested in multiple concentration areas. Which concentration should I choose?

Students in the MPH program don't have to select their intended track until the second year. This allows students to engage within the core curriculum coursework and develop insight into the four main concentration areas. With your interests and career goals in mind, MPH faculty assist in advising students on the appropriate concentration.

What can I do with an MPH degree?

The MPH program is interdisciplinary by design and allows students to be on the cutting edge of population health and research. MPH degrees set up students well for work with both national and international organizations. Career advancement and increased responsibilities within current roles are also accessible for MPH graduates.