Expanding Your Nursing Horizons: Is an MPH the Right Next Step for You?

Published on: May 23, 2025

REVIEWED BY

Katherine Paul, MPH

Nursing has long been intertwined with public health. Whether in hospitals or community clinics, nurses address individual needs while navigating broader health challenges.

Public health concerns like global pandemics and chronic diseases continue to shape the healthcare landscape, which is why many nurses with a Bachelor of Science in Nursing (BSN) degree are looking to expand their impact beyond traditional clinical settings.

Public health offers a path to do just that.

A Master of Public Health (MPH) degree equips nurses with skills in health policy, epidemiology, and health administration — skills that can influence healthcare systems on a larger scale. Whether focused in health promotion, disease prevention, or health care policy development, an MPH program can be a powerful bridge between direct patient care and broader public health initiatives.

This article will cover topics relevant to nursing professionals who are interested in an MPH program, like:

The structure, benefits, and key components of an MPH program
How MPH programs can align with your nursing background
How an MPH can support your career goals and desire to make a broader impact

Read on to learn if pursuing an MPH is right for you.

What is an MPH Program?

A Master of Public Health (MPH) is a graduate school degree designed that equips professionals with skills in public health education, research, and health policy development.

Unlike a Master of Science in Nursing (MSN), which focuses on direct patient care, an MPH emphasizes population health, social determinants of health, and disease prevention strategies.

For registered nurses (RNs) with a BSN, an MPH program provides an opportunity to expand their skill set beyond clinical practice. Some programs, such as New York University’s MPH/MSN program, are dual degree programs that combine nursing and public health training. Others, like Case Western’s 16-month option, offer accelerated pathways that allow nurses to earn their MPH degree in one to two years.

Typical MPH master’s degree coursework includes:

Epidemiology and Biostatistics: Understand disease patterns and data-driven decision-making
Health Policy and Administration: Explore healthcare administration, public policy, and leadership strategies
Environmental and Occupational Health: Address how environmental factors affect individual and community health
Community Health and Health Promotion: Design and deliver community-based programs to improve health outcomes

Many programs also include clinical experience or internships, offering hands-on learning through placements in public health nursing programs, government agencies, or health science research institutions.

Benefits of Advancing From BSN to MPH

Nurses with a BSN who want to pursue an MPH can unlock new career paths and expand their impact on public health initiatives and their community.

Here’s why earning an MPH degree can be a turning point for BSN-prepared nurses in the United States:

1. Expanded Career Opportunities

An MPH prepares nurses for a wide range of roles, such as:

Epidemiologists: Track health trends and investigate disease outbreaks
Health Policy Analysts: Shape public health regulations and inform decision-making processes in government
Health Care Administrators: Lead hospitals, community health centers, and nursing education programs
Public Health Consultants: Guide organizations on health promotion and disease prevention strategies

2. Influence on Health Policy

With a focus on health policy, nurses can advocate for federal and local public health programs, shape legislation, and design interventions that help improve health outcomes for communities and individuals.

3. Leadership and Higher Earning Potential

An MPH degree can lead to leadership positions and advanced practice roles. Nurses with experience in healthcare administration or public health education are better positioned for director-level roles in hospitals, nursing programs, and government health organizations.

Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, Employment Projections program

Career Outlook for MPH Graduates

Earning an MPH degree can boost both job prospects and earning potential for nurses transitioning into public health roles. The demand for public health professionals continues to rise, driven by global health challenges, disease prevention needs, and growing support for community-based care.¹

Nurses with a BSN already have a powerful foundation in patient care, clinical decision-making, and health advocacy. But for nurses aiming to lead, influence policy, or take on broader health challenges, an MPH could be the next step.

Job Growth

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), careers like medical and health services managers —a key part of public health — are projected to grow 29% from 2023 and 2033, far outpacing the national average for all occupations.² As healthcare systems continue to prioritize population health strategies, professionals with MPH degrees will play a crucial role in designing and implementing health initiatives.

Source: Zip Recruiter

Salary Outlook

An MPH can significantly boost earning potential. RNs earned a median salary of $86,000 per year in 2023.³As of February 2025, the average MPH the average MPH yearly salary has risen to $120,000.⁴

While salaries vary based on specialization and location, MPH professionals generally earn competitive wages.

Here are a few examples of salaries in the United States as of February 2025:

Epidemiologists:

The median salary for an epidemiologist is $110,252.⁵
Health Services Administrator:

The average salary for a health services administrator is $109,274.⁶
Public Health Program Manager:

The median annual pay for a public health program manager is $133,000.⁷

Pursuing an MPH program can offer strong career returns like increased job security, career flexibility, and the chance to shape public health at scale.

Key Components of MPH Programs for Nurses

MPH programs allow nurses to combine clinical expertise with public health strategies.

As a nurse with a BSN, look for MPH programs that offer:

Core Public Health Courses:

Courses in epidemiology, health science, and global health
Electives Tailored for Nurses:

Electives in public health nursing programs, occupational therapy, or physical therapy
Capstone Projects & Internships:

Practical work experience that lets students apply public health education principles in real-world settings

These programs enable BSN-prepared RNs to combine their clinical experience with health administration and lead community health initiatives that can promote meaningful change.

Admission Requirements for MPH and Dual-Degree Programs

Most MPH programs require:

Bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (not necessarily in public health)
GPA of 3.0 or higher (some programs may accept lower GPAs with strong experience or test scores)
Resume or CV highlighting relevant work or volunteer experience, especially in health, science, or community service
Personal statement or statement of purpose outlining your goals, interest in public health, and why you're pursuing the MPH
Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3), often from academic or professional references
Prerequisite coursework in biology, statistics, or social sciences (varies by program)

Most MPH/MSN dual-degree programs require:

A BSN degree from an accredited institution (some universities specifically require BSN degrees accredited by the Commission on Collegiate Nursing Education [CCNE])
Active registered nurse (RN) licensure
Work experience in health professions
A statement of purpose highlighting clinical experience and interest in public health

How to Choose the Right MPH Program

Choosing the right MPH depends on the following key factors:

1. Accreditation & Faculty Expertise

Look for programs accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) and those with faculty actively engaged in public health and health science research.

2. Online vs. Traditional Programs

Many nurses choose an online master in public health to balance studies with work and personal commitments.

Universities such as Walden University and Boston University offer flexible online options. Others, like Johns Hopkins University and Emory University offer in-person programs that emphasize networking and peer collaboration.

3. Specializations & Career Support

Many MPH programs offer concentrations in areas like:

Global Health
Epidemiology & Data Science
Health Promotion & Community Health

When comparing programs, look for alumni success rates, job placement rates, and internship opportunities.

MPH Programs for Nurses with BSNs

If you’re a nurse with a BSN ready expand your career, consider these MPH programs:

Johns Hopkins University

The MPH program at Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health offers nurses a rigorous curriculum that lets them transition into public health leadership. The program is designed to prepare students to address global health challenges through multidisciplinary, evidence-based approaches. Students can tailor their education through 12 concentrations and flexible learning formats, including full-time (11-months) and part-time options, with courses available both online and on-campus. The program offers an array of elective courses, a practicum experience, and a capstone project.

Emory University

Emory University offers a dual-degree Master of Science in Nursing (MSN) and Master of Public Health (MPH) program that combines advanced nursing practices with comprehensive public health education. Their courses prepare nurses to address health challenges at both individual and community levels. The program can be completed in two years, with the first year focused on public health coursework at the Rollins School of Public Health and the second year focused on nursing at the Nell Hodgson Woodruff School of Nursing.

Boston University

Boston University’s 48-credit MPH program offers flexible full-time or part-time options, with on-campus and hybrid formats. This program can be completed in as little as 16 months full-time or over two–three years part-time. Nurses begin with an integrated core curriculum before specializing in areas like health policy, community health, or health care management. The program emphasizes hands-on experience, professional development, and real-world application, equipping nurses with the skills to lead population health initiatives, shape health policies, and improve healthcare systems.

New York University

For those considering between an MPH and an MSN program, New York University offers a three-year dual-degree program that integrates advanced practice nursing with public health training, leading to both an MSN and an MPH. The full-time program is designed to prepare nurses for leadership positions across various settings by combining clinical expertise with public health competencies. Students can choose from eight specialized tracks, such as: Psychiatric-Mental Health Nurse Practitioner/Global Health; Pediatric Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Global Health; Adult-Gerontology Primary Care Nurse Practitioner/Global Health; Nursing Administration/Global Health; Nurse-Midwifery/Global Health.

Walden University

Walden University’s online MPH program is ideal for nurses looking to expand their impact beyond direct patient care and into public health leadership. The program covers core public health areas like epidemiology, health policy, and health education while emphasizing strategies to reduce health disparities and improve community health outcomes. With flexible online learning and a focus on real-world application, Walden’s program prepares RNs for roles in public health agencies, community health organizations, and healthcare leadership.

San Francisco State University

San Francisco State University's MPH program emphasizes social justice and cultural humility, preparing graduates to address health disparities effectively. The hybrid curriculum combines in-person classes one day per week with evening virtual sessions, accommodating working professionals. Over two years, nurses will engage in a 43-unit cohort-based program that includes community-engaged projects and a culminating experience to synthesize their learning. Graduates are equipped for leadership roles in healthcare administration, community outreach, policy advocacy, and research, enhancing their ability to serve diverse populations.

Case Western Reserve University

Case Western Reserve University's Master of Public Health (MPH) program offers a flexible and comprehensive curriculum tailored for healthcare professionals, including nurses, aiming to expand their roles in public health leadership. The 42-credit hour program can be completed in as little as 16 months, with options for part-time study. Students can choose from five concentrations: Population Health Research, Global Health, Health Policy and Management, Health Promotion and Disease Prevention, and Health Informatics. The program emphasizes practical experience through a culminating practicum and capstone project, allowing nurses to apply their clinical expertise to community health initiatives.

The Pennsylvania State University

Penn State's online Master of Public Health (MPH) program offers nurses an opportunity to broaden their impact from individual patient care to community and global health initiatives. The 42-credit curriculum encompasses core public health disciplines, including epidemiology, biostatistics, health services organization, and behavioral health intervention strategies. Students can tailor their education by selecting electives that align with their career goals and interests. The program's flexible online format allows nurses to balance their studies with professional commitments, making it an ideal choice for those seeking to advance their careers without compromising current employment.

University of North Carolina (UNC) Charlotte

The University of North Carolina at Charlotte offers an in-person MPH program that enables students to apply core principles of evidence-based public health practice within a variety of professional settings. The curriculum offers four concentrations: Community Health Practice, Epidemiology, Health Policy, and Physical Activity and Nutrition. This program is ideal for nurses aiming to expand their impact from individual patient care to broader community health initiatives.

American Public University

American Public University's online MPH program offers nurses a flexible pathway to expand their expertise into public health. The program covers core public health disciplines, including epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health sciences, health policy and management, and social and behavioral sciences. A unique feature is the course on Quarantine and Disaster Health Management, providing specialized knowledge relevant to current global health challenges. The curriculum also includes a hands-on practicum, allowing nurses to apply their clinical experience to community health initiatives.

Next Steps

Earning an MPH degree is a strategic move for nurses seeking to bridge the gap between clinical practice and community health. Whether aiming for leadership roles in healthcare administration, government agencies, or global health organizations, an MPH program provides individuals with the knowledge, skills, and opportunities to make a lasting impact.

If you’re a nurse ready to expand your career in public health, research MPH programs to determine the programs that are the right fit for you and request more information from the schools. Connect with current students, attend virtual sessions, and explore the best choice for your goals. Your next step in nursing education could be the key to shaping the future of healthcare in your local community or across the world.

Sources:

About the Authors

Reviewed by:

Katherine Paul , MPH

Katherine Paul, MPH is a senior project manager at a leading medical communications and publications organization. She supports multidisciplinary teams handling large-scale accounts, the deliverables of which improve health outcomes and patient well-being. Ms. Paul holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in Health Promotion from Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health and passed the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) shortly after graduation. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Sociology from Dickinson College.

Ms. Paul previously worked at a public health non-profit where she managed all aspects of diverse health-related projects, including the implementation of a randomized controlled clinical trial on sexual health for teens with developmental disabilities, as well as the evaluation of a statewide tobacco cessation program with more than 20,000 annual cases. She has developed and delivered posters and presentations at national conferences including the American Public Health Association (APHA) annual meeting.

Opinions and information published by the author here on MastersPublicHealth.com are of my own and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of my employer or other organizations for my designated roles.

Katherine Paul , MPH

Editorial Lead

Education: Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health

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