MPH Programs in Colorado: Top Schools & Online Options

Published on: Dec 6, 2025

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Colorado’s diverse geography and demographics shape a unique public health landscape. From rural mountain towns to growing urban hubs like Denver and Colorado Springs, the state faces a broad spectrum of health challenges. Low air quality, higher than average rates of death by suicide, and disparities in healthcare access, especially in remote areas, underscore the urgent need for well-trained public health professionals^1-3.

In response to these evolving issues, Colorado has invested in robust public health infrastructure. Agencies such as the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE) are tackling statewide concerns ranging from infectious disease surveillance to health professional shortages. At the same time, public health professionals are essential to bridging gaps in behavioral health, improving maternal and child health outcomes, and promoting environmental resilience.

As a result, student interest in Master of Public Health (MPH) programs in Colorado is growing rapidly. Whether driven by the desire to work in community health education, epidemiology, or environmental health, students are choosing Colorado MPH programs for their interdisciplinary focus, real-world practicum opportunities, and strong ties to regional employers. With both on-campus and online Master of Public Health programs available, students can find programs tailored to their career goals, no matter where they live in the state.

Why Study Public Health in Colorado?

Colorado offers a one-of-a-kind environment for public health students and professionals. The state’s mountainous terrain, high elevation, and outdoor culture shape a wide array of public health concerns, from altitude-related conditions and recreational safety to sun exposure and air quality. These geographic and demographic contrasts create rich learning and research opportunities for MPH students.

Students pursuing public health jobs in Colorado often find themselves working on the front lines of pressing health issues. There have been increased efforts state-wide to address behavioral and mental health issues and prevent opioid overdoses ^1,4. Air quality issues tied to wildfire smoke and climate change have further heightened the importance of environmental health research and interventions⁵. These multifaceted Colorado public health issues demand a skilled, cross-disciplinary workforce.

Major employers such as the Colorado Department of Public Health & Environment (CDPHE), Kaiser Permanente, UCHealth, and numerous nonprofit organizations actively hire MPH graduates to meet these needs. Whether in epidemiology, health education, or environmental health, graduates can find impactful roles across the state.

Colorado consistently ranks high on national health indicators, with strengths in physical activity rates and access to quality care^6,7. According to U.S. News & World Report, Colorado ranks well above the national average in healthcare quality, but continues to face disparities in mental health support and rural healthcare access, highlighting areas where MPH professionals can make a meaningful difference^2,3.

Whether you're passionate about solving rural health inequities or tackling climate-related health challenges, Colorado MPH programs provide the ideal training ground to engage with urgent public health priorities. A degree here means gaining the skills, and the networks, to lead in one of the nation’s most dynamic public health landscapes.

Colorado MPH Program Overview

Colorado is home to several strong Master of Public Health (MPH) programs, each offering distinct concentrations, delivery formats, and community partnerships. The following table provides a quick snapshot of the state's leading MPH options:

School	Format	Concentrations	Accreditation
University of Colorado - Anschutz	On-campus and online MPH options	Biostatistics, Community & Behavioral Health, Environmental & Occupational Health, Epidemiology, Health Systems, Management & Policy, Leadership & Public Health Practice (online), Maternal & Child Health, Population Mental Health & Wellbeing (online)	CEPH-Accredited
Colorado State University	In-person	Animals, People & the Environment, Epidemiology, Global Health & Health Disparities, Health Communication, Physical Activity & Healthy Lifestyles, Public Health Nutrition	CEPH-Accredited
University of Northern Colorado	In-person	Community Health Education	CEPH-Accredited

All of these institutions offer public health MPH degrees accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). CEPH accreditation is essential for ensuring program quality and can influence eligibility for licensure, fellowships, and employment in both governmental and nonprofit sectors. Choosing a CEPH-accredited MPH program in Colorado helps ensure that students meet national standards for public health education, which is an important consideration for long-term career credibility and mobility.

Whether you’re looking for flexible online MPH programs, rural public health training, or research-rich urban campuses, Colorado’s accredited MPH programs provide rigorous, practice-based education designed to prepare future leaders in public health.

Featured CEPH-Accredited MPH Programs in Colorado

Colorado’s accredited MPH programs combine academic rigor with real-world experience. Each institution brings a distinct focus and delivery model, allowing students to match their education to their professional interests and lifestyle. Below are detailed profiles of the state’s top CEPH-accredited MPH programs.

A. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (Aurora)

The University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus hosts the Colorado School of Public Health, one of the most prominent public health institutions in the Rocky Mountain region. With both on-campus and online MPH options, CU Anschutz provides flexibility for traditional students and working professionals alike.

The school offers a wide range of concentrations, including:

CU Anschutz stands out for its large cohort of MPH students, breadth of graduate programs and dual degree options, and strong research orientation. Students benefit from direct connections to major public health employers like the University of Colorado Hospital (UCHealth) and the Rocky Mountain Regional VA Medical Center.

Through its CEPH-accredited programs, CU Anschutz equips students with a strong foundation in public health theory and applied research, which are ideal for those pursuing leadership roles in policy, epidemiology, or global health.

B. Colorado State University (Fort Collins)

Colorado State University (CSU) in Fort Collins partners with CU Anschutz to deliver hybrid MPH programs through the Colorado School of Public Health. These programs blend online coursework with in-person classes on the CSU campus which is ideal for students seeking a flexible yet collaborative learning environment.

CSU’s public health program has concentrations is:

Situated in a hub for agricultural research and animal sciences, CSU offers a unique angle on One Health issues that intersect animal, environmental, and human health. The university also emphasizes physical activity and healthy lifestyles, making it a strong fit for students who want to work in Colorado’s mountain communities.

C. University of Northern Colorado (Greeley)

The University of Northern Colorado (UNC) offers CEPH-accredited MPH programs that emphasize community health, education, and health promotion. Through its partnership with the Colorado School of Public Health, UNC’s programs are designed for professionals who want to make an impact through outreach, policy advocacy, and population-level behavior change.

UNC provides flexible evening courses, with concentrations including Community Health Education.

Students are immersed in applied learning experiences through regional partnerships with local health departments, school districts, and nonprofits. This focus on community engagement is ideal for students passionate about health equity, rural health challenges, and educational interventions.

Located in Greeley, UNC offers affordability, small class sizes, and a practitioner-focused approach that prioritizes real-world impact. Graduates are well-prepared for careers in public health education, program coordination, and leadership in community-based organizations.

Each of these three institutions are CEPH-accredited, ensuring their MPH programs meet the highest standards for public health education. Whether you're interested in research, rural outreach, or global health, Colorado's MPH programs provide the academic foundation and hands-on training needed to address the state's most urgent public health issues.

Online MPH Programs in Colorado

Online MPH programs in Colorado offer flexible, accessible options for professionals seeking to advance their public health careers without disrupting their personal or professional lives. These programs are especially beneficial for working adults, rural residents, and career changers balancing school with job or family commitments.

Colorado has expanded its online MPH offerings through institutions like the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus. This online MPH program maintains CEPH accreditation and academic rigor, ensuring that online students receive the same high-quality education as their on-campus peers.

At CU Anschutz, students can earn an MPH degree online in areas such as Leadership & Public Health Practice and Population Mental Health. These fully online tracks are designed to be completed in 2–3 years, with 42 credit hours required.

As online MPH programs grow across Colorado, students should take a proactive approach to maximize their learning:

Engage Actively in Virtual Classrooms –

Use discussion boards, group projects, and live sessions to connect with peers and faculty. Collaboration strengthens both comprehension and networking.
Use University Resources –

Online students can (and should) access advising, career services, virtual events, and faculty office hours to stay supported and on track.
Tap Into Alumni and Professional Networks –

Institutions often provide access to alumni mentors and public health organizations such as the Colorado Public Health Association, offering ongoing support and networking long after graduation.

Ultimately, the online MPH Colorado experience is what you make of it. With discipline, engagement, and the right support, an MPH degree online can open doors to impactful public health careers across the state.

Choosing the Right MPH Program in Colorado

With multiple accredited options across the state, choosing the right MPH program in Colorado comes down to identifying the program that best aligns with your personal goals, interests, and circumstances. Prospective students should consider a range of factors before committing to a school.

1. CEPH Accreditation

The first step is to confirm that the program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). This ensures the curriculum meets national standards and often affects eligibility for public health fellowships, licensure, and employment. All major MPH programs in Colorado—CU Anschutz, CSU, and UNC Greeley—hold CEPH accreditation.
2. Specializations Offered

Each school offers unique concentration areas to fit your specific public health interests. If you're passionate about environmental health, epidemiology, or health policy, ensure the school offers a robust track in that area. Consider asking: “What are the most relevant MPH concentrations for my career goals?”
3. Delivery Format

Colorado’s programs vary in how they're delivered. Students in urban centers may prefer in-person learning, while rural or working professionals might lean toward online or hybrid MPH programs. Evaluate your schedule, learning style, and access to campus resources.
4. Cost and Location

Tuition varies widely based on where you are from (in-state versus out-of-state) and which school you attend. Compare total credit requirements, per-credit tuition rates, and availability of financial aid or scholarships. Also consider whether proximity to public health employers (like CDPHE or local health departments) is important for you.
5. Curriculum, Practicum, and Faculty Experience

Look closely at the curriculum: Is it practice-based or research-intensive? Does the program offer applied practice experience opportunities in areas that align with your interests (e.g., rural health, global health, or policy)? Are faculty actively engaged in research or community health partnerships? These factors shape the learning experience and can enhance your résumé post-graduation. Reviewing the program’s graduate course catalog can give you insight into elective offerings, faculty expertise, and how well the curriculum aligns with your interests.

If you're wondering, “How do I choose an MPH program in Colorado?” or even, “What is the best MPH program in Colorado?”, the answer is personal: the best program is the one that fits your goals, learning style, budget, and desired area of impact in public health. Once you’ve narrowed down your list of potential schools, be sure to request information directly from each program for general information about tuition, practicum opportunities, and start dates. Use this admissions information to help you make a more informed decision.

Lastly, if you're still exploring the field or not ready to commit to a full MPH, consider starting with a graduate certificate in public health. Some Colorado institutions offer certificate programs in areas like epidemiology, global health, or public health leadership, some of which can later be applied toward an MPH degree.

Admission Requirements & Application Tips

Like public health graduate programs across the U.S., Colorado’s accredited MPH programs generally share common admission requirements. Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree and typically submit a minimum GPA, two or three letters of recommendation, and a personal statement or statement of purpose.

While it’s not necessary to have majored in public health or a closely related field like health informatics or health administration, prior coursework in areas such as business administration, public health administration, and health management can strengthen your application. Many schools, such as San Jose State University, have undergraduate degrees in public health. However, if you have a seemingly unrelated bachelors degree, you are also encouraged to apply.

GRE Requirements:

In recent years, many MPH programs have waived the GRE required, especially for students applying to online or hybrid formats. Many schools, such as Boston University, University of North Carolina, and Oregon State University no longer require the GRE for program entry. However, policies can vary by school and concentration, so it’s important to learn more about each program’s most current admissions page.
Letters of Recommendation and Personal Statements:

Most programs require two or three letters of recommendation from academic mentors, supervisors, or professionals familiar with your public health potential. Your personal statement is equally critical—it should explain your motivation for pursuing an MPH, outline your professional goals, and highlight why a particular Colorado program or concentration aligns with your interests.
Application Timelines:

Most MPH programs in Colorado offer fall admissions, but several also provide multiple start dates, especially for online or part-time learners.
Tips to Strengthen Your Application:
- Clarify Your Purpose – In your personal statement, connect your experiences to your vision for impact in Colorado communities or beyond.
- Choose Strong Recommenders – Select individuals who can speak to your academic capabilities, leadership, or public health potential.
- Showcase Relevant Experience – Volunteer work, internships, or roles in health education, nonprofit work, or research all demonstrate your readiness for graduate-level study.

Specializations Offered in Colorado MPH Programs

One of the advantages of pursuing an MPH in Colorado is the variety of specializations available across the state’s CEPH-accredited programs. Whether you're interested in field research, policy advocacy, or community education, Colorado MPH programs offer tailored pathways to match your professional goals.

Environmental & Occupational Health - his concentration focuses on air quality, workplace safety, and environmental hazards, which are particularly relevant in industries like agriculture, energy, and tourism and given Colorado’s diverse geography and outdoor workforce. Students in this track explore the intersection of environmental exposures and public health outcomes, with opportunities for fieldwork and research on wildfire smoke, water quality, and more.
Epidemiology - For those seeking an epidemiology degree, Colorado programs provide rigorous training in data analysis, disease surveillance, and outbreak investigation. This specialization prepares students for roles in research, biostatistics, and health data policy.
Community & Behavioral Health - This popular concentration emphasizes health promotion, education, and behavior change strategies grounded in behavioral science. Programs prepare students to work in community settings, schools, and nonprofit organizations to address issues such as mental health, substance use, and chronic disease prevention.
Health Policy & Management - For students focused on leadership and systems change, a health policy program in Colorado offers coursework in public health law, health economics, healthcare management, and organizational management. This track is ideal for those pursuing roles in public administration, nonprofit leadership, or policy analysis at the state or federal level.

Each specialization equips graduates with the tools to address Colorado’s most urgent health challenges. Whether you’re pursuing an epidemiology degree or aiming to shape state-level policy, Colorado MPH programs provide the depth and flexibility to support your public health mission.

Tuition, Financial Aid & Scholarships

Cost is a major factor for many prospective students, but not to worry, there are affordable MPH programs in Colorado that offer a strong return on investment. Tuition rates vary by school and delivery format, but generally, Colorado residents pay significantly less than out-of-state students for their graduate public health degrees.

When comparing costs, it’s important to factor in more than just tuition. Additional expenses may include university fees, textbooks, technology requirements (especially for online learners), transportation, and practicum-related costs. Fortunately, most Colorado universities provide detailed cost breakdowns on their financial aid websites, helping students budget proactively.

Several strategies can help offset the cost of your MPH:

Graduate Assistantships (GAs): Most Colorado MPH programs offer research or teaching assistantships that include tuition support and stipends. These roles typically require 10–20 hours of weekly work and are designed to complement your academic schedule.
MPH Scholarships: Scholarships are available through individual schools, Colorado-based health foundations, and national public health organizations. Many prioritize students with financial need, exceptional academic performance, or a commitment to rural or underserved communities.
Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF): Graduates working full-time for government or nonprofit employers may qualify for PSLF if they complete a CEPH-accredited program and make 120 qualifying loan payments.

With a combination of MPH scholarships, assistantships, and loan forgiveness options, students can find affordable MPH programs in Colorado that meet both academic and financial needs. If you want to see what public health scholarships are out there, we have an entire article detailing public health scholarships.

Colorado Public Health Careers and Outlook

Graduates of MPH programs in Colorado enter a dynamic job market with strong demand across sectors. As the state grapples with ongoing health challenges, from mental health disparities to environmental risks, public health professionals are essential to building resilient, healthier communities^1,2.

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), there is projected to be steady growth in core public health roles nationally:

Epidemiologist: These professionals are vital in tracking disease outbreaks and analyzing public health data. The average salary for epidemiologists is around $84,000, depending on experience and location⁸. The job outlook for epidemiologists is projected to grow by almost 20% in the next decade, which is much faster than the national average⁸.
Community Health Worker: Demand for community health workers continues to rise, with a projected growth rate of 13% in the next decade⁹. Median salaries for community health workers are about $51,000 annually⁹.
Environmental Specialists: As climate-related events like wildfires and water contamination increase, so does the need for experts in environmental health. These roles earn a median salary of $80,000 annually and are projected to grow 7% in the next decade¹⁰.

Top employers offering public health jobs in Colorado include the Colorado Department of Public Health and Environment (CDPHE), Children’s Hospital Colorado, UCHealth, and numerous nonprofit organizations focused on health equity, housing, and behavioral health. In addition, many MPH graduates pursue roles in research institutions, local health departments, or state agencies focused on policy, data analysis, and emergency preparedness.

FAQs About Colorado MPH Programs

Colorado is home to three CEPH-accredited public health degree programs offered through the Colorado School of Public Health, a collaboration between the University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus, Colorado State University, and the University of Northern Colorado. Each campus offers unique concentrations and delivery formats tailored to different career interests.

Yes. CU Anschutz offers fully online or hybrid MPH programs designed for working adults and students in rural areas. These programs maintain the same academic standards as in-person offerings and provide flexibility for students balancing work, family, or other obligations.

Absolutely. Colorado faces a wide range of public health challenges, from mental health and air quality to rural healthcare access, making it an ideal training ground for MPH students^1-3. Graduates can find jobs with major employers such as CDPHE, Children’s Hospital Colorado, and leading NGOs. The job outlook is especially strong for roles like epidemiologist and health educators.

Yes. Choosing a CEPH-accredited program ensures you’re receiving a high-quality education that meets national standards. It also impacts your eligibility for federal aid, fellowships, and competitive jobs in the public health field.

Conclusion

As Colorado continues to face complex health challenges, from behavioral health crises to climate-driven environmental threats, the need for well-trained public health professionals has never been greater^1,2. Earning an MPH in Colorado positions graduates to lead meaningful change across the state’s urban, rural, and frontier communities.

Whether you're seeking an on-campus experience or the flexibility of an online degree, Colorado’s CEPH-accredited MPH programs offer high-quality education tailored to real-world impact. With diverse specializations, strong faculty mentorship, and partnerships with top employers, these programs prepare students to thrive in a variety of public health roles.

If you're ready to take the next step in your public health career, now is the time. Explore accredited Colorado MPH programs that align with your goals (links open in new tab) and help shape a healthier future for all Coloradans.

References

About the Authors

Written by:

Kerra (Henkin) Jones , MPH, ML

Kerra (Henkin) Jones, MPH, ML, is a program manager at one of the largest academic medical centers in the country. In her current role, she aligns and expands programming with needs identified in the federally mandated community health needs assessment, and deploys organizational resources to support community health improvement. Prior to this role, she was a community health educator for an advocacy nonprofit organization in Philadelphia. She has co-authored multiple research papers on criminal justice and substance abuse, and will be presenting on law enforcement assisted diversion at the 2023 American Public Health Association (APHA) annual meeting.

Kerra holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) and Master in Law (ML) from the University of Pennsylvania. She holds a Bachelors of Science in Health Sciences from Ithaca College.

Opinions and information published by the author on MastersPublicHealth.com are of her own and do not necessarily represent the views of opinions of her employer.

Kerra (Henkin) Jones , MPH, ML

Program Manager

Education: University of Pennsylvania

Knowledge: Community health education

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

Dive Deeper in Research

Resources

MPH Programs in Colorado: Top Schools & Online Options

WRITTEN BY

Kerra (Henkin) Jones, MPH, ML

REVIEWED BY

Katherine Paul, MPH

Why Study Public Health in Colorado?

Colorado MPH Program Overview

Featured CEPH-Accredited MPH Programs in Colorado

A. University of Colorado Anschutz Medical Campus (Aurora)

B. Colorado State University (Fort Collins)

C. University of Northern Colorado (Greeley)

Online MPH Programs in Colorado

Choosing the Right MPH Program in Colorado

Admission Requirements & Application Tips

Specializations Offered in Colorado MPH Programs

Tuition, Financial Aid & Scholarships

Colorado Public Health Careers and Outlook

FAQs About Colorado MPH Programs

Conclusion

References

About the Authors

Written by:

Kerra (Henkin) Jones , MPH, ML

Kerra (Henkin) Jones , MPH, ML

Reviewed by:

Katherine Paul , MPH

Katherine Paul , MPH

Dive Deeper in Research

Find the Best MPH Programs Near You

Understanding MPH Program Rankings

Online MPH Programs: Benefits, Job Opportunities, and Costs