Evaluating Illinois’ Top MPH Programs
Kerra Henkin headshot

WRITTEN BY

Kerra Henkin, MPH, ML
Katherine Paul

REVIEWED BY

Katherine Paul, MPH

Public health plays an important role in shaping healthier communities and influences nearly every facet of daily life. Whether it’s managing infectious disease outbreaks, promoting safe transportation systems, or expanding access to nutritious food, public health professionals work to enhance well-being and prevent illness. The field is poised for continued expansion—employment for health services managers, for example, is expected to grow by nearly 30% over the next decade2. As demand for public health expertise rises, earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) has become an increasingly valuable credential for those seeking to make an impact.

Illinois has a plethora of diverse MPH programs. This article will dive into today's health landscape in Illinois and guide you through a detailed exploration of what prospective students should consider when choosing an MPH program. We will walk through key features to consider, such as admission and degree requirements, options for financing, and career prospects, while highlighting 10 unique MPH programs in Illinois.

Overview of Public Health Education in Illinois

In many regards, Illinois is doing very well in terms of the health of its population.  Spanning the state, poverty rates in Illinois are lower than the rest of the country (25.8% compared to 28.2%)3. More Illinois residents report having health insurance compared to the rest of the country (93.9% compared to 92% nationally)3. Contrarily, Illinois reports higher rates of medical debt than the national average, with 10.1% of adults having medical debt in any given year compared to 8.6% nationally3. Illinois houses the third-largest city in the country and is home to a plethora of academic institutions and robust healthcare networks.

While public health studies and healthcare may be more ubiquitous in Illinois than in other states, there are still key public health issues the state faces. The Illinois Department of Public Health publishes a State Health Assessment and State Health Improvement Plan every five years. The most recent iteration was completed in 2023 and is titled Health Illinois 2028. The Healthy Illinois projects depict visions, partnerships, priorities, and goals to focus on for the next half-decade. Most recently, the state identified chronic disease — COVID-19 and emerging diseases like maternal and infant health, mental health, substance use disorder, and racism as a public health crisis — as a priority to focus on. Many local, Illinois-based universities address these public health goals through their MPH program curriculum and concentrations, such as health promotion, health services management, and public health informatics. With over 30 accredited Master of Public Health degree programs in Illinois, there is undoubtedly a program that will fit your specific public health interest.

Key Features to Consider in MPH Programs

There are many factors to consider when choosing an MPH program. These include accreditation, curriculum breadth, faculty expertise, and partnerships with local health agencies.

One of the most important indicators of program quality is accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), a nationally recognized accrediting body approved by the U.S. Department of Education. The CEPH accreditation process spans approximately three years and includes site visits, program evaluations, and a thorough review to ensure each program meets high academic and professional standards. As of now, there are more than 260 accredited MPH and joint public health degree programs in the United States—including over 30 in Illinois. CEPH’s website provides an overview of accredited programs, including information on academic offerings, institutional history, and direct links to each school’s official page.

If you do a quick search on CEPH’s website, you’ll see that there are a number of unique graduate public health programs. Many will have similar core public health courses, but there are also unique MPH program offerings, such as the robust Global Health Program at the University of Illinois Chicago, and the ability to simultaneously receive an MPH and a public health graduate certificate at Benedictine University. If you already know your area of interest, use CEPH’s search tools to filter by concentration and compare course structures side by side to find your ideal fit.

Beyond curriculum and accreditation, consider these additional elements when narrowing down your choices:

  • Faculty Expertise:

    Professors at accredited MPH programs often bring extensive academic and real-world experience to their teaching. These individuals will serve as your mentors, advisors, and professional network during your time in graduate school. Look into faculty bios or LinkedIn profiles to ensure their backgrounds align with your interests and goals. Faculty members with active research portfolios or professional networks can open doors for student collaboration and career advancement.

  • Community and Institutional Partnerships:

    Strong connections to public health agencies, hospitals, and nonprofit organizations enhance the educational experience.  For instance, Northwestern University is an academic medical institution. If you are interested in health administration, this MPH program could be a great fit for you. DePaul University has partnerships with local government agencies where students can gain real-world public health experience. If you are interested in working for the government, this is a great option.

  • Applied Learning Opportunities:

    Most MPH programs include practical experience through a practicum, fieldwork, or capstone project. These hands-on components are integral to developing real-world skills under professional supervision. You might find yourself working with a local health department, community clinic, research institute, or even abroad through a global health organization. Whether you're aiming to collaborate with the CDC, contribute to a neighborhood wellness initiative, or assist in humanitarian relief efforts, these opportunities help bridge academic theory with meaningful public health practice.

Profiles of 10 MPH Programs in Illinois

There are many great MPH programs in Illinois, with over 30 accredited by CEPH. The 10 diverse programs highlighted here were selected due to their program strengths, unique offerings, and campus life. 

Traditional On-Campus Programs

1. Northwestern University

Northwestern Medicine Master of Public Health 

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Program Strengths: Northwestern University offers two types of MPH programs: Part-time (in the evenings, takes about two years to complete and is ideal for working professionals) and full-time (completed in one year). You do not need to take any standardized tests (GRE, GMAT) for admission into the MPH program. Northwestern University offers MPH programs in the following concentrations: Community Health Research, Data Science, Epidemiology, Global Health, and Generalist. Notably, Northwestern University ranks in the top 30 MPH programs in the nation. 

Unique Features: This MPH program has a unique applied practice experience called the APEx. This practice experience takes place at a community organization or government agency. MPH students can also complete their culminating experience with their APEx host site, or internally with Northwestern University. Browse Northwestern’s website to learn more about the APEx and culminating experience.

2. University of Illinois at Chicago

University of Illinois Chicago School of Public Health (MPH)

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Program Strengths: The University of Illinois at Chicago’s MPH program has many unique concentrations: Community Health Practice and Methods, Biostatistics, Environmental and Occupational Health Sciences (and further in Industrial Hygiene), Epidemiology Generalist, Health Policy and Administration, Maternal and Child Health, Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology, and Occupational Safety. 

Unique Features: UI at Chicago has a robust global health program that provides the opportunity for students to travel abroad and gain international applied practical experience. The School of Public Health currently supports two global health programs in Kenya and Mexico. If you are interested in global health, the University of Illinois at Chicago is a great option for you.

3. DePaul University

DePaul University Public Health (MPH)

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Program Strengths: DePaul University offers two concentrations for their MPH students: Community Health Practice and Social Epidemiology. Classes are offered in the evenings and the MPH program can be completed in as little as two years. 

Unique Features: DePaul’s MPH program requires a nine-month practicum experience in the public health field, which is longer than many other MPH programs. This gives students the opportunity to gain formative, real-world public health experience. DePaul has supported practicum experiences at government agencies, health care systems, and community organizations. If you are interested in healthcare management, DePaul offers a dual MBA/MPH in Management.

4. Loyola University Chicago

Loyola University Chicago Public Health MPH

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Program Strengths: Loyola University Chicago offers a flexible MPH degree program that can be completed part-time or full-time, hybrid, on-campus, or fully online — all with a start time of fall, spring, or summer. There are three concentrations offered: Epidemiology, Public Health Policy and Management, and Global Health Equity.  

Unique Features: If you are a current Loyola University Chicago undergraduate student you may be eligible to earn an accelerated MPH degree. This would allow you to complete both your Bachelor’s and Master’s in Public Health in as little as five years.

5. University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign

University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign Master of Public Health

Location: Champaign, Illinois

Program Strengths: Located in the College of Applied Health Sciences, UI at Urbana-Champaign offers an MPH degree in two concentrations: Epidemiology and Health Behavior & Promotion. Both programs focus on community health and are geared towards prevention, assessing community needs, and building healthier communities. Over 90% of students complete the MPH program in two years and are either employed or continuing their education within one year of graduation.

Unique Features: University of Illinois at Urbana-Champaign is a small program, offering an 8:1 student to professor ratio and a tight-knit cohort environment. There is a requirement to complete 200 hours of Applied Practical Experience and an Integrative Learning Experience for the culminating project.

Honorable Mention: Chicago State University has a practice-centered MPH program that focuses on health equity and minority health. 

Online Master of Public Health Programs/Hybrid Programs

1. Benedictine University

Benedictine University Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

Location: Lisle, Illinois

Program Strengths: Benedictine University’s MPH program is offered either fully online or on campus and can be completed in as little as two years or as many as six years. The curriculum consists of 14 courses, 43 credits, and 240 hours of internship experience.

Unique Features: In tandem with their higher education degree, students of Benedictine University’s MPH program can earn optional certificates (using their electives) in Health Education and Promotion, Data Analytics, or Epidemiology.

2. University of Illinois Chicago

University of Illinois School of Public Health

Location: Chicago, Illinois

Program Strengths: In addition to the fully in-person MPH program, the University of Illinois Chicago offers multiple online and hybrid MPH degrees options in various concentrations: Community Health Sciences (fully online), Health Policy and Administration (prior work experience required and can be completed fully online, on-campus, or hybrid), and Public Health Informatics (fully online).

Unique Features: The University of Illinois Chicago is among the top 20 best public health schools in the nation. With numerous concentrations and flexible class format, this is a great program for folks that want to explore a hybrid learning environment.

3. Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University Master of Public Health (M.P.H.)

Location: DeKalb, Illinois

Program Strengths: Northern Illinois University’s MPH program offers two specializations: Health Promotion and Health Services Management. The MPH program consists of 43 credit hours, an internship, and an integrated learning experience. 

Unique Features: Students that choose to concentrate in Health Services Management are eligible to take the Nursing Home Administrators Licensing Examination in Illinois. If you are interested in clinical public health or nursing, this is a great option to consider.

4. Chamberlain University

Chamberlain University Master of Public Health

Location: Addison, Illinois

Program Strengths: Chamberlain University’s fully-online, MPH program consists of 43 credit hours and can be completed in four to six semesters — part-time or full-time. The curriculum focuses on research, public policy, epidemiology, environmental science, communication, and health promotion. 

Unique Features: There is no entrance exam required for graduate admission to Chamberlain University’s MPH program.

5. Southern Illinois University

Southern Illinois University Master of Public Health 

Location: Carbondale, Illinois

Program Strengths: Southern Illinois University (SIU)’s MPH program is offered fully online. The degree focuses on health analytics, program planning and evaluation, and leadership. It consists of 42 credits and can be completed in as little as 16 months.

Unique Features: SIU’s MPH program is more cost effective than many others, with full tuition coming to less than $20,000. Because the coursework is fully online, there is increased flexibility with start dates and five potential times to begin taking MPH coursework (early spring, late spring, summer, early fall, and late fall).

Honorable Mention: Midwestern University offers a fully online MPH program to students that can be completed in as little as 15 months.  

Admission Requirements and Application Tips

MPH programs in Illinois share many of the same admissions criteria as those across the U.S., including academic prerequisites, standardized test requirements, letters of recommendation, and relevant experience. While an undergraduate degree in public health or a related discipline is not mandatory, it can certainly enhance your readiness for graduate-level coursework. Classes in areas like biology, epidemiology, statistics, or social sciences provide a strong academic foundation.Many schools, such as California State University, Eastern Illinois University, Illinois State University, and Illinois Tech, have undergraduate degrees that specialize in health sciences or public health studies. Other schools, like Northwestern University and Missouri State University, provide accelerated 4+1 programs, allowing students to transition seamlessly from undergraduate studies to an MPH. That said, if your background is in an unrelated field like computer science, business, or engineering, you are still likely to be a strong applicant, especially if you bring relevant experiences or a strong commitment to the field.

Some MPH programs in Illinois still require GRE or GMAT scores, while others have waived standardized test requirements altogether. Most programs will also ask for two to three letters of recommendation—from professors, employers, or colleagues—along with a personal statement that articulates your interest in the program and long-term public health goals. While most programs begin in the fall, some (such as those at Southern Illinois University) offer year-round entry or multiple start dates. Be sure to check each school’s deadlines—some use rolling admissions, while others set strict early deadlines for fall enrollment.

Many programs prefer applicants who already have some exposure to the field. This could come from internships, research, volunteer work, or professional experience in healthcare, nonprofit work, or public policy. Real-world experience not only enriches your application but also helps ground your learning during the MPH program.

Tips to Strengthen Your MPH Application

  • Define Your Purpose:

    A compelling statement of purpose can set your application apart. Reflect on your reasons for pursuing public health, the issues that drive your interest, and how an MPH will support your short- and long-term career goals. Be specific about why you are applying to a particular program.

  • Select Diverse Recommenders:

    Choose references from different areas of your life—such as academic mentors, work supervisors, and community leaders—who can speak to your potential for graduate study and public health impact. A diverse set of perspectives will help build a well-rounded impression of your qualifications.

  • Highlight Relevant Experiences:

    Don’t hesitate to showcase experiences that connect to public health, even if they weren’t labeled as such. Internships, volunteer roles, research projects, or part-time jobs in community outreach, healthcare, or education can all strengthen your application.

Finally, remember that the admissions process is a two-way street. Just as programs evaluate applicants, you should assess whether the program is the right fit for your goals, learning style, and support needs. Reach out to alumni, schedule virtual or in-person information sessions, and don’t hesitate to contact admissions staff with specific questions. You're investing both time and resources—make sure your choice supports your professional growth and aspirations.

Financing Your MPH Education in Illinois

While deeply rewarding, a career in public health often doesn’t come with the highest salary. As of October 2024, the national average salary for a public health job in the United States was $79,6574 and in Illinois, it is slightly lower, at $77,190 per year5. Because of this, it's essential to consider how you’ll fund your education before committing to an MPH program.

  • Public Service Loan Forgiveness:

    If you plan to work in government or with a qualifying nonprofit, the federal PSLF program could be a game-changer. After making 120 income-based payments (which don’t have to be consecutive), any remaining student loan balance may be forgiven. This benefit can significantly ease the long-term cost of your degree.

  • Graduate Assistantship (GA) and Teaching Assistant (TA) Positions:

    Many Illinois universities offer GA and TA roles that include tuition waivers or stipends. These positions may involve helping faculty with grading, research, or administrative tasks. Often flexible, these roles typically require between 5–20 hours of work per week and can be completed asynchronously. Check your target

  • Scholarships:

    You’ll find a wide variety of MPH scholarships that you might be eligible for. In addition to awards provided by specific schools, there are over 70 private, non-profit, and government-sponsored scholarships for MPH students. Some scholarships are geared towards specific public health areas, such as health administration, public health practice, health policy, and environmental health sciences.

  • University-specific Financial Aid:

    Many Illinois-based institutions offer their own financial aid programs for graduate students. Northwestern University offers various funding opportunities, such as scholarships and grants, for graduate students. Other schools, such as University of Illinois Urbana-Champaign and Loyola University of Chicago, have pages dedicated to scholarships for students to help offset the cost of education. These can significantly lower the out-of-pocket cost of attendance, so be proactive in researching what’s available.

Career Prospects with an MPH in Illinois

There are many potential career paths for MPH graduates in Illinois. Areas of employment include opportunities in major healthcare systems, such as Advocate Health Care and University of Chicago Medicine, state public health agencies, such as the Illinois Department of Public Health, and nonprofit organizations. Earning your MPH can significantly broaden your career horizons across multiple sectors, including health policy, public administration, healthcare management, emergency response, and health services leadership.

The career pathways in public health are incredibly diverse and adaptable to your evolving interests. Beyond your degree, there are ample opportunities to continue growing professionally through graduate certificates, industry conferences, specialized training, and other professional development avenues. Public health is a dynamic field that constantly adapts to emerging challenges, which makes it ideal for those who thrive in a culture of continuous learning and innovation. So buckle up—your public health journey is just beginning.

Conclusion

Illinois offers a rich and dynamic public health environment—one where students can gain invaluable experience and insight. As a national leader in healthcare and higher education, the state provides a strong foundation for advancing your career in public health. If you're considering earning your MPH in Illinois, take the time to explore how different programs align with your academic interests and professional aspirations.

Be proactive in your search: reach out to admissions offices, request more detailed program information, and take advantage of campus visits, virtual tours, and informational webinars. Connecting with current students, alumni, and faculty can also provide valuable perspectives that may not always be captured on program websites.

Use the 10 highlighted programs in this guide as a launching pad for your decision-making process—and revisit this resource as your priorities and questions evolve. Choosing the right MPH program is a significant step toward becoming a leader in public health, and Illinois may be precisely the place to make that happen.

References

  1. https://www.apha.org/what-is-public-health

  2. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/field-of-degree/healthcare-and-related/healthcare-and-related-field-of-degree.htm  

  3. https://www.kff.org/statedata/election-state-fact-sheets/illinois/ 

  4. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Public-Health-Salary--in-Illinois 

  5. https://www.ziprecruiter.com/Salaries/Public-Health-Salary--in-Illinois

About the Authors

Written by:

Kerra Henkin , MPH, ML

Kerra Henkin, 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. 

Ms. Henkin 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 headshot

Kerra Henkin , 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

Katherine Paul , MPH

Editorial Lead

Education: Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health

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