Your Guide to Master of Public Health Programs in Indiana

Published on: Dec 7, 2025

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Indiana, like much of the Midwest, is navigating complex public health challenges, from rural health care gaps to high prevalence of chronic diseases^1,2. As the state’s communities continue to grow and diversify, so does the demand for trained professionals who can lead with evidence-based solutions and community-driven care. Earning a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in Indiana is more than an academic milestone, it’s a step toward making a meaningful impact in the health of Hoosiers across all 92 counties.

This guide is designed to help you explore accredited MPH programs available in Indiana. Whether you're drawn to tackling opioid misuse in rural areas, shaping policy to reduce chronic disease in urban centers, or leading outbreak investigations with a local health department, an MPH can prepare you with the skills, research training, and real-world experience to drive change.

Indiana’s universities offer a range of MPH programs (i.e., on-campus, online, and hybrid) to meet the needs of recent graduates, career changers, and working professionals. CEPH-accredited options ensure quality and credibility, while Indiana-specific specializations like family and community health and environmental sciences allow you to tailor your path to the communities you care most about.

In this article, we’ll break down your degree options, highlight top programs across the state, and offer tips for choosing the right fit. Whether you're just starting your search or narrowing down your shortlist, this resource will help you take the next step in your public health journey, right here in Indiana.

Why Earn an MPH in Indiana?

Choosing to pursue a Master of Public Health in Indiana means studying and preparing to lead in one of the country’s most critical public health environments. The state faces a unique mix of urban and rural health disparities, with persistent gaps in access to care, high rates of smoking and obesity, and significant behavioral health challenges including opioid use disorder and youth suicide^1,3,-6. These issues aren't abstract and they are unfolding in real time in Indiana’s counties, towns, and cities.

Earning your MPH degree in Indiana puts you in direct contact with the systems, policies, and populations you'll be working with after graduation. Public health leaders here are focused on both state-wide priorities and community-based interventions, creating rich opportunities for internships, fieldwork, and post-degree employment. Local and state health departments are consistently hiring MPH-trained professionals to fill roles in health promotion, health education, public health policy, and emergency preparedness.

Studying close to where you want to work isn’t just convenient, it’s also strategic. Building your professional network in Indiana while still in school can open doors to jobs after graduation, mentorship opportunities, and long-term partnerships in community health. Many MPH programs in the state actively partner with local health departments, hospitals, and nonprofits, giving you a practical and policy-relevant education that’s deeply connected to the region’s needs.

Whether you see yourself working in Indianapolis, Gary, Fort Wayne, or a rural health district, earning your MPH in Indiana offers both immediate relevance and long-term career value, especially for those who want to stay and serve in the Hoosier State.

Types of MPH Programs Available in Indiana

Indiana offers a variety of MPH program formats to fit your lifestyle, career goals, and learning preferences. Whether you're a recent graduate seeking an immersive campus experience or a working professional looking for flexibility, there's a program in the state that can meet your needs.

On-Campus MPH Programs

Traditional, in-person MPH programs are ideal for students who want face-to-face interaction with faculty and peers, hands-on learning opportunities, and access to campus resources. Students benefit from rich classroom discussions, lab-based coursework, and close ties with faculty who are engaged in cutting-edge public health research. These programs often provide in-person practicums and are well-suited for those planning to work in Indiana’s health sector post-graduation.

Online MPH Programs in Indiana

Online MPH programs offer the same accredited curriculum as their campus-based counterparts but with greater scheduling flexibility. These programs deliver coursework through asynchronous (on your own time) or hybrid models, allowing you to balance your studies with work or family responsibilities. Online Master of Public Health programs are especially popular with mid-career professionals looking to advance without relocating.

Hybrid MPH Options

Some Indiana programs will also offer hybrid formats that combine online coursework with occasional in-person sessions or local practicum experiences. This can provide the best of both worlds: flexibility and connection.

How Do I Choose Between On-Campus and Online Programs?

Start by asking yourself how you learn best. If you thrive in a structured environment and value in-person collaboration, an on-campus program might be a better fit. If you're balancing work, family, or geographic constraints, online or hybrid formats may offer the flexibility you need without compromising academic quality.

Also consider your long-term goals: If you plan to work locally, attending an Indiana-based program, regardless of format, can help you build networks and land practicum placements that align with job opportunities across the state.

CEPH-Accredited MPH Programs in Indiana

When researching MPH programs, one of the most important factors to consider is accreditation, specifically from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). CEPH accreditation ensures that a program meets rigorous standards in curriculum quality, faculty expertise, student support, and applied practice opportunities. For students pursuing careers in government agencies, nonprofits, or public health consulting, graduation from a CEPH-accredited program is often a baseline requirement. In addition to CEPH accreditation, most universities in Indiana are also regionally accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC), ensuring overall academic quality and institutional accountability.

In Indiana, several MPH programs hold CEPH accreditation, including:

Indiana University Bloomington: One of the state’s flagship public health institutions with longstanding CEPH accreditation and a broad range of concentrations.
Indiana University Indianapolis: Offers a highly interdisciplinary MPH program that is also CEPH-accredited.
Purdue University West Lafayette: Known for its research-intensive curriculum, Purdue’s MPH program is CEPH-accredited and integrates science, policy, and community health.
University of Indiana Indianapolis: Offers an online CEPH-accredited MPH program with a focus on health disparities.

Attending a CEPH-accredited program can also simplify the process of sitting for the Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam, a credential increasingly valued by employers. Moreover, accreditation often influences your eligibility for federal fellowships, graduate assistantships, and employment in organizations like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), World Health Organization (WHO), and state health departments.

It’s important to verify accreditation status through the official CEPH directory (link will open in new tab), especially as new programs seek recognition. Choosing an accredited MPH program in Indiana ensures your education aligns with national standards, which will prepare you not just for your graduate program, but also to lead in public health practice.

Featured MPH Programs in Indiana

Indiana is home to several standout MPH programs that offer students strong academic training, real-world experience, and deep connections to the communities they’ll serve. Below are some of the most respected MPH programs in the state, each offering a unique focus and format to suit different career paths.

Indiana University – Bloomington

Location: Bloomington, IN
Format: On-campus and online options
CEPH-Accredited: Yes

Home to the IU School of Public Health, Indiana University Bloomington offers one of the most comprehensive MPH programs in the Midwest. Students can choose from seven concentrations, including Behavioral, Social, and Community Health, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Epidemiology, Parks and Recreation, Physical Activity, and Public Health Administration. The program emphasizes interdisciplinary learning, with access to renowned faculty, research centers, and partnerships across Indiana. Practicum placements are available throughout the state and beyond. With its high national rankings by U.S. News & World Report and CEPH accreditation, IU Bloomington is often the first choice for students seeking leadership roles in public health. There are also many graduate certificate and dual degree options for students interested in a specialty outside the ones offered in the MPH programs.

Purdue University – West Lafayette

Location: West Lafayette, IN
Format: In-person and online
CEPH-Accredited: Yes

Purdue’s MPH program is known for integrating science, statistics, and systems thinking into public health education. Housed in the College of Health and Human Sciences, the program offers three concentrations in Biostatistics, Epidemiology, and Family and Community Health. Purdue places a strong emphasis on experiential learning, requiring both a practicum and a capstone project. Students benefit from Purdue’s global research reputation and strong ties to local and state health organizations, making it an ideal choice for those interested in research-driven public health work.

Indiana University Indianapolis

Location: Indianapolis, IN
Format: On-campus and online options
CEPH-Accredited: Yes

Indiana University Indianapolis, through the Richard M. Fairbanks School of Public Health, offers a robust CEPH-accredited MPH program that blends academic rigor with real-world practice. Students can specialize in Epidemiology, Health Policy & Management, Interdisciplinary Public Health Studies, Public Health Informatics, and Social & Behavioral Sciences. The school’s location in Indiana’s capital provides unparalleled access to internships and employment opportunities with state agencies, major hospital systems, and nonprofit organizations. IU Indianapolis also offers online pathways, catering to working professionals seeking flexibility without sacrificing quality.

University of Indianapolis

Location: Indianapolis, IN
Format: 100% online
CEPH-Accredited: Yes

The University of Indianapolis offers a community-focused MPH program with 100% online delivery. The program concentrates on health disparities and prepares students to lead in urban health systems, nonprofit work, and health policy. With small class sizes and a focus on practical application, the program is ideal for students who want to make an immediate impact in Indianapolis or surrounding areas. UIndy’s MPH offers a unique strength in connecting students with local organizations tackling issues like health equity, food insecurity, and maternal health.

Indiana State University (ISU)

Location: Terre Haute, IN
Format: Online
CEPH-Accredited: Not currently listed (check CEPH for updates)

Indiana State University offers a fully online MPH program designed to support working professionals, especially those in rural or underserved communities. The program focuses on public health and healthcare management and includes courses in epidemiology, health program planning, and biostatistics. Students complete a practicum in their local area and a capstone project tailored to their field.

University	Location	Format	CEPH-Accredited	Concentrations
Indiana University, Bloomington	Bloomington, IN	On-campus and online options	Yes	- Behavioral, Social, and Community Health - Biostatistics - Environmental Health - Epidemiology - Parks and Recreation - Physical Activity - Public Health Administration
Pursue University	West Lafayette, IN	In-person and online	Yes	- Biostatistics - Epidemiology - Family and Community Health
Indiana University, Indianapolis	Indianapolis, IN	On-campus and online options	Yes	- Epidemiology - Health Policy & Management - Interdisciplinary Public Health Studies - Public Health Informatics - Social & Behavioral Health
University of Indianapolis	Indianapolis, IN	100% online	Yes	- Health Disparities
Indiana State University	Terre Haute, IN	Online	Not currently	- Generalist

Online MPH Programs in Indiana

Online MPH programs in Indiana offer a flexible pathway to advancing your public health career, especially if you're balancing work, family, or geographic constraints. These programs maintain the academic rigor of traditional in-person options while allowing you to complete coursework on your own schedule, often from anywhere in the state (or beyond).

What to Expect in an Online MPH Program

Online MPH programs typically include asynchronous lectures, discussion boards, group projects, and real-time virtual meetings. You’ll still gain foundational knowledge in health services, global public health, health administration, and health communication, along with elective and specialization options that align with your career goals. Most programs also require a practicum and a culminating experience like a capstone or thesis even if you're studying remotely.

Students in Indiana’s online MPH programs benefit from access to digital libraries, career services, academic advising, and often, virtual networking events or mentorship opportunities with faculty and public health professionals.

Indiana-Based Online MPH Programs

Several Indiana universities offer online MPH degrees designed to support working professionals and those in rural or underserved areas:

University of Indianapolis:

Provides a 100% online MPH program focused on health disparities and community health leadership. Ideal for students looking to make a difference in health equity.
Indiana State University (ISU):

Offers an online MPH with a focus on health care management and public health administration. While not CEPH-accredited, it is designed to meet the needs of professionals in rural communities and underserved populations.
Honorable mentions -

Notable neighboring school Kent State University in Ohio has a fully online MPH program with two concentrations: Health Policy & Management and Social and Behavioral Sciences. This program is CEPH-accredited and can be earned in as little as two years. Another CEPH-accredited program is the fully online MPH degree at National University. This program is CEPH-accredited, has no application fee, and can be completed in as little as 18 months.

Are There Any Online MPH Programs in Indiana?

Yes, Indiana offers multiple online MPH options, including various CEPH-accredited programs at IU Indianapolis and University of Indianapolis. These programs provide the same degree of credibility as in-person counterparts and are increasingly accepted by employers across public, nonprofit, and health care sectors.

Support and Practicum Opportunities

Online MPH students often complete their practicum placements locally, coordinated in collaboration with the university. Practicums may take place at local health departments, hospitals, nonprofits, or government agencies. Many programs offer virtual career fairs, alumni panels, and student support services to ensure distance learners stay connected and on track.

MPH Specializations Offered in Indiana

MPH programs in Indiana provide students with a variety of specialization options, allowing them to tailor their degree to match personal interests and career goals. These concentration areas equip graduates with targeted expertise to meet public health challenges across urban centers, rural counties, and statewide systems.

Common Specializations

Epidemiology: Focuses on investigating disease patterns, managing outbreaks, and designing studies that inform health policy. Ideal for careers in health departments, research institutions, and the CDC.
Biostatistics: Emphasizes data analysis and statistical modeling in public health research. Graduates often work in data science roles across healthcare and academic or higher education sectors or in the pharmaceutical industry.
Policy & Health Management: Prepares students for leadership and administrative roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or hospital systems. This track combines management skills with a public health lens.

Indiana-Specific Options

Environmental Health: Explores issues like pollution, occupational hazards, and environmental justice, particularly relevant in Indiana’s manufacturing and agricultural sectors.
Global Health and Public Health Informatics: These tracks prepare students for work in international health or health data systems.

Choosing the right specialization helps align your MPH with the job you want and the population you hope to serve.

Admission Requirements & Application Tips

Applying to graduate public health degree programs in Indiana can feel overwhelming, but with the right preparation, you can put together a strong, compelling application that reflects both your academic readiness and your commitment to public health.

Common Graduate Admissions Requirements

While each university has its own criteria, most MPH programs in Indiana, especially those that are CEPH-accredited, require the following:

Bachelor’s Degree:

From an accredited institution, in any field. Public health, health sciences, human services, biology, or social sciences are common backgrounds, but not required.
GPA:

A minimum GPA of 3.0 is standard, though some programs offer conditional admission for applicants with slightly lower GPAs and relevant experience.
Transcripts:

Official academic transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
Letters of Recommendation:

Typically 2–3 letters from academic or professional references who can speak to your qualifications and potential for graduate study.
Personal Statement or Statement of Purpose:

An opportunity to share your goals, experiences, and why you’re pursuing an MPH. Make sure you tailor this to reflect the program’s strengths and your fit.
Resume or CV:

Highlight relevant experience in healthcare, health behavior, public health, research, community work, or advocacy.
GRE Scores:

Most Indiana MPH programs have do not have the GRE required, but check individual program websites to confirm.

Tips for a Strong Application

Show Your Public Health Passion:

Whether through volunteer work, professional experience, or undergraduate research, demonstrate a clear commitment to public health and your future health professions.
Customize Your Statement:

Refer to specific faculty, research centers, or specializations that align with your interests.
Apply Early:

Some programs have rolling admissions, while others follow strict deadlines. Applying early can increase your chances for scholarships and assistantships.
Connect with Admissions Counselors:

Don’t hesitate to ask questions because your admissions officers can offer insight and may even remember your name when reviewing applications.

A well-prepared application not only opens the door but also sets the tone for your MPH journey in Indiana.

Careers and Salary Outlook for MPH Graduates in Indiana

Graduates of MPH programs in Indiana are well-positioned for a wide range of public health careers that address both the state's persistent health challenges and its evolving workforce needs. From local health departments to major hospital systems and nonprofit organizations, demand for skilled public health professionals continues to grow across the state.

Public Health Job Demand in Indiana

According to the Indiana Department of Health, there is a strong need for professionals trained in epidemiology, health education, emergency preparedness, and environmental health. Key employers include:

Indiana Department of Health (IDOH)
Marion County Public Health Department
IU Health, Eskenazi Health, and other major hospital systems
Local nonprofits and community organizations
State and regional health policy think tanks

Common Roles for MPH Graduates

Epidemiologist: Investigate disease trends and advise on public health interventions.
Health Educator or Community Health Worker: Promote wellness, run outreach programs, and deliver culturally competent health education.
Environmental Health Specialist: Monitor and manage environmental risks to public health in both urban and rural areas.
Policy Analyst: Design and implement health programs, evaluate policies, and manage budgets or grants.

Salary Expectations

According to the United States Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) national data:

Epidemiologists earn a median salary of $84,000 annually⁷.
Health educators typically earn around $63,000 annually⁸.
Environmental scientists earn around $80,000 per year⁹.

Tips for Choosing the Right MPH Program

Selecting the right MPH program is a deeply personal decision and one that should reflect your goals, learning style, and career ambitions. Here are a few tips to guide your process:

1. Prioritize Accreditation

Start by confirming that the program is CEPH-accredited, ensuring it meets national public health education standards and improves job marketability.

2. Match Format to Your Lifestyle

Ask yourself: Do you thrive in face-to-face settings, or do you need the flexibility of an online or hybrid program? Indiana offers all three.

3. Explore Specializations

If you’re drawn to a particular area, like rural health, global health, or biostatistics, look for programs that offer strong, relevant concentrations.

4. Consider Career Support

Check whether the school offers practicum placement help, job boards, alumni networks, and mentorship opportunities.

5. Compare Costs and Financial Aid

Factor in tuition, fees, and cost of living. Many Indiana programs offer scholarships, graduate assistantships, or employer tuition reimbursement options.

FAQs About MPH Programs in Indiana

Yes, for students passionate about public health, an MPH can lead to meaningful, in-demand careers across the state. From health education to epidemiology and policy roles, Indiana offers a growing number of public health job opportunities, especially in underserved areas.

Top CEPH-accredited programs include Indiana University Bloomington, Purdue University West Lafayette, University of Indiana Indianapolis and Indiana University Indianapolis. Each offers strong academics, practical experience, and specialized tracks to suit different career goals.

Still deciding? Explore faculty, concentrations, and student support services to find your best fit.

Conclusion

Earning an MPH in Indiana opens the door to a career of impact, whether you're working in a rural clinic, a major health system, or a state agency shaping policy. With CEPH-accredited programs, flexible formats, and a range of specializations, Indiana’s universities prepare graduates to meet the health challenges of today and tomorrow.

Whether you're just beginning your public health journey or leveling up your career, there's a program in Indiana that fits your path. Explore your options, reach out to admissions teams, and take that next step toward becoming a public health leader in the Hoosier State.

References

About the Authors

Written by:

Kerra (Henkin) Jones , MPH, ML

Kerra (Henkin) Jones, MPH, ML, is a public health professional with experience in program management, community health, and health equity. She previously served as a program manager at one of the nation’s largest academic medical centers, where she led operations for community health programs, supervised staff, directed clinics focused on improving access to care, and conducted systemwide data analysis to inform strategic health equity initiatives.

Her background also includes managing grant-funded projects, developing trauma-informed training programs, conducting mixed-methods research, and delivering community health education across clinical and nonprofit settings.
Kerra has presented her work at conferences across the country and has contributed to research on criminal justice, substance use, and community health. She holds a Master of Public Health (MPH) and Master in Law (ML) from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor 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

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