How to Earn a Master of Public Health in Kentucky: Best Public Health Schools in the State

Published on: Dec 7, 2025
Kerra Henkin headshot

WRITTEN BY

Kerra (Henkin) Jones, MPH, ML
Katherine Paul

REVIEWED BY

Katherine Paul, MPH

Thinking about a career in public health and wondering if Kentucky is the place to start? You’re in luck because this state offers great MPH programs designed to tackle real health challenges right here at home.

From urban health equity issues to rural health needs across Appalachia, Kentucky presents a dynamic backdrop for public health education1,2. It’s a state where real-world problems like the opioid crisis and chronic disease are being addressed head-on3,4. If you're looking for a program that connects classroom learning with immediate impact, an MPH in Kentucky might be the perfect fit.

Several universities across the state offer accredited Master of Public Health programs that are flexible, affordable, and focused on Kentucky’s unique needs. The University of Kentucky, for example, is home to a nationally recognized CEPH-accredited public health school with both online and in-person options. Eastern Kentucky University puts a strong emphasis on community health, while Western Kentucky University is also offered online and in-person focused on integrative learning. University of Louisville offers MPH programs in a variety of concentrations, from Health Promotion and Behavioral Sciences to Public Health Research.  

Whether you’re a recent grad ready to launch your career or a professional looking to make a difference in your community, Kentucky’s MPH programs give you the tools and setting to lead where you live.

Why Choose an MPH Program in Kentucky?

Choosing where to earn your MPH is about way more than just academics. Where you complete your public health degree program is also about where you want to make a difference. Studying public health in Kentucky means learning in a state where your skills are urgently needed. Whether you're interested in epidemiology, community health, or policy, the challenges here are real and the opportunities to help are even greater.

One major advantage to studying public health in Kentucky is cost. Tuition at public universities in Kentucky is typically more affordable than out-of-state or private options, especially if you qualify for in-state rates. Several schools also offer scholarships, assistantships, and financial aid to help make graduate study more accessible.

It’s not just about saving money but more importantly about building meaningful experiences. MPH programs in Kentucky often partner with local health departments, nonprofits, and hospitals, giving students hands-on exposure to rural health care needs, environmental challenges, and public health outreach efforts. This is especially valuable if you're passionate about serving underserved or at-risk communities.

Plus, job prospects are improving. The demand for health care professionals continues to rise across the state5. Earning your MPH in Kentucky means you’re already plugged into the communities and networks where your skills are needed most.

CEPH Accreditation: Why It Matters

When you're comparing public health programs, one credential should always be at the top of your checklist, and that’s CEPH accreditation. The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is the nationally recognized accrediting body for schools and programs of public health and it plays a major role in your future opportunities.

Why does CEPH accreditation matter? First, it ensures that your MPH program meets rigorous academic and professional standards. That means you’ll graduate with a degree that employers recognize and respect. Second, CEPH-accredited programs qualify graduates to sit for key professional certifications like the Certified in Public Health (CPH) exam or, in some concentrations, the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) credential. These certifications can give you a major edge when applying for jobs or promotions.

Is University of Kentucky CEPH accredited? 

Yes it is! In fact, the University of Kentucky College of Public Health is one of the state’s flagship accredited programs, with a strong reputation for research, workforce training, and community impact.

If you're planning to work in government, health systems, or global public health, a CEPH-accredited degree is more than a résumé booster but it’s often a requirement. Before applying anywhere, be sure to check whether the school is listed on the official CEPH accredited programs directory.

MPH Program Formats in Kentucky

Kentucky MPH programs come in a range of formats and are designed to meet students where they are, whether that’s on campus, online, or somewhere in between.

On-Campus Programs

If you're looking for a traditional graduate school experience, Kentucky offers several in-person MPH options. These programs typically include small class sizes, faculty mentorship, and hands-on experiences like practicum placements and community-based research. Students benefit from direct access to faculty and on-campus resources which are great for recent undergraduates or those who prefer face-to-face learning.

Online MPH Programs Kentucky

If you’re wondering, “can I get an MPH online in Kentucky?” The answer is absolutely. Several universities now offer online Master of Public Health programs in Kentucky, giving you the flexibility to learn on your own schedule. This format is ideal for working professionals, parents, or students who live in rural areas and want to stay close to home.

Popular online MPH programs in Kentucky include those offered by the University of Kentucky, Eastern Kentucky University and Western Kentucky University. There are also many CEPH-accredited online MPH programs around the United States that accept Kentucky residents and are designed for working public health professionals. These programs include institutions such as:

These programs cover core public health competencies and often mirror the on-campus curriculum. Many include asynchronous coursework, allowing students to view lectures and submit assignments on their own time.

Hybrid Options

Some universities also offer hybrid graduate programs that combine online coursework with occasional in-person sessions. This can be a good option if you want flexibility but still value periodic face-to-face learning and networking opportunities.

Whether you prefer to log in from your kitchen table or learn in a lecture hall, there’s an MPH format in Kentucky that can fit your lifestyle. With more universities expanding their online MPH programs in Kentucky, it’s never been easier to earn a quality, accredited degree while balancing your life and career.

Featured CEPH-Accredited MPH Programs in Kentucky

Whether you're looking for on-campus mentorship, fully online flexibility, or a curriculum tailored to rural and community health, Kentucky’s public universities offer several strong MPH options. Below are four standout programs (in no particular order) that combine affordability, academic rigor, and regional relevance.

University of Kentucky

Location: Lexington, KY
Format: On-campus & fully online
Concentrations:

  • Environmental Health (in-person)

  • Epidemiology (in-person)

  • Health Management & Policy (online)

  • Program Planning, Management, and Evaluation (online)

  • Personalized/Customized MPH Degree (online)

Tuition: $804.50 per credit for online degree programs. On-campus tuition is $825.50 per credit hour for residents and $2,060.50 per credit hour for non-resident students. 

As Kentucky’s flagship public health school, and ranked in the top 50 nationwide by U.S. News & World Report, the University of Kentucky offers a flexible, rigorous MPH program that prepares students for real-world impact. Whether you choose the on-campus or online MPH format, you’ll benefit from expert faculty, hands-on research, and public health practice opportunities across the state.

Eastern Kentucky University

Location: Richmond, KY
Format: On-campus & online
Concentrations:

Tuition: On-campus programs are $607 per credit hour for Kentucky residents and $829 for non-residents. Online programs cost $676 per credit hour. 

EKU’s MPH program stands out for its emphasis on community-focused health. The online MPH option allows students statewide to complete their degree remotely, while the on-campus format supports students seeking face-to-face learning and mentorship. Both tracks include applied practice experiences through local partnerships.

Western Kentucky University

Location: Bowling Green, KY
Format: In-person and online formats
Concentrations:

  • Generalist

Tuition: Tuition costs $607 per credit hour for residents and over $900 for non-resident students ($917 for domestic non-residents and $953 for international students).  

WKU offers a completely online MPH program in Kentucky tailored to professionals already working in healthcare, education, or public service. The curriculum is practice-oriented, emphasizing project-based learning and leadership in health promotion and policy.

University of Louisville

Location: Louisville, KY
Format: Primarily on-campus (some hybrid/online courses may be available)
Concentrations:

  • Epidemiology

  • Health Policy

  • Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences

  • Biostatistics

  • Public Health Research

Tuition: $850 per credit hour for Kentucky residents and $1,729 per credit hour for non-residents. 

Located in Kentucky’s largest city, the University of Louisville’s MPH program offers a robust mix of research, community engagement, and academic depth. Though primarily campus-based, some hybrid and online courses may be available. The program includes a practice experience course and a culminating experience tied to real public health challenges in Louisville and beyond.

University

Location

Format

Concentrations

Tuition

University of Kentucky

Lexington, KY

On-campus & fully remote

- Environmental Health

- Epidemiology

- Health Management & Policy

- Program Planning, Management, and Evaluation

- Personalized

- $804.50 (online)

- $825.50 (in-person, KY resident)

- $2,060.50 (in-person, non-resident)

Eastern Kentucky University

Richmond, KY

On-campus & online

- Environmental Occupational Health & Sustainability

- Health Promotion

- $607 (on-campus, resident)

- $829 (on-campus, non-residents)

- $676 (online)

Western Kentucky University

Bowling Green, KY

In-person and online formats

Generalist

- $607 (resident)

- $900+ (non-residents)

University of Louisville

Louisville, KY

Primarily on-campus

- Epidemiology

- Health Policy

- Health Promotion & Behavioral Sciences

- Biostatistics

- Public Health Research

- $850 (KY residents)

- $1,729 (non-residents)

All of these programs are CEPH-accredited, ensuring they meet national quality standards and open doors to certification opportunities like the CPH exam. Whether you're looking for a flexible online MPH program in Kentucky or an immersive on-campus experience, there's an option that aligns with your goals and lifestyle. Similar to the tables here, compare your perspective MPH programs. Open in new tabs the programs you are interested in and do side by side comparisons to contrast the factors that are important to you. 

Other institutions or technical colleges like Kentucky State University, Morehead State University, and Murray State University offer undergraduate public health concentrations that can serve as strong foundations for individuals interested in studying public health and health systems.

Admission Requirements & Application Tips

Applying to MPH programs in Kentucky is a manageable process, especially once you understand the typical requirements and timelines. While each university sets its own standards, most programs share a few common admissions elements.

To apply, you’ll usually need:

  • A bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution (any major is typically accepted - even studies in non-public health fields like information sciences, public administration or radiologic sciences)

  • A statement of purpose outlining your interest in public health and career goals

  • Letters of recommendation (usually 2–3)

  • A resume or CV

  • Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions

  • No GRE required typically for school admissions (but check your program’s website to make sure) 

Application deadlines vary. Many online MPH programs in Kentucky offer rolling admissions, which means you can apply throughout the year and start in fall, spring, or summer terms. This flexibility is great if you're balancing work or family responsibilities.

Application tip: Reach out to admissions counselors or program directors early to request information. These administrators can clarify deadlines, scholarship opportunities, and whether your background aligns with a specific concentration. Strong applications often come from students who’ve taken the time to connect with faculty or program advisors before applying.

Cost, Scholarships & Financial Aid

Affording your MPH doesn’t have to be a barrier, especially in Kentucky, where many public universities offer competitive tuition and financial support.

Tuition costs vary by school and residency status. For in-state students, per-credit costs range from around $600 to $850, while out-of-state students may pay between $900 and $1,500+ per credit hour. Online MPH programs in Kentucky often charge the same rate for all students, regardless of where they live, which can be a major cost-saver.

In addition to financial aid through FAFSA, many programs offer graduate assistantships, tuition waivers, and departmental scholarships. These may be available on a competitive basis, so applying early is key. Students in on-campus programs might also qualify for part-time work within public health departments or university research centers.

You should also explore Kentucky-specific scholarships. For example, some counties and public health departments offer forgivable loans or tuition support in exchange for service commitments in underserved areas. This is especially relevant for students planning careers in rural health or health education.

Pro tip: Don’t stop at the financial aid office. You can look on your prospective program’s website for administrator’s contact information. Talk to them about any public health-specific grants, scholarships, or fellowships as they may not always be listed on the main website.

Career Paths for MPH Graduates in Kentucky

A Master of Public Health from a Kentucky institution prepares you to step directly into roles that are in high demand across the state. Whether you’re passionate about human services, community health education, health policy, or healthcare management, there’s a growing need for skilled public health professionals who understand the unique needs of Kentucky’s communities.

Graduates often find employment in:

Jobs are especially strong in fields such as:

  • Epidemiology

  • Healthcare administration

  • Health education and promotion

  • Environmental health

  • Substance use prevention and harm reduction

So, what can you expect to earn?

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), the average national salary for public health professionals varies by role. For example:

  • Epidemiologists in earn a median salary of almost $84,000 per year6

  • Health education specialists earn around $63,000 annually7

  • Medical and health services managers earn almost $118,000 annually8

These numbers reflect both the growing need for public health professionals and the impact an MPH can have on your earning potential and career trajectory.

FAQs: MPH in Kentucky

Yes, the University of Kentucky College of Public Health is CEPH-accredited, meaning it meets national standards for public health education and qualifies graduates for key certifications like the CPH (Certified in Public Health).

Most MPH programs in Kentucky can be completed in 2 years of full-time study. Part-time students, especially those in online programs, may take 3 to 4 years, depending on their pace and personal schedule.

Absolutely. While a background in health or science can help, most MPH programs in Kentucky welcome students from all undergraduate majors, including sociology, communications, biology, or political science. What matters most is your commitment to public health.

It depends on your career goals, but concentrations in epidemiology, health promotion, and health management and policy are especially relevant given Kentucky’s current workforce needs, particularly in rural and underserved areas.

Still have questions? Reach out to the admissions teams at your top-choice schools. They can help clarify concentration options, program format, and fit for your career goals.

Conclusion & Next Steps

Earning your MPH in Kentucky means more than just getting a degree; it’s a chance to gain hands-on experience, serve your community, and join a growing workforce of public health professionals making a real difference across the state.

Whether you're drawn to rural health, data-driven epidemiology, or community education, Kentucky offers several CEPH-accredited MPH programs that are flexible, affordable, and aligned with statewide needs. With online, on-campus, and hybrid formats available, you can find a program that fits your life and goals.

Next steps?

  • Visit the program pages for the universities that interest you

  • Reach out to admissions advisors to ask about format, deadlines, and financial aid

  • Check out our Online MPH Guide and MPH Admissions Checklist for more tools to help you apply with confidence

Wherever you are starting, Kentucky’s MPH programs are ready to meet you there.

References

  1. https://www.chfs.ky.gov/agencies/dph/oc/Documents/2023MHSR.pdf

  2. https://www.ruralhealthinfo.org/states/kentucky/project-examples

  3. https://pmc.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/articles/PMC9772240/

  4. https://chroniccarealliance.org/wp-content/uploads/2021/06/CCPA-Kentucky-State-of-Chronic-Disease-jun21.pdf

  5. https://kwib.ky.gov/About/Pages/Kentuckys-Top-Five-In-Demand-Sectors.aspx

  6. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/life-physical-and-social-science/epidemiologists.htm

  7. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/community-and-social-service/health-educators.htm

  8. https://www.bls.gov/ooh/management/medical-and-health-services-managers.htm

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 headshot

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

Katherine Paul , MPH

Editorial Lead

Education: Columbia University, Mailman School of Public Health

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