Choosing Your Path: A Comprehensive Guide to MPH Programs in Massachusetts

Massachusetts has been at the forefront of public health investment and advancement for decades. As the first, and only, state to pass a universal health care reform in 2006³, Massachusetts has the lowest uninsured rate out of every U.S. state⁴. Spearheading this new approach to health insurance, the state has served as a case study for public health initiatives across the country, later serving as a model for portions of the Affordable Care Act⁵. While Massachusetts spends more on healthcare per resident than the national average, it has lower death rates and higher life expectancy (5th in the nation) compared to other U.S. states⁶.

Additionally, Massachusetts houses many incredibly high-quality educational institutions and an active public health community. Boston in particular is a hub for our healthcare economy, both for funding and launching innovative health solutions as well as being a highly educated city⁷. Massachusetts plays an integral role in healthcare innovation and public health policy development and therefore serves as a prime destination for public health studies. 

There are a multitude of public health programs with diverse concentrations in Massachusetts, including programs that focus on core disciplines like health policy, health management, and behavioral science. If you are unsure which program is right for you, take a look at the type of organization, job, or career path you would like to pursue. What is the focus of that pathway? Are you interested in impacting health systems or government policy? Many schools, such as Boston University, offer health policy concentrations. Are you interested in managing a hospital? Schools such as the University of Massachusetts Lowell offer great MPH degrees in health management. With over 30 accredited Master of Public Health degree programs in Massachusetts, chances are there is a discipline that will fit your specific public health interest.

While MPH programs have different concentrations, many have the same general structure, core courses, and opportunities for applied practical experiences. Program durations are typically around two years, with some full-time programs that can be completed in as little as 12 months and part-time programs that can take as long as five years.

In addition to the general structure and duration, programs vary between traditional and online formats. Massachusetts offers many traditional on-campus programs that require students to live near the campus and attend in-person classes. Massachusetts is also home to many online MPH programs that are great for their flexibility and adaptability to your unique lifestyle.

The shift to online education accelerated dramatically during the COVID-19 pandemic, making virtual MPH programs more prevalent and accessible than ever before⁸. For many, the flexibility of online learning is a major advantage, especially for students balancing work, family commitments, or geographic limitations that make campus attendance difficult. However, pursuing a graduate degree online isn’t without its challenges. It can sometimes feel isolating, and students may need to be more intentional about building connections and staying involved.

If you're considering an online MPH program, here are a few ways to make the most of the experience:

One of the most important credentials to look for in a Master of Public Health program is CEPH accreditation. The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) is an independent accrediting body recognized by the U.S. Department of Education. It evaluates public health programs across the country to ensure they meet rigorous academic and professional standards. The review process typically spans about three years and includes site visits, documentation reviews, and assessments of curriculum quality and institutional integrity. As of now, more than 260 public health and joint degree programs nationwide, including over 30 in Massachusetts, have earned this mark of quality.

CEPH accreditation signals that a program provides a comprehensive, standardized education that aligns with core public health competencies. In addition to maintaining a directory of accredited programs, CEPH also provides helpful details, including each program’s history, course delivery format, areas of concentration, and direct links to the official program websites.

When exploring programs, use the CEPH database to narrow your search. Take time to review each school’s curriculum—many will offer similar foundational courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, and environmental health, but electives and focus areas often differ. Some Massachusetts MPH programs offer specialized training in areas such as urban health, healthcare administration, or health informatics. If you already have a particular interest in mind, use the filtering tools available on CEPH’s site to identify programs that align closely with your goals.

Once you’ve found a few options, open each program’s site side-by-side to compare coursework, faculty, practicum requirements, and degree structure. This step will help you determine which program best matches your career aspirations, learning style, and lifestyle.

There are many other factors to consider beyond accreditation and curriculum offerings, such as faculty expertise, location, partnerships, and availability of hands-on experience.

There are many great MPH programs in Massachusetts. The 10 programs highlighted here were selected due to their program strengths, unique offerings, and campus life.

Traditional On-Campus Programs

Online/Hybrid Programs

Massachusetts MPH programs typically adhere to the same admission requirements as those nationwide. Applicants generally are expected to meet core requirements, including academic transcripts, standardized test scores (if required), letters of recommendation, and, ideally, some relevant field experience. Although an undergraduate degree in public health or a related discipline isn’t necessary, completing coursework in subjects such as biology, epidemiology, or statistics can provide helpful context and preparation for graduate-level study.  Schools such as Boston College and George Washington University offer undergrad programs in public health that can build a strong foundation. That said, students from other academic backgrounds, such as business, engineering, or computer science, are also welcome.

Some programs may still require GRE or GMAT scores, though many have recently removed these exams from their application process. Regardless of test requirements, nearly all MPH programs ask for two to three letters of recommendation, typically from supervisors, academic mentors, or professional colleagues. A personal statement is another key component—this essay should communicate your motivations, career goals, and reasons for choosing a specific program.

Application deadlines vary. While many programs begin in the fall, some online options offer rolling admissions or multiple entry points throughout the year.  For example, Northeastern University has a rolling deadline, whereas schools like Tufts University have more traditional deadlines that require submissions months in advance of the fall start.

Additionally, many programs value prior experience in the field, which can include internships, volunteer work, or employment in health-related settings. Reflecting on this practical experience can enrich your studies and help you stand out during the application process.

Finally, keep in mind that the admissions process goes both ways. You’re also evaluating which school offers the best fit for your academic goals, personal values, and professional aspirations. Connect with program alumni and faculty to learn more about their experiences. Ask questions during info sessions or reach out to admissions staff directly. You’ll be investing time and energy into this degree—make sure it aligns with your vision and values.

There are many potential career paths available to MPH graduates in Massachusetts. Areas of employment include roles in government agencies, non-profit organizations, private sector health services, and many more. MPH graduates in Massachusetts can work for the local, state, and federal government, influencing health policy in program management and operations for local nonprofits, hospital leadership, consulting, research, and more.

There are also numerous continuing education opportunities, such as graduate certificates, conferences, professional development opportunities, and so on, that you can continue to participate in even after obtaining your MPH degree. 

Massachusetts is home to a unique public health landscape that students can learn a lot from. As a leader in public health investment, advancement, and innovation, Massachusetts plays a pivotal role in shaping our health and economic landscape, making it a prime destination for studying public health. When choosing an MPH program, consider your personal and career goals, and reach out to universities to get more detailed information. Explore program websites to determine which one is the best fit for you.

Use this article and the ten profiled programs here as a starting point for your exploration, and come back periodically throughout your search to ensure you are considering the factors that are important to you.