Lone Star Health: Navigating MPH Programs Across Texas

Recently, Texas has been getting a lot of attention in the public health world. This is because debates in Texas continue over access to abortion as an element of healthcare and make their way to the national spotlight³. As a result,Texas is a state full of opportunity when it comes to public health advocacy. Additionally, Texas often finds itself in national news over the provision of healthcare to migrants crossing the border from Mexico.⁴ As a result, many programs in the Lone Star State are geared toward helping diverse populations access the care that they need. Texas itself is the second largest state in the country in terms of population⁵. In a country where much of the public health work is done at the state level, receiving one’s public health education in one of the largest states allows for some pretty powerful opportunities. Within this vast population exists a diverse array of people, allowing for a substantial ability for public health practitioners to examine the social determinants of environmental health and healthcare overall⁶ . 

In addition to placing weight upon public health issues, many prospective graduate students consider lifestyle factors when choosing where to pursue their graduate degree. Because of its size, Texas has many different schools and regions with flourishing, unique cultures. Home to small towns and large cities, Texas is attractive to a wide variety of people. Many people also find the milder winters to be ideal. Additionally, Texas is considered a relatively affordable state to reside in. This is because the state has affordable housing, food, transportation, and healthcare costs compared to other states; not to mention there is no state income tax.

With its large economy, job prospects are exceedingly high for those graduating from public health programs⁷. Many renowned health systems exist within the state—such as the MD Anderson Cancer Center in Houston—demonstrating the significance of the healthcare industry in Texas⁸. Both a great place to study public health and work as a public health practitioner, Texas proves to be an ideal location to study public health.

When considering which MPH program in Texas may be right for you, there are many factors to consider. A program’s accreditation status is crucial, as this ensures that the program will provide all students with a quality education. Accreditation is awarded to schools by the Council for Education for Public Health (CEPH). When choosing a program, it is also important to do some self-reflection. Certain programs may have greater offerings in certain topic areas of interest, for example, in the form of courses, certificates, concentrations, and faculty research. Choosing a school that will allow you to explore these passions will optimize your educational path. The location of the program within the state of Texas is also critical to consider.

As previously mentioned, Texas has many cities and towns with different sizes and feels. Some of these may provide opportunities that better align with your professional or personal goals. For example, as a prospective MPH student, you may feel more passionately about urban health as opposed to rural health, driving your decision to attend a graduate school in a city. Or, perhaps you prefer a program that features online or hybrid learning—you’re sure to find a program that fits your scheduling needs⁹.

Some students find remote education to work best for them and their lifestyle¹⁰; others feel strongly that in-person learning gives them the optimal education. There are many factors to consider when deciding which of these educational models is right for you. For those who choose remote education, one major benefit is the lack of a commute. This makes getting an education much more accessible—alleviating financial and scheduling barriers. Some also argue that online learning can provide greater networking opportunities. This is only the case if the class has a substantial geographic spread, making this a factor to be aware of when conducting your program search.

On the other hand, others argue that in-person learning can actually provide greater networking opportunities, particularly if the class size is relatively large. Many of these advocates for in-person education feel that the opportunities for collaboration are more abundant when students are all on campus. Additionally, many students find in-person learning to provide a distraction-free environment and one that allows for less technical requirements at home¹¹.

A variety of MPH program offerings exist in Texas. While this list covers 10 programs, it is noteworthy that it is not comprehensive.

Admissions requirements can vary between MPH programs but, luckily, not too drastically²⁹. Application cycles for all MPH programs, including those in Texas, typically begin in August for programs beginning in the fall. Note that online MPH programs tend to have later deadlines. Regardless, applicants should start researching specific programs and preparing their applications as early as possible to ensure an optimal application process. A bachelor’s degree is required for application to all programs, but the majority do not require specific undergraduate coursework or set a minimum undergraduate GPA requirement. Some schools in Texas continue to have the GMAT or GRE (standardized tests) as requirements for applicants.

Most schools do require two to three letters of recommendation. Note that this part of submissions should be started as early as possible. Be sure to carefully select the writers of letters of recommendation, as it is essential to ensure your recommenders can speak positively and accurately about your character. Additionally, select all included experiences on your application with care. These experiences, and any writing supplements, can be excellent opportunities to showcase your passion for and prowess within public health.

Public health careers can take on many forms based on your unique interests³⁰. Nationwide, many of these careers are expected to grow immensely in years to come³¹. Some of this growth is driven by an aging population as well as a greater understanding of the importance of public health initiatives following the COVID-19 pandemic. With its large economy⁷, diverse population needs⁶, and a multitude of renowned healthcare systems, Texas is ripe with opportunities for a variety of public health careers.  

Note that a particular emphasis is placed on the health of vulnerable populations. Because this is a significant issue within the state of Texas, public health careers within the fields of community health and environmental health justice have a particularly strong outlook. Additionally, with the debates over abortion policy³ and migrant health⁴, health policy is a field of particular importance in Texas. Often, students seeking work in these areas seek work at local organizations such as the Texas Public Health Association. Many universities mentioned providing strong mentoring, networking, and professional development opportunities to equip students well as they explore career options. 

In conclusion, public health educational programs in Texas provide students with amazing opportunities to learn and grow as public health professionals. With a wide variety of program formats, concentrations, and regional settings, Texas MPH programs can prove attractive to people with many backgrounds and goals. 

Consider applying today to an MPH program in Texas to jumpstart a career serving the country’s most vulnerable populations.