Explore Top Online MPH Programs (No GRE Requirement)

One of the more stressful components of graduate program applications is standardized test taking. Not only is it expensive (currently priced at $220 in most countries, not including the cost of sending additional scores or study materials and programs), but it is time consuming and stressful - which can impact the quality of other application components. This can create an additional barrier in the application process, especially for those who may already be in the workforce or have other competing time constraints, which may deter an important demographic of applicants. By eliminating this component of the process, online MPH programs can attract a wider audience. It also allows applicants to allocate more time and effort towards strengthening other, arguably more important, parts of their application - like their Statement of Purpose, background experience, or resume. Besides, a lot of programs will still accept GRE scores if applicants feel that it would strengthen their application, which those who are strong test-takers may feel inclined to do so. 

It’s also important to note that it is becoming increasingly accepted to view standardized testing as an inaccurate assessment of intelligence, as such testing is thought to have an inherent bias that leaves marginalized groups behind. The National Education Association writes more about why standardized testing is often viewed as an unreliable measure. By removing the GRE as a mandatory requirement, programs received a more diverse applicant pool - which allows for a stronger cohort of students with unique perspectives and experiences. This is particularly important in the field of public health, which fundamentally requires a collaborative, holistic and comprehensive approach in its practice.

It may be surprising just how many MPH programs have made the transition to offer fully- online options that waive standardized testing requirements. The list below highlights a few of the leading programs that meet these criteria, and what makes them stand out.

Something to consider.. 

While the public health field does not view an online versus an in-person degree to be of differing value, a feature that is important to look for when considering any MPH program is accreditation. In short, accreditation is a process by which higher education institutions and programs are evaluated to ensure they are offering a standardized, high-quality education that effectively prepares students to enter into the field upon graduation. In the context of public health, an accredited degree will ensure that graduates receive the necessary competencies and skills required to meet the current needs of the profession. All the programs highlighted below are Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited, online programs with no GRE requirement:

Even without the GRE test score requirement, MPH programs still have thorough and often competitive application processes. Every program will have its own application process, so the best way to ensure you are submitting required materials is on the programs website, or through connecting with an admissions counselor. Most programs will require applicants to submit:

Depending on the program, applicants may be required to submit additional components such as a writing sample or completing an interview process. International applicants may be required to submit TOEFL or IELTS scores. 

While some programs maintain a structured Fall/Spring admissions process, many have a rolling admission process, which allows applicants to submit their materials within a larger time frame. With that being said, it is suggested to begin the application process as early as possible, as these materials can take time and carry a lot of weight in the review process. It is important to remember that former professors or supervisors need advanced warning to write a Letter of Recommendation, so ample time in requesting these is highly encouraged.

Online MPH programs without GRE requirements typically offer the same curriculums as in-person or hybrid programs. Courses often encompass the different disciplines within public health practice, including Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Health Policy and Management, Social and Behavioral Sciences, and Global Health. Most programs will also encourage students to dive deeper into a specific area or specialization. Popular specializations include Community Health, Health Promotion and Communication, and Public Health Leadership.

As students progress into the MPH program, regardless of the format they pursue, there will often come a required practicum or capstone experience. This is when students get to apply their skills learned within the classroom to real-world settings, like hospitals, government agencies, research centers, and community health organizations.Through the practicum or capstone experience, students gain hands-on learning, which is an essential competency for those entering into the field of public health. 

The practicum or capstone experience will often correlate with a Practice course, where students can come together to discuss their experience, troubleshoot, and connect over their learning. For online students, this may be through virtual class meetings or online discussion boards, where students can connect directly with one another. As online programs may have students from various locations, this is a great way to learn more about what public health looks like in practice in another part of the country or world.

With that being said, the field of public health can encompass a variety of career paths, which can be influenced by the specialization that a student might pursue within a certain program. For example, a graduate that specialized in Epidemiology or Biostatistics may pursue a career as a Data Analyst or Research Scientist, while a Global Health graduate may seek a career with the United Nations as a Program Manager, or in Disaster Risk Management. 

Depending on the career path an MPH graduate pursues, salaries can also range, especially when taking industry and location into consideration. Below you can find the 2024 median pay for various careers within the field of public health, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. 

Another important factor when considering an online-MPH program is the alumni network. When exploring a program’s webpage or attending an information session, you’ll often see some of the careers the alumni go on to pursue, or share various alumni testimonials regarding their experiences with the program. For example, an alumni from Benedictine’s MPH program highlights how she transitioned within her workplace from an outpatient and emergency department patient registration role into an Infection Preventionist and Accreditation Specialist after completion of her online MPH program.

An alumni from University of Washington’s online MPH program shares how upon completion of his medical residency, he wanted to pursue a career in health research. He credits UW's online program for accelerating his career into research by providing the foundational skills in a convenient format that allowed him to maintain his busy schedule.