Master of Public Health in Health Systems and Policy (MPH)

Students enrolled in this degree program will also utilize economic theories, concepts, and methodologies in the assessment of current health care issues and problems, such as health systems, policies, and service issues for diverse communities.

From health insurance, cost containment strategies, and physician payment, to demand for health care, health regulation, and health reform, graduates will be able to ethically navigate the constantly evolving political climate of health care policy.

Graduates are eligible to sit for the Certified in Public Health Exam.

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Each concentration identifies competencies for each degree offered. These competencies reflect the full range of knowledge, skills, and other attributes that a student will acquire as a result of completing the requirements for a particular degree.

Upon graduation, a student completing the MPH curriculum in Health Systems and Policy will be able to:

• Use social science theories or methodologies in the analysis of current health care issues, such as health or health care inequalities;
• Apply research methods to address a public health issue;
• Assess the role of social, cultural, political, legal, or economic factors in shaping health care delivery systems or public health policy;
• Analyze public health policies and practices recognizing legal and ethical implications for individuals and populations; and
• Evaluate the political, legal, social, or institutional contexts in which health policies are developed.

The MPH in Health Systems and Policy degree is offered to students on a full-time or part-time basis. Courses are available in-person, remote, and/or online. Students will complete a total of 45 credits, including a practicum experience and capstone research project.

If completing the program as a full-time student (nine or more credits per semester), the degree requirements may be completed in as little as two years (four to five semesters). Part-time students taking at least six credits per semester may expect to finish within four years. Taking courses in the summer may help expedite part-time students’ timing.

Dual-degree options are available in partnership with other Rutgers University schools.

Students are also required to register for and complete an Interprofessional Education activity prior to graduation.

Students can earn a post-baccalaureate certificate alongside their degree with an additional 6-12 credits. Contact admissions for additional information at admissions@sph.rutgers.edu.

A complete application includes:

• Completion of the online application
• Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• Statement of goals, one-to-three pages in length, which addresses:
  • Interest in the program
  • Preparedness for the program
  • Goals and aspirations
• Two letters of recommendation with at least one letter from an academic reference if you are currently enrolled in a degree program or have graduated within the last four years.
• Resume or CV
• GRE General Exam (optional)
• TOEFL or IELTS score for applicants educated in a non-native English-speaking country

Applications are accepted on a rolling, space-available basis following the regular deadline.