A Master's in Public Health (MPH) degree is an excellent way to advance your career in healthcare, public policy, and community health. With the rise of flexible online learning options, more students are opting for an online master's degree in public health to gain the skills and knowledge needed to tackle global health challenges. Whether you’re aiming to influence health policies, manage healthcare programs, or promote public well-being, an MPH can open doors to a fulfilling career.
In 2025, online MPH programs are more accessible than ever, offering flexibility for working professionals and individuals seeking to advance their education. But with so many options available, choosing the right program can be overwhelming. To help you make an informed decision, we’ve compiled a list of the best online master's degree in public health programs for 2025.
Why Pursue an Online Master's Degree in Public Health?
An online master's degree in public health provides the same rigorous education and accreditation as traditional on-campus programs but with the added benefit of flexibility. Here’s why you might consider pursuing an MPH online:
- Flexibility: Online programs allow students to balance work, family, and studies by offering asynchronous coursework, allowing students to learn on their schedule.
- Diverse Career Paths: Graduates can pursue a variety of roles, from healthcare management and policy analysis to environmental health and epidemiology.
- Global Impact: MPH professionals work on pressing issues such as disease prevention, health education, and improving access to healthcare worldwide.
- Affordable: Online programs often have lower tuition costs, and students save money on commuting and relocation expenses.
Let’s dive into some of the best online master's degree in public health programs available in 2025.
1. Johns Hopkins University - Bloomberg School of Public Health
Johns Hopkins University consistently ranks among the top public health schools in the world, and its online MPH program is no exception. Known for its rigorous curriculum and emphasis on research and evidence-based practices, the program offers a strong foundation in epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and more.
Key Features:
- Asynchronous coursework with some live sessions
- Focus on global health, leadership, and policy
- Highly respected faculty and research opportunities
- Excellent career services and alumni network
Best For: Students looking for a prestigious program with a global health focus.
Tuition: Approximately $70,000 for the entire program.
2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill – Gillings School of Global Public Health
The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill offers one of the most well-rounded online MPH programs, combining core public health topics with opportunities to specialize in areas like maternal and child health, nutrition, and environmental health. Their online program is designed to mirror the on-campus experience, ensuring students receive high-quality education regardless of location.
Key Features:
- Asynchronous classes with some required synchronous elements
- Specializations in areas such as epidemiology and global health
- Access to a diverse student body and a collaborative learning environment
- Strong emphasis on community health and research
Best For: Students interested in a customizable MPH program with a focus on global health and community engagement.
Tuition: Approximately $38,000 for the entire program.
3. University of Southern California (USC) – Keck School of Medicine
The University of Southern California offers a robust online MPH program through its Keck School of Medicine. The program is designed for working professionals and offers a comprehensive curriculum covering biostatistics, epidemiology, health policy, and environmental health. USC’s MPH program is known for its faculty expertise, practical approach, and access to a wide range of resources in the healthcare field.
Key Features:
- Flexible online format with both synchronous and asynchronous classes
- Specializations in health policy and management, global health, and epidemiology
- Strong connections with public health organizations and healthcare institutions
- Collaborative learning environment
Best For: Students seeking a comprehensive program with flexible study options and a focus on health policy and management.
Tuition: Approximately $60,000 for the entire program.
4. George Washington University – Milken Institute School of Public Health
George Washington University offers an online MPH program that combines theory and practice to prepare students for leadership roles in public health. The program is flexible and allows students to specialize in a variety of fields such as epidemiology, health policy, and public health communication.
Key Features:
- Asynchronous courses with optional in-person residencies
- Focus on leadership and global health
- Opportunities for hands-on learning through internships and fieldwork
- Access to GWU’s extensive network of public health professionals
Best For: Students who want to specialize in public health leadership or health policy and practice in global health.
Tuition: Approximately $47,000 for the entire program.
5. Boston University – School of Public Health
Boston University offers an online MPH program that provides students with the knowledge and skills to address critical public health challenges. Students can choose from specializations such as epidemiology, environmental health, and health communication. Boston University’s online MPH program is known for its innovative curriculum and strong emphasis on research and community health.
Key Features:
- Flexibility with both asynchronous and synchronous elements
- Focus on social justice, health equity, and policy
- Opportunity to complete a practicum or field experience
- Strong alumni network and career services
Best For: Students seeking a focus on social justice and health equity in their public health career.
Tuition: Approximately $55,000 for the entire program.
6. University of Michigan – School of Public Health
The University of Michigan offers an online MPH program that emphasizes both public health theory and practical application. The program covers key areas such as epidemiology, biostatistics, health behavior, and health policy. Michigan’s program is known for its strong commitment to preparing students for leadership roles in public health.
Key Features:
- Flexible learning format with asynchronous courses
- Specializations in health behavior, epidemiology, and public health policy
- Access to cutting-edge research and resources at a top-ranked school
- Collaboration with public health professionals in the field
Best For: Students looking for a top-tier program with a focus on leadership and research.
Tuition: Approximately $56,000 for the entire program.
Conclusion
An online master's degree in public health can help you make a significant impact on the health and well-being of communities. Each of the programs listed here offers unique benefits, from flexible schedules and specializations to strong alumni networks and access to global health resources. Whether you're passionate about epidemiology, health policy, or global health, there is an MPH program that fits your career goals.
When selecting the best online master's degree in public health program for 2025, consider your professional aspirations, budget, and desired areas of focus. By choosing the right program, you can gain the expertise needed to address global health challenges and contribute to a healthier, more equitable world.
'%20fill='%23ccc'/%3e%3c/svg%3e){kind=icon}
