Masters in Public Health in USA: Detailed Guide for Indian Students

Master's of Public Health in the USA is an interdisciplinary program that covers public health practices, research, and education. MPH programs span 1-2 years in the US and include coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and management, and social determinants of health. MPH programs also offer specializations in global health, community health, and maternal and child health.

With an extensive healthcare system, the US ranks at #1 for pursuing a Master's in Public Health. Six US universities rank under the top #10 for public health in the USA, higher than universities in any other country. After an MPH in the USA, you can expect an average annual salary of USD 70,000 (INR 60 lakh) to USD 90,000 (INR 78 lakh). This shows that the US is not only an excellent location for pursuing public health academically but also guarantees good returns on investment.  
Before finalizing any course at any university, it is very important to know the scope and importance of it in present times.

So, let us begin our discussion by looking at why you should consider studying Public Health in the USA:

• A Master's in Public Health degree builds the professional foundation for you to understand and work on a wide range of issues in a variety of industries and fields. They include issues from COVID-19 to health care policy, firearm safety, racism, and so on.
• As a public health professional, you can spread awareness of healthcare services in society and prevent the common public from getting deadly diseases. In this way, you can work for the betterment of society and improve the level of health facilities in the world.
• After completing your master's of Public Health in the USA, you will be able to earn a decent salary. As of 2022, Payscale reports the average annual salary of a public health professional with a master’s degree in the USA as INR 55,67,000 per year.

Some of the top universities that offer MPH in the USA are Harvard University, Yale, John Hopkins, and Cornell. The US is the top destination for studying a Master's in Public Health, and universities like Harvard have consistently ranked on top for the last 5 years.

The MPH programs in the USA combine research, fieldwork, and collaboration with skilled faculty for students to have a practical understanding of the field. Top 10 universities offering 

Let’s discuss the top universities in detail:

1. Harvard University 

Harvard University has consistently ranked among the top 5 universities in the QR WUR for public health programs. Harvard has more than 20 research centers and provides students with a strong alumni network of over 16,000 graduate students.

2. University of Pennsylvania

University of Pennsylvania has over 25,000 students and over 5000 faculty members, maintaining a small student-teacher ratio and ensuring better education.

The institute offers dual degree courses combined with MPH and flexible study options. 

3. Cornell University

At Cornell University you need 52 credits in the master’s of public health program to graduate. It consistently works on new methods for sustainability and public health through its courses like  Emergency Preparedness and Management. 

4. University of Chicago

The University of Chicago offers a 15-month MPH program. It also offers specializations in Health Policy, Biostatistics, and Epidemiology, with an analytical approach along with implementing evidence-based solutions for health issues. 

5. Yale University

At Yale University you will have six different departments under Health Care Management to choose from. At Yale's Core curriculum of the MPH program, you have 5 courses and two professional skills seminars. 

6. John Hopkins University

The Master of Public Health Program at Johns Hopkins has 60% international students and 8 dual degree programs. After the course completion, you will have 1 capstone project and 100 hours of practical experience.

7. Columbia University

At Columbia University you can choose from a regular program of two years or an accelerated program of one year. The institute ensures good education with a faculty of 150 members devoted only to MPH courses.  

8. University of Michigan

University of Michigan offers six different fields/departments under MPH that you can choose from for your masters. The institute provides interdisciplinary learning along with real-world experiences and a strong alumni network of over 18,000 graduates. 

9. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill

The University of North Carolina offers on-campus, online, and a distance format of learning for the MPH program. The institute offers 13 different fields for research and practice ranging from the use epidemics to water access and quality. 

10. Emory University

Emory University offers a dual degree to complete along with your MPH. Your MPH program can be of either 2 years or less depending on the department you choose. The institute provides 10 different departments/fields to choose from and depending on what you choose you will be required to submit a thesis/capstone seminar project/special study project. 

While studying an MS in Public Health in the USA, you can opt for a diverse range of specialisations like public health policy, health systems, and more. This program allows you to participate in the American bureaucracy and the healthcare system. 

Some of the most popular specialisations for MPH in the USA are:

• Child and Adolescent Health
• Public Health Policy
• Food, Nutrition, and Health
• Health Systems and Policy
• Food Systems Infectious Diseases
• Women's and Reproductive Health
• Health Leadership and Management
• Biostatistics
• Management Sciences
• Epidemiology

The cost of studying Master's in Public Health or MPH in the USA is between INR 22 lakhs - INR 74 lakhs (USD 25,000 to USD 90,000) per annum. Although this is significantly higher than other top study-abroad destinations, the US also offers excellent career opportunities and work experience. 

MPH Program Fee in the US

The program fees for a master’s in public health in the USA are INR 22 lakh to INR 74 lakhs. Top IVY League universities like Harvard have a significantly higher tuition fee, whereas others like Cornell are more affordable. 

Here is the Master's in Public Health program Fee for some of the US’s top universities:

Cost of Living in the USA

For an Indian student, the cost of living in the US is around INR 1-1.5 lakhs per month. Rent takes up the most amount, which can be very high in cities like New York, Boston, and San Francisco. If you want to save as an international, try to get university accommodations.

Here’s a breakdown of  your prospective living expenses:

The eligibility criteria and admission requirements for an MPH in the USA involve a related bachelor’s degree (mostly biology, psychology, or public health). You also need good test scores (330+ on the GRE) for top universities. 

Let’s discuss the eligibility criteria and the documents you need for admission to a master’s in public health in the US:

Eligibility Criteria 

The eligibility criteria for a master of public health in USA universities are as follows:

• Related Bachelor’s: You need a 3-year Bachelor’s degree in Public Health or a related field (biology, sociology)  from an internationally recognized institute with a minimum GPA of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. 
• English Proficiency: You need English test scores (TOEFL - 110+, IELTS - 7.0+) along with GRE test scores (330+)
• Basic Degree Knowledge: Different universities will also require you to have at least a one-year course on any one of these:
  

  Algebra
  Human Biology
  Calculus

Documents Required

Once you match the eligibility requirements you should have the following documents for your admission:

• All of your official transcripts and your bachelor’s degree marksheet.
• English Proficiency test score certificates and GMAT or GRE test score certificates.
• An LOR along with an SOP.
• Financial documents stating proof of availability of funds. 
• Your passport and Visa.

When you’re pursuing a master’s in public health in the USA, you can access many scholarships that can offer up to INR 44 lakhs (USD 50,000) for the 2-year graduate program. Sounds great, doesn't it? There are many scholarships for Indian students, like the Harvard Chan Grant, Fulbright Nehru and the Inlaks Scholarships. You can get financial assistance up to INR 80 lakhs, which will cover your tuition fees and living expenses. 

Here are some of the best scholarships for your MPH in the USA:

After a master’s in public health in the USA, you can expect a starting salary of INR 60 lakhs per annum. Roles like a health consultant in a government or private hospital, and health analysts will give you a significantly high annual salary. After 5-10 years, the ROI will grow manifold. 

Here are some of the best job roles you can pursue after a master’s in public health in USA:

Before choosing a program, that too in a foreign country, it’s natural to weigh the pros and cons. Although a master’s in public health is an excellent program, there may be certain shortcomings that you need to be aware of. 

Let’s talk about the pros and cons of pursuing a Master's in Public Health in the USA:

Benefits

• High-quality education: The USA has some of the globally top-ranked institutes like Harvard and Cornell. 
• Job Growth: The US healthcare industry is expected to increase job opportunities by 13% by the year 2031.
• Diverse Specialization: The universities in the US offer various options for specialization like Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Global Health, etc after your MPH.
• Global recognition: Most of the degrees from the USA like Harvard, Cornell, Michigan, etc. are globally recognized and will get you placement everywhere. 

Drawbacks 

• Tuition fee: The average cost of studying for an MPH in the USA ranges from INR 22 lakhs to INR 74 lakhs.
• Competition: Over 3 lakh students apply for US universities per year. 
• Potential overwork: Due to the rigorous curriculum and high demand for public health professionals you might get overworked.
• Living Costs: The average living cost for an international student comes to INR 1.34 lakhs per month. 

A Master’s in Public Health is an excellent interdisciplinary program, which equips you with a variety of skills and experiences, whether it's in a government setting or private hospital. The ROI is also good if you consider potential earnings. Connect with Yocket’s counselors to help you get started with the process. Research has predicted 2 million new jobs by the next few years, and this is your best opportunity to pursue an MPH in the USA.