The Master of Public Health (MPH) is recognized as the primary professional degree in public health. The objective of Iowa's MPH program is to provide education and practical training in public health to students who will be leaders in their respective communities. The program is appropriate for individuals who already have professional experience and/or training in public health as well as for those whose expertise lies outside of public health.
Students may earn the Master of Public Health (MPH) as a single degree, or they may pursue one of several combined degree programs. The College of Public Health offers combined MPH/professional degree programs with the Carver College of Medicine and the Colleges of Law and Pharmacy. It also offers two programs in collaboration with the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University. See "MPH/DVM (Iowa State University)" and descriptions of the combined degree programs under Combined Programs in this section of the catalog.
Undergraduate students can pursue an MPH degree in the following subprograms: biostatistics, community and behavioral health, epidemiology, occupational and environmental health, or policy. Undergraduate students work with their undergraduate advisor and the College of Public Health Undergraduate to Graduate (U2G) coordinator to determine eligibility. In addition, the College of Public Health collaborates with other private colleges in Iowa to offer bachelor's degrees and Master of Public Health programs for undergraduate students who would like to earn an MPH degree.
The Master of Public Health program is offered by the College of Public Health; the degree is awarded by the Graduate College.
Learning Outcomes
For further information regarding MPH subprogram learning outcomes, visit MPH Programs of Study on the Master of Public Health website.
MPH Foundational Public Health Knowledge
Students will be able to:
- explain public health history, philosophy, and values;
- identify the core functions of public health and the 10 essential services;
- explain the role of quantitative and qualitative methods and sciences in describing and assessing a population’s health;
- list major causes and trends of morbidity and mortality in the United States or other community relevant to the school or program;
- discuss the science of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention in population health, including health promotion, screening, etc.;
- explain the critical importance of evidence in advancing public health knowledge;
- explain effects of environmental factors on a population’s health;
- explain biological and genetic factors that affect a population’s health;
- explain behavioral and psychological factors that affect a population’s health;
- explain the social, political, and economic determinants of health and how they contribute to population health and health inequities;
- explain how globalization affects global burdens of disease; and
- explain an ecological perspective on the connections among human health, animal health, and ecosystem health (e.g., One Health).
MPH Foundational Competencies
Students will be able to:
- apply epidemiological methods to the breadth of settings and situations in public health practice;
- select quantitative and qualitative data collection methods appropriate for a given public health context;
- analyze quantitative and qualitative data using biostatistics, informatics, computer-based programming, and software, as appropriate;
- interpret results of data analysis for public health research, policy, or practice;
- compare the organization, structure, and function of health care, public health, and regulatory systems across national and international settings;
- discuss the means by which structural bias, social inequities, and racism undermine health and create challenges to achieving health equity at organizational, community, and societal levels;
- assess population needs, assets, and capacities that affect communities’ health;
- apply awareness of cultural values and practices to the design or implementation of public health policies or programs;
- design a population-based policy, program, project, or intervention;
- explain basic principles and tools of budget and resource management;
- select methods to evaluate public health programs;
- discuss multiple dimensions of the policy-making process, including the roles of ethics and evidence;
- propose strategies to identify stakeholders and build coalitions and partnerships for influencing public health outcomes;
- advocate for political, social, or economic policies and programs that will improve health in diverse populations;
- evaluate policies for their impact on public health and health equity;
- apply principles of leadership, governance, and management, which include creating a vision, empowering others, fostering collaboration, and guiding decision-making;
- apply negotiation and mediation skills to address organizational or community challenges;
- select communication strategies for different audiences and sectors;
- communicate audience-appropriate public health content, both in writing and through oral presentation;
- describe the importance of cultural competence in communicating public health content;
- perform effectively on interprofessional teams; and
- apply systems-thinking tools to a public health issue.
The Master of Public Health requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. Students must choose one of the following subprograms: biostatistics, community and behavioral health, epidemiology, occupational and environmental health, policy, practicing veterinarians, or professional.
Degree requirements include a core course in public health practice and in each of the five core disciplines of public health (biostatistics, epidemiology, environmental health, health policy and management, and social and behavioral sciences), a set of content-specific required courses and electives, one interprofessional education course, an applied practice experience, and a capstone experience. Students in the epidemiology subprogram must complete a bioscience course.
All MPH students complete the coursework listed under "Common Requirements." In addition, students complete the coursework listed for their chosen subprogram.
Common Requirements
The following coursework is required for all MPH students. Students must earn a B-minus or higher in each core course. Students may repeat courses to achieve this standard.
Core Courses
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these (18 s.h.): | ||
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics (students in the biostatistics subprogram may substitute BIOS:5710) | 3 |
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System (students in the policy subprogram may substitute HMP:5005) | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
Interprofessional Education Course
This course is required for all MPH students. Students in a combined degree program (i.e., MPH/MD, MPH/PharmD, MPH/DVM) or the professional subprogram will have this requirement waived since the content is covered in pharmacy, medicine, or veterinary courses, or professional experience prior to enrollment in the MPH program.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
This course: | ||
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
Applied Practice Experience
This requirement is a fieldwork experience in which students show proficiency in applying academic principles in community settings. There are many applied practice opportunities for MPH students locally, nationally, and internationally.
Before students register for and begin the applied practice experience, they choose an approved topic. A final written report with an oral presentation or a poster presentation is required.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
This course: | ||
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
Capstone Experience
Students are required to complete the capstone experience in their final semester.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
This course: | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
Subprograms
Biostatistics Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the biostatistics subprogram requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The subprogram is offered by the Department of Biostatistics.
The subprogram is designed to train public health professionals who can provide leadership in the analysis of public health data and the design of studies for public health investigations. It is intended for individuals who are interested in public health and who have quantitative ability but not advanced mathematics training.
Applicants to the subprogram must meet all MPH admission requirements; see Admission in this section of the catalog. They also should have a cumulative grade-point average of at least 3.00 and should have completed the following math and computer science coursework: single variable calculus and matrix algebra, satisfied by one semester of calculus equivalent to AP Calculus AB and a high school algebra course involving matrices; and elementary computer programming instruction in any commonly used modern programming language (e.g., Python, Java, C++). Individuals who are admitted to the subprogram without having met all of these requirements must satisfy unmet requirements during their first semester of enrollment in the program.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the biostatistics subprogram requires the following courses.
Biostatistics Subprogram Core
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these (8 s.h.): | ||
BIOS:4510 | Data Science Foundations in R | 2 |
BIOS:5120 | Regression Modeling and ANOVA in the Health Sciences | 3 |
BIOS:5130 | Applied Categorical Data Analysis | 3 |
Students with sufficient mathematical background can substitute BIOS:5710 Biostatistical Methods I, BIOS:5720 Biostatistical Methods II, and BIOS:5730 Biostatistical Methods in Categorical Data in place of BIOS:4120 Introduction to Biostatistics, BIOS:5120 Regression Modeling and ANOVA in the Health Sciences, and BIOS:5130 Applied Categorical Data Analysis. The advanced sequence requires 2 s.h. of fewer elective credits.
Biostatistics Electives
Electives (13 s.h.) may be chosen from the following list and may include any related course approved by the student's advisor.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
BIOL:4213 | Bioinformatics | 4 |
BIOS:6210 | Applied Survival Analysis | 3 |
BIOS:6310 | Introductory Longitudinal Data Analysis | 3 |
BIOS:6420 | Survey Design and Analysis | 3 |
BIOS:6610 | Statistical Methods in Clinical Trials | 3 |
BIOS:6650 | Causal Inference | 3 |
BIOS:6720 | Statistical Machine Learning for Biomedical and Public Health Data | 3 |
BIOS:6810 | Bayesian Methods and Design | 3 |
BIOS:7270 | Scholarly Integrity in Biostatistics | 1 |
BIOS:7600 | Advanced Biostatistics Seminar | 0-3 |
CS:4470 | Health Data Analytics | 3 |
CS:4740 | Large Data Analysis | 3 |
CS:5110 | Introduction to Informatics | 3 |
DATA:6200 | Predictive Analytics | 3 |
EPID:5200 | Principles of Public Health Informatics | 3 |
EPID:6920 | Applied Administrative Data Analysis | 2 |
ISE:4172 | Big Data Analytics | 3 |
STAT:3100 | Introduction to Mathematical Statistics I | 3 |
STAT:3101 | Introduction to Mathematical Statistics II | 3 |
STAT:3210 | Experimental Design and Analysis | 3 |
STAT:4100 | Mathematical Statistics I | 3 |
STAT:4101 | Mathematical Statistics II | 3 |
STAT:4520 | Bayesian Statistics | 3 |
STAT:4540 | Statistical Learning | 3 |
STAT:4580 | Data Visualization and Data Technologies | 3 |
Community and Behavioral Health Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the community and behavioral health subprogram requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The subprogram is offered by the Department of Community and Behavioral Health.
The subprogram prepares public health practitioners for a variety of positions related to community development, health program implementation, and health education. Students learn how to design, implement, and evaluate evidence-based interventions directed toward identified public health problems in populations.
A bachelor's degree in the social and behavioral sciences is good preparation for this program, but students come from a variety of educational backgrounds. Preference is given to applicants who have professional experience.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the community and behavioral health subprogram requires the following courses.
Community and Behavioral Health Subprogram Core
Students earn 18 s.h. in the required subprogram core.
Theory
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
This course: | ||
CBH:5220 | Health Behavior and Health Education | 3 |
Community and Society
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
This course: | ||
CBH:6230 | Health Equity, Disparities, and Social Justice | 3 |
Intervention
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
One of these: | ||
CBH:6205 | Designing and Implementing Interventions | 3 |
CBH:6220 | Health Communication Campaigns | 3 |
Methods
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
Both of these: | ||
CBH:5305 | Evaluation: Approaches and Applications | 3 |
CBH:6335 | Research Methods in Community and Behavioral Health | 3 |
One of these: | ||
CBH:5235 | Community-Based Participatory Research | 3 |
CBH:5310 | Qualitative Research for Public Health | 3 |
Community and Behavioral Health Electives
Students must take an additional 3 s.h. of elective community and behavioral health coursework or, with the approval of their advisor, they can select coursework in another area. In addition, once the 18 s.h. of required community and behavioral health credit is met, students may take any of the other courses as electives.
The following is a list of suggested elective courses.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
CBH:4140 | Feminist Activism and Global Health | 3 |
CBH:5350 | Foundations of Maternal and Child Health | 3 |
CBH:5435 | Substance Abuse Prevention and Early Intervention | 3 |
CBH:5440 | Prevention and Early Intervention of Mental Health Disorders | 3 |
CBH:6115 | Ethnographic Field Methods | 3 |
CBH:6405 | Global Maternal, Newborn, and Child Health | 3 |
CBH:6415 | Independent Study in Community and Behavioral Health | arr. |
HMP:6360 | Nonprofit Organizational Effectiveness I | 3 |
SOC:6420 | Seminar: Selected Topics in Deviance and Control | 3 |
URP:6253 | Designing Sustainable and Healthy Cities | 1-3 |
URP:6260 | Transportation Policy and Planning | 3 |
Epidemiology Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the epidemiology subprogram requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The subprogram is offered by the Department of Epidemiology.
The subprogram focuses on fundamental epidemiological concepts and methods and provides training in the use of public health data and methods for disease assessment and in methods for evaluating the need and outcome of programs and interventions. Graduates of the program work in public health departments and other health care settings.
Epidemiology subprogram students are required to attend departmental seminars and journal club. They also must present one scientific poster at an international, national, regional, state, university, or departmental poster session.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the epidemiology subprogram requires the following courses.
Epidemiology Subprogram Core
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these (15 s.h.): | ||
EPID:5241 | Statistical Methods in Epidemiology | 4 |
EPID:5925 | Epidemiology Journal Club: Evaluating the Literature (taken three times) | 0 |
EPID:5540 | Public Health Surveillance Mechanisms, Applications, and Data | 3 |
EPID:5580 | Public Health Laboratory Techniques | 1 |
EPID:5600 | Introduction to Epidemiology Data Management and Analysis | 3 |
EPID:6400 | Epidemiology II: Advanced Methods | 4 |
Bioscience—one of these (3–4 s.h.): | ||
PATH:5270 | Pathogenesis of Major Human Diseases | 3 |
PATH:8133 | Introduction to Human Pathology for Graduate Students | 3-4 |
Students who already have completed a course equivalent to one of the bioscience courses, PATH:5270 Pathogenesis of Major Human Diseases or PATH:8133 Introduction to Human Pathology for Graduate Students, may substitute an additional elective.
Epidemiology Electives
Additional approved elective coursework must be taken to complete the 42 s.h. total required for the MPH. At least 3 s.h. of elective credit must be earned in courses offered by the Department of Epidemiology (prefix EPID) or in one of the following biostatistics courses.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
BIOS:6210 | Applied Survival Analysis | 3 |
BIOS:6310 | Introductory Longitudinal Data Analysis | 3 |
Epidemiology Other Requirements
Department of Epidemiology Seminar
Every week during the academic year, the Department of Epidemiology seminar provides a forum for speakers to present information or research pertaining to diverse topics in epidemiology. Contact information for the seminar coordinators is located on the Department of Epidemiology website under Preceptorship, Journal Club, and Seminar Contacts. Information about the schedule is distributed weekly each semester. Students are expected to achieve at least 80% attendance at the seminar during each semester of enrollment.
Journal Club for First-Year Students
Journal Club for first-year students is for those who are new to the department and is offered in the fall semester. The focus is for students to gain experience in reading, interpreting, and critically evaluating recently published journal articles. Students should register for section 1 of EPID:5925 Epidemiology Journal Club: Evaluating the Literature.
Journal Club
Every other week during the academic year, the Journal Club meets to discuss articles of interest in the field. Contact information for the Journal Club coordinators can be found on the Department of Epidemiology website under Preceptorship, Journal Club, and Seminar Contacts. Information about the schedule is distributed to students each semester. Students are required to achieve at least 80% attendance at Journal Club for three semesters during their time in the program.
Occupational and Environmental Health Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the occupational and environmental health subprogram requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The subprogram is offered by the Department of Occupational and Environmental Health.
The subprogram provides students with a broad perspective on public health and career preparation for a variety of professional positions in occupational and environmental health. Public health experience provides desirable background for this subprogram.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the occupational and environmental health subprogram requires the following courses.
Occupational and Environmental Health Subprogram Core
Students earn 13 s.h. in the required subprogram core.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these (4 s.h.): | ||
OEH:5010 | Occupational and Environmental Health Seminar (taken three times; twice for 0 s.h. and once for 1 s.h.) | 0-1 |
OEH:5620 | Occupational Health | 3 |
Three of these (9 s.h.): | ||
OEH:4260 | Global Water and Health | 3 |
OEH:4510 | Injury and Violence Prevention | 3 |
OEH:5410 | Occupational Safety | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
OEH:6710 | Human Toxicology and Risk Assessment | 3 |
Occupational and Environmental Health Electives
Students can earn the remainder of credit for their degree in elective courses (8 s.h.) offered by a department in the College of Public Health.
The following is a list of suggested elective courses.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
OEH:4260 | Global Water and Health | 3 |
OEH:4310 | Occupational Ergonomics: Principles | 3 |
OEH:4510 | Injury and Violence Prevention | 3 |
OEH:4530 | Global Road Safety | 3 |
OEH:5410 | Occupational Safety | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
OEH:6120 | Current Topics in Agriculture and Rural Health | 0-1 |
OEH:6420 | Methods in Exposure Science | 3 |
OEH:6431 | Assessing Noise Hazards | 1 |
OEH:6432 | Assessing Nonionizing Radiation Hazards | 1 |
OEH:6433 | Assessing Ionizing Radiation Hazards | 1 |
OEH:6520 | Injury Epidemiology | 3 |
OEH:6710 | Human Toxicology and Risk Assessment | 3 |
Policy Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the policy subprogram requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The subprogram is offered by the Department of Health Management and Policy.
The subprogram offers coursework and applied learning experiences that prepare students for careers in health policy analysis, system and organizational planning, and program evaluation. Graduates of the program find positions in federal, state, and local government; professional associations; and private agencies. Varied academic backgrounds are appropriate preparation for this program, including business, liberal arts and sciences, and the health professions.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the policy and administration subprogram requires the following courses. Policy subprogram students may count either HMP:5005 Introduction to Healthcare Organization and Policy or HMP:4000 Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System for the "Common Requirements."
Policy Subprogram Core
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these: | ||
HMP:5610 | Health Policy | 3 |
HMP:5650 | Health Policy Analysis | 3 |
HMP:6610 | Legal Aspects of Healthcare | 2-3 |
HMP:6750 | Seminar in Health Policy | 3 |
Policy Electives
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
At least 9 s.h. chosen from these: | ||
HMP:5310 | Healthcare Quality Management | 2-3 |
HMP:5410 | Health Economics I | 3 |
HMP:5450 | Health Insurance and Managed Care | 3 |
HMP:5750 | Medicare and Medicaid Policy | 3 |
HMP:6710 | Federalism and Health Policy | 3 |
LAW:8562 | Health Law | 3 |
HMP:6850 | Independent Study and Research | arr. |
POLI:3100 | American State Politics | 3 |
Practicing Veterinarians Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the practicing veterinarians subprogram requires a minimum of 42 s.h. of graduate credit. The program is presented through a collaboration between the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University and is offered primarily by distance learning. It enables students to prepare for new career opportunities and equips them to respond to public health challenges such as zoonotic diseases, food security and foodborne illnesses, bioterrorism, and environmental health.
Students participate in two summer institutes, one on each campus during consecutive summers (two weeks in May or June); the rest of the program is online and students may complete requirements at times that fit their schedules. Specific courses are required each semester of the program.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the practicing veterinarians subprogram requires the following courses.
Practicing Veterinarians Subprogram Core
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these (21 s.h.): | ||
CPH:6700 | Public Health Emergency Preparedness for Veterinarians and Other Public Health Disciplines | 3 |
EPID:5300 | Food Safety | 3 |
EPID:5470 | Applied Veterinary Epidemiology/Biostatistics | 3 |
EPID:5540 | Public Health Surveillance Mechanisms, Applications, and Data | 3 |
EPID:5550 | Diagnostic Microbiology for Epidemiology | 3 |
EPID:5570 | Zoonotic Diseases | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
Professional Subprogram
The Master of Public Health with the professional subprogram is an individually defined concentration. Students and their advisor(s) identify courses to expand on foundational knowledge and skills, and define a set of competencies and corresponding assessments for the individual student’s plan of study. The professional subprogram includes the following student populations: individuals who have already earned a professional degree and students enrolled in a combined program (MPH/MD or MPH/PharmD).
Individuals who have already earned a professional degree may choose to complete the MPH professional subprogram, allowing greater flexibility in elective course selection. Typically, students who pick this subprogram are fellows, medical residents, practicing nurses, or physicians. Completion of the subprogram can enhance physicians' ability to receive primary certification from the American Board of Preventive Medicine. Physicians who are considering this certification should review the Become Certified requirements on the American Board of Preventive Medicine website. Students may take core courses on campus or online, accommodating a variety of schedules. Students work closely with their advisor to develop a plan of study that is tailored to their specific background and goals.
In addition to the MPH coursework listed under "Common Requirements" above, the professional subprogram requires the following courses.
Professional Subprogram Core
The professional subprogram core requires 9 s.h. of coursework that expands on foundational knowledge and skills. Courses must be approved after discussion with the student’s advisor.
Professional Electives
Students earn the remainder of credit for their degree (12 s.h.) in elective courses offered by the College of Public Health. Additional graduate courses may be eligible to count as electives but must be pre-approved.
MPH (Policy Subprogram)/JD
The combined Master of Public Health with a policy subprogram/Juris Doctor requires a minimum of 30 s.h. of graduate credit in addition to the requirements for the JD degree. A total of 12 s.h. from the JD degree will count toward the 42 s.h. required to earn the MPH degree. The program helps students develop special expertise in public health legal issues. It is designed to train qualified students for leadership roles in both the public and private sectors.
Separate application to each degree program is required; applicants must be admitted to both programs before they may be admitted to the combined degree program.
The combined MPH (policy subprogram)/JD requires the following coursework.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
HMP:5610 | Health Policy | 1-3 |
HMP:5650 | Health Policy Analysis | 3 |
HMP:6610 | Legal Aspects of Healthcare | 2-3 |
HMP:6750 | Seminar in Health Policy | 2-3 |
These courses count toward both degrees.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
LAW:8467 | Family Law | 3 |
LAW:8562 | Health Law | 3 |
LAW:8753 | Nonprofit Organizations: Structure, Governance, and Strategy | 3 |
LAW:8755 | Nonprofit Organizations: Advocacy, Collaboration, and Fundraising | 3 |
MPH (Policy Subprogram)/JD Common Requirements
Students must complete courses listed as "Common Requirements" (core courses and practicum) under Master of Public Health Requirements in this section of the catalog.
JD Requirements
Students in the combined MPH (policy subprogram)/JD degree program must complete the curriculum of the JD program; see Juris Doctor, JD (College of Law) in the catalog. Students must be enrolled in the College of Law to take College of Law courses.
MPH/MD
The combined Master of Public Health/Doctor of Medicine requires a minimum of 30 s.h. of graduate credit in addition to the requirements for the MD degree. A total of 12 s.h. from the MD degree will count toward the 42 s.h. required to earn the MPH degree. Students who complete the program enjoy expanded career opportunities and are well prepared to apply the principles of medicine and public health in their work.
Separate application to each degree program is required; applicants must be admitted to both programs before they may be admitted to the combined program.
The combined MPH/MD requires the following coursework.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
Both of these: | ||
CPH:6700 | Public Health Emergency Preparedness for Veterinarians and Other Public Health Disciplines | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
One of these: | ||
EPID:5500 | Introduction to Clinical Epidemiology | 3 |
EPID:6910 | Pharmacoepidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Research | 3 |
All of the following courses count toward the MD degree; 12 s.h. from these count toward the MPH degree.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
MED:8121 | Clinical and Professional Skills I | 3 |
MED:8122 | Medicine and Society I | 3 |
MED:8132 | Medicine and Society II | 4 |
MED:8222 | Medicine and Society III | 4 |
MPH/MD Common Requirements
Students must complete courses listed as "Common Requirements" (core courses and practicum) under Master of Public Health Requirements in this section of the catalog.
MD Requirements
Students in the combined MPH/MD program must complete the curriculum of the MD program; see Doctor of Medicine, MD (Carver College of Medicine) in the catalog.
MPH/PharmD
The combined Master of Public Health/Doctor of Pharmacy requires 42 s.h. of graduate credit in addition to the requirements of the PharmD degree. The program helps students develop expertise in public health related to pharmacotherapy, health promotion, disease prevention, and medication safety.
Graduates of the program may work in areas of interest common to pharmacy and public health, such as spread and treatment of disease, community health, and immunology; bioterrorism, terrorism, and preparedness; genetics; insurance; managed care; family and juvenile health; and protection of special populations. Employment opportunities are available in hospitals and clinics and with health care providers; private practice; insurance and managed care organizations; local, county, state, and federal government; public health governmental agencies; and colleges and universities.
Separate application to each degree program is required; applicants must be admitted to both programs before they may be admitted to the combined degree program.
The combined MPH/PharmD requires the following coursework.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
Both of these: | ||
CPH:6700 | Public Health Emergency Preparedness for Veterinarians and Other Public Health Disciplines | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
One of these: | ||
EPID:5500 | Introduction to Clinical Epidemiology | 3 |
EPID:6910 | Pharmacoepidemiology and Comparative Effectiveness Research | 3 |
All of the following courses count toward the PharmD degree; 12 s.h. from these count toward the MPH degree.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
PHAR:8250 | Applications of Pharmacy Practice I | 2 |
PHAR:8263 | Integrated Pharmacotherapy: Infectious Diseases | 4 |
PHAR:8265 | Applications of Pharmacy Practice II | 2 |
PHAR:8374 | Applications of Pharmacy Practice III | 2 |
PHAR:8375 | Advanced Topics in Health Services | 2 |
PHAR:8377 | Integrated Pharmacotherapy: Capstone | 4 |
PHAR:8378 | Pharmacy Law and Ethics | 2 |
MPH/PharmD Common Requirements
Students must complete courses listed as "Common Requirements" (core courses and practicum) under Master of Public Health Requirements in this section of the catalog.
PharmD Requirements
Students in the combined MPH/PharmD program must complete the curriculum of the PharmD program; see Doctor of Pharmacy, PharmD (College of Pharmacy) in the catalog. Students must be enrolled in the College of Pharmacy in order to take College of Pharmacy courses.
MPH/DVM (Iowa State University)
The Master of Public Health/Doctor of Veterinary Medicine is offered by the University of Iowa College of Public Health and the College of Veterinary Medicine at Iowa State University. It requires a minimum of 30 s.h. in addition to the requirements for the DVM degree (see College of Veterinary Medicine in the Iowa State University Catalog). A total of 12 s.h. from the DVM degree will count toward the 42 s.h. required to earn the MPH degree. The program prepares students for work as state veterinarians, as college and university faculty members, in local and state departments of public health, in the Public Health Service Commissioned Corps, in state agricultural departments, and for public health positions in the military.
Separate application to each degree program is required; applicants must be admitted to both programs before they may be admitted to the MPH/DVM degree program. For MPH admission requirements, see Admission in this section of the catalog.
The MPH/DVM requires the following coursework.
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
All of these: | ||
EPID:5300 | Food Safety | 3 |
EPID:5470 | Applied Veterinary Epidemiology/Biostatistics | 3 |
EPID:5570 | Zoonotic Diseases | 3 |
MPH/DVM Common Requirements
Students must complete courses listed as "Common Requirements" (core courses and practicum) under Master of Public Health Requirements in this section of the catalog.
MPH/DVM Electives
Course # | Title | Hours |
---|---|---|
At least 9 s.h. from these: | ||
CPH:6700 | Public Health Emergency Preparedness for Veterinarians and Other Public Health Disciplines | 3 |
EPID:5200 | Principles of Public Health Informatics | 3 |
EPID:5550 | Diagnostic Microbiology for Epidemiology (distance education course) | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine | 3 |
Applicants to the MPH program must apply through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS) and then set up a University of Iowa account and pay the UI supplemental fee. For detailed application information, visit Prospective Graduate Students on the Master of Public Health website.
Applicants to the MPH program must have successfully completed one semester each of college algebra and biology.
Applicants whose first language is not English must submit official test scores to verify English proficiency. Applicants can verify English proficiency by submitting official test scores from the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL), the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), or another assessment approved by the Graduate College.
Applicants must meet the admission requirements of the Graduate College; see the Manual of Rules and Regulations on the Graduate College website.
Students may enter the MPH program in fall and summer. Application deadline for fall or summer entrance to the MPH program is April 15.
Application deadline for the MPH for practicing veterinarians is March 1.
Application deadline for the Undergraduate to Graduate (U2G) program is Feb. 1.
Students may enter the MPH combined programs in fall, spring, and summer. Contact the individual combined programs for deadline information.
A limited number of tuition scholarship awards are available each year for MPH students. For information on financing education through jobs, grants, and loans, contact the university's Office of Student Financial Aid.
For more information about careers in public health, visit Career Services in Public Health on the College of Public Health website or This is Public Health online.
Sample Plans of Study
Sample plans represent one way to complete a program of study. Actual course selection and sequence will vary and should be discussed with an academic advisor. For additional sample plans, see MyUI.
Master of Public Health, MPH
- Biostatistics Subprogram
- Community and Behavioral Health Subprogram
- Epidemiology Subprogram
- Occupational and Environmental Health Subprogram
- Policy Subprogram
- Practicing Veterinarians Subprogram
- Professional MPH Option
Biostatistics Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. b | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
BIOS:4510 | Data Science Foundations in R | 2 |
BIOS:5120 | Regression Modeling and ANOVA in the Health Sciences | 3 |
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
Biostatistics Elective c | 2 - 3 | |
Hours | 13-14 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
Meet with Applied Practice Director early during this semester to begin planning for spring semester | ||
BIOS:5130 | Applied Categorical Data Analysis | 3 |
BIOS:6310 | Introductory Longitudinal Data Analysis c | 3 |
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
Biostatistics Elective c | 2 - 3 | |
Biostatistics Elective c | 3 | |
Hours | 11-12 | |
Spring | ||
BIOS:6210 | Applied Survival Analysis c | 3 |
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
Hours | 6 | |
Total Hours | 42-44 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- c
- Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.
Community and Behavioral Health Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
A cumulative GPA of 3.00 is required. | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
CBH:5220 | Health Behavior and Health Education b | 3 |
CBH:6335 | Research Methods in Community and Behavioral Health c | 3 |
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
CBH:6220 or CBH:6205 |
Health Communication Campaigns d or Designing and Implementing Interventions |
3 |
CBH:6230 | Health Equity, Disparities, and Social Justice e | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
Hours | 12 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CBH:5305 | Evaluation: Approaches and Applications c | 3 |
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
CBH Elective f | 3 | |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
CBH:5310 or CBH:5235 |
Qualitative Research for Public Health c or Community-Based Participatory Research |
3 |
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
Hours | 6 | |
Total Hours | 42 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- CBH Theory requirement.
- c
- CBH Methods requirement.
- d
- CBH Intervention requirement.
- e
- CBH Community and Society requirement.
- f
- Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.
Epidemiology Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
MPH Epidemiology students are also required to attend a departmental seminar series during each semester of enrollment in the program. b | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. c | ||
Students must earn a grade of B- or better in each of the six MPH common core courses and must have a combined GPA of 3.00 or better in these courses. When necessary, a student may repeat a course to meet this requirement. | ||
Every student is required to present at least one scientific poster at the department level and is encouraged to present at the international, national, regional, state, or university level at some point before graduation. This may be the same poster presented during the MPH Applied Practice poster presentation. | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
EPID:5600 | Introduction to Epidemiology Data Management and Analysis | 3 |
EPID:5925 | Epidemiology Journal Club: Evaluating the Literature d | 0 |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
EPID:5241 | Statistical Methods in Epidemiology | 4 |
EPID:5925 | Epidemiology Journal Club: Evaluating the Literature d | 0 |
EPID:6400 | Epidemiology II: Advanced Methods | 4 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
Hours | 14 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III e | 0 |
EPID:5540 | Public Health Surveillance Mechanisms, Applications, and Data | 3 |
EPID:5925 | Epidemiology Journal Club: Evaluating the Literature d | 0 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
PATH:5270 or PATH:8133 |
Pathogenesis of Major Human Diseases or Introduction to Human Pathology for Graduate Students |
3 - 4 |
Hours | 9-10 | |
Spring | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience f | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience f | 2 |
EPID:5580 | Public Health Laboratory Techniques | 1 |
EPID Elective g, h | 3 | |
Hours | 7 | |
Total Hours | 42-43 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Students are expected to achieve at least 80% attendance at the seminar during each semester of enrollment.
- c
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- d
- Students are required to achieve at least 80% attendance at Journal Club for three semesters during their time in the program.
- e
- CPH:5203 is a single day activity, and students must complete this during fall semester of the second year.
- f
- Students must complete the six MPH common core courses (BIOS:4120, CBH:4105, CPH:5100, EPID:4400, HMP:4000, OEH:4240) prior to taking this course. Exceptions are granted on a case-by-case basis.
- g
- Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.
- h
- Elective must have EPID prefix or may be either BIOS:6210 or BIOS:6310.
Occupational and Environmental Health Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. b | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
OEH:5010 | Occupational and Environmental Health Seminar c | 0 |
OEH:5620 | Occupational Health | 3 |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
OEH:5010 | Occupational and Environmental Health Seminar c | 0 |
OEH Required Core Course d | 3 | |
OEH Required Core Course d | 3 | |
Hours | 12 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
OEH Required Core Course d | 3 | |
OEH Elective e | 3 | |
Hours | 9 | |
Spring | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
OEH:5010 | Occupational and Environmental Health Seminar c | 1 |
OEH Elective e | 3 | |
OEH Elective e | 2 - 3 | |
Hours | 9-10 | |
Total Hours | 42-43 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- c
- Students take OEH:5010 Occupational and Environmental Health Seminar three times: twice for 0 s.h. and once for 1 s.h.
- d
- Take three courses from OEH:4260, OEH:4510, OEH:5410, OEH:6110, OEH:6710.
- e
- Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.
Policy Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. b | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
HMP:5005 or HMP:4000 |
Introduction to Healthcare Organization and Policy or Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System |
3 |
HMP:5610 | Health Policy | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
Hours | 12 | |
Spring | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
HMP:5650 | Health Policy Analysis | 3 |
Hours | 9 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
HMP:6610 | Legal Aspects of Healthcare | 2 - 3 |
HMP:6750 | Seminar in Health Policy | 3 |
Hours | 8-9 | |
Spring | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
Policy Elective c, d | 3 | |
Policy Elective c, d | 3 | |
Policy Elective c, d | 4 | |
Hours | 13 | |
Total Hours | 42-43 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- c
- Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.
- d
- Choose from HMP:5310, HMP:5410, HMP:5450, HMP:5750, HMP:6710, HMP:6850, LAW:8562, POLI:3100; HMP:5750 and HMP:6710 are recommended.
Practicing Veterinarians Subprogram
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. b | ||
All courses are online unless otherwise noted. | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
Hours | 6 | |
Spring | ||
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
Hours | 6 | |
Summer | ||
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
EPID:5570 | Zoonotic Diseases c | 3 |
OEH:6110 | Rural Health and Agricultural Medicine c | 3 |
Hours | 9 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
CPH:6700 | Public Health Emergency Preparedness for Veterinarians and Other Public Health Disciplines | 3 |
EPID:5540 | Public Health Surveillance Mechanisms, Applications, and Data | 3 |
Hours | 6 | |
Spring | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
EPID:5550 | Diagnostic Microbiology for Epidemiology | 3 |
Hours | 6 | |
Summer | ||
EPID:5300 | Food Safety d | 3 |
EPID:5470 | Applied Veterinary Epidemiology/Biostatistics d | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
Hours | 9 | |
Total Hours | 42 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- c
- UI Summer Institute
- d
- ISU Summer Institute
Professional MPH Option
Academic Career | ||
---|---|---|
Any Semester | Hours | |
42 s.h. of graduate level coursework must be completed; graduate transfer credits allowed upon approval. More information is included in the General Catalog and on department website. a | ||
Graduate College program GPA of at least 3.00 is required. b | ||
Hours | 0 | |
First Year | ||
Fall | ||
BIOS:4120 | Introduction to Biostatistics | 3 |
EPID:4400 | Epidemiology I: Principles | 3 |
OEH:4240 | Global Environmental Health | 3 |
Hours | 9 | |
Spring | ||
CBH:4105 | Introduction to Health Promotion and Disease Prevention | 3 |
Professional Core Course c | 3 | |
Professional Elective d | 3 | |
Hours | 9 | |
Summer | ||
CPH:5100 | Introduction to Public Health | 3 |
HMP:4000 | Introduction to the U.S. Health Care System | 3 |
Hours | 6 | |
Second Year | ||
Fall | ||
CPH:5203 | Interprofessional Education and Practice for MPH Students III | 0 |
Professional Core Course c | 3 | |
Professional Core Course c | 3 | |
Professional Elective d | 3 | |
Hours | 9 | |
Spring | ||
CPH:7200 | MPH Capstone Experience | 1 |
CPH:7500 | MPH Applied Practice Experience | 2 |
Professional Elective d | 3 | |
Professional Elective d | 3 | |
Hours | 9 | |
Total Hours | 42 |
- a
- Students must complete specific requirements in the University of Iowa Graduate College after program admission. Refer to the Graduate College website and the Manual of Rules and Regulations for more information.
- b
- Graduate College program GPA is comprised of all courses that are approved degree requirements. If a student takes more than the minimum required number of semester hours to complete the degree, but all courses taken are eligible to count toward the degree, those courses will be included in the Graduate College program GPA.
- c
- Students must complete 9 s.h. of coursework that expands on foundational knowledge and skills. Work with advisor to determine appropriate courses and sequence.
- d
- Students must complete 12 s.h. in elective courses offered by the College of Public Health. Work with faculty advisor for approval of appropriate graduate level coursework.