Health Sciences

Public Health, MPH

About the Master of Public Health

As the most frequently awarded graduate degree in the public health profession, the Master of Public Health (MPH) will prepare you for applied public health practice and leadership in diverse environments and jobs. You will learn the various perspectives in public health to help you complete your capstone portfolio, including a project-based or research thesis, applied learning experience, and interprofessional education competencies.

Why Study Public Health at CWU?

At CWU, you will have opportunities to get involved in ongoing public health research projects.

Our faculty consists of experts who have a large background of experience behind their teachings. This means you'll be learning from professionals with real-world experience who can provide valuable insights and guidance.

"Virtually every person is seeing how critical public health must be if we want to have functioning communities; this is a very real opportunity to elevate the role of public health in society. It’s also an extraordinary time to be studying public health and applying the principles that we know improve the health of populations.”  -Tishra Beeson is the Chair of Health Sciences and a professor in the Public Health program.

Where is this program offered?

• Ellensburg, hybrid online

How much does this program cost?

Explore information on Cost, Aid, and Value to make an informed decision about investing in your education at CWU.

Does CWU offer assistantships?

Find opportunities to fund your degree through the School of Graduate Studies and Research.

Where can I find more information?

Please visit the CWU Academic Catalog for current information about admission requirements, course descriptions, learner outcomes, and credit information.

Visit the School of Graduate Studies and Research for additional program eligibility information.

Careers and Opportunities

By obtaining a Master of Public Health degree, you can qualify you for positions such as Communicable Disease Surveillance or Epidemiologist. The breadth of these roles gives you the potential to influence public health in significant and meaningful ways.

You'll have the flexibility to work across a variety of environments. You might find yourself in local, state, or federal agencies, where you can directly impact health policies. Alternatively, hospitals and clinics could be where you apply your knowledge, contributing to improving patient outcomes and public health initiatives.

You could also consider a career as an educator. As a Health Education Specialist. The Olympia-Tumwater area of Washington has an average salary increase of $67,840, above the national average. As a Postsecondary Health Specialties Teacher, the average annual wage increases substantially to $133,310. Interestingly, Washington again stands out as the top-paying state for this profession, with an impressive average salary of $167,290.