Best CEPH Accredited MPH Online Programs for 2025

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

Public health professionals help improve the quality of life of the members of the communities that they serve. They work to keep people healthy by addressing health, social, and environmental issues. These professionals can work in different industries — from healthcare to social work to food. Therefore, public health professionals play an important role in daily life.

Individuals working in related professional roles and aspiring public health professionals can further their education and training by going through master of public health (MPH) programs. Graduate education can take a toll on one’s resources, so I created this in-depth guide to online MPH programs. Below, you can explore different reputable programs, common coursework, available specializations, financial aid options, and career paths that you can take.

What are the benefits of getting a CEPH-Accredited online MPH degree?

Online MPH programs can help you land various professional roles. For instance, graduates can become community health workers, nutritionists, social workers, health educators, and researchers.
In 2023, community health workers in the United States (US) had a median annual wage of $48,200. Meanwhile, physicians and surgeons, who may choose to work in public health, had a 2023 median annual wage of $239,200 [US Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), 2024].
Earning an MPH degree online enables students to fulfill their commitments from anywhere with internet access. This gives them the flexibility to advance their public health careers while balancing work and personal commitments.

What can I expect from CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Students enrolled in online MPH programs can expect a comprehensive curriculum that covers essential courses, such as epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health. These programs usually combine asynchronous coursework with occasional live sessions, offering flexibility for working professionals.

Students engage in virtual discussions, group projects, and case studies, which helps them build real-world skills in data analysis and public health strategy. Most programs also include a practicum or capstone project to allow students to apply their learning in a real-world setting. Online MPH programs provide the same academic rigor and accreditation as on-campus options.

Where can I work with a CEPH-Accredited online MPH degree?

Professionals who have finished online MPH programs can work in diverse industries, including healthcare, social work, government, and education. For instance, the following are the largest employers of community health workers in the US (US BLS, 2024):

Social Assistance: 21%
Ambulatory Healthcare Services: 19%
Local Government (excluding education and hospitals): 17%
Hospitals (state, local, and private): 10%
Religious, Grantmaking, Civic, Professional, and Similar Organizations: 10%

Meanwhile, the following are the largest employers of social workers across the country (US BLS, 2024):

Individual and Family Services: 18%
Local Government (excluding education and hospitals): 14%
State government (excluding education and hospitals): 12%
Educational Services (state, local, and private): 10%
Community Food and Housing, Emergency and Other Relief Services, and Vocational Rehabilitation Services: 3%

How much can I make with a CEPH-Accredited online MPH degree?

Aside from advancing your education and training, online MPH programs can help improve your employability and increase your salary potential. In 2023, community health workers in the US had a median annual wage of $48,200 (US BLS, 2024). Notably, community health workers are only required to have earned a high school diploma to be qualified for the job. Thus, earning a bachelor’s degree and an MPH degree can significantly boost your professional credentials and opportunities.

Physicians and surgeons, who had a 2023 median annual wage of $239,200 (US BLS, 2024), can also opt to venture into public health. However, becoming a medical doctor requires individuals to earn a medical degree and complete licensure requirements to be able to legally practice.

List of CEPH-Accredited Online MPH Programs for 2025
How long does it take to complete a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?
How does a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program compare to an on-campus program?
What is the average cost of a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?
What are the financial aid options for students in CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?
What courses are typically in an CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
What types of specializations are available in CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
How do digital tools and virtual simulations enhance CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
Is the ROI of a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program worth the investment?
How do CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs address diversity, equity, and inclusion?
Do employers value CEPH-Accredited online MPH degrees?
What are the student outcomes and alumni career trajectories of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
How do you choose the best CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?
What career paths are available to graduates of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
What is the job market like for graduates of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?
What challenges do online MPH students face and what support options are available?
Other Things You Need to Know about CEPH-Accredited Online MPH Programs

List of CEPH-Accredited Online MPH Programs for 2025

To help you get started on your public health career, I created a list of reputable online MPH programs across the US. The list is based on the research methodology that my team and I established. We collected and analyzed recent data from the IPEDS database, Peterson's database, the College Scorecard database, and the National Center for Education Statistics.

1. University of Southern California

The University of Southern California offers an online master of public health (MPH) program that is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The program lets students choose from five areas of concentration, including biostatistics, epidemiology, and health services. The university also offers an accelerated option that allows students to complete the program in four semesters.

Program Length: At least 2 years
Concentrations:
- Biostatistics and Epidemiology
- Community Health Promotion
- Global Health
- Health Services and Policy
- Generalist

Cost per Credit: Contact the university for information on tuition.
Required Credits to Graduate: Contact the university for information on credit requirements.
Accreditation: Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC); CEPH

2. George Washington University

George Washington University offers an online MPH program through its Milken Institute of School of Public Health. The program allows students to finish between 1 to 5 years. Aside from the four main concentrations available to students, the program also provides students with alternative focus areas, such as epidemiology, health communication, health policy, as well as program planning and evaluation.

Program Length: 1 year to 5 years
Concentrations:
- Health Informatics and Analytics
- Climate and Health
- Global Health
- Women, Youth, and Child Health

Cost per Credit: $1,890
Required Credits to Graduate: 45 credits
Accreditation: Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE); CEPH

3. Grand Canyon University

Grand Canyon University offers an online MPH program through its College of Nursing and Health Care Professions. The program requires students to finish 150 hours of supervised field experience or practicum and a capstone course. The curriculum includes different fundamental courses, such as social and behavioral principles of public health, principles of epidemiology, as well as public health advocacy and policy.

Program Length: At least 1 year
Cost per Credit: 48 credits
Required Credits to Graduate: $590
Accreditation: Higher Learning Commission (HLC); CEPH (Applicant for Accreditation)

4. University of North Carolina

The University of North Carolina-Chapel Hill offers an online MPH program through its Gillings School of Global Public Health. The program provides students with 3 concentration options and the opportunity to study part time or full time. Notably, the university does not require applicants to submit GRE scores. Students can also earn related certificates, such as in community preparedness and disaster management, field epidemiology, as well as global health.

Program Length: 20 to 36 months
Specializations:
- Leadership in Practice
- Nutrition
- Applied Epidemiology

Cost per Credit: $1,735
Required Credits to Graduate: 42 credits
Accreditation: Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC); CEPH

5. Walden University

Walden University offers an online MPH program that aims to equip students with a strong foundation in the essential areas of public health. The program provides students with interactive media programs that simulate real-world issues and solutions. Its curriculum includes core courses, a candidacy course, a field experience preparation course, as well as a practicum and applied project.

Program Length: 24 months
Specializations: Contact the university for information on specializations.
Cost per Credit: $535 per quarter hour
Required Credits to Graduate: 64 quarter credits
Accreditation: HLC; CEPH

How long does it take to complete a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?

Online MPH programs usually take 1.5 years to 3 years to finish, depending on the program structure and the student's enrollment status. Full-time students can often finish in 1.5 years to 2 years. Meanwhile, part-time learners — many of whom balance work or family obligations — may take up to 3 years. Accelerated programs may be available in some academic institutions and allow for quicker completion. A similar structure can be found in an accelerated healthcare administration degree online, which also emphasizes fast-paced, intensive coursework.

However, they may require a more intensive course load. Most online MPH programs consist of 42 to 48 credit hours, including core courses, electives, and a practicum or capstone project. Some programs offer flexible pacing with asynchronous coursework, while others may have set schedules and live sessions.

How does a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program compare to an on-campus program?

Both online MPH programs and on-campus MPH programs offer the same foundational education and training. However, they may still differ in the following ways:

Flexibility and Scheduling: Online MPH programs often provide asynchronous coursework, enabling students to study on their own time. This is ideal for working professionals or individuals with family responsibilities. Some programs even offer an accelerated MPH online option, allowing students to complete their degree more quickly than traditional timelines.
Learning Environment: On-campus students benefit from face-to-face interactions with professors and peers, which can enhance networking and collaboration. Meanwhile, online learners interact through discussion boards, video conferencing, and group projects. These learning avenues may provide students with more independence and digital communication skills.
Location and Accessibility: Online programs can be completed from anywhere with reliable internet access. Meanwhile, on-campus programs require physical attendance, which may limit options for students residing far away from a public health school.

What is the average cost of a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?

The cost of online MPH programs in the US can vary widely depending on the academic institution. On average, students can expect to pay between $500 and $2,000 per credit hour. For example, George Washington University charges approximately $1,890 per credit, while the University of North Carolina costs around $1,735 per credit. More affordable options include Grand Canyon University at $590 per credit and Walden University at $535 per credit, making them among the cheapest MPH programs currently available.

Many online MPH programs require between 42 to 48 credit hours, bringing the total tuition cost to a range of $22,000 to over $90,000. It is important to factor in additional expenses and financial aid when comparing programs.

The chart below provides a visualization of the average cost per credit of online MPH programs in the US, according to current tuition data from the featured academic institutions.

What are the financial aid options for students in CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Students pursuing an online MPH degree have access to various financial aid options, helping reduce costs through scholarships, grants, loans, and employer tuition assistance programs.

The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) Financial Aid Options: The ASPPH gathers over 150 accredited schools and programs of public health. The association provides several financial aid opportunities, including citizen-based scholarships, financial aid for minority and underserved groups, and applicant-specific options. Graduate public health students can apply for scholarships through the ASPPH, such as the Bridging the Dream Scholarship Program for Graduate Students, which is offered by Sallie Mae. The Sallie Mae scholarship awards qualified graduate students with a maximum of $10,000 for educational assistance.
The Johnson & Johnson Access-Ability Lime Scholarship: The Johnson & Johnson Access-Ability Lime Scholarship supports students with disabilities in their educational endeavors in the fields of healthcare and STEM. Applicants must be open to current Network Members of Lime Connect, a current student of a 4-year university in the US, pursuing a degree in healthcare or STEM, and active in advocating disability inclusion.
Federal Direct PLUS Loans for Graduate or Professional Students: Students of online MPH programs can apply for Direct PLUS loans, which is funded by the US Department of Education. The interest rate is 9.08% for students who first disbursed on or after July 1, 2024, and before July 1, 2025. Notably, the amount you may borrow equals the cost of attendance based on school computations minus other financial aid you are granted with.

If you are considering career paths in forensic science or criminal justice, it’s helpful to explore how to become an evidence technician, as this role often intersects with public health through forensic investigations. Financial aid options may also be available for students in related fields, ensuring that individuals pursuing careers in law enforcement or healthcare can access the education they need.

What are the prerequisites for enrolling in a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?

Applicants of online MPH programs must meet several key prerequisites. While specific requirements may vary by academic institution, I found out during my research that most programs include the following:

Bachelor’s Degree: Applicants must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited academic institution. While a background in health or science is helpful, many programs accept students from a variety of academic disciplines.
Minimum GPA: Most degree programs require a minimum undergraduate GPA, often around 3.0. A strong academic record demonstrates readiness for graduate-level coursework.
Letters of Recommendation and Statement of Purpose: Applicants are usually asked to submit 2 to 3 letters of recommendation along with a personal statement outlining career goals and reasons for pursuing an MPH. These materials help programs assess motivation, communication skills, and alignment with public health values.

For those considering a career in education or teaching, such as becoming an ESL teacher, it’s also useful to research the ESL teacher salary to understand the financial potential of this path. While an MPH may open doors in public health, teaching English as a second language can be a rewarding option for those passionate about language instruction.

What courses are typically in a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?

Online MPH programs offer a curriculum designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills needed to resolve concerns in public health — from answering simple questions, such as “What is a MPH degree?”, to addressing complex public health challenges. While specific courses may differ among academic programs, most include the following core subjects:

Epidemiology: This course teaches students how to analyze the distribution and determinants of health conditions in populations, which forms the basis for public health interventions.
Biostatistics: Students learn to apply statistical methods to public health data. This helps them interpret research findings and support data-driven decision-making.
Environmental Health: This course explores how environmental factors, such as air, water, and chemical exposure, impact human health and how to mitigate related risks.
Health Policy and Management: Students examine how health policies are developed and implemented, as well as the principles of managing public health organizations and systems.
Social and Behavioral Sciences: This course focuses on how behavioral, cultural, and social factors influence public health and how to design effective health promotion programs.

What types of specializations are available in CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Online MPH programs often offer specialized tracks that enable students to focus their studies on a particular area of interest within the field. These specializations help align skills with specific career paths. Common MPH specializations include the following:

Epidemiology: This specialization focuses on studying the patterns, causes, and effects of health and disease conditions in populations. It prepares students for careers in research, surveillance, and outbreak investigation.
Global Health: Students learn about international health issues, cross-cultural healthcare delivery, and strategies for improving health outcomes in low-resource settings. Careers may include roles with NGOs, international agencies, and global health initiatives.
Health Policy and Management: This track emphasizes the development, analysis, and implementation of health policies. It also prepares students for leadership in healthcare organizations. Graduates often work in healthcare administration, policy advising, and public health leadership roles.

For those with an interest in law and environmental health, pursuing an environmental lawyer career path could also be a relevant direction. Those who combine public health knowledge with legal expertise can advocate for policies that protect the environment and promote public health.

How do digital tools and virtual simulations enhance CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs are increasingly leveraging digital tools and virtual simulations to mimic real-world public health challenges and bolster data-driven decision-making. Advanced virtual labs, interactive analytics platforms, and collaborative software create immersive learning experiences that refine technical proficiency and promote digital literacy. These innovations prepare students for the evolving demands of the public health workforce by enabling them to apply complex analytical methods and real-time scenario assessments. Additionally, some programs integrate interdisciplinary resources, similar to the online ultrasound program, to provide targeted technical training that complements core public health competencies.

Is the ROI of a CEPH-Accredited online MPH program worth the investment?

Evaluating the return on investment (ROI) involves a careful analysis of tuition costs, program duration, potential salary growth, and the enhanced career opportunities that come from earning an accredited degree. Prospective students should examine detailed alumni outcomes and compare institutional data on post-graduation earnings to assess whether the program’s cost aligns with long-term financial and professional benefits. Scrutinizing available financial aid, scholarships, and program-specific industry connections can further inform this decision. For an applicable cost-benefit perspective, consider reviewing the best online college for medical billing and coding to understand how similar educational investments yield tangible career value.

How do CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs address diversity, equity, and inclusion?

CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs integrate diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) directly into their curricula through specialized coursework and experiential learning modules. These programs involve critical analyses of healthcare disparities, facilitate culturally competent leadership training, and promote inclusive community engagement strategies. Additionally, many institutions partner with local and international organizations to offer real-world experiences that prepare graduates to implement equitable public health interventions. For a broader list of affordable options, explore public health programs online.

Do employers value CEPH-Accredited online MPH degrees?

Research shows that employers increasingly recognize the rigor and relevance of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs. With comprehensive curricula that emphasize practical experience and evidence-based practice, graduates are well-prepared to address contemporary public health challenges. Hiring managers consider the accreditation as assurance of quality education and a commitment to current industry standards. This recognition has led to improved career opportunities across diverse sectors, including roles in healthcare administration such as highest paying entry-level healthcare administration jobs.

What are the student outcomes and alumni career trajectories of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Evaluating program effectiveness through student outcomes and alumni experiences offers critical insights into the long-term value of an MPH degree. Accredited programs frequently report strong graduation rates, successful transitions into leadership roles, and robust professional networks that enhance continuing education and career advancement. Quantitative data—such as post-graduation employment rates, salary progression, and career trajectory assessments—complement qualitative insights from alumni testimonials and institutional surveys. These metrics provide prospective students with a transparent view of how academic rigor translates into real-world success while underscoring an institution's commitment to measurable quality. Moreover, some schools showcase complementary educational pathways, such as an accelerated bachelor's degree in biology online, to emphasize a comprehensive approach to scientific and public health education.

How do you choose the best CEPH-Accredited online MPH program?

When choosing the best online MPH program, prospective students should consider several important criteria to ensure that the program aligns with their academic and professional goals and preferences. Key factors include the following:

Accreditation: Ensure that the program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). Accreditation guarantees that the program meets industry standards and is recognized by employers and licensing bodies.
Curriculum and Specializations: Look for programs that offer a comprehensive core curriculum and a variety of specializations that match your career interests.
Flexibility and Format: Consider the program’s structure, including whether it offers asynchronous learning, part-time options, or accelerated tracks. A flexible format can be valuable for working professionals who are balancing other responsibilities. Individuals who want to obtain the credential faster may also explore 1 year MHA programs online.

What career paths are available to graduates of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Graduates of online MPH programs have access to a diverse range of career paths focused on improving community health and wellness. Common roles include the following:

Community Health Workers: Community health workers serve as a bridge between communities and healthcare systems. They promote access to care and health education. In 2023, community health workers across the US had a median annual wage of $48,200 (US BLS, 2024).
Dietitians and Nutritionists: With an MPH, individuals in this role can design public health nutrition programs, promote healthy eating habits, and address diet-related health issues. Dietitians and nutritionists in the US had a 2023 median annual wage of $69,680 (US BLS, 2024).
Social Workers: MPH graduates can specialize in public health social work. Social workers in this field focus on the intersection of health and social services to support vulnerable populations. In 2023, social workers had a median annual wage of $58,380 (US BLS, 2024).
Survey Researchers: Survey researchers design and conduct health-related surveys to inform policy and improve programs through data analysis. Survey researchers in the US had a 2023 median annual wage of $60,960 (US BLS, 2024).
Health Education Specialists: Health education specialists develop and implement programs that encourage healthy behaviors and inform the public about health issues. In 2023, health education specialists had a median annual wage of $62,860 (US BLS, 2024).

For professionals more interested in healthcare leadership or management roles, pursuing a master's in healthcare administration online may be another strong option, as it offers a different yet complementary career path.

The chart below provides a visualization of the 2023 median annual wages of public health professionals in the US, according to 2024 data from the US BLS.

What is the job market like for graduates of CEPH-Accredited online MPH programs?

Fortunately, employment for several roles that are related to public health, including community health worker, social worker, and health education specialist, have been projected to increase between 2023 and 2033 (US BLS, 2024):

Community Health Workers: Community health workers in the US have a positive job outlook of 13%, which translates to an average of about 7,500 job openings annually over the decade.
Dietitians and Nutritionists: Employment for dietitians and nutritionists across the country is expected to increase by 7%, with an average of about 6,100 job openings each year.
Social Workers: Social workers have been predicted to see a positive job growth rate of 7% between 2023 and 2033. This is equivalent to an average of about 67,300 job openings yearly.
Survey Researchers: Survey researchers have a job growth rate that is much slower than the average for all occupations in the US, with 0% or an average of about only 800 job openings over the decade.
Health Education Specialists: Employment for health education specialists is expected to grow by 7%, with an average of about 6,700 job openings during the period.

For those interested in environmental health and safety, learning how to start a career in EHS could provide valuable insights. This career path involves managing workplace safety and environmental risks, with increasing demand in industries aiming to comply with regulations and protect public health.

The chart below provides a visualization of the job outlook for public health professionals in the US between 2023 and 2033, according to 2024 data from the US BLS.

What challenges do online MPH students face and what support options are available?

Online MPH students often navigate challenges such as managing self-paced learning, overcoming technical issues, and compensating for reduced in-person interaction. Institutions address these obstacles by offering targeted academic advising, technical assistance, and virtual networking opportunities that foster collaboration and mentorship. Additionally, some programs recommend complementary professional credentials to broaden career prospects, such as the affordable medical billing and coding certification, which can further enhance students’ practical skill sets.

Other Things You Need to Know about CEPH-Accredited Online MPH Programs

What is the easiest healthcare degree to get?

The easiest healthcare degree to get is often a Medical Assisting or Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) program. These typically require less time, are less academically intensive than other healthcare degrees, and offer quick entry into the workforce with foundational patient care skills.

What is the shortest degree in healthcare?

The shortest degree in healthcare is typically a certificate or diploma program, such as a Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) or Medical Assistant, which can be completed in as little as 4 to 12 months. These programs offer fast entry into healthcare with essential patient care training.

What is the lowest salary in public health?

In public health, a community health worker (CHW) is one of the roles with the lowest salaries. In 2023, CHWs in the US had a median annual wage of $48,200 (US BLS, 2024). Despite the lower pay, CHWs play a vital role in connecting communities to health services and education.

What is the highest-paying degree in healthcare?

The highest-paying degree in healthcare is a Doctor of Medicine (MD) or Doctor of Dental Surgery (DDS/DMD). Physicians and surgeons in the US had a median annual wage of $239,200 in 2023 (US BLS, 2024). Other advanced practice degrees, such as a Doctor of Pharmacy (PharmD), can also prepare individuals for other high-salary roles. For instance, pharmacists in the US had a 2023 median annual wage of $136,030 (US BLS, 2024).