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Master of Public Health Master of Public Health courses

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Master of Public Health coursework overview

Coursework structured for your success

  • Capella sets the deadlines
  • Weekly online interactions
  • 24/7 courseroom access
  • Online
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Planning for your degree

  • total quarter credits: 68
  • Quarter length: 10 weeks
  • Course length: 10 weeks
  • Break: 3 weeks between quarters
Example sequence Core Practicum Capstone

Course requirements

  • Core 14 courses
  • Applied Practice Experience 2 courses
  • Capstone 1 course

Example program course sequence

This example course sequence takes course prerequisites into account, so it can be helpful as a general guide when you register for courses. In GuidedPath, you can take up to three courses per quarter; the number of courses you take in a quarter and time it takes to complete your program can vary. Your academic coach can help answer any course registration questions.

Show all descriptions
MPH5001 Required Course Introduction to Public Health 4 quarter credits Students gain understanding of the foundational concepts and contemporary practices in public health, with an emphasis on its history, philosophy, and core values. Students learn to articulate the core functions and essential services while exploring the use of quantitative and qualitative methods to assess population health. Principles of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention are addressed, including health promotion and screening strategies to improve health outcomes. Students examine biological, genetic, behavioral, psychological, environmental, cultural, social, political, and economic determinants of health and their influence on health inequities. Additionally, they explore the impact of globalization on disease burden, highlighting connections among human, animal, and ecosystem health. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
NHS5004 Required Course Communication, Collaboration, and Case Analysis for Master's Students 4 quarter credits This course prepares students for master's-level coursework in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Throughout the course, students analyze how the role of the practitioner-scholar guides leadership in the health care field and determine the ways in which they can effectively use communication strategies expected of health care professionals. In particular, students examine the attributes that contribute to effective and ethical health care leadership, including professional collaboration, communication, and decision making. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
MPH5506 Required Course Behavioral Foundations in Public Health 4 quarter credits Students in this course explore social and behavioral science theories and concepts applied to population health. Students identify and increase their understanding of the biological, social, economic, behavioral, and environmental factors that influence the health of individuals, populations, and subgroups. Students also examine the resources needed to develop social and behavioral evidenced-based programs to reduce disparities and improve health. 4 quarter credits
MPH5512 Required Course Principles of Epidemiology 4 quarter credits This course provides an overview of epidemiology, including an evaluation of the nature of disease, the interaction among agent, host, and environment, and the chain of transmission. Students examine epidemiological research methods for identifying and describing variables, evaluate measures of disease occurrence, determine key data sources, and formulating interventions to control disease occurrence and transmission. 4 quarter credits
MPH5500 Required Course Introduction to Public Health Administrative Systems 4 quarter credits Students gain an understanding of the elements of the public health system and review the administrative processes that foster integration and managerial effectiveness across the system. Students analyze the organizational, financial, and managerial structure and function of the public health system and analyze the impact of health policy on administrative systems, including health insurance and reimbursement policy. 4 quarter credits
MPH5509 Required Course Principles of Biostatistics 4 quarter credits This course provides an introduction to the objectives, principles, and methods of biostatistics for health sciences. Topics include statistical vocabulary; methods for descriptive data analysis; fundamentals of probability and sampling distribution; methods for statistical inference and hypothesis testing; and data analysis and linear regression for continuous, binary, and survival data. 4 quarter credits
MPH5503 Core Environmental Health Concepts in Public Health 4 quarter credits This course surveys the major issues related to environmental and occupational health and health hazards. Students identify the sources of biological, chemical, and physical agents found in the environment and analyze their effects on water, food, and land resources in community and occupational settings. Students also examine concepts about climate change, as well as the legal framework, policies, and practices associated with controlling environmental and occupational hazards. 4 quarter credits
MPH5513 Required Course Research Methods in Public Health 4 quarter credits This course provides an overview of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in public health. Students learn how to analyze quantitative and qualitative data and interpret their findings. The course includes ethical considerations in public health research, and students complete a Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training. Prerequisite(s): MPH5509, MPH5512. 4 quarter credits
MPH5517 Required Course Assessing and Evaluating Community Programs 4 quarter credits Students learn the principles of evaluating public health programs, including formative, process, and outcome evaluation. The course covers logic models, evaluation designs, and data collection methods. Emphasis is placed on using evaluation findings for program improvement, alongside a focus on assessing the health needs and assets of communities. Students learn methods for data collection, stakeholder engagement, and reporting findings. Case studies illustrate the application of community assessment in public health practice. 4 quarter credits
MPH5515 Required Course Advocating for Change in Public Health 4 quarter credits In this course, students examine issues that impact health while advocating for political, social, and economic change to improve health populations. Students investigate and implement systems improvements to create just and sustainable change that empowers others to influence public health outcomes. Students also propose strategies for different audiences and stakeholders while intentionally addressing these issues and measuring the impact on current and future generations. Prerequisite(s): MPH5500, MPH5503, MPH5506, MPH5509. 4 quarter credits
MPH5519 Required Course Community Assessment and Planning 4 quarter credits This course introduces students to the core concepts and tools used to assess the health of a community and identify priority needs. Through practical activities including windshield surveys, stakeholder interviews, and peer feedback, students learn to gather, analyze, and interpret data to inform public health planning. Prerequisite(s): MPH5513. 4 quarter credits
MPH5521 Required Course Emergency Preparedness and Response 4 quarter credits This course introduces students to the principles and practices of public health emergency preparedness and response. Students learn to assess community needs and strengths, design population-based preparedness strategies, and engage partners to support coordinated response efforts. Emphasis is placed on effective communication with diverse audiences, including culturally responsive messaging that promotes understanding and action during emergencies. 4 quarter credits
MPH5523 Required Course Transformational Leadership for Global Health 4 quarter credits This course examines transformational leadership principles within global health systems and organizations. Students compare healthcare, public health, and regulatory systems in different countries while learning leadership, management, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills. Through real-world examples and applied activities, students develop strategies for leading change and addressing complex public health challenges in diverse global settings. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5519. 4 quarter credits
MPH5525 Required Course Preparing for the Applied Practice Experience 4 quarter credits This course prepares Master of Public Health (MPH) students to successfully plan and launch their Applied Practice Experience (APE). Students develop a competency-based project proposal, align project activities and deliverables with foundational competencies, and strengthen the professional skills needed for success in a public health setting. Through discussions, assignments, and guided reflection, students refine their APE plans and prepare for meaningful practice-based learning that addresses real-world public health needs. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5001, NHS5004, MPH5506, MPH5512, MPH5500, MPH5509, MPH5503, MPH5513, MPH5515, MPH5517, MPH5519, MPH5521, MPH5523. 4 quarter credits
MPH5931 Practicum Applied Practice Experience 1 4 quarter credits This is the first of two master¿s-level applied practice experience courses. In this course, students start working on their practice experience at an approved public health agency while submitting discussion posts and assignments. Under the supervision of their preceptor, they develop a project with the goal of creating two high-quality deliverables that are useful to the site and aligned with five foundational public health competencies. Grading for this course is S/NS. Special permission is required for registration. [CJ1.1]Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5525. 4 quarter credits
MPH5932 Practicum Applied Practice Experience 2 4 quarter credits This is the second of two masters-level public health applied practice experience courses. In this course, students complete their practice experience at an approved public health agency while submitting discussion posts and assignments. Under the supervision of their preceptor, they create two high-quality deliverables that are useful to the site and aligned with five foundational public health competencies. To pass this second applied practice experience course, students must: create two high-quality deliverables, demonstrate five foundational public health competencies, and log a minimum of 80 hours in the field. Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in an NS grade. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5931. 4 quarter credits
MPH5975 Capstone The Integrative Learning Experience 4 quarter credits This capstone course requires students to synthesize knowledge from their MPH coursework to address a real-world public health challenge. Students produce a high quality final paper that demonstrates mastery of public health competencies. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5931. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 68 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Students who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Applied Practice Experience
Students enrolled in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program complete an Applied Practice Experience (APE) in collaboration with an approved public health practice organization. During the APE, students apply advanced knowledge and leadership skills developed throughout the program to address a complex, real-world public health challenge. Working under the guidance of a qualified preceptor, students demonstrate foundational competencies by planning, implementing and evaluating a practice-based project that results in a meaningful, high-quality deliverable for the practice experience site. The APE provides an opportunity to integrate evidence into practice, strengthen leadership capabilities and contribute to organizational and population health improvement. Successful completion of the APE is based on the achievement of required competencies and deliverables in accordance with program requirements. Students must also obtain a minimum of 80 hours during their applied practice experience.

Show all descriptions
MPH5509 Required Course Principles of Biostatistics 4 quarter credits This course provides an introduction to the objectives, principles, and methods of biostatistics for health sciences. Topics include statistical vocabulary; methods for descriptive data analysis; fundamentals of probability and sampling distribution; methods for statistical inference and hypothesis testing; and data analysis and linear regression for continuous, binary, and survival data. 4 quarter credits
MPH5512 Required Course Principles of Epidemiology 4 quarter credits This course provides an overview of epidemiology, including an evaluation of the nature of disease, the interaction among agent, host, and environment, and the chain of transmission. Students examine epidemiological research methods for identifying and describing variables, evaluate measures of disease occurrence, determine key data sources, and formulating interventions to control disease occurrence and transmission. 4 quarter credits
NHS5004 Required Course Communication, Collaboration, and Case Analysis for Master's Students 4 quarter credits This course prepares students for master's-level coursework in the School of Nursing and Health Sciences. Throughout the course, students analyze how the role of the practitioner-scholar guides leadership in the health care field and determine the ways in which they can effectively use communication strategies expected of health care professionals. In particular, students examine the attributes that contribute to effective and ethical health care leadership, including professional collaboration, communication, and decision making. Must be taken during the student's first quarter. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
MPH5513 Required Course Research Methods in Public Health 4 quarter credits This course provides an overview of qualitative and quantitative research methodologies in public health. Students learn how to analyze quantitative and qualitative data and interpret their findings. The course includes ethical considerations in public health research, and students complete a Collaborative Institutional Training Initiative (CITI) training. Prerequisite(s): MPH5509, MPH5512. 4 quarter credits
MPH5515 Required Course Advocating for Change in Public Health 4 quarter credits In this course, students examine issues that impact health while advocating for political, social, and economic change to improve health populations. Students investigate and implement systems improvements to create just and sustainable change that empowers others to influence public health outcomes. Students also propose strategies for different audiences and stakeholders while intentionally addressing these issues and measuring the impact on current and future generations. Prerequisite(s): MPH5500, MPH5503, MPH5506, MPH5509. 4 quarter credits
MPH5525 Required Course Preparing for the Applied Practice Experience 4 quarter credits This course prepares Master of Public Health (MPH) students to successfully plan and launch their Applied Practice Experience (APE). Students develop a competency-based project proposal, align project activities and deliverables with foundational competencies, and strengthen the professional skills needed for success in a public health setting. Through discussions, assignments, and guided reflection, students refine their APE plans and prepare for meaningful practice-based learning that addresses real-world public health needs. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5001, NHS5004, MPH5506, MPH5512, MPH5500, MPH5509, MPH5503, MPH5513, MPH5515, MPH5517, MPH5519, MPH5521, MPH5523. 4 quarter credits
MPH5521 Required Course Emergency Preparedness and Response 4 quarter credits This course introduces students to the principles and practices of public health emergency preparedness and response. Students learn to assess community needs and strengths, design population-based preparedness strategies, and engage partners to support coordinated response efforts. Emphasis is placed on effective communication with diverse audiences, including culturally responsive messaging that promotes understanding and action during emergencies. 4 quarter credits
MPH5001 Required Course Introduction to Public Health 4 quarter credits Students gain understanding of the foundational concepts and contemporary practices in public health, with an emphasis on its history, philosophy, and core values. Students learn to articulate the core functions and essential services while exploring the use of quantitative and qualitative methods to assess population health. Principles of primary, secondary, and tertiary prevention are addressed, including health promotion and screening strategies to improve health outcomes. Students examine biological, genetic, behavioral, psychological, environmental, cultural, social, political, and economic determinants of health and their influence on health inequities. Additionally, they explore the impact of globalization on disease burden, highlighting connections among human, animal, and ecosystem health. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. 4 quarter credits
MPH5503 Core Environmental Health Concepts in Public Health 4 quarter credits This course surveys the major issues related to environmental and occupational health and health hazards. Students identify the sources of biological, chemical, and physical agents found in the environment and analyze their effects on water, food, and land resources in community and occupational settings. Students also examine concepts about climate change, as well as the legal framework, policies, and practices associated with controlling environmental and occupational hazards. 4 quarter credits
MPH5500 Required Course Introduction to Public Health Administrative Systems 4 quarter credits Students gain an understanding of the elements of the public health system and review the administrative processes that foster integration and managerial effectiveness across the system. Students analyze the organizational, financial, and managerial structure and function of the public health system and analyze the impact of health policy on administrative systems, including health insurance and reimbursement policy. 4 quarter credits
MPH5506 Required Course Behavioral Foundations in Public Health 4 quarter credits Students in this course explore social and behavioral science theories and concepts applied to population health. Students identify and increase their understanding of the biological, social, economic, behavioral, and environmental factors that influence the health of individuals, populations, and subgroups. Students also examine the resources needed to develop social and behavioral evidenced-based programs to reduce disparities and improve health. 4 quarter credits
MPH5517 Required Course Assessing and Evaluating Community Programs 4 quarter credits Students learn the principles of evaluating public health programs, including formative, process, and outcome evaluation. The course covers logic models, evaluation designs, and data collection methods. Emphasis is placed on using evaluation findings for program improvement, alongside a focus on assessing the health needs and assets of communities. Students learn methods for data collection, stakeholder engagement, and reporting findings. Case studies illustrate the application of community assessment in public health practice. 4 quarter credits
MPH5519 Required Course Community Assessment and Planning 4 quarter credits This course introduces students to the core concepts and tools used to assess the health of a community and identify priority needs. Through practical activities including windshield surveys, stakeholder interviews, and peer feedback, students learn to gather, analyze, and interpret data to inform public health planning. Prerequisite(s): MPH5513. 4 quarter credits
MPH5523 Required Course Transformational Leadership for Global Health 4 quarter credits This course examines transformational leadership principles within global health systems and organizations. Students compare healthcare, public health, and regulatory systems in different countries while learning leadership, management, negotiation, and conflict resolution skills. Through real-world examples and applied activities, students develop strategies for leading change and addressing complex public health challenges in diverse global settings. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5519. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 68 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Students who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Applied Practice Experience
Students enrolled in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program complete an Applied Practice Experience (APE) in collaboration with an approved public health practice organization. During the APE, students apply advanced knowledge and leadership skills developed throughout the program to address a complex, real-world public health challenge. Working under the guidance of a qualified preceptor, students demonstrate foundational competencies by planning, implementing and evaluating a practice-based project that results in a meaningful, high-quality deliverable for the practice experience site. The APE provides an opportunity to integrate evidence into practice, strengthen leadership capabilities and contribute to organizational and population health improvement. Successful completion of the APE is based on the achievement of required competencies and deliverables in accordance with program requirements. Students must also obtain a minimum of 80 hours during their applied practice experience.

Show all descriptions
MPH5931 Practicum Applied Practice Experience 1 4 quarter credits This is the first of two master¿s-level applied practice experience courses. In this course, students start working on their practice experience at an approved public health agency while submitting discussion posts and assignments. Under the supervision of their preceptor, they develop a project with the goal of creating two high-quality deliverables that are useful to the site and aligned with five foundational public health competencies. Grading for this course is S/NS. Special permission is required for registration. [CJ1.1]Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5525. 4 quarter credits
MPH5932 Practicum Applied Practice Experience 2 4 quarter credits This is the second of two masters-level public health applied practice experience courses. In this course, students complete their practice experience at an approved public health agency while submitting discussion posts and assignments. Under the supervision of their preceptor, they create two high-quality deliverables that are useful to the site and aligned with five foundational public health competencies. To pass this second applied practice experience course, students must: create two high-quality deliverables, demonstrate five foundational public health competencies, and log a minimum of 80 hours in the field. Failure to meet any of these requirements will result in an NS grade. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5931. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 68 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Students who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Applied Practice Experience
Students enrolled in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program complete an Applied Practice Experience (APE) in collaboration with an approved public health practice organization. During the APE, students apply advanced knowledge and leadership skills developed throughout the program to address a complex, real-world public health challenge. Working under the guidance of a qualified preceptor, students demonstrate foundational competencies by planning, implementing and evaluating a practice-based project that results in a meaningful, high-quality deliverable for the practice experience site. The APE provides an opportunity to integrate evidence into practice, strengthen leadership capabilities and contribute to organizational and population health improvement. Successful completion of the APE is based on the achievement of required competencies and deliverables in accordance with program requirements. Students must also obtain a minimum of 80 hours during their applied practice experience.

Capstone courses

In your final quarter, complete a capstone course for a total of 4 quarter credits.

Show all descriptions
MPH5975 Capstone The Integrative Learning Experience 4 quarter credits This capstone course requires students to synthesize knowledge from their MPH coursework to address a real-world public health challenge. Students produce a high quality final paper that demonstrates mastery of public health competencies. Cannot be fulfilled by transfer. Prerequisite(s): MPH5931. 4 quarter credits

Total

At least 68 quarter credits

One or more courses in this program may require a prerequisite(s). Refer to the course descriptions for details.

Students who do not complete all program requirements within quarter credit/program point minimums will be required to accrue such additional quarter credits/program points as are associated with any additional or repeat coursework necessary for successful completion of program requirements.

Applied Practice Experience
Students enrolled in the Master of Public Health (MPH) program complete an Applied Practice Experience (APE) in collaboration with an approved public health practice organization. During the APE, students apply advanced knowledge and leadership skills developed throughout the program to address a complex, real-world public health challenge. Working under the guidance of a qualified preceptor, students demonstrate foundational competencies by planning, implementing and evaluating a practice-based project that results in a meaningful, high-quality deliverable for the practice experience site. The APE provides an opportunity to integrate evidence into practice, strengthen leadership capabilities and contribute to organizational and population health improvement. Successful completion of the APE is based on the achievement of required competencies and deliverables in accordance with program requirements. Students must also obtain a minimum of 80 hours during their applied practice experience.

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