Our expectation is that students applying to the MHS program have a background of exposure to public health issues, usually demonstrated through substantial undergraduate coursework in public health or a closely related discipline (often health science, biology, or nursing, but also education, psychology, and other disciplines broadly related to health).  Students without a demonstrated background in health issues are certainly welcomed to speak to the Program Director or other MHS faculty, as we understand that people have changes in career interests.  However, it should be understood that applicants with a history of coursework or occupational experience that is health-related will receive priority in admissions decisions.

One exception to the general expectation of students having a health-related background is applicable for students wishing to complete a MHS degree with an emphasis in the Environmental Health area.  Students wishing to complete this emphasis area should have a strong, demonstrated background in physical science, usually evidenced by an undergraduate degree in Environmental Health, Biology, or Chemistry, and/or substantial physical science occupational experience.  Potential applicants who are not certain whether they have the required background for admission to the Environmental Health Emphasis area should contact the Graduate Program Director.