Is a Graduate Degree Right for Me?
The decision to attend graduate school is not a simple one. There are many factors involved that must be weighed before making your decision, including: job prospects, career aspirations, financials, and more.
The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH) collated ten topics to understand before choosing to apply to a graduate program in public health. Find this resource at 10 Things to Know.
Finding the Right Program for You
The next step is to find a program that is well tailored to your interests and career goals. ASPPH designed the Academic Program Finder to meet students’ unique needs and interests in the field of public health. It enables students to explore the variety of academic programs available and find the ideal program that aligns with their goals, whether they have a specific area of study in mind or are just starting their exploration. Access the tool on ProgramFinder.
Additionally, ASPPH hosts virtual graduate school fairs. Register on ASPPH.org. Or access previous recordings on ASPPH’s Youtube.
How to Apply
Your first step will be to gather your required materials. Most schools require: recommendations, personal statements/statements of purpose, and transcripts.
Letters of Recommendation
When choosing your recommenders, consider 4 core points. A good candidate for a recommender:
- May have been your college professor, adviser, or job supervisor.
- Knows you and your interests in public health and allied fields.
- Understands your goals of attending graduate school.
- Can communicate and advocate for your skills in public health.
Find more information on recommenders visit Liaisonedu’s SOPHAS Applicant Help Center.
Start your application
Register with SOPHAS, the central application service for graduate programs in public health. Register at SOPHAS Liaisoncas Application page.
Prepare your personal statements
Most schools request the submission of a statement of purpose or personal statement. Check out ASPPH’s recommendations for writing these statements.
SDSU’s SPH offers multiple MPH degrees both online and in-person. To find out more visit the MPH Homepage.
More questions? Contact the SPH’s Coordinator of Admissions and Student Affairs, Ms. Brenda Fass-Holmes at bholmes@sdsu.edu.
