The MPH program at MSU offers a generalist degree in public health, the practice of ensuring the health of populations. Graduates with a MPH often work in governmental organizations performing a variety of tasks, from disease outbreak investigations to food safety inspections. Graduates may also work for international organizations, perhaps providing essential health services for displaced populations. Graduates may also be involved in the healthcare industry, helping to plan for population level heath care. Some students come to the MPH program directly from their baccalaureates; others come after years of experience in the healthcare or other fields. The breadth of the public health field allows students to come from a wide variety of educations and experience, including psychology, business, biology, chemistry and others.

A master’s degree in public health prepares you for a variety of jobs. Listed below are the possible job areas and the community agencies you may work for once you receive your degree in public health. Possible job areas: Administration Chronic disease prevention Environmental health Epidemiology Health education Health promotion and prevention Infectious diseases Minority health Public safety and transportation Teen and adolescent health Women’s health