12 Best MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs – 2024


Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA

Are you interested in a career in public health or public health administration? Do you have a bachelor’s degree and think earning a master’s degree should be your next step? What about earning two master’s degrees? If this sounds interesting to you, perhaps you should consider an MPA/MPH dual degree program.

Maybe you thought of pursuing degrees in public health and public administration, but you do not know where to start. Perhaps you wonder, “What are the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs?” If so, this article is for you! As you continue reading, you will learn about the nation’s 12 best MPA/MPH dual degree programs for 2024.

You will find information about how to get into the programs and what you will study as well as learn about income potential and job outlook and find answers to some frequently asked questions. By the time you finish reading, you will have enough information to help you decide if taking the next step to earning these dual degrees is the right path for you.



RECOMMENDED ONLINE MPH PROGRAMS

What Exactly Is the Goal of an MPA/MPH Dual Degree Program?


The best MPA/MPH dual degree programs aim to prepare students for diverse careers in public health and public administration. Students develop essential skills relevant to both degrees and graduate equipped with the knowledge and ability to perform in leadership roles as agents of change and advocates for public health and wellness. The programs are designed to allow students to complete two degrees concurrently in less time than it would take to earn the degrees one at a time, making it possible to enter the workforce faster.



Is An MPA/MPH Dual Degree Program Hard to Complete?


MPA/MPH dual degree programs feature two in-depth graduate-level curriculum plans, which make them challenging to complete. It is important to note, however, that, despite the challenges, with the right preparation, strong study skills, and dedication, you can succeed.



Who Accredits MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


When researching degree programs, one of the most important things I can advise is to seek programs that are accredited. The primary goal of accreditation is to ensure that colleges and universities meet acceptable, established levels of quality. The best MPA/MPH dual degree programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health.

S.NO.Accrediting Agency
1Council on Education for Public Health



When Do MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Start?


MPA/MPH dual degree programs start at various times based on the school. Schools determine their start dates, typically based on the number of available staff and field training preceptors. Some schools offer one or two start dates and others offer three or more. The following are the start dates for five of the top programs featured in this article.

At the University of Pittsburgh, classes begin in the spring, summer, and fall semesters, making it easy for you to choose a time best suited for you to begin your studies.

The MPA/MPH program at the University of Utah offers start dates in the spring and summer of each academic year.

At the University of Colorado Denver classes begin three times yearly in the fall, spring, and summer semesters.

The University of Missouri begins classes three times yearly in the spring, summer, and fall.

New York University begins classes for its MPA MPH program in the fall semester annually.



How Many Credits Are There In MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


Students in MPA/MPH dual degree programs typically complete between 60 and 80 credits. Each school determines the curriculum for its programs, so the credit requirements may vary. Additionally, the number of credits you need to earn the degrees may vary based on your previous college experience. The following are the credit requirements for a few of the top programs in the nation.

The MPA/MPH dual degree program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham features a 65-credit hour curriculum.

At the University of Pittsburgh, you will complete 78 credits in the dual degree program.

The University of Miami offers another of the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs in the nation. Students complete 66 credits. 36 credits are earned through the MPH portion of the program and 30 are earned through the MPA component.

Students pursuing the Master of Public Administration/Master of Public Health dual degrees at the University of Utah complete 63 credit hours.

New York University’s MPA/MPH dual degree program has a curriculum featuring 69 credits. 33 credits come from the MPA program and 36 from the MPH.



How Long Are MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


MPA/MPH dual degree programs typically take between three and four years to complete. Most full-time students complete the programs in three years, which is shorter than the time it would take to earn the degrees individually. Part-time students may take four years or longer to graduate, depending on the number of credits they pursue each semester. The list below shows the projected time it takes to complete some of the country’s top programs.

At the University of Pittsburgh, you can earn dual MPA and MPH degrees through the joint program in as little as three years if you enroll as a full-time student.

Full-time students can complete the dual degree program at the University of Utah in three years. Part-time students take an average of four years to earn the dual degrees.

The recommended completion time for the program offered at the University of Colorado Denver is three years. However, students who pursue part-time studies may take four years or longer to graduate.

The MPA/MPH dual degree program at the University of Missouri is designed with a three-year completion plan.

At New York University, you can complete the dual degree program in three to four years based on whether you choose to enroll part-time or full-time.



How Much Do MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Cost?


The costs of MPA/MPH dual degree programs can range from as little as $23,000 to more than $300,000. Tuition costs at some schools are calculated based on whether a student is a state resident or lives out-of-state. Other schools charge a flat rate for all students. Further, some schools design their tuition plans based on a semester or annual plan while others charge a per-credit rate. The following are examples of the cost at five of the schools featuring this article’s top programs.

At the University of Miami, tuition costs $2,310 per graduate credit hour. The dual degree program requires students to complete 66 credits, making the cost of the program approximately $152,460.

The University of Pittsburgh charges tuition based on whether you are a state resident or non-resident. In-state students pay $1,190 per credit hour, and out-of-state students pay $2,031 per credit hour. The program includes 78 credits, which means students pay between $92,820 and $158,418, based on residency status.

Tuition at the University of Utah is also based on where you live. Students residing in Utah pay $2,015.57 per credit and students living out-of-state pay $5,260.89 per credit. The dual degree program is a 63-credit pathway. Therefore, students pay between $126,980.91 and $331,436.07. According to the school website, these prices include tuition and fees.

At the University of Colorado Denver, in-state students pay $595 per credit, and out-of-state students pay $1,400 per credit. The program includes 60 credits, making tuition range from $35,700 to $84,000.

The University of Missouri charges students living in the state $435 per credit hour, and those who live out-of-state pay $1,191.40 per credit. Students complete a minimum of 54 credits. Therefore, tuition costs between $23,490 and $64,335.60.



What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get Into MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


Most of the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs require candidates to have a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. The minimum may vary among schools, though. Additionally, some schools offer consideration for conditional admission to students with a GPA less than the preferred minimum if those applicants can demonstrate a good reason for the low GPA and a likelihood of success in the program.



What Are the Admission Requirements For MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


Admission to MPA/MPH dual degree programs is often competitive and complex. Most schools require you to apply to each program separately. Further, you must meet admission criteria which may include a minimum GPA, providing standardized test scores, and having an undergraduate degree. You will also have a list of supplemental documents you must provide, including college transcripts, letters of recommendation, your resume, and a statement of intent or essay. The following are the admission requirements for five of the nation’s top programs.

Admission requirements for the MPA/MPH dual degree program at the University of Pittsburgh include the following. Applicants must complete applications for both the MPH and MPA programs through SOPHAS, provide three letters of recommendation, and submit a professional resume or curriculum vitae and a statement of purpose. Candidates must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited post-secondary school, a cumulative undergraduate GPA of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale and complete a three-credit statistics or math course with a minimum grade of “C.” Candidates must also complete six credits from social sciences, including anthropology, geography, psychology, social psychology, political science, or economics.

The University of Utah requires candidates to have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university and a 3.0 or higher undergraduate GPA. In some cases, applicants with a GPA less than 3.0 may be offered conditional admission based on a justification letter. Applicants must submit a Statement of Purpose, official transcripts from all post-secondary schools, and letters of recommendation.

At the University of Colorado Denver, prospective students desiring to pursue the dual MPA/MPH degree program must have a baccalaureate degree from an accredited college or university with a minimum college GPA of 3.0. Although standard test scores are not required, candidates with a GPA of 3.0 or lower may wish to submit scores to help strengthen their application. Candidates must provide official transcripts from any college or university they attended, three letters of recommendation, a chronological resume, a two- to four-page personal statement, and evidence of analytic writing and quantitative competency.

Candidates seeking admission to the dual degree program at the University of Missouri must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited post-secondary institution and have a GPA of at least 3.0 for the last 60 hours of completed undergraduate coursework. Applicants must complete an online application and provide official college transcripts, a personal data sheet, two one-page essays, a current resume or CV, and one letter of recommendation.

For admission to the program at New York University, candidates must first complete an online application to the university through SOPHAS. Once admitted to the university, applications for each program must be submitted separately. Applicants must submit a resume or curriculum vitae, a personal statement, official transcripts from each college or university they previously attended and submit three letters of recommendation.



What Are the Best MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs in The Nation?

(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 12 Best online and campus MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)


1. Columbia University - New York, NY


2. New York University - New York, NY


3. University of Wisconsin-Madison - Madison, WI


4. University of Pennsylvania - Philadelphia, PA


5. University of Pittsburgh - Pittsburgh, PA


6. University of Alabama at Birmingham - Birmingham, AL


7. Brown University - Providence, RI


8. University of Miami - Miami, FL


9. University of Missouri - Columbia, MO


10. University of South Carolina - Columbia, S.C


11. University of Colorado Denver - Denver, CO


12. University of Utah - Salt Lake City, UT



VIEW OUR RANKING METHODOLOGY



What Kind of Courses Will You Take In MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


MPA/MPH dual degree programs offer rigorous, in-depth curriculums. The names of classes you will take in the programs may vary based on the school. However, accredited programs cover the same type of course content. The following are examples of some of the courses you will take when you pursue the dual degrees from some of the programs featured in this article.

At the University of Columbia, students take classes, including Politics of Policymaking, Governance & Public Management in Developing Countries, Enterprise Strategies for Leaders, Analysis of Public Sector Organizations, and Fostering Innovation & Driving Improvement in the Public & Non-Profit.

The MPA/MPH dual degree curriculum at the University of Miami includes classes such as Statistics for Politics & Public Administration, Organizational Dynamics & Management, Environmental Health, Fundamentals of Epidemiology, and Budget & Financial Management & Administration.

The plan of study for the dual MPA/MPH program at the University of Alabama at Birmingham features classes, including Quantitative Methods in Public health, Public Health Management & Evaluation, Human Resources Management, Quantitative Methods for Public Administration, and Public policy Process.

At Brown University, students in the dual degree program study topics such as Politics of Policymaking in the Comparative Perspective, Policy Analysis & Problem Solving, Biostatistics & Applied Data Analysis, Policy Problems of the 21st Century, and Applied Public Health: Policy, Leadership, & Communication.

The curriculum for the program offered by the University of Utah features classes, including Public Health Systems & Services, Public Human Resource Management, Governance & the Economy, Research Design, and Environmental & Biological Science in Public Health.



What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo In MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?


The practical training for MPA/MPH dual degree programs is usually around 300 hours, and will likely lean toward the public health side of things. We’ll list some of the practical training requirements below, but keep in mind that universities don’t often list all the hours you’ll be required to take, and each student might have a slightly different practical training experience. Be sure to contact the program if you want the most updated numbers. Here are some practical training guidelines to get you started.

At the University of Utah, students complete a Public Health Practicum consisting of 270 field training hours and a Capstone Project as part of the practical training requirements. The practicum features hands-on training in the field with an approved preceptor and is arranged by the school. Students also complete a Capstone Project at the end of the program.

At the University of Wisconsin-Madison, students complete a 300-hour Public Health Applied Practice Experience. Students work with a public health professional to gain hands-on training in public health settings. Additionally, all students complete a final Capstone Project.

Students at Brown University complete an MPH Internship and Field Experience, accumulating more than 300 field hours. Additionally, students participate in an MPA Consultancy to gain experience in public administration.

New York University requires students to complete an Applied Practice Experience. The APE consists of 180 hours of hands-on public health training and two final courses taken in the last year of the dual degree program. Students also complete a Capstone Project which awards credit for practical training for the MPA component.

The MPA/MPH dual degree program at the University of Pittsburgh includes field placement experiences in public health settings with approved preceptors. Students complete a minimum of 200 hours of practical training. Additionally, students complete an advanced thesis or essay research involving synthesis of public health concepts and issues relevant to international and public affairs.



7 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in an MPA/MPH Dual Degree Program


MPA/MPH dual degree programs prepare students with a broad range of skills and abilities. When you graduate, you can use those skills in roles for public health or public administration or roles that combine both specialties. In addition to basic skills, such as team building, communication, problem-solving, and critical decision making, the following are seven of the most important skills and abilities you will gain in these programs.

1. You will develop leadership skills:

MPA/MPH dual degree programs will prepare you with a strong focus on leadership and teach you to incorporate those skills as you transition into your professional role. You will develop the skills you need to guide public health programs and plans and act as a public administrator.

2. You will learn to use a systems thinking approach to public health and public administration:

Systems thinking helps policymakers anticipate consequences and outcomes of their decisions and how they impact the public overall. Additionally, this approach helps public health professionals think with a broader, more systematic view about issues affecting public health and the populations they serve. You will learn to use systems thinking to make decisions about public health interventions, crisis management, public communications and promotions, and finance.

3. You will learn to conduct research:

These specialized dual degree programs will provide you with opportunities to conduct research relevant to assessing psychosocial and biological risk factors to public health and design population-wide intervention and prevention programs. Additionally, as an MPA, you will learn to use research to identify and analyze reputable sources of information and data to create and implement plans to help organizations function more equitably and effectively.

4. You will develop the ability to understand how epidemiological issues impact public health:

In the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs, you will learn about epidemiology and how diseases impact the health of individuals, communities, and populations. You will also learn to identify risks for the spread of disease and measures to help prevent those events.

5. You will learn the art of human resource management:

In dual MPH/MPA programs, you will learn an approach to managing personnel with cultural competence and ethical governance. The program will teach you policy, practice, and theory related to human resource management to help you prepare for leadership in public and private sectors.

6. You will develop analytical thinking skills:

In MPA/MPH dual degree programs, you will learn and hone the ability to use analytical thinking to identify and use essential data to assess public health needs. You will learn to analyze what works best in promoting organizational needs and agendas and how to implement strategies to optimize desired outcomes.

7. You will learn ethical conduct within the confines of legal requirements and regulatory guidelines relevant to public health and public administration:

Professionals working in public health and public administration must adhere to ethical standards and codes of conduct. In dual MPH/MHA programs, you will learn about the law and how it impacts public health. You will learn acceptable codes of conduct that are essential in leading the way in public administration.



5 Main Advantages Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs


As you research the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs and try to decide if this is the path for you, it is crucial that you consider the pros and cons and how they may affect you. The obvious advantage is that you will earn two graduate degrees, but there are many more advantages to pursuing this type of program. The following are five main advantages to earning your degrees through one of these specialized dual degree programs.

1. You can choose a specialty concentration:

One of the great things about MPA/MPH dual degree programs is that you not only earn two graduate degrees, but you also have the option of pursuing studies in a specialty concentration based on your personal interests. For example, a few MPA specialties include nonprofit management, public policy analysis, emergency management, and health systems management. Some popular MPH specialties are biostatistics and informatics, environmental health science, social and behavioral sciences, and global health.

2. There is a broad range of career opportunities available to graduates:

Earning dual degrees is an excellent way to open doors of opportunity! Graduates of these programs work in diverse settings and roles, including government agencies, for non-profits, in healthcare facilities and hospitals, and education, just to name a few.

3. You will graduate with the ability to become an industry leader:

The best MPA/MPH dual degree programs will equip you with essential skills to excel in public health and public administration. Combining the curriculum for these two programs, you will graduate prepared as a leader in public health and administration, capable of advocating for change and promoting positive outcomes for individuals, communities, and the public overall.

4. There is excellent potential for growth for jobs related to this industry:

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, jobs for individuals with degrees from dual MPA/MPH programs should see an increase of more than 28% through 2031. This is excellent growth potential, which means jobs will be plentiful.

5. Earning two degrees helps you become a competitive job applicant:

Another advantage of MPA/MPH dual degree programs is that having two degrees makes you an attractive candidate for employment. The unique skills and abilities of each degree program complement one another and are skills that healthcare and public health employers look for in job applicants.



3 Main Disadvantages Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs


Like all college programs, there are also disadvantages to MPA/MPH dual degree programs. It is possible to overcome the disadvantages, earn your degrees, and have a successful career, but it takes dedication both before you are admitted into a program and after you graduate. The following are three of the main disadvantages of these programs.

1. The admission process is competitive:

One of the disadvantages of dual MPA/MPH programs is that you can face some serious competition when trying to get a spot in the programs. Many programs have limited spots available, which means meeting the minimum admission criteria may not be enough. Instead, you should prepare to exceed any admission requirements and have the grit it takes to follow up with every application.

2. Public Health and Public Administration roles can be stressful:

The weight of the responsibilities that come with public health and public administration jobs is often heavy. When you graduate and go to work, you will work with people from diverse backgrounds, which means practicing cultural competence is critical. You may work in emergency situations or with underserved populations that come with their own unique needs.

3. The curriculum is content-heavy and time-consuming:

While there are many benefits to earning degrees through MPA/MPH dual degree programs, it takes serious dedication and hard work. The curriculum is rigorous and requires significant time studying as well as time to complete practical training.



3 Major Challenges Students and Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Face and How to Overcome


Any college degree program comes with challenges, and MPA/MPH dual degree programs are certainly no exception. However, if you know what challenges lie ahead, you can prepare to overcome them. Each student experiences different challenges based on their own strengths and weaknesses. The list below reflects three of the major challenges students typically experience in these specialized programs.

CHALLENGE #1: You could be exposed to dangerous working conditions and hazardous materials.


About the Challenge:

One of the challenges of MPA/MPH dual degree programs is learning how to implement measures that protect your safety and well-being. Graduates of these programs often work in laboratories, public health settings, disaster areas, or epidemiology, where exposure to hazardous working conditions and infectious agents is possible.

How to Overcome:

The best way to overcome this challenge is to learn as much as you can while you are in your program. Take advantage of opportunities for shadowing, internships, and practical training. Ask questions, get answers, and lean on faculty and field preceptors to teach you. Their knowledge and experience will be helpful as you learn what to do to protect yourself. Finally, the more you learn and implement safety protocols, the better you will be protected.


CHALLENGE #2: The coursework is demanding!


About the Challenge:

Another major challenge of dual MPA/MPH programs is completing the rigorous curriculum. In these programs, you will learn graduate-level content for two distinct degrees. With heavy course content and an often full-time schedule, it can be overwhelming.

How to Overcome:

The best way to overcome this challenge is to prepare. Designate a set amount of time to studying and preparing for class daily. You may need to consider whether working is feasible while enrolled, and if you must work, you may find that part-time school is a better option. Be honest with yourself about what you can handle and plan accordingly.


CHALLENGE #3: Dealing with the Frustration of Public Health Policy and Differing Opinions


About the Challenge:

Many students choose to pursue MPA/MPH dual degree programs with the hopes of making positive changes to issues they are passionate about. However, as you begin your public health education, you may find it is challenging dealing with public health policy and the opinions of policymakers, which could make it difficult to negotiate change.

How to Overcome:

The truth is, there will be days when you feel like you can overcome the frustration and other days when you do not know which direction to go. The most important thing to remember is, you chose this path for a reason. Remember what drove you to take this path, and when things get difficult, keep pressing through. It may take time, but you can make a difference!



Where Do Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Mostly Work?


Graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs work in a variety of settings, based on personal interests. The following are three of the top settings where graduates work. However, there are many options for work settings and specializations.

1. Government Agencies:

Graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs often find work in various government agencies. Depending on your role in these settings, you could help manage and plan for disasters, monitor public health, and develop policies and procedures for improving the lives of those you serve in the community.

2. Non-Profit Organizations:

Another setting where graduates may work is non-profit organizations. Many graduates in these settings work as program directors, managing outreach and other efforts sponsored by the organizations.

3. Research:

Many graduates of dual MPH/MPA programs work in research. In this setting, you may study the causes and patterns of disease outbreaks in humans and other animals, conduct research and implement your findings to improve the overall health outcomes of populations.



5 Best Jobs for Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs


Graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs have many options when it comes to jobs. You may choose to work in a role that is related only to public health, a role in public administration, or you could find a job that combines both roles. The following are some of the best jobs for program graduates.

1. Health Services Administrator:

Health Services Administrators direct and coordinate all aspects of health services for physicians’ groups, medical practices, and specialized departments within clinical settings. In this role, you will be responsible for overseeing the daily operations of the healthcare facility where you work.

2. Public Affairs Specialist:

As a public affairs specialist, your role will be to design and implement public affairs programming, communications, projects, and media campaigns. Your work will likely involve implementing measures to combine the work of strategic marketing campaigns, corporate social responsibility, and government relations.

3. Disaster Coordinator:

The role of a disaster coordinator is to identify hazards and risks associated with real or potential disasters. Disaster coordinators develop plans to mitigate those risks, planning, coordinating, and facilitating the safety and well-being of the public.

4. Public Relations Manager:

The job of a public relations manager may include working with a variety of organizations, including government agencies and private organizations to create, promote, and maintain their positive public image through communications programming. In this job, you may craft and publish media releases, promotional campaigns, and advertisements to promote your company or organization.

5. Public Health Educator:

As a public health educator, you will have opportunities to develop, implement, and evaluate health interventions designed to improve the health and wellness for individuals, groups, and communities.



What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?


New graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs earn approximately $38.27 per hour, $1,531 per week, or $6,630 per month. This pay comes to a total of $79,600 annually.

Hourly$38.27
Weekly$1,531
Monthly$6,630
Annual$79,600



What Average Salary Can Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Expect?


The average annual salary of graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs is $137,816. The breakdown of this salary is equal to $66.26 per hour, $2,650 per week, or $11,480 per month.

Hourly$66.26
Weekly$2,650
Monthly$11,480
Annual$137,816



10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs


The ten-year job outlook for graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs is excellent. The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs for this industry will increase by 28.33% between 2021 and 2031.

2021-31
+28.33%
(Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics)



Is The Cost of an MPA/MPH Dual Degree Program Worth the Return on Investment (ROI)?


As you weigh your options and decide if pursuing MPA/MPH dual degree programs is the path you desire to follow, one thing to consider is whether you can earn enough money to justify paying for the degrees. To determine whether your return on investment is worth it, you must compare the cost of the programs to your earning potential.

The programs featured in this article cost as little as $23,000 to more than $300,000. New graduates of these programs earn approximately $79,600. With experience, the average income increases to nearly $138,000. Keep in mind that although program costs can be quite expensive, you have options and do not have to choose the most expensive program. Additionally, if you take advantage of scholarship and grant opportunities, you can reduce some of the out-of-pocket expenses related to earning your degree.

With all these factors combined, it is easy to deduce that the cost of dual MPA/MPH degree programs is worth the return on your investment.



Bonus! 5 Expert Tips to Improve Your Chances of Getting Accepted into The Best MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs


Admission to MPA/MPH dual degree programs can be quite challenging. However, if you know what the admissions team looks for in candidates, you can improve your chances of getting into a program. The following are five expert tips that could help you improve your odds and land an offer of admission to your desired program.

1. Craft a Compelling Personal Statement.

To improve your chances of getting into one of the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs, you must demonstrate an in-depth understanding of the program goals and show how your background and professional goals align with projected student outcome. Admission faculty look for candidates who can clearly articulate why they feel dual MPH/MPA degrees is the path to help them achieve their goals and what they plan to do after earning the degrees.

2. Learn to Speak a Foreign Language.

Graduates of dual MPA/MPH programs work in diverse settings serving communities. The populations you serve may be comprised of people from many backgrounds. Some people may speak little or no English, and the resulting language barriers could make doing your job difficult. Speaking another language puts you in a position to offer assistance to individuals who may otherwise remain unserved. Admission teams understand this and find candidates who speak more than one language appealing, which means learning another language could increase your chances of admission.

3. Get Some Relevant Work or Volunteer Experience.

Most MPH/MPA programs require candidates to have some type of work or volunteer experience. However, even if the program does not require it, you can become a more viable candidate by having experience. Volunteering at clinics, hospitals, community outreach centers, or non-profit organizations is an excellent way to gain experience. If you are bilingual and able to travel, consider volunteering in an underserved country, as it will really make your application stand out!

4. Apply Before the Priority Deadline.

Admission to MPA/MPH dual degree programs can be extremely competitive. You can improve your odds of admission by submitting your application and all required documents before the priority deadline. Applying early ensures you have time to submit any additional information or documents the school requests in time to be considered for admission.

5. Choose a Concentration that Interests You.

Both MPH and MPA programs have different concentration areas. Think about what you want to accomplish and the role that will get you there. Then, choose a concentration that aligns with your goals. For example, you could choose to specialize in Epidemiology and Biostatistics, Health Services, Geo Health, or Global Health.



My Final Thoughts


If the thought of earning dual degrees in public health and public administration interests you, you have likely wondered, “What are the best MPA/MPH dual degree programs?” In this article, I answered that question and shared information about the 12 best MPA/MPH dual degree programs for 2024 in the U.S. With two degrees, excellent income potential, and great job outlook, there really is no better time to pursue these dual degrees and take your career to the next level!



Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert


1. What Is The Best MPA/MPH Dual Degree Program In The Nation?

The best MPA/MPH dual degree program in the nation is offered by Columbia University in New York City.

Columbia University - New York, NY


2. Is It Easy To Get Admission Into MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?

Admission to MPA/MPH dual degree programs can be competitive. However, if you work hard to meet or exceed the admission criteria and follow through, you can improve your chances of admission.


3. What Is The Minimum GPA To Get Into MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?

Most MPA/MPH dual degree programs require at least a 3.0 GPA.


4. Can I Get Into MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs With A Low GPA?

In some cases, MPA/MPH dual degree programs offer applicants the opportunity for conditional admission if they meet certain criteria but fall short of the preferred minimum GPA.


5. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?

The per-credit cost for MPA/MPH dual degree programs can vary widely ranging between $500 and $2,500.


6. Can I Work Part-Time And Complete This Program?

Yes, many students continue to work full-time while enrolled in MPA/MPH dual degree programs.


7. Can I Work Full-Time And Complete This Program?

It is possible to work full-time while enrolled in an MPA/MPH dual degree program, but it is no easy task. Many students who feel the need to work full-time opt to enroll in the programs part-time.


8. What Are The 3 Hardest Classes In MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs?

It is a matter of opinion what the hardest classes are in MPA/MPH dual degree programs. However, many students suggest that Biostatistics, Environmental Health and Disease, and Principles of Epidemiology are some of the most challenging.


9. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make?

New graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs typically make around $79,600 per year.

$79,600


10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour?

On average, graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs earn an hourly rate of $66.26.

$66.26


11. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month?

The average monthly pay for graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs is $11,480.

$11,480


12. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of MPA/MPH Dual Degree Programs Make Per Year?

On average, graduates of MPA/MPH dual degree programs earn an average of $137,816 annually.

$137,816


Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).