Students interested in studying the complex relationships between environmental factors and human health will find a fit in the Environmental Health (EH) master of public health (MPH) program. This program provides a uniquely interdisciplinary approach to examining the chemical, physical and microbial hazards that occur in the home, workplace and general environment. Between engaging elective courses in air pollution, climate change, epidemiology, toxicology and more and required real-world experience, this program will equip you with the skillset to tackle the most pressing environmental challenges of the future. Many students also choose to complete a certificate program along with their MPH.
MPH in Environmental Health
Critical Skills Gained
- Exposure Science
- Mechanisms of Toxicity
- Epidemiology
- Biostatistics
- Disease Ecology
- Global Climate Change
- Environmental Health Policy
Job Opportunities
- Federal Environmental Health Agencies
- State Health Departments
- Industry
- Consulting Firms
- Non-Profits
- Universities
Admissions
The full-time program is designed to take two years to complete; part-time can take up to five years, depending on the number of credits taken each semester. The Gangarosa Department of Environmental Health also requires that all students complete both a college-level biology and chemistry course prior to matriculation. For more information on prerequisites, GRE requirements, funding resources and more, please visit our FAQ page.
The MPH program in Environmental Health is a STEM OPT approved program. You can find a list of eligible CIP codes here. For more information, please visit the Department of Homeland Security's website.
Visit RSPH Admissions for application guidance.
Admission Requirements
- SOPHAS Application
- College Transcripts
- Two Letters of Recommendation
- Personal Statement
- Resume
Department Requirements
Degree | Coursework Requirements | GRE Scores |
---|---|---|
MPH | At least one semester of college-level biology and chemistry required. See FAQs for details about these requirements. Statistics, calculus, and organic chemistry also preferred |
The submission of GRE scores are optional for all candidates applying to MPH and MSPH programs for fall 2022 admission. GRE scores are waived for applicants with a PhD from a U.S. institution. |
MPH Degree Requirements

- 42 Credit Hours, which includes -
- 4 Credits of Thesis or Capstone
- 14 Credits of Core Coursework
- 18-20 Required Program Credits
- 10 Credits or more of Electives
- 200-400 hour Applied Practice Experience
Applied Practice Experience
All Rollins MPH and MSPH students are required to complete a minimum of 200 hours applied practice experience (APE). The APE is a unique opportunity for graduate students to integrate and apply practical skills and training learned through coursework in a professional public health work environment. In most cases, students can use a part-time work position, graduate assistantship, or internship to meet the APE requirement. The APE is a significant educational experience that requires a minimum of 200 clock hours in a public health agency, institution, or community under the supervision of a field supervisor and the guidance of the student's department and/or the Office of Career Development.
Integrative Learning Experience – Capstone or Thesis
In addition to the Applied Practice Experience, students are required to complete a integrative learning experience project that demonstrates knowledge and skills gained in the MPH program. An integrative learning experience calls for students to integrate and apply the competencies they developed during the course of their study, practicum, and/or related field experiences. Students can choose between completing a capstone OR thesis project. Students interested in conducting original research, analyzing data, interpreting study results and who are drawn to research-based careers often choose to complete a thesis. Students seeking more hands-on, practical environmental health skills, such as program evaluation, needs assessment, proposal writing or outreach work with community partners should consider a capstone.
Based on the type of integrative learning experience chosen, students enroll in either EH 594, Capstone Seminar: Skills for Environmental Health Professionals or EH 599R Thesis. All students are required to formally present their projects prior to graduation. For examples of past theses and capstone organized by general topic, please visit our Interest Area pages.