Program Details

Start Date Fall
Duration 2 Years (full-time)
Tuition Approx. $40,000 - $66,000 for the entire program (resident vs. non-resident, excluding living costs) for 2023-2024 academic year.
Format On-campus
Credits 60-68 units (varies by concentration)

Program Statistics

Acceptance Rate UCLA's MPH program is highly competitive, but specific acceptance rates are not publicly released. Admission is based on a holistic review of academic performance, relevant experience, letters of recommendation, and personal statements.%
Employment Rate Graduates of the UCLA MPH program achieve high employment rates in diverse public health sectors. While specific annual rates vary and are not always publicly detailed, UCLA FSPH reports strong career outcomes, with alumni finding positions in government agencies (local, state, federal), non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, research institutions, and the private sector, often within 6-12 months of graduation. The school's robust career services and extensive alumni network significantly contribute to these successful placements.%

The UCLA Fielding School of Public Health (FSPH) offers a renowned Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, preparing students for leadership roles in public health practice and research. The program emphasizes an interdisciplinary approach, drawing on the expertise of faculty across various departments to address complex global and local health challenges. Students gain a strong foundation in core public health disciplines while specializing in areas that align with their career aspirations.

The MPH curriculum is designed to equip graduates with critical analytical skills, practical experience, and a deep understanding of health disparities, policy development, and intervention strategies. Through rigorous coursework, hands-on fieldwork, and capstone projects, students learn to translate scientific knowledge into effective public health action. UCLA’s location in Los Angeles provides unparalleled opportunities for engagement with diverse communities and leading public health organizations.

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Graduates of the UCLA MPH program are highly sought after in governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare systems, and research institutions worldwide. The program fosters a collaborative and supportive environment, encouraging students to develop innovative solutions to pressing public health issues and to become impactful leaders committed to promoting health equity and well-being for all populations.

Curriculum

The UCLA MPH curriculum is designed to provide a comprehensive public health education, combining foundational knowledge with specialized training. All students complete core courses covering essential public health disciplines, typically including:

  • Biostatistics
  • Epidemiology
  • Environmental Health Sciences
  • Health Policy and Management
  • Community Health Sciences
  • Social and Behavioral Sciences in Public Health

Beyond the core, students choose one of several concentrations, allowing for in-depth study in a specific area. Popular concentrations include Biostatistics, Community Health Sciences, Environmental Health Sciences, Epidemiology, Health Policy and Management, and Public Health Nutrition. Each concentration has its own set of required and elective courses. The program also typically includes a practical experience (fieldwork/internship) and a culminating experience (e.g., capstone project, thesis, or comprehensive exam) to demonstrate mastery of public health competencies.

Admission Requirements

Applicants to the UCLA MPH program must demonstrate a strong academic record and a commitment to public health. Key requirements typically include:

  • A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution with a minimum GPA of 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale).
  • Official transcripts from all previously attended colleges and universities.
  • Three letters of recommendation, preferably from academic or professional references who can speak to the applicant's potential for graduate-level work.
  • A Statement of Purpose outlining academic and career goals, relevant experience, and reasons for pursuing an MPH at UCLA.
  • A Personal History Statement detailing how background and life experiences have shaped the decision to pursue a graduate degree.
  • Resume or Curriculum Vitae (CV) highlighting work experience, volunteer activities, and research.
  • GRE scores are generally waived for most applicants to the MPH program, but applicants should verify the specific requirements for their chosen concentration.
  • For international applicants, TOEFL or IELTS scores are required unless exempt.
  • Some concentrations may have specific prerequisite coursework (e.g., in biology, statistics).

Application Process

The application process for the UCLA MPH program is primarily conducted through the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS), with a supplemental application directly to UCLA. The steps generally include:

  1. SOPHAS Application: Complete the online SOPHAS application, providing personal information, academic history, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, Statement of Purpose, Personal History Statement, and CV/resume.
  2. UCLA Graduate Division Application: Submit a separate, abbreviated online application to the UCLA Graduate Division. This application typically requires a fee.
  3. Supplemental Materials: Ensure all required supplemental materials, such as official GRE scores (if applicable for your concentration) and TOEFL/IELTS scores (for international applicants), are sent directly to UCLA or SOPHAS as instructed.
  4. Monitor Application Status: Applicants should regularly check the status of both their SOPHAS and UCLA applications to ensure all materials have been received.
  5. Interviews: Some concentrations may invite competitive applicants for an interview.

It is crucial to adhere to all deadlines and carefully review the specific application instructions provided by the UCLA Fielding School of Public Health for the chosen concentration.

Application Fee: SOPHAS fee (approx. $145 for first application, $50 for each additional) + UCLA Graduate Division application fee (approx. $135 for domestic, $155 for international).

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