Master’s in Public Health Requirements: What You Need to Know

As biomedical research progresses, public health professionals are taking a leading role in advancing new programs and policies to address population-scale health concerns and provide critical services to communities of all sizes. They are integrating cutting-edge information and technology into efforts aimed at preventing communicable diseases, managing chronic conditions and improving access to medical care.

A master's in public health (MPH) program can help prepare people to pursue advanced careers and achieve the professional growth they aspire to. Kent State’s online Master of Public Health program will instill the analytical, planning and research expertise required in positions of public health leadership. The flexibility of the online program allows students to balance their studies with their work and family responsibilities.

Keep reading to learn more about MPH requirements and how the online MPH from Kent State University can help you achieve your public health career goals.

Healthcare occupations overall are a growing segment of the labor market, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics.¹ Public health professionals are seeing an increase in openings for community health workers and public health educators.

Students who want to pursue graduate studies in public health will find opportunities at well-regarded programs. As ranked by Fortune in 2025, the top 10 online MPH programs nationwide—which includes Kent State’s online MPH program—have an average acceptance rate of nearly 75%.²

Acceptance rates for programs may vary from year to year. Factors such as the number of applications received, changes to program capacity and shifts in admissions criteria can affect acceptance rates. Before applying to any program, familiarize yourself with its application requirements. If you have questions about application items such as GRE scores, prior experience or financial aid, contact the admissions office at the university.

Applicants to master’s programs in public health must submit several credentials, which typically include the following:

• Documentation of a completed bachelor's degree
• GRE scores   
• Letters of recommendation
• Résumé or CV
• Personal statement or essay

Carefully review the requirements for any program you’re interested in before you submit any application materials. Since the COVID-19 pandemic, universities have made changes to standardized test scores requirements. Some schools have switched to test-optional application models. Other schools were test-optional in the years immediately following the pandemic lockdowns but have reinstated GRE requirements. If you have questions about test requirements, contact the admissions team at the university to request current information.

There are many academic pathways to a Master of Public Health program. While a bachelor's degree is a requirement, there is no one major that all programs expect to see on an application.

Public health studies encompass elements of science, math, statistics, technology and communications. Academic experience in programs related to health professions or biomedical research is helpful but not required. You may find that taking courses in data analysis and statistics gives you a solid foundation for the coursework you’ll complete in an MPH program.

If you are currently in an undergraduate program and have questions about what courses you should take to prepare for a career in public health, reach out to the admissions team. They can offer you guidance that can help you with your undergraduate course selection.

The application requirements for the online MPH program at Kent State University are very similar to those for other online MPH programs. We do not require standardized tests at this time, though this may change in the future.

You must submit the following:

• Documentation of a completed bachelor's degree
• Official university or college transcripts
• Résumé or CV
• A goal statement that explains, in two pages or less, why you are seeking a Master of Public Health degree and why you chose Kent State University
• Two letters of recommendation from professors and/or employers who are familiar with your work

An admissions outreach advisor can provide you with more details on the requirements for admission, the application process, tuition, financial aid and all aspects of the master's in public health program.

When you apply for any graduate program, use your application as an opportunity to present yourself in the best light. Use your personal statement to highlight your successes, your passion for the subject matter and the experiences that make you a strong candidate for the program.

Some programs require that you participate in volunteer or professional activities related to public health. Even if your chosen program doesn't require this, taking part in relevant activities will strengthen your application.³ Seek out internships and jobs with public health agencies or non-profit organizations to add to your CV. Volunteer experience with groups that provide public health services can also be added to your applications. In some cases, you may be able to ask your supervisor from a prior job or internship to provide a letter of recommendation.

Many public health agencies work with diverse communities, including immigrant populations. Being able to speak languages other than English can make you a valuable addition to a public health team. Let graduate programs and future employers know what languages you speak and what experience you have interacting with different populations of people.

Before you submit any MPH program applications, make sure everything you’ve prepared is complete. Missing documents, incorrect information or the failure to include a transcript or test scores will sink your application. Download the application checklist and complete a thorough review before sending in your application. Attention to detail is an important skill in public health, so your graduate application is your first opportunity to demonstrate this essential proficiency.

Kent State’s online MPH program offers educational excellence coupled with the flexibility and convenience of an online program.

The robust coursework and personalized support from experienced faculty empower graduates to advance their careers as impactful leaders in the dynamic field of public health. By building a strong foundation in research, policy and practical application, students are well-prepared to address real-world health challenges with confidence and compassion. Whether you are working to improve health equity, shape public policy or lead health initiatives, you will leave the program equipped with the skills, insight and network to drive meaningful change in healthcare.

If you are ready to take the next step in your public health career, explore how an MPH from Kent State University can transform your career. To learn more about the program, schedule a call with an admissions outreach advisor today.