The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree prepares skilled and innovative public health professionals to improve population health through ethical practice, leadership, research, policy development, health promotion and community engagement. Students choose one of two tracks and complete the degree full time in a cohort model.

The program combines core public health courses with specialized coursework and a supervised practicum or internship designed to provide real world experience in a community or organizational setting. Students learn under the mentorship of faculty who are active leaders, researchers and advocates in the field, as well as benefit from the opportunity to present at professional meetings and make meaningful contributions through community health projects. Graduates are prepared to address complex public health challenges, advance health equity, and strengthen public health systems in Central Florida and beyond.

Health Promotion and Behavioral Science (HPBS)
The Health Promotion and Behavioral Science track prepares students to examine and address the sociocultural, behavioral, and structural factors that influence public health while developing a strong foundation in research and applied public health practice. Coursework in research methods, statistical analysis, and systematic review and meta-analysis equips graduates to critically evaluate the evidence base and translate findings into practice. Through the study of behavioral theory, program planning and evaluation, health communication and advocacy, health coaching, and lifestyle medicine, graduates develop the skills to design, implement, and assess health promotion programs for defined populations. These programs aim to improve access to health-promoting resources and services, reduce chronic disease risk, and strengthen community well-being.

Health Policy, Planning and Leadership (HPPL)
The Health Policy, Planning, and Leadership track prepares students to examine and address the policy, organizational, and systems-level factors that shape population health outcomes, with a specific emphasis on leading organizations and the people who serve their communities. Coursework in health planning, health law and ethics, global health systems, public health policy and organizational leadership equips graduates to analyze, design, and evaluate health policies, organizational strategies, and leadership approaches that advance health equity, improve population health, and strengthen public health systems. Through the study of strategic planning, workforce development, quality improvement, change management, and stakeholder engagement, graduates develop the skills to lead public health organizations, influence policy decisions, and implement evidence-informed solutions to complex health challenges. These efforts support effective service delivery, improve organizational performance, and strengthen the capacity of health systems to meet community needs.

The MPH program is designed to meet the accreditation criteria of the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), including the CEPH-required foundational knowledge areas and foundational competencies. The program intends to pursue CEPH accreditation.