Program Overview

Master of Public Health in Public Health Data Science (MPH)

Program Details

The MPH Public Health Data Science concentration is not accepting applications for fall 2026.

• Minimum Credit Hours: 42
• Application Cycle: Fall
• Designation: The MPH Public Health Data Science concentration is not a STEM-designated degree under the approved categories from the U.S. Department of Homeland Security.
• Expected Duration: 2 Years
• Learning Environment: Residential
• Dual Degree Options Available: Please visit our MPH Dual Degrees page for more information.

Admissions Information

• Public Health Data Science Concentration Preferences:
  • Applicants should have prior course experience covering multivariable calculus, linear algebra, statistics, and computer programming.
  • Applicants should have at least 1 year of relevant prior work experience (e.g., data analytics for CRO or non-profit research entity that focuses on human health).
• Minimum Graduate Admissions Requirements:
  • A bachelor’s degree (based on a four-year curriculum) completed before graduate study begins or its international equivalent with an accredited institution.
  • An average grade of B (cumulative GPA 3.0) or better.
• Letters of Recommendation Required: 3 academic and/or professional.
• Faculty-Student Match Required: Not Required.
• Interviews Required: Not Required.

How To Apply

1. Complete online SOPHAS application:
   • See SOPHAS website for complete checklist of SOPHAS steps as not all are listed here.
   • Applicants will enter all coursework information into SOPHAS and submit an official transcript to SOPHAS.
   • Upload a statement of purpose.
   • Provide the names and contact information for 3 recommenders.
   • Report test scores, if applicable, to SOPHAS.
   • Send official transcripts from every institution attended directly to SOPHAS.
   • Check SOPHAS portal to track progress.
2. Complete UNC Graduate School supplemental application:
   • Once the SOPHAS application has been received by UNC, an email with instructions for completing the UNC Graduate School supplemental application will be sent to the applicant.
   • Although the Graduate School application will import some information from SOPHAS, applicants will be asked to answer residency and honor code questions, upload a copy of their unofficial transcript(s), and pay the application fee.

Application Review Process

1. Concentration(s) review the application and recommend a decision:
   • Time-to-decision varies.
   • Applicants who choose to apply to two concentrations will be required to rank them as first and second.
2. UNC Graduate School reviews concentration recommendations and renders a final decision:
   • UNC will not render a decision until both the SOPHAS and UNC Graduate School applications are completed.

Costs and Funding

• Tuition and Fees: Please visit the UNC Cashier’s Office and use the Graduate and Professional Program Tuition and Fees link.
• Funding Opportunities:
  • Applicants are encouraged to apply before the priority deadline to be eligible for UNC Graduate School scholarships and fellowships.
  • Please refer to our School’s Costs and Funding page and/or UNC-Chapel Hill’s Office of Scholarships and Student Aid (OSSA) website.
  • Apply for FEDERAL financial aid by March 1.
  • Departments and concentrations contact admitted students regarding award packages throughout the admissions cycle.

During and After The Program

• Learn more about the MPH Public Health Data Science concentration here.