Program Overview

Department of Public Health

The Department of Public Health is located in the College of Health and Human Sciences at San Josť State University.

Programs

The department offers several programs, including:

• Master of Public Health (MPH)
• B.S. in Public Health
• Minors

Master of Public Health (MPH)

Program Prerequisites

The MPH program requires:

• A baccalaureate degree with an overall minimum GPA of 3.0 in the last 60 semester or quarter units
• Strong writing skills and evidence of quantitative ability
• Multicultural experience, including diversity
• Clear commitment to public health as demonstrated through work or volunteer experiences
• Clear understanding of public health and community health education
• 2 years of post-baccalaureate public health-related experience
• GRE is not required

Admission Process

The program admits students in the Fall only, with a rolling admissions process. To apply, students must submit two applications:

• To SJSU via Cal State Apply
• To the MPH program

Application Checklist

The Fall 2026 admissions window opened on October 1, 2025. The application process involves:

1. Applying to SJSU via Cal State Apply

• Review SJSU/Cal State Apply deadlines
• Pay the Cal State Apply application fee
• Send official transcripts

2. Applying to the MPH program

• Select one format only (Campus or Online)
• Review MPH program deadlines
• Submit two letters of recommendation
• Submit a resume/CV
• Submit a statement of purpose (1-2 pages)

Statement of Purpose

The statement of purpose should address:

1. What led you to public health?
2. How you have engaged with diverse cultures and/or communities
3. Why you want to pursue a master's degree in public health
4. How receiving an MPH will help you achieve your professional goals
5. What strengths/qualities you will bring to the SJSU MPH program and the SJSU Spartan community

Accreditation

The MPH program is accredited.

LGBT and HIV Scholarship

The program offers an LGBT and HIV scholarship.

MPH Curriculum

The MPH curriculum includes:

• Culminating experience
• Fieldwork: 291 series
• Health education core courses
• Public health core courses

MPH Information Sessions

The program offers information sessions.

MPH On Campus Format

The on-campus format includes graduate advising.

MPH Program: Online Format

The online format includes applying to the MPH online format and online format advising.