If you’re interested in earning an affordable master’s degree in global health, keep reading. The master’s in global health, whether it be called a master of public health (MPH) or a different name, prepares students for the challenges of working in the international public health setting. Whether you are employed full time and have responsibilities that keep you from relocating to an on-campus program or you have your bags packed to move to a brick-and-mortar on-campus program, read on to find an affordable master’s in global health program to help you meet your goals.
Graduating with a master’s in global health promises to make you more marketable in this growing and rewarding career. Do you want to make a difference in the world by protecting and promoting health? This degree equips graduates with skills needed to succeed in a variety of global health environments. Check out these affordable master’s in global health programs to find a course of study that meets your academic and career goals.
Methodology for Ranking Affordable Master’s in Global Health Programs
Out of an initial pool of 30 accredited global health master’s degree programs, we selected 20.
These were ranked according to tuition cost. All programs are ranked according to tuition rates that were obtained from the College Navigator website. Where both in-state and out-of-state tuition are listed, the in-state tuition rate was used for ranking purposes. Program information was compiled using school program websites. Master’s in global health online programs are specified as such. Prospective students should confirm tuition costs for their program of interest. Check out these programs to find a global health program to help you meet your goals.
- Liberty University
- University of South Florida
- University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, San Diego
- George Mason University
- Oregon State University
- University of New Haven
- University of Washington
- Loyola University
- Penn State University
- University of Michigan
- Loma Linda University
- George Washington University
- New York University
- Drexel University
- University of Pennsylvania
- Emory University
- University of Southern California
- Case Western University
Ranking the Most Affordable On Campus and Online Master’s in Global Health Programs
20. Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH
MPH Global Health
Tuition $46,524
Case Western Reserve University’s Master of Public Health (MPH) with a global health concentration seeks to improve health and health equity globally. Students in global health can expect to develop understanding of international and global health, tropical medicine, and how historical and current global health issues are being addressed. Students learn to prioritize health issues on a global level, apply methods for improving current public health capacities and resources, and address determinants of global health and its link to the delivery of health care. Graduates will be equipped to understand and address complex health issues in diverse cultures. CWRU’s culminating experience is the centerpiece of the masters in public health program. Field experience practicum and multi-semester capstone project helps students solidify knowledge and skills as professionals. Students are encouraged to complete the practicum and capstone as a single culminating experience, with one proposal to fulfill both requirements. This flexible and robust MPH in global health is a 42-credit course of study typically completed in 2 years of full-time study or up to 5 years part-time. Check out their website for more information on this exciting program.
19. University of Southern California, Los Angeles, CA
MPH Global Health
Tuition $46,272
University of Southern California’s Master of Public Health (MPH) with a concentration in global health is offered through USC’s Department of Preventive Medicine. This 42-credit MPH in global health addresses public health leadership and management principles and aims to build students’ competencies in population based health in the global setting. Graduates of this MPH in global health program can expect to be equipped with skills and knowledge to lead health initiatives to improve the health of individuals and communities around the globe. Students in this concentration will explore challenges in public health and will have opportunities for hands-on experiences at home and abroad that promise to reinforce classroom instruction in real world situations.
18. Emory University, Atlanta, GA
MPH Global Health
Tuition $42,800
Emory University’s top Rollins School of Public Health boasts a Master of Public Health in Global Health in either an Accelerated Program Concentration or Regular Completion format. The Accelerated Program Concentration requires 42 credits taken over 3 semesters over the course of 12 months. The Regular Completion of this MPH in global health program is completed full-time over two years. The Applied Practice Experience (APE) is designed so that students can apply their knowledge and skills in a hands-on experience, as is required of all students. A required thesis project may take the form of a research thesis and systematic review of literature, or a special studies project with a relevant global public health topic. Students can expect to develop skills in quantitative research methods, qualitative data analysis, monitoring and evaluation, survey research design, public health surveillance methods, program management, ethics in global health, and laboratory skills. Check out their website for more details about this robust MPH in global health program.
17. University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA
MPH Global Health
Tuition $36,254
University of Pennsylvania’s Master of Public Health (MPH) in global health offers a curriculum designed for students interested in both theory and practice in the emerging field of global public health. This global health curriculum delivers core public health skills with competencies including evaluation of interventions, programs, policies and health care systems within the global health context. Students complete 14 credits in the global health track in addition to core courses, and complete a required culminating capstone project. Each year, 5 MPH students are awarded with funds to assist with traveling as part of their capstone project or other fieldwork. Through the capstone experience, students develop, propose, revise, implement and present their work as part of their graduation requirement. Check out Penn’s website for more information on this top MPH in global health h program.
16. Drexel University, Philadelphia, PA
MS and MPH Global Health Online
Tuition $35,181
Drexel offers two types of master’s in global health online: the 100% online Master of Science (MS) in Global Health and the 100% online Master of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health. The MS in global health is designed for clinicians, researchers, program managers, policy analysts, and social entrepreneurs, and promises to prepare students to make a difference on a global scale through this interdisciplinary program. This program is rooted in the idea that health is a human right and offers an emphasis on issues including environmental health, maternal and child health, human rights, social justice and ethics. Complete this online MS in global health in just 12 months full-time or 2 years part-time. Drexel’s MPH in global health is a flexible 56-credit online program that takes 2-3 years to complete, including 120-240 hours of field placement to provide practical knowledge and skills. Students may add a secondary focus such as Infectious Disease Prevention and Control, Maternal and Child Health, and LGBT Health. Students learn evidence-based approaches to public health and study their global implications. Graduates of these programs will be able to address current and emerging global health issues. Check out Drexel’s websites for more information.
15. New York University, New York, NY
MPH Global Health
Tuition $33,408
New York University Master of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health promises to provide students with the skills and knowledge needed for leadership roles in the public health setting around the world. With training that will engage graduates with public health programs at home and abroad, this program will prepare you to become a leader in public health through application of strategic principles of reasoning and practice to advance health equity and social justice around the globe. Graduates of the top affordable masters in global health program can expect to stand out to employers with a deep and wide skillset. Professional development is available and may include internships, fellowships, employment, volunteer work, and professional association membership. NYU’s Applied Global Public Health Initiative (AGPHI) is the global health concentration lab, providing students with practical and applicable public health experience. A top program in public health, students have the opportunity to take unique classes in disease prevention, health promotion, and healthcare reform, among others. Check out NYU’s website to see if this is the program for you.
14. George Washington University, Washington DC
Global Health Masters
Tuition $31,770
George Washington University’s highly ranked Milken Institute School of Public Health offers a Master of Public Health (MPH) in four different global health concentrations: global health epidemiology and disease control; global health program design, monitoring and evaluation; global health policy; and global environmental health. The MPH in global environmental health is offered as a joint program by the Department of Global Health and the Department of Environmental and Occupational Health. GWU has a wide range of flexible online, on-campus, hybrid and accelerated offerings for those interested in earning their MPH in the exciting field of global health. Most concentrations allow for up to 15 online credits if the program is not completely online. Check out the many options for an affordable masters in global health on their website.
13. Loma Linda University, Loma Linda, CA
MPH Global Health
Tuition $26,880
Loma Linda University’s affordable Master of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health promises to prepare professionals who are technically competent and skilled in creating and facilitating health and development programs in cross cultural settings. This robust program equips graduates to contribute to improved quality of life for all people, and particularly vulnerable and disadvantaged populations. The extensive network of professional resources provides a broad spectrum of options to learn and practice in this exciting field. This program prepares graduates for work in nonprofit, relief, and development employment. Graduates may qualify for positions in faith-based, nongovernmental, and community-based organizations, governmental health departments, private foundations, and other public health practice organizations. This program typically takes 2 years of full-time study (part-time study is also permitted) and requires 56 credits, in addition to 8 credits for practicum experience. Check out Loma Linda University’s website for more information.
12. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
Master’s in Global Health
In-State Tuition $23,890
Out-of-State Tuition $48,204
The University of Michigan’s School of Public Health’s Master of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health offers concentrations in global environmental health, global health management and policy, and global health epidemiology. In addition, a biostatistics core for global health (GLOBAL STATCORE) is offered and promises to enhance biostatistical support for global public health research, education, and training. Exciting opportunities around the world in over 70 countries are available for students to join faculty who are building public health infrastructure and working on solutions to public health issues. Check out their website for more information on the University of Michigan’s impressive School of Public Health’s global health offerings.
11. Penn State University, Hershey, PA
MPH in Global Health
In-state tuition $21,960
Out-of-state tuition$37,694
Penn State’s College of Medicine’s Department of Public Health Sciences offers a Master of Public Health (MPH) program with a global health track. This affordable masters in global health curriculum is designed for those wishing to explore public health issues from a global perspective, helping students understand global health disparities through application of coursework knowledge and international field experience. Each summer, MPH students have the opportunity to participate in the Global Health Exchange Program (GHEP) to travel internationally to study public health issues and gain practical experience in global health. The GHEP experiences can fulfill the practicum requirement while working with partnerships in China, India, Ghana, Taiwan, Morocco, Bahrain, Uganda, Sri Lanka, Tanzania, Singapore and other international sites to study global public health issues. Students complete a capstone project as their culminating experience. Check out Penn State’s website for more information on this exciting MPH in global health program.
10. Loyola University, Chicago, IL
MPH Global Health Equity
Tuition $18,594
Loyola University’s Master of Public Health (MPH) with a concentration in Global Health Equity is offered by the nationally ranked Parkinson School of Health Sciences and Public Health. This 42-credit Global Health Equity program is offered in a hybrid online format, with evening classes in the Chicago area. Loyola’s robust curriculum includes core courses, concentration specific courses, electives, and applied and integrative practice and experience. Global health equity MPH students study global populations and seek to advance health equity and justice for individuals, communities and populations. Check out this flexible, affordable masters in global health program to see if it fits your career and educational goals.
9. University of Washington, Seattle, WA
MPH in Global Health
In-state tuition $18,198
Out-of-state tuition $32,439
This challenging Master of Public Health (MPH) in Global Health is offered through the University of Washington’s Department of Global Health as a full time on-campus day program. This MPH program includes coursework, a 160-hour practicum, and a thesis. Cohorts of about 45 people from at home and abroad move through this program together and learn from each other. Students can access courses offered in other schools and departments offered at the University of Washington. Students can begin time at their practicum site after their first quarter in the MPH program, and most students complete their Practicum after year one of the program. The School of Public Health (SPH) manages the Practicum portion for all MPH students. Boasting as one of the premier global health programs in the world, graduates of this program can expect to acquire social justice and practical skills-based framework to help make a difference wherever they work. With an engaging curriculum and a learning and networking community and faculty, this program may be what you’re looking for. Check out the website to find out more.
8. University of New Haven, New Haven, CT
Master’s in Global Health
Tuition $16,920
University of New Haven’s Master of Public Health (MPH) program’s mission is to prepare MPH students in global health to prevent disease, promote health, and protect the well-being of the public through education, practice, research, and service. Student can expect to gain leadership skills and develop an innovative mindset and an evidence-based decision-making process to prepare them to excel in the public health field. This affordable masters in global health promotes learning public health by doing public health, with opportunities in and out of the classroom. With a specialization in global health, students explore the challenges of globalization and health equity and how ethics and human rights helps to shape global health research, programs and policies. Designing, implementing, and evaluating global health programs for long-term solutions in public health at the local, national, and international level is what students in this affordable masters in global health can expect to become skilled in. This MPH program is STEM designated by the federal government, and enables international students to stay in the US an additional 2 years after graduation for training through employment experience. Check out their website to find out more about this robust MPH in global health program.
7. Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR
MPH
In-State Tuition $12,933
Out-of-State Tuition $24,975
This Master of Public Health (MPH) degree in global health from the College of Public Health and Human Sciences (CPHHS) at Oregon State University promises to prepare students for public health leadership in Global Health. Students will be versed in a wide range of global health knowledge, including maternal and child health, refugee and internally displaced people (IDP) health issues, water and sanitation, gender health and equity, community nutrition and food security, and economic globalization. In addition, students will develop a specialization in global health equity, global health development and strengthening, or global health leadership. This program is a 60-credit program, with a required summative assessment. Check out their website for more information to see if this MPH in global health is the one for you.
6. George Mason University, Fairfax, VA
MS and MPH in Global Health
In-State tuition $12,144
Out-of-State tuition $33,456
George Mason University offers both an MS in Global Health and an MPH in Global Health, both requiring 42 credits to complete. The Master of Science in Global Health equips students with the skills and knowledge to work and conduct research in the global health arena. With coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, sociocultural influences on health and behavior, global health systems, communicable and non-communicable diseases, and migrant health, students graduate prepared to conduct global health-related research. The MPH with a global health concentration is designed to prepare students with foundational public health knowledge to help address pressing and emerging health problems globally. MPH graduates can expect to be prepared to work in local, state, and federal health agencies, non-government organizations, health care and private industry. Check out these GMU websites to see how you can pursue your global health education and career goals.
5. University of California, San Diego, CA
MA in Global Health
In-State Tuition $11,442
Out-of-State Tuition $26,544
This Master of Arts in Global Health from the University of California, San Diego can be completed in three academic quarters, taking just one year to complete. Students can choose between the “Professional Track” or “Research Track” concentrations and complete either a master’s thesis or comprehensive examination and final portfolio to graduate. This program provides interdisciplinary training, equipping students to examine, understand, and address issues in health and wellbeing in a global context with the goal of improving health at the individual, population, and global levels. Students can expect to be able to identify and analyze health equity issues and enhance healthcare globally. Students from a wide array of academic and career backgrounds are welcome to pursue this MA in global health. Leadership and collaborative opportunities helps students develop a professional portfolio, identify employment opportunities, and network to help build their career. With individualized attention, students can opt to focus on a specific region or global health issue, and have the opportunity to take electives from across departments at UCSD. Students have the opportunity to take advantage of global health organizations, seminars, and events, both on- and off-campus, during their time at UCSD. Check out their website for more information on this affordable and robust MA program in global health.
4. University of California, Berkeley, CA
Master’s in Global Health Online
In-State Tuition $11,442
Out-of-State Tuition $26,544
The University of California, Berkeley’s top ranked Public Health program’s MPH in Global Health can be accessed online or on-campus. This top-notch, flexible, practice-based program promises to cultivate student interest in global health while developing skills applicable in a career in public health, with courses in epidemiology, global environmental health, biostatistics, and risk analysis. With community events, mentorships, and internships available, students in this robust and affordable program can expect to gain skills and professional contacts. Graduates can anticipate career possibilities in government, the private sector, non-profit and non-governmental organizations, and academia. Some graduates may pursue fellowships or continue in their academic studies in a doctoral program. Check out Berkeley’s website and find out more about this MPH in global health program.
3. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
Master’s in Global Health
In-state tuition $10,552
Out-of-state tuition $28,278
University of North Carolina’s top ranked Gillings School of Public Health offers their robust MPH program in Global Public Health in an on-campus format. With UNC’s philosophy of “no difference between global health and public health,” this program is designed to train professionals to solve public health problems both locally and globally. Global health MPH students become equipped with the skills needed to advance the health of populations in diverse global contexts. Students will have opportunities to partner with governmental and non-governmental organizations, research institutions, and private organizations to analyze and develop public health programs. The Gillings School of Public Health works in all of North Carolina and in over 60 countries. Through these partnerships students help transform health at home and abroad. This MPH program is designed to be completed on a full-time basis and includes practicum experience. Check out UNC’s Gillings School of Public Health website for more information on the affordable and highly ranked program.
2. University of South Florida, Tampa, FL
MPH Global Health
In-State Tuition $8,350
Out-of-State Tuition $19,04
The University of Florida’s traditional MPH in Global Health Practices is an affordable program that may help you meet your educational and career goals in public health. The Global Health Practice concentration promises to prepare students for positions in international public health. This curriculum focuses on the assessment and intervention strategies used to resolve health issues, primarily in developing nations. Opportunities to select a variety of courses, such as epidemiology, maternal and child health, and healthcare management and culture, give students a well-rounded program. This 42 credit program includes a 3-credit supervised field experience that puts into practice what students learn in this MPH in global health practices program. Check out their website for more information on how to apply.
1. Liberty University, Lynchburg, VA
Master’s in Global Health Online
Tuition $7,980
Liberty University’s online master of public health degree in global health promises to further graduates’ career opportunities in healthcare management, health advocacy, and healthcare business roles. This global health MPH in research and practices will help you meet the challenges in healthcare at home or abroad. This flexible and affordable program makes it possible to pursue your education and career goals while maintaining other commitments. Students can transfer up to 50% of the 42 credits needed to complete this MPH in global health. Online classes consist of 8-week-long courses that are formatted to challenge students and encourage success. A required practicum is designed for students to develop leadership and communication skills in public health. Liberty University is a Christian university that seeks to meet educational needs as well as provide spiritual guidance.
FAQs
What is global health?
Global health focuses on improving health equity and health in general for people worldwide. People working in global health collaborate across cultural and country boundaries to implement and research health, health policies, health related programs among other health-related concerns.
What do people with a masters in global health do?
Professionals in this field may work for agencies involved in global health diplomacy, reproductive health policies, health communication, preventing and improving health disparities, and violence prevention, to name just a few. Global health professionals may work in the public or private sectors.
Why is the study of global health important now?
With globalization linking our health and well-being more closely to each other than ever, disease can spread and impact quickly. The rate of movement of people has impacted health worldwide, and has become a distinct area of research and expertise. The interplay between public health, politics and socioeconomic issues has also increased the importance of promoting and protecting health and preventing disease at the global level.
How do I know which program is right for me?
There are many factors to consider when choosing a graduate program in global health. The curriculum, school community and alumni association, location, faculty engagement, program flexibility and cost should all be considered. Speak to someone at the schools you are interested in to help narrow down your choices to find a program that suits your needs and will meet your education goals.
What should I look for in a global health masters program?
A robust masters in global health program should take into account cultural, ethical, legal and economic factors affecting health. Students learn to translate health programs into varied cultural and political scenarios. The best programs should be well connected with global health organizations to help graduates get a start in their careers.
Are people working in global health usually interested in a particular country, or do they have a more general interest in the field?
Some people enter the field of global health because of an interest in a specific country or continent. If interested in a specific place on the globe, you can find more relevant information about that area and perhaps find a master’s program with connections for practicum opportunities in that area of the world. Sometimes students have a more general interest that is further developed during their program of choice.
What is the career outlook in global health?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (WEBSITE) shows a occupational outlook in public health in general as faster growth than average at 13% between 2019-2019. Growth in this field is expected to be driven by the push to improve health outcomes while lowering healthcare costs.
How much money can I expect to make as a professional in global health?
The Bureau of Labor Statistics (bls.gov) shows average incomes for specific occupations, but keep in mind that pay scales vary depending on experience, education level, location in the world and type of organization. The median annual wage for health education specialists, for example, was $55,220 in May 2019.
Who should consider a degree in global health?
Formal education in public health policy, health management, epidemiology and other global health-related areas will enhance leadership skills and broaden career possibilities in global health. Global health is ideal for those who gain professional satisfaction from helping people improve their lives.
What are some agencies global health graduates could work for?
Graduates of a program in global health may work for a wide range of employers. Listed are just a few: World Health Organization, United Nations Children’s Fund, Bureau for Global Health, President’s Emergency Plan for AIDS Relief, US Agency for International Development, United Methodist Committee on Relief, and the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation. Open your eyes to the many possibilities.
What types of work will graduates be able to do?
Here is a list to get you started: global resources administration and management, refugee and international health, evaluate climate and environmental change and its implications for global population health, work for humanitarian emergencies/ emergency response and relief, work with government agencies/ministries of health/non-governmental organizations (NGOs), work with research community and universities worldwide, communication in global settings, strategic planning, evaluation and reporting, and evaluation, impact planning and population health improvement. While looking at program websites, see where graduates of the global health program worked after graduation to open your eyes to more possibilities.
What are common job titles graduates may have?
Titles such as technical specialist or consultant, grant writer, program manager, program development officer, or chief administrative officer of international affairs are just a few of the many titles graduates of a global health program may have. Some graduates may go on to a more clinical field, research or continue their education further.
Can someone with an advanced degree in global health really make a difference in the world?
Global health professionals work with some of the most vulnerable populations. Whether working directly in the field or supporting health organizations in other capacities, the work you do has a direct impact on the health and safety of society domestically or on the other side of the globe.
Why pursue a degree in public health?
The field of public health in general is a growing and exciting field. This is a field that is expected to grow dramatically, creating opportunities for public health professionals around the globe. Improving access to health care and controlling infectious disease, reducing environmental hazards, reducing violence and substance abuse are just a few of the areas where public health issues are addressed. People seeking an affordable masters in Global Health develop the skills and knowledge to design and run programs and work in initiatives to improve the health status of individuals, families and communities around the globe.
By Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDCES
September 2020
Carol graduated with her BS in Nutrition from Montclair State University and her BSN in Nursing from Rowan University. She is a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) currently working with adults and children living with diabetes in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
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