The certificate program allows students to transition into the MPH program without having to complete a SOPHAS application. Certificate program students who wish to transition into the MPH program are required to:
- Apply to graduate from the certificate program in the semester in which they complete the requirements.
- Earn grades of “B” or better in the courses they take while in the public health certificate program.
- Submit a short supplemental application at no cost.
Courses taken during the certificate program should count toward the MPH requirements. Students should consult with their academic advisor if they have questions about the required courses to take during the certificate program.
Please note the following rules about the certificate-to-MPH transition process.
- Students who plan to matriculate into the MPH program will not need to submit a new SOPHAS application. The student’s academic advisor will follow up individually about the transitional application once a student has applied to graduate from the certificate program.
- Students must select the MPH concentration in which they plan to matriculate in the transitional application.
- Students can begin the MPH program in the fall semester only.
Frequently Asked Questions
How many classes can I take in the certificate program?
Students are required to take six classes (18 credits) in the certificate program, but may take up to eight classes (24 credits).
How many courses will be left in the MPH program after I complete the certificate requirements?
The remaining courses will vary depending on the number of credits you take in the certificate program. The MPH program is 42 credits total. If you complete 18 credits (the minimum requirement) in the certificate program, there will be 24 remaining credits to complete in the MPH program.
Will the courses I took in the certificate program count toward the MPH requirements?
Your advisor will recommend your program of study during the certificate program. This program of study, if approved by your advisor, will count towards part of the MPH.
What if I do not get a B or better in all courses I took as a certificate student?
If you earn a B- or lower in any course taken while in the certificate program, you are no longer eligible for the transitional application. If you want to apply to the MPH program, you will need to submit a full application in SOPHAS.
Do I have to apply to graduate from the certificate program?
Yes, students who complete the certificate requirements should apply to graduate in Patriot Web by the deadlines set by the Office of the University Registrar.
When will I receive my acceptance into the MPH program after completing the transitional application?
You will receive your admission/decision for the MPH program soon after final grades come in at the end of your final semester in the certificate program.
May I defer my admission to the MPH program after completing the certificate?
Yes, you may defer admission to the MPH program by one year.
How will I know what classes to take once I’m in the MPH program?
Your academic advisor will work with you to plan out the rest of your time in the MPH program. However, you should be aware of the program’s requirements as listed in the University Catalog.
I did not apply to transition into the MPH program after completing the certificate. May I do so after the fact?
If you do not apply to transition into the MPH program after completing the certificate requirements, you will need to apply to the MPH program through SOPHAS when you wish to return to school.