Top Online MPH Programs in Texas for 2024: Online & On-Campus
As Texas communities continue to prioritize public health initiatives, now is the perfect time to pursue an MPH. In this guide, discover high-quality online MPH programs in Texas, as well as career projections and student resources.
If you’re passionate about public health and want to use your knowledge and skills to help protect communities, earning a master’s degree in public health can help you get there. Public health professionals are in high demand, particularly now that more industries are seeking expertise in preventing widespread illnesses like COVID-19. Enrollment in MPH programs has risen substantially since 2020, and job growth is expected to increase in the next decade.
Although public health careers are growing nationwide, Texas is among the states with the highest employment level in healthcare support occupations, making it ideal to earn your MPH. Whether you’re looking for online or campus-based study, Texas offers numerous high-quality programs that will prepare you for a rewarding career in public health. In this guide, we’ve outlined the top colleges to earn an MPH in Texas, both on-campus and online, as well as financial aid information, job projections, and student resources.
Best Colleges to Earn an MPH Degree in Texas: Campus-based
As you begin your search for MPH programs in Texas, it’s important to look for institutions that provide the instruction and training you’ll need to succeed in the public health career you choose. That’s why we’ve identified some of the best colleges to earn an MPH in Texas, based on program affordability, institutional accreditation, and student support. In this preview of our full ranking (coming later in 2024), you’ll find spotlights that cover Texas MPH program details, learning outcomes, specialization opportunities, and more.
The award-winning MPH program at Texas A&M focuses on real-world applications of public health studies. In cross-disciplinary courses, students will learn determinants of health, the epidemiology of diseases, policy and ethics, applied methods, and interventions. Since an MPH is a stepping stone to a wide range of public health careers, this program offers six specialization options to meet career goals and personal interests. Concentrations include environmental health, epidemiology, health policy and management, health promotion and community health sciences, occupational safety and health, and biostatistics.
Unlike other MPH programs, Texas A&M does not require a GRE, making it a more accessible option for many. Those interested in this program can find transparent tuition pricing and all other related fees including loan fees, room and board, books and supplies, travel, and more. Financial aid options are available to MPH students as well, through college-level scholarships, grants, and federal loans.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Full-Time
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Public Health
Specialization Options:
- Environmental Health
- Epidemiology
- Health Policy and Management
- Health Promotion and Community Health Sciences
- Occupational Safety and Health
- Biostatistics
At UT Southwestern, students can choose from flexible study options that fit into scheduling and course load preferences. The program offers a standard two-year option, as well as an extended three-year plan that may be preferred by full-time workers or those with daytime responsibilities. In addition to covering healthcare data and methodologies, the program focuses on engaging diverse healthcare stakeholders to address public health challenges.
Specialization opportunities are available to students interested in quantitative data sciences, health equity, and health economics. To further prepare students for the real-world applications of their public health studies, the curriculum includes a required practicum and integrative learning experience. Working with their academic advisors, students will complete a community-service learning experience and participate in integrative learning, such as a capstone course, practice-based project, or seminar.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Full-Time
- Part-time
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Public Health
Specialization Options:
- Quantitative Data Sciences
- Health Promotion, Structure, and Agency
- Health Systems Science
Accessibility is a top priority in the MPH program at the University of Texas at Arlington, with curriculum and schedules tailored to working professionals. Most courses are offered in the evening to accommodate daytime work and responsibilities, and hybrid courses are available for students wanting fewer on-campus visits. Students can choose from a two-, three-, and four-year academic plan. Classroom learning is paired with real-world projects to equip students with the practical skills needed to succeed in a public health career.
The most distinctive feature of this program is that it is the only MPH program in Texas to offer a specialization in urban health. The program also offers a concentration in epidemiology, with an emphasis on chronic disease, infectious diseases, health trends, and urban communities.
Delivery:
- On-Campus
- Online
- Full-Time
- Part-time
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Public Health
Specialization Options:
- Epidemiology
- Urban Health
Top Online MPH Programs in Texas
Texas offers numerous flexible and affordable online MPH programs, making it easy to find one that’s right for you. Whether you’re a working professional looking to advance in a specialty, or a recent undergraduate wanting to earn an advanced degree, Texas online MPH programs provide the education and training you’ll need in a flexible format. Most online MPH programs offer asynchronous courses that can be accessed at any time, making it easy for full-time workers or those with inflexible schedules.
Not only do online MPH programs alleviate some of the time constraints of on-campus learning, but they also may eliminate some of the costs of on-campus programs such as transportation and course materials. To help you get started on your Texas online MPH program search, we’ve outlined three of the top MPH program options in Texas for you to consider. Check back soon for a full ranking list.
Flexibility is a top priority in this program, with options for 100% online learning or a customizable hybrid schedule. Students can enroll in this program at five different points in the year and choose from part-time or full-time study options. A practicum experience and community service are integrated into the curriculum to help prepare students for the real-world applications of their studies.
To get the most out of these experiences, students will collaborate with faculty to find and connect with potential practicum and service locations and refine their project goals. Whether you choose the fully online or hybrid program option, the University of North Texas ensures easy access to student resources. Online students can still take advantage of all on-campus resources including the financial aid office, library, career services, and more.
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Public Health
Program Options:
- Fully Online
- Partially Online
- Full-Time
- Part-Time
At Baylor University, MPH students will learn from distinguished faculty in a community-centered online environment. The top-ranked online Texas MPH program connects students with influential public health organizations, facilitating cross-disciplinary collaboration and potential career connections. Designed for working professionals, the program can be completed part-time, full-time, or at an accelerated pace.
Toward the end of the program, students will complete a community-based capstone project that applies the knowledge and skills gained. With an emphasis on serving vulnerable communities, students will learn practical skills surrounding health diagnostics, epidemiology, public health planning, research, administration, and more. For those considering enrolling, program faculty, students and alumni host periodic webinars to introduce prospective students to course details, the online community, and other experiences that can be expected throughout their studies.
Graduate Programs:
- Master of Public Health
- PhD in Public Health
Program Options:
- Fully Online
- Full-Time
- Part-Time
The MPH program at the University of Texas at Tyler is located within the School of Health Professions, enabling students to receive comprehensive training from distinguished public health professionals. Along with its high-quality instructors, facility, and curriculum, the program is known for being one of the most affordable options in the state. With a low student-to-faculty ratio, students receive personalized training and attention.
In addition to teaching public health theories and methodologies, the program aims to equip students with the practical skills and expertise needed to initiate positive change in public health. With diverse healthcare and research partnerships, students will learn how their skills apply to different public health fields such as epidemiology, social and behavioral sciences, biostatistics, environmental health sciences, and health services administration.
Financial Aid MPH Students in Texas
When choosing your online MPH program in Texas, you shouldn’t have to sacrifice quality for affordability. Many colleges and universities offer affordable programs as well as financial aid, scholarships, grants, work-study, and fellowship opportunities. If you’ve found your program but are worried about the cost, consider contacting the institution’s financial aid office to confirm your options. Keep in mind that some schools offer discounts to in-state students.
In addition to college-level funding opportunities, the state of Texas offers scholarships specifically for public health students. For example, the Texas Public Health Association awards funds to TPHA student members to help them attend the school of their choice. Another option worth considering is the public health fellowship offered through Texas Health and Human Services, where early-career professionals participate in a one-year paid training program. Make sure to investigate all potential financial aid and support services at the college, state and federal level.
Job Outlook for MPH Graduates in Texas
Public health continues to be a top priority for communities across the country, particularly in Texas where the population is large and diverse. With an MPH, graduates can enter the workforce in a wide range of industries such as hospitals, clinics, government agencies, and nonprofits. These in-demand public health jobs are projected to grow substantially over the next decade, along with earning potential. Although public health encompasses numerous career paths, we’ve highlighted some of the most popular occupations with high job growth rates, along with their annual mean wage.
| Job Growth Rate (2018-2028) | Average Annual Openings (2018-2028) | Annual Mean Wage (2023) | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Epidemiologist | 32% | 70 | $80,970 |
| Community Health | 25% | 500 | $44,990 |
| Occupational Health and Safety | 23% | 1,370 | $79,700 |
| Medical and Health Services | 43% | 4,790 | $120,200 |
| Health Education | 22% | 470 | $61,380 |
Sources: Projections Central; Bureau of Labor Statistics
Texas Public Health Student & Professional Resources
Whether you’re still looking for online MPH programs, are currently enrolled, or are new to the public health workforce, it’s important to have support resources at your disposal. Here are five useful resources that can help you stay connected to public health research, news, and services.
- Texas Public Health Association
This member-based association promotes sanitary improvements, hygiene control and disease prevention throughout Texas communities. Members can stay informed on public health news through Texas Public Health journals and newsletters, networking opportunities, and conferences. - Texas Society for Public Health Education
This society aims to equip and empower public health students to improve the health of their communities. As a member, you’ll have opportunities to participate in national public health initiatives and leadership activities, as well as receive Certified Health Education Specialist continuing education credits. - Texas Health and Human Services
For students or public health professionals looking to stay updated on emerging health news, Texas Health and Human Services provides the news and alerts you need to know. You may also take advantage of a continuing education program, internship opportunities, public health workforce training, and more. - Texas Medical Association
From immunization updates to behavioral health research, the Texas Medical Association is a helpful hub of information for public health students and professionals. Visit their events page to learn about upcoming local and national public health conferences. - Texas Community Health News
With an emphasis on public health awareness, Texas Community Health News seeks to inform readers on the state’s current public health issues and solutions. You can access free reports on county profiles and other state data through the website and newsletter.
