Application Requirements by Program
Applications are accepted online through Apply. MPH accepts applications at any time. Application requirements vary by program, though most require transcripts, proof of English proficiency (for international students), letters of recommendation, and a CV or résumé. Please select your program of interest below to learn more.
How to Apply
Applicants from all undergraduate majors and backgrounds are acceptable and encouraged to apply. Though work, volunteer, research, and/or internship experience relevant to public health is valued in the review process, it is not required. No GRE score required. To learn more about our admission process, please visit our How To Apply & FAQs page.
Frequently Asked Questions
Whether its questions about our application process, international applicants, student life, or general program information, we've compiled a helpful list of all our most frequently asked questions with the answers you're looking for.
Advising
On admission, each student is assigned a faculty advisor to assist with academic planning. Students must prepare an educational plan before registering for courses in order to map out progress through the degree consistent with student-centered personal and career goals. Public Health Connections (ISSN 2578-8744), the MPH e-magazines highlight stories from our students and alumni. Their SUCCESS stories can be yours! Please click on each image below to explore more.
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SP17 Newsletter 
FA17 Newsletter 
SP18 e-Magazine 
FA18 e-Magazine 
MPH Alum, Ololade Akinsanya
Application Materials
Online Application
You can Apply Online Today. When you go to that site, you must create your own custom username and password. Make a record of that information as you can return to your application to check on each phase of the processing. The online application will also inform you of other required materials at each step.
Academic Essay
Academic Essay is included in the application form. As a narrative essay, use of the first person pronoun ‘I’ is welcomed. Your answer to each question should specifically be in response to the topic presented and organized with a clear point of view for an academic audience. Applicants must address each of the following three questions with two or more paragraphs:
- What are the most urgent public health problems facing your community today?
- How will a master’s degree in public health help prepare you to address these problems?
- Which area of public health specialization appeals most to you?
Transcript
Applicants must submit official transcripts for all registered coursework from each college or university attended. If you are currently in a degree program, you are required to submit a current official transcript showing completed coursework and all work in progress. If you are accepted for admission, a final official transcript after degree conferral must be submitted directly to UIS Admissions Office. The Department of Public Health prefers WES evaluations of international transcripts. If applicants submit other evaluations, applicants will be asked to submit supplemental material, such as syllabi from previous courses.
- GPA, the ideal score will be greater than 3.0 (on a 4.0 scale). Some exceptional students may be accepted with a lower GPA, however specific conditions will be applied.
- Admission to the Master of Public Health- Environmental Health program requires 30 credit hours of natural science (e.g., biochemistry, biology, math, calculus, physics, chemistry, etc.). If an applicant is deficient in required hours, conditional admittance can be granted at the discretion of the department. If conditionally admitted, students must complete the 30 credit hours of natural science in order to be granted full admission.
Three Letters of Recommendation
Letters must be submitted, on letterhead, from employers or educators who are willing to provide a reference. Academic referrals are preferred. Recommenders should be able to evaluate academic or professional work, the ability to undertake graduate study, and potential as a public health professional.