Online Master of Public Health From Simmons University
Explore Equity and Social Justice in Public Health
The concept of health equity stems from an understanding that public health and social justice are deeply intertwined. The focus of MPH@Simmons, the Master of Public Health program delivered online from Simmons University, is to prepare students to work toward achieving health equity at local, national, and global levels.
MPH@Simmons students gain the skills to become effective public health practitioners through a blend of online courses, self-paced coursework, and in-person immersion experiences that explore public health through the lens of equity and social justice.
on Health Equity
Master’s Program
Required
Simmons University’s MPH is an applicant for accreditation by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).
The accreditation review will address the MPH with a concentration in health equity, the general public health bachelor's degree programs (BS and BA), and a joint degree that combines the bachelor's and MPH degrees in a condensed format. Other degrees and areas of study offered by this institution will not be included in the unit of accreditation review.
Public Health Curriculum
The MPH@Simmons curriculum explores the core areas of public health: epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy and health services, environmental health, and social and behavioral health.
The program can be completed in 21 months and consists of 45 total credits. In the final two terms, students complete a two-course sequence worth four credits as part of the Health Equity Change Project.
Courses
Courses
Immersions
Featured Courses on Health Equity
While other programs may touch on health equity, the MPH@Simmons curriculum weaves the topic into every aspect of the program. Through a series of health equity-focused courses, the MPH@Simmons program trains public health professionals to identify, research, and address the root causes of health disparities.
Learn skills of participatory, community-based methods for partnering with communities to understand and address health challenges.
Engage in service-learning as you explore the strategies and tactics of advocating and organizing for community- and policy-level changes to address inequities.
Examine how environmental challenges — such as water and air pollution, food quality and scarcity, gentrification, and toxic dumping — affect health.
Health Equity Change Project
Supported by a sequence of four planning and implementation courses, students complete a culminating, community-based Health Equity Change Project, where they explore local public health inequities and work proactively with community partners to address them.
Hands-On Immersions
During the program, MPH@Simmons students are required to participate in two in-person immersions worth a total of 3 credits, one held on the Simmons campus in Boston and one in another domestic or international location. During these immersions, students gain firsthand experience in examining public health issues and have the opportunity to collaborate with peers, faculty, local organizers, and public health leaders.
“I realize that I can demand change and be the resistance in a country that prefers the status quo. I am excited to . . . advocate for justice and equity for, and alongside, those without a voice or the knowledge to do so.”
Applying to MPH@Simmons
Our admission committee takes a holistic approach when evaluating each candidate for the program, valuing prior community experience and a passion for improving health equity. To apply to MPH@Simmons, students should first review the application requirements and deadlines.
Early Action Deadline
Sunday, November 15, 2020
Priority Application Deadline
Friday, January 15, 2021
Final Application Deadline
Monday, February 15, 2021
Classes Begin
Monday, April 12, 2021
To learn more about MPH@Simmons, view our FAQ page.
Simmons University Online
Simmons University was founded in 1899 with the mission of helping students lead meaningful lives and build successful careers. In 2012, Simmons decided to bring that mission online by offering graduate programs that provide students with the same supportive and welcoming learning environment.
Mission and Vision
Simmons Public Health trains public health practitioners to advance population health and health equity through innovative education, transdisciplinary collaboration, applied research and practice, community organizing and engagement, and health advocacy for systems change. Our program prepares students in the general principles and practices of public health, and to address structural determinants of health often situated in historical systems of racism and other forms of oppression.
Simmons Public Health advances a vision where all individuals and communities are assured fair and equitable opportunity to achieve optimal health and well-being, ensuring inclusivity across identities, locations and circumstances.
Renowned Faculty and Leadership
The MPH@Simmons faculty is made up of educators and public health leaders who are committed to improving health equity both at home and abroad. The program is also supported by the Simmons Public Health Steering Committee and Community Advisory Committee who develop and fine-tune the curriculum and immersions to prepare students for the current job market.
Career Services
MPH@Simmons students have access to a variety of career support resources to help them advance in the field of public health. Career services include résumé reviews, mock interviews, portfolio assessments, and access to the Virtual Career Center.
MPH@Simmons students also receive student memberships to the American Public Health Association (APHA). Benefits of having an APHA membership include being able to network within the world’s largest public health professional organization, opportunities to pursue advocacy work through professional interest groups, and access to career development resources.
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