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Skidmore College
Health Professions Advising
& Student Health Professions Network 

Public Health—Degree Programs

While it is possible to gain experience in the field without an advanced degree, most public health professionals need at least a Master’s degree (MSPH, MPH) for career advancement. In general, the MPH degree will include coursework in a number of public health disciplines, such as administration, epidemiology, environmental health, and behavioral health. Public health (MSPH, MPH) programs are typically about two years. MPH programs typically require a few years of experience or another professional degree. Those without the required professional degree or experience are encouraged to consider the MSPH or MS. Dual degrees are available to those that are pursuing degrees or have degrees in fields such as nursing, law, social work, public policy, business, medicine, dentistry, and veterinary medicine.