Global Health, MS

The MS (Master of Science) in Global Health is an academic degree that prepares students to conduct multidisciplinary research on health issues of global importance. Students' complete coursework in global health, epidemiology, biostatistics, and research methods. The required thesis provides students an opportunity to work closely with a GCH (Global and Community Health) faculty member to systematically investigate a problem or issue with global health implications. 

Application

The application for the MS in Global Health is in SOPHAS. In the statement of goals and objectives, applicants must say which GCH faculty they would like to work with, and what and why their research interests them. Faculty accepting students for Fall 2024 are: 

Read more about graduate admissions.

 

View the program requirements in the University Catalog for the MS, Global Health.

View the Graduate Academic Advising Resources for course sequencing and other information.

 

Program of Study

The MS, Global Health program is 42 credits. This includes: 

  • 6 courses (18 credits) in the global health core 

  • 4 courses (12 credits) in the research core 

  • 2 electives (6 credits) 

  • 1 thesis (6 credits) 

Students may take classes on a part-time or full-time basis but must complete all program requirements within six years of first enrollment. Most students will complete the program in two or three years. 

 

MS, Global Health Competencies

Students who complete the MS in Global Health will be able to achieve the following competencies: 

  1. Demonstrate independent research conduct through the completion of a research thesis related to a current issue in global health. 

  1. Explain roles, functions, funding sources, organizational structure, and involvement in global health of organizations in the global health arena. 

  1. Communicate epidemiologic evidence related to global health to lay and scientific audiences. 

  1. Utilize data and literature to recognize global health problems. 

  1. Explain the social, economic, and environmental factors that are important determinants of diseases of global health importance. 

Frequently Asked Questions about the MS in Global Health

What is the difference between the MS in Global Health and the MPH in Global Health?

The MS in Global Health is an academic degree during which students write a thesis. The MPH in Global Health is a practice-based degree in which students complete a 200-hour internship. This document shows the differences in curriculum between the two degrees. 

 

How do I apply to the MS in Global Health?

The application for the MS in Global Health is in SOPHAS

In the statement of goals and objectives, applicants must say which GCH faculty they would like to work with, and what about their research interests them. Faculty accepting students for Fall 2024 are: 

  • Dr. Michael Bloom 

  • Dr. Rodman Turpin 

  • Dr. Donqing Wang 

  • Dr. Michelle Williams 

Review the Graduate Admissions webpage for more information on the application process. 

Can I apply to both the MS in Global Health and the MPH program?

Applicants can only apply to one program in SOPHAS per cycle. Review the curriculum of both programs and consider your academic and career goals to determine which program will suit you best. 

What is the deadline to apply to the MS in Global Health?

The application deadline for the MS in Global Health is April 1. Late applications are not accepted. 

What do graduates of the MS in Global Health program go on to accomplish?

Graduates of the MS in Global Health are prepared to conduct research at national and international organizations, and many go on for advanced degrees. 

Read recent MS, Global Health graduate profiles.