To be a public health professional, it’s all based on the skills you need to have. From the beginning, Tufts professors guide us to build those skills step by step.
MPH Skills and Tools for Engaged Practice (STEP)
Transform your public health education through Tufts University's innovative STEP program. This experiential training combines hands-on skill development, personalized mentorship, and career guidance that equip you to improve health equity and justice from day one.
What Is the Tufts STEP Program?
The Master of Public Health STEP program serves as a support system that bridges classroom learning with public health practice. Embedded in the MPH, it requires all students to take three mandatory courses (STEP I, STEP II, and STEP III) that guide the development and implementation of their applied experiences in the program.
Faculty work directly with students to help them with their Applied Practice Experience (APE) and Integrated Learning Experience (ILE). As a result, the STEP prepares students to enter the workforce with critical public health skills, including leadership, management, budgeting, ethics, research, and cross-sector collaboration.
How Does the STEP Program Transform Your Learning Experience?
Unlike traditional programs that separate theory from practice, STEP weaves real-world public health training throughout your entire educational journey. You practice public health firsthand in your community, discuss your career plan with expert mentors, and build your leadership skills. By the end of the program, you will have the competence and confidence to solve the evolving challenges of public health and make meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes locally and globally.
- Career Development: Design your career path, set goals, and transition from academic study to professional practice. STEP III allows you to showcase your work, demonstrate your skills, and prepare for the workforce.
- Public Health Research: Develop key competencies, including literature review, budgeting, leadership, and research ethics for conducting public health research.
- Applied Learning From Day One: Through the Applied Practice Experience (APE) and Integrative Learning Experience (ILE), you apply your learning in real-world settings. Collaborate with professionals from diverse sectors, broadening your perspectives on public health issues.
- Dedicated Faculty Advisor: Working with a faculty advisor in each of the three courses, you build trust and develop a strong, supportive relationship that enhances your personal and professional growth.
Your Three-Phase Journey to Earning an MPH Degree
The STEP program provides a clear road map for an applied public health education and progressive skill development.
H3: STEP I: Foundation & Career Planning
Launch your professional journey by understanding the Tufts Master of Public Health degree program. With the help of your mentor, you start exploring different career paths, setting goals, and developing core competencies.
H3: STEP II: Applied Practice & Skill Development
Deepen your study by developing an understanding of ethical issues in public health. While continuing to plan for your career, you complete APE and ILE proposals.
Note: Part-time students may delay STEP II until ready for APE.
H3: STEP III: Integration & Professional Showcase
Synthesize your learning through completing your APE work products and your ILE capstone project. Present your work to faculty and peers, demonstrating mastery of public health competencies and readiness for professional practice.
STEP Success Stories
It is a program that guides you through what you’ll actually be doing. We’re not just talking about theoreticals—it’s about how you would use it. We work with different organizations as students. The program empowers us to make an impact.
Christopher Andrews, MPH25
From Classroom to Community Impact
Through the unique STEP program, Tufts Master of Public Health graduates enter the workforce with more than just a degree. They lead with purpose, equipped with expert insights, field experience, and a strong commitment to equity and social justice.
Our hands-on approach, coupled with six MPH concentrations, prepares you for various career paths to make a difference in your community:
- Population Health Promotion: Lead community health initiatives with confidence
- Research & Evaluation: Design and implement evidence-based interventions
- Health Policy Development: Influence health policy with data-driven insights
- Program Management: Manage complex public health programs effectively
- Global Health: Address international health challenges with cultural competence
Explore MPH concentration options and career pathways.
STEP Into Public Health Leadership
The Skills and Tools for Engaged Practice (STEP) program aims to foster compassionate expert professionals who can address today's complex health challenges. Earn a Master of Public Health degree at Tufts University and acquire the skills you need to confidently transition from student to leader.
FAQs
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STEP is seamlessly woven throughout your MPH program, beginning in your first year and culminating with your capstone project.
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Yes! STEP is designed to accommodate both on-campus and online learners, ensuring all students gain valuable MPH practical experience and training.
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All Master of Public Health students must complete the three-course STEP sequence.
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The STEP instructor serves as the student's academic advisor, along with guidance from the Concentration Faculty Leaders. The Associate Program Director is also available to all students for additional academic advising as needed.