What can you do with a Master of Public Health?
In an era where public health has taken center stage, the demand for skilled professionals equipped to tackle diverse health challenges has never been greater. At Tufts University School of Medicine, our Master of Public Health (MPH) program opens doors to a world of possibilities, empowering students to embark on dynamic career journeys that span sectors, industries, and countries.
As a student exploring graduate programs, you may find yourself wondering, “What can I do with a Master of Public Health?”
The good news is that there are myriad career avenues awaiting MPH graduates. From public health departments and government agencies to non-profits, academia, hospitals, and the private sector, our alumni carve paths that intersect with various health care facets.
Whether advocating for policy change, designing community-based interventions, or leading innovative research, Tufts MPH alumni drive positive change in health outcomes worldwide.
A career in public health offers unique opportunities for advancement and higher salaries due to its lattice-like structure. Unlike traditional career paths, public health professionals have the flexibility to navigate various sectors and roles to progress in their careers. For instance, individuals can move from non-profits to government positions or transition between different focus areas within public health departments. These lateral moves provide invaluable experience that contributes to career growth.
“Public health offers a wide array of job areas, allowing professionals to specialize as subject matter experts or ascend to leadership roles such as director of a health department or VP of global health consulting,” says Kimberly Dong-Breen, DrPH, MS, RD, program director and associate professor in the Department of Public Health and Community Medicine.
The versatility of an MPH degree equips graduates to navigate diverse public health issues with confidence. Equipped with collaboration adeptness, data analysis experience, and solution-driven thinking skills, our alumni address contemporary health challenges with agility and efficacy—from local community initiatives to global pandemics.
“The MPH degree is one of the most versatile degrees anyone can get,” says Karen Errichetti, MPH, DrPH, assistant professor in the Department of Public Health and Community Medicine. “You develop a general skill set that enables you to work collaboratively with teams, design interventions, and analyze data to develop solutions.”
At Tufts MPH, students receive personalized career support from day one. The Career Services team collaborates with students to develop strategies for achieving post-graduation career goals.
“For us in Career Services, a question we often ask MPH students is 'What problem do you want to solve?' They often have a multitude of answers,” explains Katie Donovan, MBA,
director of career services. “This degree offers them a strong foundation for continuous growth throughout their careers. Our team is committed to providing guidance and support to help students reach their desired destinations."
Employers seek MPH graduates with technical expertise and essential soft skills—from communication and collaboration to critical thinking and adaptability. Tufts’ MPH curriculum and career support ensure graduates possess traits valued in today's job market.
As the field of public health continues to evolve, so too do the opportunities for specialization and impact. Tufts MPH alumni are at the forefront of emerging areas such as veterinary medicine, One Health, climate-related health impacts, and healthcare management. With their fingers on the pulse of industry trends, our graduates are poised to lead innovation and drive positive change in public health practice.
As prospective students embark on their academic and career journeys, Tufts MPH offers a pathway to a world of opportunity—a gateway to a fulfilling career dedicated to advancing the health and well-being of communities near and far. Whether you aspire to influence policy, lead innovative research, or drive community-based initiatives, Tufts MPH provides the foundation and support you need to thrive in a dynamic and impactful profession.
Department:
Public Health and Community Medicine