Frequently Asked Questions
Choosing the right graduate program is an important decision, and we know it comes with many questions. We're here to help by providing clear, straightforward answers about admissions, tuition, scholarships, and financial aid. Below, you'll find responses to some of the most commonly asked questions to guide you through the process and help you plan for your education with confidence.
Master of Public Health - On-Campus | FAQ's
Dartmouth’s MPH program offers three formats to accommodate different learning needs:
- Hybrid MPH (22 months): Coursework is completed online with 2–3 optional on-campus sessions per year for intensive learning.
- Online MPH (22 months): Identical to the hybrid format, but all intensive learning sessions are completed remotely.
- On-Campus MPH (11 months): A full-time, residential program completed on Dartmouth’s campus.
Each format delivers the same rigorous curriculum and degree credential.
- Before matriculation: Students can request a format change by submitting a formal written request to the Admissions office.
- After matriculation: Requests must be reviewed by program directors, as curriculum structures and requirements differ across formats.
No. There are no required undergraduate courses for admission.
MPH graduates pursue a wide range of careers in health policy, research, healthcare administration, and consulting. Common roles include:
- Policy Analyst
- University/Medical School Faculty & Administration
- Healthcare Quality & Improvement Specialist
- Physician & Healthcare Professional (MD, RN, PharmD, OT, PT, etc.)
- Public Health Consultant
- Healthcare Administrator
- Biotech/Pharmaceutical Specialist
- Researcher
Experiential learning is central to Dartmouth’s MPH program. Students participate in:
- Integrative Learning Experiences (ILE): Research projects embedded in coursework.
- Applied Practice Experiences (APE): Internships and field studies with healthcare organizations, non-profits, or policy institutions.
- Practicum Intensive: Independent research and applied projects focused on community health, health policy, quality improvement, and health services research.
This program is ideal for individuals who want to:
- Use data analysis to shape health policy.
- Apply quality improvement methods to drive meaningful change in organizations.
- Translate research findings into action to improve population health outcomes.
Our diverse cohort includes students from healthcare, policy, administration, and research backgrounds.
On-Campus MPH Cohort:
- 58% recently graduated (within 2 years of college).
- 24% physicians/clinicians.
- 18% mid-career professionals (2+ years of experience).
- Average age: 26.
- On-Campus MPH (Full-Time): 55 hours per week (4–5 courses per term).
While it is possible to work while enrolled, the program’s full-time nature requires a significant time commitment. Some students manage part-time work with flexible or remote hours, but many focus on research assistantships or internships that align with their academic goals.
The Global Health Fellows program connects students with faculty, researchers, and global health practitioners to explore topics such as:
- Health disparities & structural inequities
- Health security & diplomacy
- Human rights & planetary health
Established in 1982, the Dickey Center supports research, internships, and fellowships in:
- Global Health & Development
- Peace & Security
- Environmental & Arctic Studies
Yes! Dartmouth fosters a collaborative learning environment with opportunities to engage in:
- Research projects
- Extracurricular activities
- Cross-disciplinary courses
- Networking events