An online public health degree is a great way to get an education in the field of public health without having to relocate.
The most common public health online degree programs are Master’s degrees, which can take anywhere from one year up to three years depending on the program. Classes typically consist of lectures and discussions with other students.
There is also an opportunity for hands-on learning with internships or volunteer work at local agencies; this experience will be beneficial when applying for jobs after graduation. Students interested in working on health promotion in rural areas may find that an online public health degree is their best option because it allows them to obtain a graduate-level education while still living where they want, not where they have access to resources like other public health practice professionals.
The majority of online courses are taught by university faculty, but there may be some classes taught by other local professionals (nurses, physicians, community leaders) as well as guest lecturers from universities and organizations nationwide.
Some undergraduate students who do not live close enough to a school offering online degrees can also take advantage of this option to get a head start on their master’s degree.
Methodology
All schools considered for these rankings
- Are regionally or nationally accredited
- Offer at least one fully online public health degree (with no more than two weeks of required in-person work)
- Were collected from official accrediting agency websites.
Schools are ranked solely by the average net price as released in the most recent IPEDs database collected in 2023
Online Programs That Might Interest You
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.2024 Most Affordable Online Public Health Degrees
| Rank | School | Average Net Price |
| 1 | University of South Florida Online | $8,318 |
| 2 | University of North Carolina at Greensboro | $11,110 |
| 3 | American Public University System | $11,144 |
| 4 | Murray State University | $11,226 |
| 5 | Delaware State University | $11,626 |
| 6 | Mississippi University for Women | $11,952 |
| 7 | University of Wisconsin-Superior | $12,268 |
| 8 | Monroe College | $13,148 |
| 9 | University of the Cumberlands | $14,654 |
| 10 | The University of Texas at Arlington | $15,627 |
| 11 | Bellevue University | $15,794 |
| 12 | Central Michigan University | $16,810 |
| 13 | Old Dominion University | $16,948 |
| 14 | Boise State University | $17,107 |
| 15 | University of Missouri-Columbia | $17,899 |
| 16 | University of South Dakota | $19,415 |
| 17 | Johnson & Wales University-Online | $21,414 |
| 18 | Southern New Hampshire University Online | $22,873 |
| 19 | Rivier University | $26,195 |
| 20 | Roger Williams University | $37,384 |
10 Best Affordable Colleges for Online Public Health Degrees
#1. University of South Florida Online
Average Net Price: $8,318
USF is one of the nation’s most diverse and international universities. The student body consists of students from most states, US territories, and over 100 foreign countries.
The University of South Florida is home to fourteen colleges that are divided into sixteen schools. As a polytechnic university, it offers courses in disciplines ranging from the liberal arts to engineering, education, architecture, and business. USF has experienced significant growth in its academic programs as well as enrollment over the past two decades.
The University of South Florida propels public health careers through diverse CEPH-accredited online Master of Public Health programs:
The MPH with a Concentration in Public Health Practice readies experienced health professionals for leadership roles through focused training in epidemiology, health policy, environmental health, and related areas.
Addressing health, safety, and environmental impacts, the MPH in Health, Safety & Environment allows specialization in occupational health, environmental health, food safety, and more.
By covering disaster preparedness, relief, and associated topics, the MPH in Global Disaster Management equips graduates for crisis response and mitigation roles.
The MPH in Nutrition and Dietetics tailors curriculum for careers in public health nutrition, community nutrition, clinical nutrition, and adjacent areas.
Leveraging social marketing techniques for behavior change, the MPH in Social Marketing cultivates skills in health promotion, disease prevention, social justice, and related realms.
With flexible, self-paced online delivery, USF makes esteemed public health education accessible from anywhere, empowering students to advance careers and create change.
#2. The University of North Carolina at Greensboro
Average Net Price: $11,110
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is classified as a research university with high research activity by the Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching. The university is also one of only four institutions in the UNC system to have a Phi Beta Kappa chapter. The university is also a Military Friendly School.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro is an excellent institution of higher education, offering a diverse range of undergraduate and graduate degree programs. With more than 100 years of experience, UNCG is a well-respected and historical institution in the state and has been ranked as one of the “Best Colleges” by U.S. News & World Report for over 15 years.
The University of North Carolina at Greensboro (UNCG) offers two online public health degrees:
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education (B.S.): This program is designed to prepare students for careers in public health education, community health, and health promotion. Students can choose from two concentrations: Health Studies (online) or Community Health Education.
Master of Public Health (MPH): This program is designed for professionals who want to advance their careers in public health. Students can choose from two concentrations: Leadership in Practice or Nutrition.
Both programs are offered entirely online and are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).
Here are some specific details about each program:
Bachelor of Science in Public Health Education (B.S.)
Program length: 4 years
Online courses: All courses are offered online
Prerequisites: Applicants must have completed 60 credit hours of college-level coursework, including courses in English, math, science, and social sciences.
Concentrations: Health Studies (online) or Community Health Education
Admissions requirements: Applicants must submit an application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
Master of Public Health (MPH)
Program length: 2 years
Online courses: All courses are offered online
Prerequisites: Applicants must have a bachelor’s degree in a related field and have completed prerequisite courses in statistics, epidemiology, and research methods.
Concentrations: Leadership in Practice or Nutrition
Admissions requirements: Applicants must submit an application, official transcripts, letters of recommendation, and a personal statement.
#3. American Public University System
Average Net Price: $11,144
The American Public University System (APUS) is a higher education institution that focuses on providing online education to students. The university offers associate’s, bachelor’s, and master’s degrees, as well as certificate programs. APUS has been accredited by the Higher Learning Commission since 1997.
The APUS was originally founded as the American Military University (AMU) in 1991 to provide distance learning education to active duty military personnel who couldn’t attend traditional colleges or universities for one reason or another. It eventually evolved into two different institutions: AMU and the American Public University System (APUS).
The American Public University System powers public health careers through diverse CEPH-accredited online public health degrees:
Laying the foundation in principles and practices, the 60-credit Associate of Science in Public Health explores social, environmental, and behavioral health determinants alongside intervention methods.
Building on the Associate’s, the 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Public Health delves into advanced topics like epidemiology, biostatistics, and health policy while providing hands-on learning.
Designed for career advancement, the 60-credit Master of Public Health immerses students in environmental health, health promotion, global health, and other critical realms, capped by an applied capstone project.
With flexible self-paced options, online discussions, and live classes, APUS empowers students to complete esteemed public health degrees and impact communities on their terms.
By offering progressive public health curriculum backed by reputable accreditation and adaptable delivery, APUS prepares graduates to improve health outcomes at all levels.
#4. Murray State University
Average Net Price: $11,226
Murray State University is a public university located in Murray, Kentucky. The school offers more than 120 undergraduate majors and minors, as well as graduate programs in business, education, science, and arts.
Murray State University is known for its strong academics and diverse student body. In addition to a rigorous curriculum, the school also offers a wide range of student activities and organizations.
Murray State University propels public health careers through two flexible, accredited online public health degrees:
The 120-credit Bachelor of Science in Public and Community Health features tracks in Healthcare Administration and Health Education and Promotion to equip graduates for diverse public health roles.
Offering concentrations in Environmental Health, Health Policy and Management, and Occupational Safety and Health, the accelerated 60-credit Master of Public Health prepares students for public health leadership positions.
With fully online delivery enabling learning from anywhere, coupled with esteemed CEPH accreditation, Murray State removes barriers for working professionals to advance.
While the Bachelor’s degree requires a 2.75+ GPA bachelor’s degree for admission, the Master’s degree also necessitates GRE scores and recommendations.
Through tailored curriculum backed by reputable accreditation, Murray State’s online public health degrees empower graduates to improve health outcomes across communities.
#5. Delaware State University
Average Net Price: $11,626
Delaware State University is a public HBCU located in Dover, Delaware. The university offers undergraduate and graduates degrees to students from diverse backgrounds. The university has a rich history dating back to 1891. Delaware State University is accredited by the Middle States Commission on Higher Education.
The university has a strong focus on STEM education and offers students unique opportunities to conduct research and engage in experiential learning. Delaware State University is an important resource for the state of Delaware, and its students are poised to make a positive impact on the world.
Delaware State University propels public health careers through its flexible, accredited online Bachelor of Science in Public Health degree.
Offered fully online for accessibility, the 120-credit program equips students with public health expertise over 4 years of full-time study.
The curriculum explores critical realms like epidemiology, health promotion, environmental health, biostatistics, policy, assessment, and more. Students can also specialize in community health, environmental health, or health education.
Bearing the CEPH seal certifies academic rigor and quality.
For admission, a high school diploma plus 2.75 GPA, 2.5 science GPA, and transcripts are required.
While costs vary by residency, DSU provides abundant financial assistance through scholarships, grants, loans, and work-study.
With tailored training backed by reputable accreditation and delivered flexibly online, Delaware State University’s BSPH degree prepares graduates to advance public health.
#6. Mississippi University for Women
Average Net Price: $11,952
Mississippi University for Women was founded in 1884 because there were not enough opportunities available for women. In 1956, the name of the university changed from the original Women’s College to Mississippi University for Women. The school is a private, co-educational college that provides higher education to students who are traditionally under-represented at other major universities.
The Mississippi University for Women (MUW) offers a variety of online public health degrees, including:
- Master of Public Health (MPH)
- Master of Science in Health Administration (MSHA)
- Master of Science in Nursing (MSN)
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH)
The MPH program is a 42-credit program that can be completed in as few as 18 months. It is designed to prepare graduates for careers in public health, such as:
- Epidemiologist
- Health educator
- Health planner
- Health administrator
- Public health nurse
The MSHA program is a 36-credit program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. It is designed to prepare graduates for careers in health administration, such as:
- Hospital administrator
- Clinic administrator
- Health care system administrator
- Health insurance administrator
The MSN with a concentration in Public Health is a 36-credit program that can be completed in as few as 15 months. It is designed to prepare graduates for careers in public health nursing, such as:
- Public health nurse
- Community health nurse
- School nurse
- Occupational health nurse
The DrPH program is a 90-credit program that can be completed in as few as 4 years. It is designed to prepare graduates for leadership positions in public health, such as:
- Public health director
- State health officer
- National health policymaker
All of MUW’s online public health degrees are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The MPH program is also accredited by the National Association of Boards of Nursing (NABN).
To be admitted to an online public health degree program at MUW, students must have a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and meet the program’s specific requirements. For example, the MPH program requires students to have taken certain prerequisite courses in biology, chemistry, and statistics.
The cost of an online public health degree at MUW varies depending on the program. Financial aid is available to help students finance their education. MUW offers a variety of scholarships and grants, as well as student loans.
#7. University of Wisconsin-Superior
Average Net Price: $12,268
The University of Wisconsin-Superior is a public university located in Superior, Wisconsin. It offers undergraduate and graduates degrees, certificate programs, and distance education options. The university is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission. The University of Wisconsin-Superior is a great place to pursue higher education. With its diverse range of undergraduate and graduate programs, small class sizes, and campus located on the shores of Lake Superior, UW-Superior provides students with a high-quality education that prepares them for success in their careers and lives.
The University of Wisconsin-Superior propels public health careers through two esteemed online Master of Public Health degrees:
The MPH in Community Health readies graduates to lead and manage health programs and services in diverse settings through curriculum tailored to this multifaceted field.
By covering assessment and management of hazards impacting human health, the MPH in Environmental Health cultivates expertise in addressing issues like pollution, contamination, and lead poisoning.
Offered fully online in an accelerated 18-month format, both CEPH-accredited programs blend rigorous coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, policy, and more with an applied capstone project.
Eligible applicants hold a bachelor’s degree in a related field and meet GPA and prerequisite requirements, with potential GRE waivers for outstanding candidates.
With tailored concentrations backed by reputable accreditation and delivered flexibly online, the University of Wisconsin-Superior’s MPH degrees prepare graduates to tackle pressing public health challenges.
#8. Monroe College
Average Net Price: $13,148
Monroe College is a private, not-for-profit, four year degree-granting institution in New Rochelle, NY. Monroe College only accepts the top 10% of applicants through an admissions process that evaluates academic preparation and extracurricular activities. Monro College provides educational opportunities for students to get their degree in the many majors it has to offer. Some of its majors include nursing, finance, and athletics.
Monroe College propels public health careers through two flexible online public health degrees:
With 120-credits covering fundamental public health topics like epidemiology, biostatistics, policy, and environmental health, the Bachelor of Science in Public Health establishes a strong foundation.
The accelerated 45-credit Master of Public Health builds leadership skills through specialized tracks in Community Health, Environmental Health, Health Policy and Management, or Global Health.
Offered fully online with customizable full-time or part-time pacing, Monroe College empowers students to advance on their schedules. Abundant financial aid alleviates tuition burdens.
Whether developing core competencies or specialized expertise, Monroe College’s online public health degrees supply foundational and advanced training with the flexibility busy professionals require.
#9. University of the Cumberlands
Average Net Price: $14,654
The University of the Cumberlands is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate, master’s, and doctorate degrees. The University of the Cumberlands is also accredited by Commission on Colleges of the Southern Association of Independent Schools (SAIS), an accreditation division recognized by the Kentucky Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA).
The University of the Cumberlands (UC) presents a range of online public health degrees, comprising:
- Bachelor of Science in Public Health: This program readies students for entry-level roles in public health, delving into subjects like epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health policy.
- Master of Public Health (MPH): UC offers this program in two concentrations: Community Health and Health Administration. It equips students with the skills and knowledge essential for various public health settings.
- Doctor of Public Health (DrPH): Intended for students aspiring to lead or engage in public health research, this program covers areas such as health policy, program evaluation, and global health.
UC’s online public health degrees, accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), benefit from instruction by accomplished faculty, experts in their respective domains.
To gain admission into UC’s online public health degree programs, students must hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, meeting specific program prerequisites like GPA and prerequisite coursework.
Financial support at UC facilitates students in financing their education, offering scholarships, grants, and loans.
#10. The University of Texas at Arlington
Average Net Price: $15,627
The University of Texas at Arlington is a prestigious public research university and the second largest university in the Dallas-Fort Worth metropolitan area. The school is the fourth university in Texas to be designated Tier One by the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board, #1 in the nation for Veterans and their families according to Military Times, and #1 in Texas for Degrees Awarded to African American Students according to Diverse: Issues in Higher Education. Their nine colleges offer over 180 degrees in a broad array of disciplines. UTA boasts several of the best-ranked graduate programs in the nation thanks to the expertise of their award-winning faculty.
The University of Texas at Arlington (UTA) provides two online public health degrees: the Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) and the Master of Public Health (MPH).
The BSPH program comprises 120 credit hours and can be finished in as little as 6 years. Its purpose is to equip students for public health careers, including roles such as:
- Fostering community health as educators.
- Ensuring occupational health and safety.
- Serving as dietitians or nutritionists.
- Counseling individuals with behavioral disorders.
- Assisting those struggling with substance abuse.
- Managing health information proficiently.
On the other hand, the MPH program consists of 60 credit hours and can be completed in as few as 2 years. It’s tailored to ready students for advanced public health careers such as:
- Conducting epidemiological investigations.
- Utilizing biostatistics for data analysis.
- Analyzing health policies.
- Managing healthcare operations.
- Safeguarding environmental health.
- Overseeing program implementation.
Both programs offer flexible online learning, enabling students to progress at their own pace and participate from any location worldwide. Furthermore, the programs hold accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), ensuring the highest quality standards.
Admission to the BSPH program necessitates a high school diploma or equivalent, along with the completion of prerequisite courses in math, science, and English. For the MPH program, applicants must possess a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution and satisfy prerequisite courses in public health.