Graduates with both an MBA and MPH degree are poised to make a difference in healthcare and public health. Graduates can expect to be better prepared for going into the growing and complex healthcare industry. With marketing and business strategy needed in this highly competitive field with sometimes huge organizations, job candidates with this dual MBA/MPH degree are well equipped with skills to push their organization to be better managed and more profitable. The benefit of a dual MBA/MPH degree has driven business and public health schools to develop these programs with the knowledge that this combination of education is a home run for employers seeking to maximize their outcomes. This article lists the best 20 dual MBA/MPH programs for prospective students to investigate for themselves.
Methodology for Best MPH MBA Dual Degree Programs
This ranking of dual MBA and MPH degree programs is a list of the Top 20 MBA MPH dual degree programs for 2021. The initial pool of 29 programs consisted of schools nationally ranked in both their MBA and MPH programs. Programs include online, on-campus, accelerated, and hybrid formats. Programs were then ranked according to in-state tuition cost and private school tuition cost from CollegeNavigator.com. Unique program traits are highlighted in program profiles. Profile information was gathered from individual school websites.
- University of Alabama at Birmingham
- University of Georgia
- University of Nebraska Medical Center
- University of North Carolina
- University of California, Berkeley
- University of California, LA
- University of Arizona
- University of Illinois
- University of Virginia
- Rutgers University
- University of Michigan
- Drexel University
- Emory University
- Yale University
- Case Western Reserve University
- Columbia University
- Washington University in Saint Louis
- Boston University
- Johns Hopkins University
- Dartmouth College
Best MBA MPH Programs 2021
20. Dartmouth College, Hanover, New Hampshire
Tuition $55,605
Dartmouth’s MPH MBA dual degree program is offered jointly through the Tuck School of Business and The Dartmouth Institute for Health Policy and Clinical Practice (TDI). This dual degree program promises to prepare graduates for leadership roles in the ever-changing healthcare industry. This rigorous, two-year, full-time program enables students to spend the entire two years with the same MBA class. The first year is spent as a full-time MBA student, where the MBA core curriculum will be completed. After completing a summer internship, the second-year students begin their MPH coursework. The second year of study blends required courses from both Tuck and TDI. TDI students are from varied backgrounds including practicing clinicians, mid-career professionals, and recent undergraduates. This top dual MBA/MPH program allows students to connect with their large alumni network.
19. Johns Hopkins University, Baltimore, Maryland
Tuition $55,350
Johns Hopkins University offers a full-time MBA/MPH dual degree program integrating philosophies, functions, and competencies of both public health and business. Students can expect to master principles of population-based health and business skills, including finance management, strategic planning, leadership, and negotiation. Graduates with skills and understanding of the business of health are uniquely qualified to work in the ever-changing world of public health. By completing these two rigorous degrees simultaneously, students complete their degrees in less time than if taken separately. A dual MBA/MPH degree from this top ranked university will get you on your way to career advancement. Check out their website for more information.
18. Boston University, Boston, Massachusetts
Tuition $54,720
Boston University’s Management and Public Health MBA MPH dual degree program promises to provide insight into the complexities of factors that affect public health as well as provide skills and knowledge for high-level business and management leadership roles. Graduates of this MBA/MPH program are equipped to be leaders in the field of public health. The MBA/MPH dual degree program is designed to provide a comprehensive foundation in the disciplines of public health with a mastery of concepts and skills as well as in-depth management training. This full-time, two-year program has classes divided between the School of Public Health and Questrom School of Business. Well-prepared public health professionals that are equipped as efficient and effective managers are in demand. This dual degree MBA/MPH degree couples in both areas, promising extensive career opportunities. Applicants must apply to both schools prior to beginning this program. See what Boston University can offer you to help further your career.
17. Washington University in Saint Louis, Saint Louis, Missouri
Tuition $54,250
Washington University in Saint Louis’s dual MBA MPH degree program is a robust program that can be completed in three years of full-time study. Successful candidates earn their MPH from the Brown School and their MBA from the Olin Business School. Graduates of this MBA/MPH dual degree program can expect to have functional and critical thinking skills to lead and make their mark in the ever-changing healthcare field. This MBA program promotes a global experiential approach beginning in the first summer. Students travel to Washington D.C., Barcelona, and Shanghai for immersive learning. In this MPH program, students learn to advance health equity through examining health outcomes through epidemiological, policy, sociocultural, and population study. Applied research equips students to turn their findings into practical health outcomes. To be admitted to this MBA/MPH program, applicants must apply to both schools separately and be admitted to both programs.
16. Columbia University, New York, New York
Tuition $47,600
Columbia University’s top dual-degree MBA MPH program is offered to students desiring expertise in the field of public health in conjunction with the MBA. In most cases, this dual degree can be completed in one year less than pursuing both degrees separately, getting graduates into the work field, and following their dreams faster. Applicants apply separately to the Business School and the Mailman School of Public Health, with each school making their admission decisions independently. Dual MBA/MPH degree students register in one school per term, and school-specific scholarships are not transferable. Graduates of this MBA MPH dual degree program can expect to be equipped to lead, and to tackle the complex challenges in the field of public health.
15. Case Western University, Cleveland, Ohio
Tuition $46,524
Case Western University’s dual MBA MPH degree was developed to provide the skills and knowledge necessary for those wishing to work with communities to improve public health and wishing to develop management and leadership abilities. Applicants to the MBA/MPH dual degree program must complete separate applications and take admission tests to be admitted separately to each program. The Weatherhead School of Management offers this dual-degree MBA/MPH program to enhance management expertise and leadership potential in public health. Check out their website for more information on this rigorous program and how to apply.
14. Yale University, New Haven, Connecticut
Tuition $43,300
Yale’s top joint degree MBA MPH program is designed for students who are planning a career combining both areas and are interested in applying management skills in the healthcare environment. Unique to Yale is its Two-Year Intensive MBA-MPH program, a first of its kind in the United States. With just 22 months of intensive study at the Yale School of Management and the Yale School of Public Health, students graduate with skills and knowledge to pursue their dreams. Students spend their first summer in completing core coursework at the School of Public Health and the first year at the School of Management, taking their integrated MBA curriculum and participating in the International Experience course during spring recess. During the second year of this intensive program, students take electives at the School of Management and core and elective courses at the School of Public Health. A three-year dual MBA/MPH program is also offered. Applicants to the dual degree MBA/MPH program must apply and be admitted to both programs independently. This unique MBA/MPH program may have you on your way sooner than you thought possible.
13. Emory University, New Orleans, Louisiana
Tuition $42,800
Emory University offers a dual degree from their highly ranked business school and school of public health. Students in this dual MPH MBA degree program can expect to gain the skills and knowledge needed to lead and manage both public health systems and programs, and advise on health policy issues. This dual degree program can be completed in just five semesters, not including summer enrollment. Two of the five semesters are completed full-time at Rollins School of Public Health. Students are encouraged to participate in a summer internship to give real-life experience in addition to their coursework. Candidates must apply separately to both Goizueta Business School and Rollins School of Public Health. Successful applicants begin this program in the fall semester and first complete two semesters in the business school. The second-year students are enrolled at Rollins School of Public Health. The final fall semester students complete their requirements taking electives at both schools but are enrolled in the business school. Check out their website to see if this may be the dual MBA/MPH program for you.
12. Drexel University, Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
Tuition $35,181
Drexel University’s dual MBA MPH degree promises to provide opportunities for students to hone their business skills while preparing to make a difference in public health. This three-year program alternates between MBA and MPH courses, allowing for integrated study at Drexel University’s Dornsife School of Public Health and LeBow College of Business. The MPH with a major in Health Management and Policy teaches the core competencies in public health with a concentration in Management or Policy. This MBA/MPH dual degree program provides opportunities for community, practice, and research engagement. Drexel’s LeBow MBA is a customizable, cross-disciplinary course plan, preparing students to solve complex business challenges across industries. This rigorous program is designed to highlight broad business knowledge and concepts through coursework, practical experience, and career coaching. This program offers opportunities for students to specialize and align their specific interests through elective coursework.
11. University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan
Tuition $48,204
The University of Michigan’s challenging and top-rated MBA/MPH dual degree program is an exciting opportunity to advance your career in the field of public health. This university encourages an interdisciplinary environment through its Multiple Dependent Degree Programs (MDDPs), including the MBA/MPH dual degree program. This MBA/MPH program has specified courses that can be counted towards both degrees, shortening the time and expense for these degrees. Half of the total credits must be registered under the School of Public Health, and students work closely with their advisor to ensure they have the necessary credits in each department and that they have completed departmental requirements for graduation. With eight MPH concentrations to choose from, this MBA/MPH dual degree program may be the one that matches your interest.
10. Rutgers University, New Brunswick and Newark, New Jersey
Tuition $30,144
New Jersey’s Rutgers University offers a dual degree MBA MPH program that promises to build on students’ business training with a sound understanding of public health. This dual degree program prepares students for administrative positions targeting cost-effective health care in conjunction with public health approaches. This program is offered at the New Brunswick and Newark campuses with Rutgers Business School-Newark and New Brunswick. Currently only the Health Systems & Policy concentration at the School of Public Health is participating in this dual MBA/MPH degree program. Applicants must apply separately to each program. Once accepted to both programs, students are then identified as part of the MBA/MPH dual degree program. This flexible program can be completed on a full-time or part-time basis.
9. University of Virginia, Charlottesville, Virginia
Tuition $27,770
The University of Virginia’s dual MPH MBA degree program accepts a small number of students who can anticipate becoming national leaders and innovators in healthcare. Students in this robust program will have the opportunity to work with faculty members from the Darden Business School, Department of Public Health Sciences, and School of Medicine. With a focus on the management of healthcare businesses and models for addressing health, students may focus on health care delivery systems, biotechnology, medical devices, translational research, health policy, and regulation. Prospective students apply to both programs through their normal admission process, and once admitted to both programs they must then be accepted for the Dual Degree Program. This rigorous program can be completed in three years of full-time studying, including two summers. Students admitted to this program will use their elective courses to develop depth of knowledge in areas reflective of their educational objectives and career goals. Check out University of Virginia’s website for more information on applying to this dual degree program.
8. University of Illinois, Chicago, Illinois
Tuition $23,850
The University of Illinois’s top MBA/MPH dual degree program is designed for students planning for careers in both fields and seeking management skills that are applicable in public health and healthcare organizations. This robust program can be completed in 2.5 years full-time or 3.5 years part-time, offering a flexible time-frame. A wide array of MPH concentrations can be completed with the MBA including: Biostatistics, Community Health Services, Environmental/Occupational Health, Epidemiology, Maternal and Child Health (MCH), MCH Epidemiology, Public Health Informatics, and Public Health Management. Applications to both the business school and school of public health are made separately, and students must be admitted to both in order to enter the MBA/MPH dual degree program. Graduates can expect to have the skills to take the next step in their career.
7. The University of Arizona, Tucson, Arizona
Tuition $32,065
This MBA/MPH Dual Degree Program from The University of Arizona allows students to complete this program in three years of full-time study. Students have the opportunity for interdisciplinary study and can customize their program by selecting any one of the eight MPH concentrations available. MPH concentrations include: health behavior and health promotion, family and child health, public health policy and management, health services administration, biostatistics, epidemiology, and environmental health sciences. Students are immersed in state-of-the-art business practices, including finance, accounting, and marketing, as well as strategic thinking, entrepreneurship, and value-based management. This rigorous program is focused on providing management and leadership training to prepare graduates for employment in the healthcare industry. Graduates of this MBA/MPH dual degree program are prepared to work in healthcare leadership, healthcare marketing, healthcare consulting, hospital administration, managed care, biotechnology, academia, or non-profit healthcare.
6. University of California, Los Angeles, California
Tuition $26,544
UCLA’s top MBA/MPH dual degree program is a three-year program offered jointly by UCLA’s Anderson School and the Department of Health Policy and Management in the Fielding School of Public Health. This program is for those who are working towards a career in healthcare management or a related field and want in-depth preparation for this profession. This MBA/MPH dual degree program’s concurrent courses and experiences are designed for students to further and effectively develop and integrate their skills. Graduates with both the MPH and MBA degrees have a broad appeal to prospective employers and provide a wide range of career choices because of knowledge in both fields. Candidates must apply to both schools, and admission decisions are made by each individual school. Admission to both schools must be granted to apply to this top MBA/MPH dual degree program. Check out their website to find out how this program can get you on your way to career opportunities.
5. University of California, Berkeley, California
Tuition $26,544
University of California, Berkeley’s top dual-degree MBA/MPH program promises students a deep competency in business administration integrated with current health policy and management skills. This 2.5-year dual degree MBA/MPH program is offered in a long partnership between Berkeley Public Health and the Haas School of Business, providing students with access to outstanding career services and faculty mentors from both schools. This MBA/MPH dual degree track allows students to have an extended time at the university to take advantage of electives, and two full-time summer internships in the healthcare setting. Applications to this dual degree MBA/MPH program are made to the Haas School of Business through the full-time MBA application progress. Applications are reviewed through their integrated review process. Successful applicants are expected to have about 5 years of relevant employment history.
4. University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill, NC
Tuition $28,278
University of North Carolina’s top-ranked school of public health, coupled with its highly ranked MBA program, can be a recipe for growth and opportunity for students taking the plunge into this rigorous MBA/MPH full-time program. Students must apply and be granted admission to both programs separately. Application requirements for each program will have varying admissions criteria and requirements. Most successful dual degree applicants have a minimum of two years of work experience prior to applying, with most MBA applicants having an average of five years work experience. The Kenan-Flagler Business School at the University of North Carolina stresses the development of leadership skills and business strategies through hands-on experience. UNC’s top ranked Gillings School of Public Health offers 13 concentrations. This rigorous dual-degree MBA/MPH program can be completed in 3 years, with year one at Gillings, year two at Kenan-Flagler with Summer Internship, and year three divided between both schools. With this dual MBA/MPH degree, graduates are poised to solve some of the most challenging public health problems.
3. University of Nebraska Medical Center, Omaha, Nebraska
Tuition $25,677
This MBA/MPH dual degree program from University of Nebraska Medical Center can help you write your ticket in the exciting field of public health. This program offers students a unique opportunity to integrate their interests with a population-based public health MPH degree. The primary goal of this dual degree program is to prepare professionals to assess, understand, and address health-related concerns that impact the health and well-being of individuals, populations, and communities. Some courses may be offered in an online format, but to complete this dual MBA/MPH degree program students should expect to attend most classes on-campus. Applicants to this robust dual degree program are required to have three letters of recommendation to apply. In addition, GRE scores must be above the 40th percentile, and applicants must submit a one-page personal statement describing their interest and potential contributions in public health, career objectives, and a self-assessment of computer, quantitative analysis, and personal skills that will ensure success in this rigorous program of study.
2. University of Georgia, Athens, Georgia
Tuition $25,186
The University of Georgia’s dual degree offerings allows students to pursue any academic combinations tailored to their career goals and interests. The MBA/MPH dual degree program offered at the University of Georgia requires students to apply to each program separately. This highly ranked program is geared towards individuals wishing to work at the intersection of business and public health, with candidates earning both their MBA and MPH in just three years of full-time study. Students in this MBA/MPH dual degree program complete their year of courses in the MPH program at the College of Public Health. The second-year comprises courses in the MBA program at University of Georgia’s Terry College of Business. Students complete their final year pursuing content from both programs. Applicants are recommended to enroll in the MPH program first and apply to Terry College of Business at the end of the first semester. Check out their website for details to get you on your way to earning an MBA/MPH dual degree.
1. The University of Alabama, Birmingham, Alabama
Tuition $19,188
With an increased demand for people with both public health education and background and business administrative skills, this MBA/MPH dual degree program from this highly ranked school is an enticing option. Students have the flexibility to complete the MPH portion of this dual degree program either online, in class, or through a hybrid program. Graduates of this challenging MBA/MPH coordinated program graduate with an MPH with a Population Health concentration. In addition to the Evidence-based Public Health framework, students experience an Applied Practice Experience (internship), and an Integrative Health Experience (Capstone). Students can select courses to build a curriculum that enhances their career goals. In addition, students pay less than the out-of-state tuition rate for the MPH portion of the MBA/MPH dual degree program. A total of 60 credits are required for this robust MBA/MPH dual degree program. Applicants must apply to both programs individually. Check out their website for more information to help get you on your way to an MBA/MPH dual degree.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Will an MPH graduate make a difference in the world today?
Public health initiatives have added 25 years to life expectancy to the American population in the last 100 years. According to the Center for Disease Control, the greatest advancements in public health in the past century include workplace safety, infectious disease control, food safety, mother-baby health, motor vehicle safety, immunizations, family planning, fluoridated drinking water, tobacco use hazard education, and decline in death from heart disease and stroke. What role will you play in health initiatives to make this next century a healthier one?
Why get a dual MBA MPH degree?
For people looking to advance in the health field, an MBA can prepare them for a variety of roles such as marketing, strategy, and business development. The dual MBA/MPH degree prepares prospective employees with a background that can lead to employment in healthcare management, healthcare services, pharmaceutical companies, biotechnology and life sciences. Getting a dual degree often saves time and money.
What is the demand for people with a dual degree MBA/MPH degree?
Accomplished professionals in public health are in high demand. Coupling public health with the MBA produces well-equipped managers who are effective at planning, coordinating and managing public health systems, programs and organizations.
I’m surprised at this combination of dual degrees. What made schools start offering this specialized combination?
Because the healthcare field has become so complex, MBA degrees have become helpful in finding employment and successfully managing organizations. The MBA coupled with the MPH covers a wide range of topics, including economics and operations in healthcare, financial management in healthcare, and marketing.
What format is best for students pursuing this dual MBA/MPH degree?
Students should consider how they best learn and network, as well as balance their schedules and finances. Choose a high-quality program that is an academic and practical fit. There are benefits to each format and students should choose the option that best meets their goals.
Is there a financial return on investment for graduating from an MBA MPH dual degree program?
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS.gov), the median annual wage for medical and health services managers was $100,980 in May 2019. Those with advanced degrees can expect to make more per year. Salaries also vary depending on the area of the country.
How can I finance my dual degree?
Graduate school may be financed through a variety of sources that may include loans, scholarships, savings, employer financing, research fellowships, and teaching assistantships. Financial aid may be available at your school of choice. Taking a dual degree program can also save time and money.
Do I need previous work experience to be accepted into one of these top MBA MPH dual degree programs?
Prospective students typically have health-related work experience of between two and five years. Some programs require work experience and work references in order to apply.
What job opportunities can I expect with a dual MBA MPH degree?
Earning an MPH degree can open up opportunities for leadership, program development, and public health research, to name just a few. Program internship and capstone project requirements can reveal career opportunities and areas of interest. People that work in public health can work in a variety of environments, giving the opportunity to promote and protect health at home or abroad. When an MPH degree is combined with an MBA, the added benefit of organizational, financial, and managerial education can open leadership opportunities within an organization.
What can I expect once I graduate from a dual degree program with my MBA and MPH?
Many prospective public health professionals are seeking administrative positions. The MBA/MPH dual degree can lead to a rewarding career in this rapidly growing field.
Where would someone work who has a dual MBA/MPH degree?
Someone running an organization related to public health may have an MBA/MPH dual degree. Government agencies, hospitals, educational and research institutions, and nonprofits all would be possible sources of employment for MBA/MPH degree holders.
Will the MBA/MPH dual degree help me move up the career ladder?
Many public health professionals seeking to improve their job prospects pursue the MBA/MPH dual degree. This dual degree will open doors for advanced leadership and administrative roles within healthcare. Applicants to dual MBA/MPH programs can expect to graduate prepared for a career in the corporate sector, as well as in government agencies and non-profit organizations.
What are the employment prospects in public health?
According to Forbes magazine, public health is currently the sixth-best master’s degree for employment prospects, with a projected employment increase of 30.5% over the next decade.
Why pursue a career in public health?
Public health is a growing field of study with a broad focus on protecting populations by preventing disease and promoting good health. Public health professionals have the opportunity to confront complex health issues, including access to health care; infectious disease control; and reducing environmental hazards, violence, substance abuse, and injury. Public Health professionals come from varying educational backgrounds and can specialize in an array of fields. An MBA in conjunction with an MPH degree opens a wide range of opportunities.
Who should consider a degree in public health?
The field of public health offers job opportunities to suit a variety of interests and skills – whether math-oriented, people-focused, business-oriented, or research-based. Public health is ideal for those who gain satisfaction in knowing they are working to improve the lives of others.
What is the professional organization for public health?
The American Public Health Association (APHA) is the public health organization for public health professionals. With a vision to “create the healthiest nation in one generation,” APHA is concerned with the health of people and communities at large, promoting scientifically based perspectives towards a healthier society. APHA has an effect on federal policy out of its nearly 150-year perspective, bringing together members from all fields of public health. Their mission is to improve the health of the public and achieve equity in health status. Their values reflect the beliefs of their members from all disciplines of public health and over 40 countries.
By Carol Dolan BS RN BSN CDCES
July 2020
Carol graduated with her BS in Nutrition from Montclair State University and her BSN in Nursing from Rowan University. She is a Certified Diabetes Care and Education Specialist (CDCES) currently working with adults and children living with diabetes in both outpatient and inpatient settings.
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This concludes our coverage of the best MPH MBA programs.
