25 Best No-GRE MPH Programs
By Sam MacArthur

mph programs that don't require gre

The Master of Public Health or MPH involves multi-disciplinary coursework. It’s not hard to find MPH programs no GRE requirements. No GRE MPH programs focus on professional experience and prior coursework for admissions eligibility. Just like tradition MPH programs, MPH programs without GRE requirement also focus on public health practice instead of teaching or research.

A no GRE MPH program is typically accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health or CEPH. You can find an MPH no GRE program with distance education opportunities, MPH programs no GRE available online or no GRE MPH programs in an on-campus environment. MPH programs without GRE requirement may request additional information to show your readiness to obtain a Master of Public Health.

Featured Programs

How We Ranked the Best Online MPH No-GRE Programs

MPH Online has put together a ranking of the 20 Best Online MPH Programs that do not require applicants to complete the GRE to be accepted in the program. Most of the colleges and universities ranked are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), the standard for public health program accreditation.

These colleges and universities are ranked by three metrics, each evenly weighted one-third:

  • outcomes (Department of Education’s scorecard data)
  • affordability (graduate tuition reported from IPEDS)
  • student success (institution grad rates)

1. University of Massachusetts Amherst

UMass Amherst offers an online MPH, no GRE required. It’s a general studies program with a concentration in public health. This way, students can tailor their degrees to match their own needs and goals. It gives them some flexibility, not just with the online format but within the degree itself. It’s designed for those who are already working in healthcare or in public health. Health professionals can use this program to further their careers and gain promotional opportunities. 

UMass Amherst is a major public research university that gains a lot of attention. It’s part of the broader Umass system, so it provides all the academic resources that students could need for success. This school is close to major cities, making it a central hub for networking connections. Even online students can benefit from these connections, as teachers and fellow students are likely to know people who can help with career advancement. UMass Amherst ranks among the top 25 national public universities, according to US News and World Report. 

Degree: MPH

2. University of Nevada, Reno

For those who want to earn an MPH online, no GRE is necessary with the University of Nevada in Reno. This comprehensive program recognizes that public health goes beyond physical health. The program dives into other aspects of health such as emotional health, environmental health, and much more. As a result, students can benefit from increased employability. They’ll be ready to move in to virtually any sector of the public health field and find success. 

UN Reno is a respected school with thriving graduate school programs. UN Reno is the oldest college in Nevada. It started as a single building and has since grown to accommodate thousands of students with far-reaching goals. This school promotes diversity in learning. As a research institution, it also comes with lots of cutting edge academic resources and forward-thinking learning opportunities, all while remaining affordable compared to similar schools. UN Reno runs the Nevada State Public Health Laboratory, which offers diagnostics, analytics, and cutting edge research. 

Degree: MPH

3. University of Arizona

Those who do a search for “online mph no gre” will probably stumble across the University of Arizona. Arizona’s online MPH program empowers students to fight against health crises all over the world. Students learn about health struggles that face people in their own neighborhoods, overseas communities, and everywhere in between. This highly ranked and widely respected program is helping professionals to build a happier and healthier world. 

The University of Arizona has several online degree options. Each one gives students the flexibility and support that they need to balance their academic lives with their careers and other responsibilities. As the #1 university in Arizona, the University of Arizona provides just as much challenge and just as many resources with its online programs as it does with its on-campus programs. The University of Arizona’s public health program is ranked among the top 100 public health programs worldwide. 

Degree: MPH

4. University of San Francisco

At the University of San Francisco, to earn an MPH online, no GRE is required. Instead, the admissions committee examines everything that potential students bring to the table, including grades, professional experiences, letters of recommendation, and more. In other words, this program doesn’t judge students based on a single test score. This rigorous program provides a deep look into the world of public health and what makes communities healthy and whole. Students in this program get an in-depth look at all things public health. 

The University of San Francisco is a Jesuit Catholic University, which means several things. First of all, it means that students can expect a challenging and worthwhile education. Second, it means that this school promotes whole-person education. Students can nurture their minds as well as their bodies and spirits. Finally, it means that USF promotes service in learning. The Jesuit tradition emphasizes helping others. USF holds tightly to all of these traditions, which makes it a top choice for students who care about public health. USF ranks among the top 20 entrepreneurial universities according to Forbes. 

Degree: MPH

5. University of Vermont

The University of Vermont offers a great online MPH, no GRE necessary. This general degree program opens up a wide array of career paths for public health students. This program recognizes that public health is complex. It includes research, requires excellent communication skills, and needs talented individuals with different areas of expertise. This particular degree helps students forge their own pathways in the world of public health, applying their skills to help where their own talents and passions meet the needs of communities. 

The University of Vermont provides the best of all worlds for many students. It’s an Ivy League school, so it provides an excellent education. However, it’s also a public institution, which makes it far more affordable than many other Ivy League schools. It’s also a research university, which makes it a great place for those who are interested in health, science, and related topics. All students, from online students to on-campus students, receive an enriching and worthwhile education. Among medium-sized schools, UVM ranks #6 among universities whose students have entered the Peace Corps. 

Degree: MPH

6. MCPHS

MCPHS offers an MPH online. No GRE is required for admission. This MPH is also available as an on-campus program or a hybrid program, so students can get exactly what they need. Note that students are required to attend an in-person orientation before getting started, whether or not they choose the online option. This program focuses on the range of topics that public health professionals need to know, from personal health education to environmental health. Students are empowered to help communities improve their overall health and wellness. 

MCPHS is entirely focused on health topics, which makes it a top choice for those who really want to dive into the world of health. People attend this school to get a high-quality healthcare education alongside like-minded individuals. This school does more than sharpen healthcare skills. It also helps students become confident, forward-thinking leaders who can empower others. MCPH is the #1 university in the US for earning power. 

Degree: MPH

7. National University

National University offers an MPH. Whether students choose the on-campus MPH or the online MPH, no GRE is required for admission. This program helps students to further their careers, either as public health educators or as policymakers. Either way, students gain deep understanding of how to read and interpret data. They also learn the best ways to communicate that data to different communities, helping populations improve their health and wellness. 

National University is built entirely for adult learners, both online and on campus. Classes are structured into 4-week courses, making them accessible for busy adults. Overall, this school was designed to remove many of the barriers that adult learners face when earning a degree. Most students at National University are studying “helping” industries such as nursing, teaching, and public safety. As a result, the school makes a good choice for those who are interested in public health. National University is the largest private nonprofit university in San Diego.

Degree: MPH

8. Temple University

With Temple University’s MPH online, no GRE requirement puts a barrier between students and their education. This program doesn’t require a GRE. It looks at other factors for admission instead. Once students are admitted to the program, they learn about all of the factors that prevent people from experiencing their best health, from chronic health conditions to societal barriers and more. It’s a well-rounded program that prepares students for all types of public health career advancement. 

At Temple University, which began as a night school has grown into a thriving university. This school serves students from all over the world, both online and on campus. The school provides a challenging education with a focus on innovation. It’s also one of the most productive research universities in the United States, which is why many students choose this school to learn about topics like science and healthcare. Temple University ranks among the top 100 colleges for veterans in the US. 

Degree: MPH

9. American Public University

American Public University’s MPH program covers a lot of ground. It takes a multidisciplinary approach, covering the sociological, economical, and personal barriers to health and wellness. Students explore health topics on community and global levels, and they search for solutions to some of the most common and devastating health problems. Once students graduate from APU’s MPH program, they’re empowered to make a difference in communities at home and abroad. 

American Public University exists to remove educational barriers. It provides a high-quality education at an affordable cost. Thanks to its 100% online class options, learners don’t have to sacrifice their current responsibilities for their academic lives. APU stands by the belief that everyone deserves a good education and the world is a better place when people have access to the education that they need. As a result, students who have faced barriers elsewhere often find their place at APU. APU students can earn their online MPH, no GRE required. The MPH program also has a $0 application fee and a $0 transfer credit evaluation fee. 

Degree: MPH

10. George Washington University

A lot of things appeal to students when it comes to George Washington University’s MPH online. No GRE requirement, interactive online tools, and complete flexibility are just a few of the things that draw students to this program. Students learn how to become leaders in the field of public health. They study the health issues that impact people from the smallest communities to entire countries. They also gain the skills that they’ll need to make real, positive changes across these communities, leading to better health for the people who need it most. 

GWU is a top choice for students who want to make big changes in the world. This school has everything students need for academic success, including challenging classes, an emphasis on leadership, and a location that sits right at the heart of US policy change. Even online students can benefit from GWU’s Washington DC location, learning directly from teachers who have an up-close and personal view of US political issues. GWU connects students with more than 12,000 internship opportunities. 

Degree: MPH

11. Baylor University

Baylor University offers an online MPH with a specialization in community health. With this online MPH, no GRE is necessary. Prospective students may submit their applications without taking the test. This program doesn’t just view public health as a career. It explores public health as a calling and an opportunity to serve others. As a result, it appeals to service-minded students who want to use their passions to make a difference. 

Baylor University is a Christian school with robust graduate and professional degree programs. With both online learning and in-classroom learning, Baylor offers excellence in all of its courses. Baylor is a service-oriented school, so it encourages students to find ways to help other people with their lives and careers. At Baylor, learners become well-rounded leaders with a keen eye for service opportunities. 

Degree: MPH

12. University of New England

The University of New England offers a 100% online MPH program. Not only does this program require zero campus visits, with this MPH online, no GRE is required for admission. That’s why it’s one of the best MPH programs for simplicity and accessibility. Of course, this doesn’t mean that this MPH isn’t challenging. This program challenges students so that they can help meet the ever-growing need for new public health professionals. 

The University of New England has a few campuses, all of which offer excellent programs. One of those campuses is its online campus. With the online format, students still get to learn from expert teachers, and they still get to challenge themselves. However, this format was designed so that busy students could learn with the flexibility they need for success in their academic lives. The University of New England has been recognized both for its exceptional online platform and for its affordability. 

Degree: MPH

13. Creighton University

At Creighton University, the online MPH program is designed for students who want to help and serve their fellow humans. To get started with this online MPH, no GRE score is necessary. Applicants don’t even have to take the exam. Instead, they can start learning about public health topics as quickly as possible. As students learn about public health, they also hone their leadership and communication skills so that they can serve effectively as they address health disparities. 

Creighton University is a Jesuit Catholic school. In keeping with the Jesuit Catholic mindset, Creighton offers nothing less than excellence when it comes to academics. Students can expect lots of academic challenge from this school. Creighton’s dedication to service is also in line with Jesuit Catholic traditions. This school emphasizes service as a part of learning. Students are encouraged to help other people with their knowledge, which is one reason why Creighton makes an appealing choice for public health students. Creighton is a top-ranked national university, according to US News and World Report rankings. 

Degree: MPH

14. Northern Illinois University

Northern Illinois University has a great MPH online, no GRE scores required. This program takes a multidisciplinary approach, recognizing that public health issues stem from many sources. Participants learn how to analyze different public health issues, look for root causes of health disparities, and communicate those disparities to make positive change in the world. 

Northern Illinois University is dedicated to helping students move forward in their careers. It provides resources for social mobility, student support, and more. This school has a unique focus on service and outreach. Students here find lots of opportunities to help and serve others, which is often especially appealing for those who want to go into public health. At Northern Illinois University, students find diversity, innovation, and creative learning opportunities. Northern Illinois ranks among the top 200 schools for social mobility. 

Degree: MPH

15. Simmons University

With Simmons University’s online MPH, no GRE is required for admission consideration. The program blends online learning with two in-person immersion requirements. This way, students get a blend of virtual classroom participation and hands-on learning. This MPH teaches public health as a form of social justice. Students learn about different health disparities as well as the social, political, and financial factors that cause these disparities. More importantly, students learn the skills that they’ll need to address these disparities effectively. 

Simmons University is a women’s undergraduate university with graduate programs that are open to all. This school is grounded in the liberal arts but also offers focused career training. This way, students don’t have to decide between a well-rounded education and a career-centered education. At Simmons, they can have both. Along with its strong academics, Simmons University offers a tight-knit community where students can grow their leadership potential. Simmons University has an 8:1 student to faculty ratio, making it an ideal choice for people who thrive in smaller cohorts. 

Degree: MPH

Featured Programs

16. Benedictine University

Benedictine University offers an MPH online. No GRE is required for students who already have an advanced degree or who have a high cumulative undergraduate GPA. These students may obtain an exam waiver. Once accepted, participants begin learning advanced knowledge about public health, leadership, policy change, and communication. The program prepares students to take their degrees to new levels and expand their possibilities. 

Benedictine University is a Catholic school that values deep study, whole-person education, social justice, and using one’s studies to enrich lives. In addition to challenging academics, BU promotes a culture of inclusivity and diversity. Students here make connections between their own studies and other disciplines. All programs at BU are deeply rooted in the liberal arts, as BU values curiosity and lifelong learning. Benedictine was one of the first universities to adopt a fully online program. 

Degree: MPH

17. Kent State University

With Kent State University’s online MPH, no GRE is necessary to submit an application. Once accepted, students learn how to promote health in communities as small as neighborhoods and as large as the global population. This flexible program accepts students with varying goals. Those who want to enhance their careers with new skills and those who want to change careers completely are equally at home in this program. The program also comes with two specialization options: Health Policy and Management, and Social and Behavioral Sciences. 

Kent State has offered online class options for more than 15 years. Kent has no problem with innovation and keeping up with the latest research in education. Here, teachers encourage creative and outside-the-box thinking. Students push boundaries and take risks, which are skills that can pay off in the career world. This school prioritizes diversity, emphasizing equality and excellence in education. Kent State’s MPH program is ranked the #1 online MPH in health policy and management. 

Degree: MPH

18. University of Nebraska Medical Center

At the University of Nebraska Medical Center, students can earn an MPH online. No GRE is necessary. In this program, students get a close look at health policy. They sharpen the skills that they’ll need for career advancement in public health, including setting budgets, communicating policy needs, and overseeing teams. The program encourages creativity and flexibility so that students can meet the evolving healthcare world head-on. 

The University of Nebraska has an excellent medical center. Not only does it provide excellent healthcare, but it also provides a great place for students to learn the most up to date information on public health and similar topics. The Medical Center uses the latest research in its care and teaching methods. Here, students are challenged to think ahead and use all of their resources. The University of Nebraska is a military-friendly college. 

Degree: MPH

19. Tulane University

At Tulane University, students can choose from four concentration options if they want to earn an MPH. For Tulane’s online MPH, no GRE is required for any of these concentrations. Whether they focus on disaster management, environmental health, occupational safety, or industrial hygiene, students in this program receive a focused and career-centered education. Program participants learn how to lead and serve, examine evidence, and administer sustainable measures for change. 

Tulane University offers challenging academics and rigorous training, especially when it comes to health and similar subjects. In fact, Tulane began as a medical college. While it has expanded to include more majors, it has remained a highly respected university for innovation and research. Students here tend to be driven and focused. About a third of Tulane students have a double major. The Princeton Review ranked Tulane #4 for happiest students. 

Degree: MPH

20. University of Alaska Anchorage

The vision statement for the University of Alaska Anchorage’s public health program is “Diverse people living and thriving in healthy communities.” With this MPH online, no GRE is required for students to apply and participate in this vision. Though the program is online, students have frequent conversations with their advisors to make sure that they keep up with the program and have the support that they need. This program is deeply rooted in social justice and focuses on the inequalities that cause community health concerns. 

UAA is an open-access university that serves the state of Alaska with its scholarship and research. UAA places a lot of emphasis on creativity and innovation, so students are encouraged to think in unique ways and take a problem-solving approach to their studies and their careers. Faculty members work closely with students to help them reach their goals. UAA offers competitive tuition rates for graduate students. 

Degree: MPH

21. Des Moines University

With Des Moines University’s online MPH, no GRE requirements keep students from applying. Students may apply without taking the exam. Within the program, participants learn about health, communication, policy change, advocacy, and how to advance public health in a variety of settings. The degree offers three possible concentrations, so students can focus on the area of public health that makes the most sense of their careers. The program also includes hands-on, practical experience. 

Des Moines University is a private school dedicated solely to healthcare and healthcare education. As such, it provides a deeply focused and career-centered approach to academics. Students gain the tools that they need for upward career movement. They also get a mix of theoretical and practical learning experiences. The MPH program at Des Moines has a 94% employment rate. 

Degree: MPH

22. Walden University

Walden University has an in-depth Online MPH. No GRE is required for admission. This program is both deep and detailed with a generous transfer policy. The program is taught by practicing public health professionals, so students receive a relevant education with real-world insights. Walden’s MPH empowers students to pursue their passions and further their careers. It’s a great program for those who want to make positive changes in the world. 

Walden University is unique among colleges because of its core focus on social good. Walden was founded on the belief that positive change begins with an excellent education. Students are educated to use their skills to help other people and promote social justice. Students learn from a hands-on approach that blends classroom teaching with practical experience. Walden University is dedicated specifically to educating working professionals. 

Degree: MPH

23. Liberty University

Liberty University has a 100% online MPH, no GRE test required. The program helps students promote general health and wellbeing. It also helps students address specific healthcare issues. Liberty’s MPH blends science and research with a passion for helping people thrive. Students who graduate from this program serve in all kinds of settings once they graduate. 

Liberty University is a Christian school that continually emphasizes faith in learning. This school provides a liberal arts education while also helping students discover the tools they’ll need for career mobility. As this school grows, it keeps providing opportunities for students to put their faith into action. This school blends service and learning so that students can apply their own talents to the world’s biggest needs. 

Degree: MPH

24. Chicago School of Professional Psychology

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology offers an MPH online. No GRE is required, and students can expect to get a lot from the program. It encourages students to see the big picture when it comes to public health, so students are equipped to serve communities of all sizes. Students grow their confidence in various public health roles, including things like policy change and advocacy. 

The Chicago School of Professional Psychology is a unique school that helps students improve lives and influence positive change. The school provides focused and practical knowledge about physical and mental health. It has several degree programs, all centering around psychology or the physical health topics that complement psychology. The teachers at this school are practitioners themselves, so this school offers a high level of relevancy. The Chicago School of Professional Psychology has been recognized by the Carnegie Foundation for its community work. 

Degree: MPH

25. West Coast University

West Coast University offers an online MPH, no GRE needed. This program shows students how their actions can have a direct impact on the health and wellbeing of various communities. In this program, students learn about the major issues that determine people’s health, including access to healthcare, environmental factors, and much more. Students can earn their degree in as few as 12 months. 

West Coast University is a private for-profit university with several campuses. It’s a very career-focused school, helping students reach specific goals by providing practical knowledge and training. Faculty members here are very focused on helping students reach their goals. This innovative school embraces unique approaches to learning. West Coast University participates in many philanthropic pursuits, most of which have to do with healthcare. 

Degree: MPH

Should I Get an Online MPH?

The role of a Master’s degree in Public Health is to fill in the gaps of the services and research healthcare industry and the social theory and implementation of the social sciences. An online MPH degree program can get you in the field faster.

As the global population continues to grow, the public health job market is expanding too, and qualified, well-prepared public health professionals are needed more than ever.  According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for professionals engaged in fields like Behavioral Sciences and Health Promotion, Epidemiology, Environmental Health Science, and Health Policy and Management, and Health Education will continue to rise. It is estimated that core public health occupations will add 109,000 new jobs between 2012 and 2022. As such, there is no shortage of jobs for MPH degree holders.

Why Might MPH Programs Not Require the GRE?

Many graduate programs with a social science focus began requiring the Graduate Record Exam (GRE) in the 1970s and 80s. The assessment was developed in 1949 to measure verbal reasoning, quantitative reasoning, analytical writing, and critical thinking skills that have been acquired over a long period of learning. While it can be a good indicator of skills that MPH graduate students need to be successful, it is Public Health scholars have found that standardized testing like this can also be a barrier for access to many, otherwise promising, graduate school candidates.

As a result, many great MPH programs, and other grad programs, have devalued if not abandoned altogether this requirement for entrance. To gain a sense of a candidate’s aptitude, programs may require more intensive writing requirements, or a more extensive interview for entrance. This way institutions can still ensure that students will have the desired attributes to succeed in the program. There is no indication that your graduate degree in Public Health began without the GRE, it is simply one less hoop to get through before learning all you need to to become an outstanding Public Health worker.  

As you can see, there is plenty of opportunity to achieve a no GRE MPH. Students who don’t do well on standardized test may appreciate the MPH no GRE options available.

Why are Universities Dropping GRE Requirements?

Even before the global pandemic disrupted exam schedules, many graduate schools had begun to drop the requirement. Schools that dont require GRE scores have responded to studies showing bias in the exam. Setting minimum GRE score for admission was a hallmark of grad schools just a few years ago. However, critics say the average GRE scores by school and major don’t show a correlation to actual performance.

Universities without GRE requirements are actively looking for other admissions criteria to fill the void. Some request work experience, letters of recommendation and other indications of prowess in the field.

No GRE masters programs online skirt the requirements, in part, due to studies showing that the GRE puts underrepresented groups at a severe disadvantage. On the other hand, supporters of the GRE think that the change is ill-advised, countering that the test still prognosticates how well most students will do in grad school.

By finding a no GRE masters programs online, you can avoid results that hinder diversity. Women also typically do worse than men on the GRE.According to Psychology Today, recent studies show little connection between GRE scores and grad school GPAs. Schools that dont require GRE scores help level the playing field, even if it means getting letters of recommendation and other paperwork together. Universities without GRE requirements pass on old reliances on the average GRE scores by school and major. In fact, minimum GRE score for admission are in danger of becoming a thing of the past for MPH and other academic graduate programs.

Can I Get an Online MPH Without Taking the GRE? 

The short answer is yes, you can get an online MPH programs no GRE. MPH online programs no GRE come in the form of waivers or as part of an online school’s admissions requirements. MPH programs online no GRE exclude GRE scores from their application requirements.

There are a growing number of online MPH programs without GRE. It’s important to ask upfront if you only want to attend an online MPH program no GRE. MPH online programs without GRE fit into two of the three online MPH program types below:

  1. Some universities require GRE score without offering exceptions for online MPH programs without GRE.
  2. Other online schools have GRE waivers. To qualify for online MPH programs no GRE, students have to show they already finished a master’s or doctoral degree in the United States. Alternately, MPH online programs no GRE waivers are granted for certain work experience in public health.
  3. The last category are true MPH online programs without GRE requirements. MPH programs online no GRE schools may have stricter GPA requirements or ask for recommendations. You should be able to find out if you are eligible for an online MPH program no GRE application by contacting the schools directly.

Are there CEPH Accredited Programs without GRE Requirements? 

There are CEPH accredited online MPH programs no GRE options for those who don’t want to take the exam. However, you have to check with individual schools regarding the status of their CEPH certification and GRE admission requirements. The following list shows seven MPH online no GRE required programs. Some offer an online accredited MPH programs without GRE with no CEPH certification; other have CEPH accredited online MPH programs no GRE.

  • Walden University – 100% online and GRE exams aren’t required.
  • The Chicago School of Professional Psychology – 100% online and GRE exams aren’t required.
  • University of New England – 100% online, accredited by CEPH and GRE exams aren’t required.
  • University of Oklahoma – GRE exams aren’t required
  • Des Moines University – GRE exams aren’t required
  • University of South Florida – Accredited by CEPH and GRE exams aren’t required.
  • Florida International University – GRE exams aren’t required

NOTE: Many programs that don’t require GRE scores have additional application requirements.

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