Difference Between MPH vs MSPH Degree | MPH Online Degree

Are you interested in public health education? A Master’s in Public Health (MPH) or a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) could mean opening doors to higher-paying jobs in a field that fits you. These degrees can truly shape your career.

In this article, we’re breaking down the differences between MPH and MSPH, with a spotlight on a nationally recognized Top 5 best online MPH program, offered through New Mexico State University (NMSU) Global Campus.

We’ll take a closer look at career paths to help you explore your choice and make an informed decision as you begin your journey to becoming a public health professional. If you want to pursue a career in the healthcare industry, a master’s in public health may be a good option to explore.

What is a Master of Public Health (MPH)?

An MPH degree trains students to improve health and reduce health inequity at community levels. The program will take you through disciplines like epidemiology, biostatistics, health policy, and environmental health, all geared toward creating effective solutions for the wider public.

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS) predicts a solid 13% job growth for public health from 2020 to 2030. That’s much faster than the average job growth rate of 8% across all fields.

BLS Occupational Outlook Handbook, 2023

This degree is not just theory. It focuses on real-world application, ensuring graduates are primed and ready for leadership roles in diverse healthcare settings.

The master’s program at NMSU Global Campus combines top-notch education with the flexibility of online learning. We offer students the chance to explore opportunities in public health and work in different settings, whether it’s for state agencies, federal agencies, or community-based organizations.

Our online degree program gives you the chance to choose from two different areas of concentration including:

• Health Behavior and Health Promotion (HBHP)
• Health Management, Policy, and Administration (HMAP)

What Are the Differences between HBHP and HMAP?

Health Behavior and Health Promotion (HBHP)

Health Behavior and Health Promotion (HBHP) is a concentration that examines the social, behavioral, and educational aspects of disease prevention, as well as the creation of effective strategies for addressing local needs and discovering healthcare solutions with the help of community leaders.

Health Management, Policy, and Administration (HMAP)

Health Management, Policy, and Administration (HMAP), on the other hand, is in line with students who are seeking roles as a supervisor in management of health and human services. This requires professionals to have knowledge and skills in budgeting, marketing, and organizational structure. 

NMSU Global Campus students can expect to complete classes that contribute to these distinct areas of concentration. Through either path, students are enrolling in one of the nation’s top-rated online MPH programs. We’re also ranked #2 on the list of best Community Health Degree Programs and #4 on the Top 10 Online MPH Programs for Health Policy and Management.

What is a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)?

Let’s talk about an alternative degree. A Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) is a graduate-level academic degree. However, unlike the MPH, this degree focuses more on a traditional curriculum that is heavily research-focused. This degree can help prepare students for careers in education and research, and combines more data collection and analysis into its learning outcomes.

In short, MSPH graduates have the skills to design and conduct rigorous public health research, contributing to the evidence base that informs policy and practice in the field.

MPH vs. MSPH: Which One is Right for You?

Are you choosing between an MPH and MSPH degree? Let’s break it down for you. When comparing MPH and MSPH degrees, it’s essential to consider each program’s unique strengths and focus areas. 

MPH programs are all about hands-on application and working across disciplines, while MSPH programs lean more toward honing research and analytical skills. Your pick should align with your career goals and where you see yourself in the vast realm of public health.

The NMSU Global Campus curriculum seamlessly blends core courses, electives, and practical experiences, providing a holistic understanding of public health principles and preparing you to apply them in real-world scenarios. 

Whether you’re charting a course in epidemiology, health promotion, or healthcare administration, our MPH graduates emerge well-prepared to confront the multifaceted challenges prevalent in modern healthcare systems.

Find Your Passion: Career Options for an MPH Degree

If you’ve earned an MPH degree, a world of career possibilities awaits. Be it government agencies, nonprofit organizations, or private sector industries, MPH holders play a pivotal role in championing population health and tackling health disparities head-on.

Here are some career opportunities for MPH graduates:

• Biostatistician: Dive into the world of statistics and contribute to understanding health trends and patterns.
• Data Management: Organize and interpret health data, making it a valuable asset for informed decision-making.
• Epidemiology: Explore the roots and spread of diseases, and contribute to strategies for prevention and control.
• Global Health: Engage in initiatives that transcend borders, addressing health challenges on a global scale.
• Maternal and Child Health: Focus on the well-being of mothers and children, as this plays a vital role in ensuring healthy futures.
• Nutrition: Make a difference by promoting health through proper nutrition and lifestyle choices.
• Public Health Administration: Take on leadership roles, guiding and implementing policies that impact community health positively.

Earn Your Master of Public Health With NMSU Global Campus Today

Your MSPH Degree: Unlocking Analytical Career Paths

And what about the options that an MSPH degree gives you? MSPH programs open up possibilities, particularly for those inclined toward research-oriented roles. 

Unlike MPH programs, which offer diverse career options, MSPH graduates often find themselves drawn to positions that delve deep into research within academia, government agencies, or research institutes.

Here are some career options for MSPH graduates:

• Research Scientist: Dive into the world of exploration and discovery, contributing to groundbreaking research initiatives.
• Data Analyst: Turn raw data into valuable insights by uncovering hidden patterns and extracting game-changing information.
• Epidemiologist: Tackle public health challenges by studying the distribution and determinants of diseases.
• Academic Researcher: Inspire the next generation and contribute to the educational landscape by plunging into in-depth research pursuits.

Can I Qualify for More Jobs With an MPH Degree?

The answer is a definite yes! This degree’s versatility sets you up for many opportunities in the expansive field of public health. Employers value the practical skills and interdisciplinary knowledge that MPH graduates bring, making them highly sought-after candidates in today’s competitive job market. 

Whether pursuing specialized roles or aspiring to leadership positions, MPH holders have the tools to impact population health outcomes substantially.

Become a Public Health Leader: Earn Your MPH Online at NMSU Global Campus

As the demand for skilled public health professionals grows, choosing the right educational pathway is paramount to success.

If you want a Master of Public Health degree, consider checking out the MPH program offered by NMSU Global Campus. This online program is flexible and affordable and can be tailored to your desired career choice.

We are committed to providing excellence and accessibility. Our students graduate with all the necessary tools and resources to succeed in the ever-changing field of public health. The MPH program at NMSU Global Campus educates and empowers students to evolve into influential leaders and agents of change within their communities.

Want to learn more? Find Our Degree Requirements Here