Last updated on 2025-09-12
Program overview
The Master of Public Health (MPH) with a Concentration in Public Health Policy is a course-based program designed to equip students with essential public health skills and knowledge. This program emphasizes experiential learning through a Public Health Practicum and culminates in an Applied Public Health Capstone Project. The MPH program is offered by the Faculty of Medicine, School of Epidemiology and Public Health, and is conducted in English. It aims to prepare graduates for impactful careers in public health policy development and strategic planning, ensuring they are ready to respond to diverse health challenges both in Canada and globally.
Program structure
The Master of Public Health program is structured to be completed in a full-time format over 4 terms, which spans 16 consecutive months. There is also an option for students to pursue the MPH+ program, which includes an additional 12 credits of language training and extends the program to 5 terms or 20 consecutive months. Key features of the program structure include:
- Experiential learning through a Public Health Practicum.
- A culminating Applied Public Health Capstone Project.
- Enhanced policy training in collaboration with the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs.
- Language training options available in multiple languages, including French, Arabic, Chinese, and more.
This comprehensive structure ensures that students not only gain theoretical knowledge but also practical experience, preparing them for various roles in public health.
Featured Experiences
The Master of Public Health program offers several unique experiences that enhance the learning journey of its students:
- Public Health Practicum: A 420-hour hands-on experience that allows students to apply their public health knowledge in real-world settings.
- Applied Public Health Capstone Project: A project that integrates and synthesizes the skills and knowledge acquired throughout the program.
- Enhanced Policy Training: Collaboration with the Graduate School of Public and International Affairs to provide specialized training in public health policy.
- MPH+ Option: An opportunity for students to undertake intensive language training, improving their proficiency in a second or third language.
- Diverse Language Courses: Access to language courses in various languages, enhancing communication skills in a multicultural environment.
Career Options
Graduates of the Master of Public Health program with a concentration in Public Health Policy can pursue a variety of career paths in Canada. Here are some potential job options:
- Public Health Policy Analyst: Evaluates and develops policies to improve public health outcomes, analyzing data and trends to inform decision-making.
- Health Program Manager: Oversees public health programs, ensuring they are effectively implemented and meet community needs.
- Epidemiologist: Studies the distribution and determinants of health-related states in populations, contributing to disease prevention strategies.
- Public Health Consultant: Provides expert advice to organizations on public health issues, helping to design and implement effective health interventions.
- Health Promotion Specialist: Develops and implements strategies to promote health and wellness in communities, focusing on education and outreach.
These roles highlight the diverse opportunities available to graduates, allowing them to make significant contributions to public health in various capacities.
DISCLAIMER: The information above is subject to change. For the latest updates, please contact LOA Portal's advisors.
Visit University of Ottawa official website





















































