Applications must be complete (all materials received) and verified by SOPHAS by the final deadlines.
*The priority deadline is not a hard deadline. We encourage applicants to submit by the priority deadline as seats are more plentiful at the beginning of the cycle and a decision will be released earlier.
SOPHAS can take 2-4 weeks to verify an application, so we highly recommend that you submit your application early to ensure you meet the appropriate deadline.
Prerequisites
Experience:
A minimum of two years work experience is required. The Online MPH was designed for working professionals comfortable learning and working independently, as all courses are self-directed.
Education:
Bachelor’s degree from accredited institution is required.
The Online MPH’s SOPHAS designation is health equity.
Standardized Test Scores
A GRE score is not required for application to BU School of Public Health and will not be considered if submitted.
International applicants must submit an English language proficiency exam. Applicants may submit the TOEFL or IELTS. TOEFL and IELTS exams are considered valid for two (2) years from the date the exam was administered.
English language proficiency exam
English is the language of instruction at Boston University. You must be able to understand rapid, idiomatic English and express yourself clearly in speech and writing.
English Proficiency Exams
International students whose native language is not English must provide official results of the Test of English as a Second Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS).
Only official TOEFL and IELTS score reports will be accepted and must be submitted using the appropriate reporting code through SOPHAS. Photocopies of test scores or unofficial records will not be accepted
Boston University School of Public Health does not accept Duolingo English Test results.
Test and Required Minimum Score
TOEFL ibt: 100 or higher
TOEFL pbt: 600 or higher
IELTS – Academic Exam Only: 7.0 (total band score)
TOEFL and IELTS scores are valid for two (2) years from the date of examination.Applicants who do not meet the required minimum score will not be considered for admission.
Waivers
If an international applicant’s WES ICAP evaluation states that English was the language of instruction for a completed degree, the TOEFL/IELTS requirement will be waived automatically by SPH Admissions.
SPH Admissions will also automatically waive the TOEFL/IELTS requirement for International applicants who have earned a previous degree in any of the following countries: United States, Canada, United Kingdom, Australia, New Zealand or Ireland.
One (1) year of study in a bachelor’s degree in the US or in any of the countries above doesnotqualify. The majority of the bachelor’s degree program (at least 2+ years) must be completed in one of the countries above to be considered for this waiver.
If you do not meet either of the criteria above but believe the TOEFL/IELTS requirement should be waived for you, please submit the following to SPH Admissions:
Official supporting documentation demonstrating English proficiency sent directly from the university or institution on official letterhead. We cannot accept supporting documentation directly from applicants.
Reporting codes for TOEFL and IELTS
TOEFL
Institution Code: 5688*
Dept. Code: Any www.ets.org
IELTS
Please have a score report submitted through SOPHAS.
Applicants may submit the TOEFL or IELTS. TOEFL and IELTS exams are considered valid for two (2) years from the date the exam was administered.
Academic Transcripts or WES ICAP Evaluation
Applicants must submit official transcripts for all registered coursework from each college or university attended. The SOPHAS Official Transcript Request Form must be included with each transcript. This documentation must be sent from the registrar or designated school records official directly to SOPHAS. Official transcripts will not be accepted from the applicant. Photocopies of official transcripts or unofficial records will not be accepted. International transcripts, including study abroad transcripts, may have additional requirements. International applicants should submit a WES ICAP evaluation.
Two (2) Letters of Recommendation
Two letters of recommendation are required for an application to be considered complete. Recommenders should be able to evaluate academic or professional work, the ability to undertake graduate study, and potential as a public health professional.
SOPHAS provides an electronic submission process for all letters of recommendation.
Short Answer Questions
Applicants must address the following three short answer questions:
How does an MPH fit into your professional development plan? Why is a focus on health equity important to this plan? How does this specific online MPH program at BUSPH fit your plans? (500 words or less)
The Online MPH program combines both quantitative and qualitative skills. Please explain how your education and professional experience has prepared you for this type of program. (250 words or less)
The Online MPH is a self-directed, asynchronous graduate program. Please explain why this model best fits your learning and lifestyle. (250 words or less)
CV or Résumé
A current curriculum vitae or résumé is required. This document should be uploaded directly to the SOPHAS application.
