From the Online MPH Launch to Convocation, the Student Support Team is here to ensure you have the best possible online learning experience!
BU Virtual Campus Coming Soon!
Starting May 1st, the Online MPH program will be moving to the BU Virtual Campus. You’ll experience a refreshed look and new features that make your student journey smoother.
What’s New?
Easier Access to Support: Submit cases, schedule appointments, and track your requests in one place.
Stronger Connections: Connect with classmates and colleagues through a searchable directory.
Affinity Groups & Events: Join OL MPH Affinity Groups and stay updated on upcoming Student Success events.
Centralized Resources: Access important links for the OL MPH Program, the School of Public Health, and BU.
Knowledge Center: Find answers to frequently asked questions.
We’re excited to make the BU Virtual Campus your central hub for tools, resources, and support throughout your MPH journey!
Learning Facilitators
Learning Facilitators (LF) are members of the teaching team. They serve as subject matter experts for each module, and they are available to help you with all course related material. They will communicate with you on a regular basis about your coursework, hold office hours, and be available for one-on-one meetings.
Student Success Specialists
Student Success Specialists support your student experience throughout the program. Success Specialists serve as program advisors, share best practices for learning online, suggest ways to engage in the program community and will help connect you with university resources to support your success.
Student Ambassadors
Student Ambassadors work with faculty, staff, and administrators to share program feedback, assist in hosting online webinars, and serve as representatives of the program to prospective students. Learn more about our Student Ambassadors here and contact us at olmphsuccess@bu.edu if you’re interested in making a connection!
Course Delivery
Learning Management System (Blackboard Ultra)
Online MPH courses are delivered through Boston University’s Blackboard Ultra learning management system. In Blackboard Ultra you will find your course content, assignments, course announcements, grade book, and direct access to the other platforms related to your assignments. A student must be enrolled and registered for courses to access Blackboard Ultra.
Technology Requirements
For optimal technical experience, we recommend using a personal laptop or desktop computer equipped with Mac OS X or Windows and high-speed Internet. Certain modules may require software downloads, and some functionalities might not be accessible on mobile or non-personal devices. For more information align your set up with these Boston University technology requirements and resources specifications.
Networking
Handshake
Boston University Handshake assists students with job searches, career resources and career development. Use this tool to network, make connections, and find jobs. Use your BU login to access Handshake and complete your profile and resume so recruiters can contact you directly. They may send targeted messages regarding job openings, upcoming events and personalized opportunities. Please find below a few helpful links to get you started:
Participate in the public health conversations events where speakers from diverse perspectives and identities engage in informative and thought-provoking discussions. Visit the webpage below for past recordings and upcoming events. This is a great way to connect and engage with faculty, staff and peers.
Are there any in-person requirements for the program?
The program is 100% online and there are no in-person requirements. Students are also welcome to plan their own meet ups in their respective locations. Online students may attend any on-campus events that are open to the public.
What is a live session and how many live sessions do I need to attend?
Live sessions are synchronous Zoom sessions with faculty, learning facilitators, and students all engaging in “real time” using relevant course content. These sessions are highly interactive and last approximately 1 hour. Live sessions are held mid-week during each week of the semester and are offered at two different times of the day. While attendance at Live sessions is optional, students are expected to watch the recording.
How do Online MPH students fulfill the practicum requirement?
All MPH students must demonstrate competency attainment through an applied practice experience known as the practicum. The practicum provides an opportunity for students to work closely with governmental, non-governmental, non-profit, or for-profit organizations and gain experience in the field.
Online MPH students fulfill the practicum requirement in Module 5: Applied Public Health Practice, by working with a public health or healthcare organization under the supervision of an SPH faculty member.
Online MPH students do not have to find a practicum placement on their own.
For more information, please contact your student success specialists at olmphsuccess@bu.edu.
How do I register for courses?
You are registered for courses by the SPH Registrar’s Office. Each semester, students must complete the Intent to Register form to indicate their plans for the upcoming semester (continuing on to the next module or taking a leave of absence). The SPH Registrar’s office can be reached at sphregr@bu.edu.
How do I confirm my course registration/see my course schedule?
Login to your MyBU Student Portal and locate the “My Academics tab” followed by “Current Schedule” to review course registration. For more information, review this MyBU Student Portal User Guide. It provides a step-by-step guide of the portal and how to navigate its many features.
Can I take the modules in any order?
No. Modules are taken in a required sequence.
Am I able to take a semester off?
Yes. Students in the Online MPH may take up to five years to complete the program.
Do we work in teams in any of the modules?
Yes, teamwork is important to student development and learning. In public health we believe, working collaboratively allows for the sharing of ideas, resources, and skills, which can lead to more efficient and effective outcomes, better problem-solving and decision-making.
Where do I purchase books?
Your OL MPH textbooks and course material details will be available in your course syllabus in Blackboard Ultra on the first day of class. Our OL MPH course materials and textbooks are not available on the Barnes & Noble website, they will be electronically available through Blackboard Ultra when the course begins.
If I live in the Boston area, can I meet with faculty members, LFs, or career services in person?
The program is 100% online and any appointments or advising sessions will be conducted online. Students will have access to Handshake, an online career platform, as well as online career resources. One-on-one appointments with BU SPH career staff are not a service offering of this program.
How do I Access my BU Email?
Students use their BU login name and password at BU Google Mail. Note that you can also access your mail via a desktop e-mail program or mobile device.
Can I participate in the SPH Convocation (Graduation Ceremony) as an online student?
Yes, eligible Online MPH students can participate in the SPH May Convocation Ceremony. The SPH Convocation is held once a year in May and is the only ceremony where student names are called by their specific degree programs. Students graduating in January, May, and August are eligible to participate in the May Convocation. For more information regarding SPH Convocation/Commencement exercises visit this webpage or contact your student success specialist at olmphsuccess@bu.edu.
Am I able to join clubs and student organizations?
Membership in the residential program student clubs is not a service offering of this program. However, Online MPH students will have the opportunity to start their own affinity groups and or apply to become a Student Ambassador. If you have questions about student groups, contact olmphsuccess@bu.edu.
