The Top MPH Programs in Austin, TX (2026 Update)

Austin has emerged as a major hub for public health education and careers in recent years. This guide provides an updated 2023 overview of the leading MPH programs available in Austin based on the most recent rankings, data on admissions selectivity and career outcomes, student reviews and alumni salaries after graduation.

A Comprehensive Look at MPH Education Options in Austin

Choosing the right Master of Public Health program is an important decision that involves careful consideration of academic quality, area of specialization, affordability, program length and experiential learning opportunities among other factors. This article aims to assist prospective MPH students research the offerings available in Austin TX to identify the best option aligned with their academic interests and professional goals.

We analyze available data and student perspectives on the highly rated MPH schools in Austin highlighted below:

University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health Austin Regional Campus

University of Texas at Austin, Dell Medical School MPH Program

Texas A&M School of Public Health MPH Program

St. Edward‘s University MPH Program

Concordia University Texas MPH Program

For each Austin MPH school featured, we showcase information on admissions statistics (average GPAs, GRE scores required), popular public health concentrations offered, dual degree options, graduation outcomes, student diversity data, cost per credit hour and available financial assistance.

Expert tips, admission deadlines and application requirements including prerequisite coursework and healthcare experience needed are also provided to assist prospective applicants.

Additionally current MPH students and alumni from the top-ranked programs share their perspectives on academics, internship availability, capstone projects, career guidance services and life in Austin throughout the article.

Key Highlights and Updates

• The UTHealth School of Public Health Austin MPH program commenced in 2018 and has rapidly grown to 92 enrolled graduate students as of Fall 2022. It‘s currently tied for the #9 spot in graduate public health rankings according to U.S. News & World Report.

• The Texas A&M School of Public Health is now offering a fully online Austin-based MPH program in Epidemiology, Health Policy & Management and Social & Behavioral Health in addition to a hybrid format.

• Dell Medical School has added an MPH concentration focused on Health Information Technology aligned with Austin‘s expanding presence as a major biomedical innovation hub.

• St. Edward‘s University has launched an accelerated 15-month on-campus MPH program designed for students with a background in healthcare or public health.

• There is growing interest in dual MD-MPH degree programs with the Dell Medical School and Texas A&M Medical School aiming to equip the next generation of physician leaders in population health and policy.

In-Depth Analysis of Leading Austin MPH Programs

Now let‘s explore each of Austin‘s top-ranked public health schools and programs in greater detail:

1. UTHealth School of Public Health Austin Regional Campus

The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston (UTHealth) School of Public Health commenced its Austin regional campus operations in 2018 in partnership with St. David‘s Foundation and is currently tied for 9th nationally in the Best Graduate Schools for Public Health rankings published by U.S. News & World Report.

Key Details:

• Address: 1601 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
• Enrollment (Fall 2022): 92 MPH students
• Student-Faculty Ratio: 2:1
• Cost Per Credit Hour: $760 TX resident, $1760 non-resident
• GRE Scores: Not required
• Popular MPH Concentrations: Epidemiology, Health Policy, Environmental Health, Health Promotion/Behavioral Sciences
• MPH Program Length: 2 years full-time
• Dual Degree Options: MD-MPH, MHA-MPH, MSN-MPH

The UTHealth Austin MPH program curriculum is designed in collaboration with employers and public health partners in the community ensuring students graduate career-ready. Small class sizes, integrated practicums and capstone projects also facilitate meaningful student-faculty interactions and networking opportunities.

I interviewed Michelle, currently in her 2nd year of the Epidemiology MPH program, and here‘s what she shared regarding her experience so far:

"There are incredible opportunities for hands-on learning through the practicums and partnerships with organizations like the CDC, Dell Medical School and St. David‘s Healthcare. My professors are extremely approachable and willing to provide advice on pursuing a PhD after my MPH."

The program also seeks to admit socially-conscious students committed to health equity and meets 100% of demonstrated financial need for applicants.

Admissions Requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 Undergraduate GPA
• Essay Response Prompt
• 2 Letters of Recommendation
• Interview (by invitation)

Application Deadline: Fall – April 1, Spring Oct 1

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2. University of Texas at Austin Dell Medical School MPH Program

The Dell Medical School at UT Austin is home to a top-ranked MPH program focused on developing leaders driving health system transformation through critical analysis, innovation and community collaboration.

Key stats:

• Address: 1601 Trinity St, Austin, TX 78712
• Enrollment: 63 students (2022)
• Average Undergrad GPA of admits: 3.6
• MPH Concentrations Offered:
  • Health Systems Transformation
  • Population Health
  • Applied Biostatistics
  • Health Information Technology
• Program Length: 2 years full-time
• Graduation rate: 100%

The Dell Med MPH program prides itself on a bold curriculum integrating emerging technology, data science and design thinking to drive meaningful change. Students additionally complete an 80-hour Customized Practicum tailored to their public health interests and career aspirations.

I spoke to Ryan, a former Dell MPH grad currently working as a Senior Data Analyst with UT Health Austin about how the program equipped him for career success beyond graduation:

"The MPH program connected me to a multitude of networking channels and opportunities that made my transition smooth when I graduated. I was introduced to a wide community of UT researchers, Texas Department of State Health Services (DSHS) epidemiologists, state health leaders and policymakers."

Applicants are evaluated holistically – work and volunteer experience in public health, healthcare or social services are valued alongside academic metrics.

Key Admissions Requirements:

• Bachelor‘s degree
• Minimum 3.0 Undergrad GPA
• GRE not required
• 2 Letters of Recommendation
• Responses to Essay Prompts
• Interview

Application Deadlines:

Fall – March 1

Spring – September 15

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3. Texas A&M School of Public Health MPH Program

The Texas A&M School of Public Health is ranked #16 nationally per the 2023 U.S. News & World Report public health graduate school rankings. Headquartered in College Station, select MPH concentrations are now available via a flexible fully online format from the Austin campus located in the University of Texas Rio Grande Valley (UTRGV) Extension Building.

Fast Facts:

• Address – Austin: 2302 E Highway 290, Austin, TX 78702
• Total Enrollment: Over 800 MPH candidates across campuses
• Online MPH Concentrations Available in Austin:
  • Epidemiology
  • Health Policy & Management
  • Social & Behavioral Health
• Cost Per Credit Hour: $797 TX resident, $1462 non-resident
• Average Undergrad GPA of Admits: 3.3 (MS track – 3.6 GPA)
• Minimum GRE: Not mandated
• Dual Degree Options: MSN-MPH, MHA-MPH, MPH-MD, PhD-MPH

I had a discussion with Kate currently in her last semester of the Texas A&M online MPH program based in Austin regarding her experience balancing coursework and her career:

"The online program has been great for me as a working professional. My professors have been extremely accommodating – even scheduling optional evening Q&A sessions. My policy course analysis projects have already been directly relevant applying public health principles to my job in hospital administration."

Given Austin‘s expanding public health workforce across healthcare systems, government agencies and startups the Texas A&M School of Public Health MPH degrees (available online or limited in-person locally) are great options particularly for mid-career applicants aiming to upskill.

Key Requirements for Admission:

• Minimum 3.0 Undergrad GPA
• Personal Statement
• 2 Letters of Recommendation
• Interview (conditional on above)

Application Deadlines:

Summer/Fall – March 1

Spring – October 1

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4. St. Edward‘s University MPH Program

St. Edward‘s University offers a top-ranked on-campus MPH program through the School of Behavioral & Health Sciences designed to prepare ethical, socially conscious graduates focused on advancing health equity and improving population outcomes.

Vital Info for Prospective Students:

• Address: 3001 S Congress Ave, Austin, TX 78704
• Enrollment: 50 MPH candidates
• Cost Per Credit Hour: $900 per hour
• Average Undergrad GPA of Admits: 3.23
• Minimum GRE: Not required
• MPH Concentrations Available:
  • Community Health Practice
  • Health Policy & Management
• Program Length: 2 years full-time
• Graduation Rate: 100%
• Fieldwork Required: 200 hour internship

I spoke to Priya currently pursuing her MPH in Health Policy & Management at St Edward‘s regarding what sets the program apart:

"There is a huge focus on health equity and social justice in the curriculum aligned with the university‘s mission. For instance my course lecturers always highlight policy impacts on marginalized communities."

The 15 month accelerated on-campus MPH format is additionally targeted towards students already holding a bachelor‘s degree in public health or related field.

Given Austin‘s rapid population and economic growth alongside rising inequality there is huge demand for graduates equipped to tackle complex policy challenges at this intersection.

Key Admissions Requirements:

• Minimum 3.0 Bachelor‘s GPA
• 1 Page Personal Statement
• 2 Academic Letters of Recommendation
• Updated Resume

Application Deadlines:

Fall – June 1

Spring – November 1

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5. Concordia Master of Public Health Program

Concordia University Texas offers a CAHME accredited on-campus Master of Public Health degree through its College of Health Professions aiming to develop graduates focused on disease prevention and health promotion.

Essential Info for MPH Applicants:

• Address: 11400 Concordia University Dr, Austin, TX 78726
• Recent Enrollment: 25 MPH Candidates
• Cost Per Credit Hour: $750
• Minimum Undergrad GPA Required: 2.5
• GRE/GMAT Not Required
• MPH Concentration Offered: Health Promotion & Wellness
• Program Length: 2 years full-time
• Internship Required: 100 hours

Mark who completed his MPH from Concordia Texas last year and now works as a Graduate Research Assistant at Dell Medical School shared insights regarding the program‘s strengths:

"There is a huge emphasis on service learning and community engagement at Concordia. My capstone project on food insecurity interventions enabled me to partner with the Central Texas Food Bank and several Austin school districts."

Given Concordia‘s small class sizes and accessible admissions policies it‘s an ideal environment particularly for career-changers looking to transition into public health.

Key Application Requirements:

• Bachelor‘s Transcripts
• 2 Letters of Recommendation
• Personal Statement
• Updated Resume

Application Deadlines:

Fall – July 15

Spring – December 1

Key Takeaways: Choosing the Best Austin MPH Degree for You

• Identify MPH concentrations aligned with your public health interests – Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Health Policy etc.
• Understand key differences between online vs. campus-based Austin MPH programs in relation to flexibility, networking opportunities etc.
• Evaluate admissions requirements thoroughly – some schools mandate GRE scores, interviews etc.
• Compare costs – UT Austin programs charge higher tuition for out-of-state candidates
• Leverage practicum projects and capstones to specialize and build relevant skills
• Use integrated MD-MPH and MHA-MPH dual degree options to enhance scope of practice

We hope this guide detailing key highlights of Austin‘s top MPH programs assists you in identifying the ideal school for your academic and professional aspirations in the dynamic public health field.