At UT, the graduate public health programs prepare students to be competent, future public health leaders. Our Master of Public Health (MPH) program has been accredited since 1969, making it the first nationally accredited program outside a school of public health. We also formed Tennessee’s first academic health department, with the purpose of bridging knowledge and improving health.
Our graduate programs are distinguished by the practical experience students gain through community-based class projects, volunteering opportunities, and well-matched field placements.
Alumni Quote
The UT MPH program contributed to my professional success in that it allows me to take advantage of health education opportunities with patients. I am more aware of teachable moments.
– Kenetra Hix, MPH (’09)
Latest News from the Department of Public Health
Public health professor interviewed on WalletHub
Students use award money to design new website for Knox County’s WIC Farmers’ Market Nutrition Program
DRPH student receives ETR Associates’ Kirby Summer Internship
The final “MPH Memos” newsletter has landed
2018 Howard Baker Center Grand Policy Challenge Winners!
Winners of the 2018 Public Health Student Awards announced
Winners of the 2018 June D. Gorski Scholarship Announced
Public Health Faculty/Staff honored at CEHHS Ceremony
Upcoming Events
- August 21, 2018
- New Public Health Student Orientation
10:00 AM – 1:00 PM
Orange Hall
- New Public Health Student Orientation
- August 22, 2018
- Fall semester begins
- August 29, 2018
- MPH Field Placement Planning Session for 2nd Year students
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM
Location: HPER 393
Topics covered
- MPH Field Placement Planning Session for 2nd Year students
- August 30, 2018
- MPH Field Placement Planning Session for 1st Year students
3:30 PM – 4:45 PM
Topics covered
- MPH Field Placement Planning Session for 1st Year students
- September 10 -14, 2018
- 2018 Safety Fest
Oak Ridge, TN
- 2018 Safety Fest
- September 12 – 14, 2018
- Tennessee Public Health Association (TPHA) Annual Conference
Franklin, TN
- Tennessee Public Health Association (TPHA) Annual Conference
- September 12, 2018
- Nashville Area Alumni Mingle Networking Event
5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
Location TBD
- Nashville Area Alumni Mingle Networking Event
- October 16, 2018
- UT Health Fair
For undergraduates considering a health-related graduate degree
11:00 AM – 3:00 PM
Panhellenic Building
- UT Health Fair
- November 2, 2018
- Comprehensive Exams
- Vols to Vols
Public Health Career Development Event,
3:30-5:00 PM
Center for Career Development
Event Flyer
- December 6, 2018
- MPH Intern Presentations
1:30 – 2:30 PM
Location: TBD
- MPH Intern Presentations
- December 4, 2018
- End of Fall Classes
Our students gain practical skills by interning at a wide variety of field locations.
Featured Doctoral Student
Jennifer Russomanno, MPH, CHE, CMP
“Public Health is an area that requires people to constantly think about the world in ways they may never have before. This can be a scary thing to do, but can also come with great personal benefits and rewards. Never stop learning and never be afraid to question what you THINK you know.” [continue reading]
Featured Master’s Student
Tim Chamberlain, DVM / MPH dual student
“I chose this program after hearing feedback from other MPH students and speaking with veterinarians on the opportunities that are typically available to dual DVM/MPH degree holders. This program allows me to complete the MPH concurrently with my DVM with the support of very understanding faculty and staff.” [continue reading]
Field Practice in Action
MPH students convert academic theory to public health practice by completing a 360-hour field practice in a community health setting. The field practice provides a bridge for students to join a growing talented and competent public health workforce. 
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