An MSPH is a more research-focused degree program than an MPH, with a curriculum focusing on research design, data collection, and analysis studies. The MSPH degree also strongly emphasizes public health policy, management, and leadership.
What Can A Student Of MSPH expect?
Students in the MSPH program will focus more heavily on developing the skills needed to carry out public health research, such as biostatistics, epidemiology, and qualitative research methods.
In addition, they must complete an extensive capstone project demonstrating their ability to identify and analyze public health problems, develop solutions, and evaluate the effectiveness of these solutions.
Career Outlook For An MSPH Graduate
An MSPH degree can provide excellent preparation for a public health career, whether in research, teaching, or policymaking. The skills acquired through the program make graduates highly marketable in the job market and provide them with a broad range of employment options.
The degree can also open the door to a career in academia. Graduates of an MSPH program may be eligible for teaching positions at universities and colleges and could pursue further education through doctoral programs.
Here Are Ten Jobs To Work In With An MSPH Degree:
1. Epidemiologist
An epidemiologist is a medical scientist who studies patterns, causes, and effects of disease and injury in humans. They investigate factors that influence how often diseases occur in different groups of people and identify possible ways to prevent them.
Epidemiologists typically work in offices and laboratories. They sometimes travel to gather data or participate in public health outreach activities. Job duties for an epidemiologist include designing and conducting studies, collecting and analyzing data, interpreting results, and writing reports. Some epidemiologists also provide guidance when developing public health policy or planning healthcare services.
Most epidemiologists have at least an MSPH degree. Many also have a doctorate in epidemiology or a related field. To become an epidemiologist, you must complete biology, mathematics, statistics, and social and behavioral sciences coursework. You will also need to gain experience through internships or research assistantships.
The median annual salary for an epidemiologist is $70,990. According to BLS, job growth for this career is projected to be 5% from 2019 to 2029.
2. Public Health Program Manager
A Public Health Program Manager is responsible for planning, directing, and coordinating the delivery of public health programs. They work with government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private businesses to develop and implement programs that promote health and prevent disease.
The specific duties of a Public Health Program Manager vary depending on the size and scope of the organization they work for. These may include developing program goals and objectives, creating budgets, designing and conducting research studies, writing grant proposals, and evaluating program effectiveness.
Most Public Health Program Managers have at least a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) degree. Job growth for this occupation is expected to be about average over the next decade, and the median salary for a Public Health Program Manager is just over $100,000 per year.
3. Biostatistician
After completing a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) degree with a focus on biostatistics, graduates are prepared for a career conducting and managing research projects in a wide variety of settings.
They are professionals are responsible for designing research studies, collecting data, analyzing data using statistical methods, and communicating study results to scientific and regular audiences. While many biostatisticians work in academia or government, others find jobs in the pharmaceutical industry, hospitals, or other health-related organizations.
Salaries for biostatisticians vary depending on education and experience level but tend to be higher than average. In addition to an MSPH degree, most employers require at least four years of experience working in a related field. With a strong background in math and statistics, as well as excellent communication and problem-solving skills, graduates of MSPH programs with a focus on biostatistics are well-prepared for careers in this growing field.
4. Clinical Research Coordinator
A Clinical Research Coordinator (CRC) is a highly trained individual responsible for the planning and execution of clinical trials. CRCs work closely with investigators and other members of the research team to ensure that trials are conducted according to protocol and that data is collected in a reliable and accurate fashion.
In addition, CRCs are responsible for maintaining regulatory compliance and ensuring the safety of trial participants. The role of a CRC is both challenging and rewarding, and those who are successful in this field are highly sought-after by pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies.
CRCs typically possess a bachelor’s degree in a scientific discipline. However, some jobs may require a master’s degree or higher. In terms of salary, CRCs typically earn between $60,000 and $80,000 per year, with the potential for upward mobility based on experience and performance. Job satisfaction is high amongst CRCs, as they are able to apply their knowledge and skills in a way that directly benefits patients.
If you are looking for a career that is both challenging and rewarding, then a position as a Clinical Research Coordinator may be right for you.
5. Health Educator
Health educators typically have a bachelor’s degree in health education, community health, or a related field. Some positions may only require a master’s of science degree in public health, while some states require health educators to be licensed or certified.
Job duties for health educators include developing and implementing programs to improve the health of individuals and communities, conducting research, and writing grants. They may also be responsible for educating the public about specific health issues, such as nutrition, fitness, sexually transmitted diseases, and alcohol and drug abuse.
Health educators typically work in schools, hospitals, public health departments, or non-profit organizations. The median annual salary for health educators is $54,220.
6. Data Scientist
A data scientist is responsible for analyzing complex data sets and finding ways to help businesses improve their operations. They use their knowledge of statistics, computer science, and modeling to find trends and patterns in data.
Data scientists typically have a bachelor’s degree in a quantitative field such as mathematics, physics, or computer science. Some data scientists also have a master’s degree or doctorate.
The median annual salary for a data scientist is $122,840. Job growth in this field is projected to be 19 percent from 2019 to 2029, much faster than the average for all occupations.
Conclusion
The MSPH degree provides graduates with the skills and knowledge necessary to pursue a career in public health. From research and teaching positions to policymaking and consulting roles, there are many paths an individual can take after graduating from an MSPH program. With the right education and experience, anyone with an MSPH degree can succeed in their chosen public health field.
However, no matter what field they choose, those with an MSPH degree have the potential to make a real and lasting impact on public health. A successful career in public health requires more than just knowledge—it demands passion and commitment. For those who want to make a difference, an MSPH degree is an invaluable tool for making that goal a reality.
