Choosing the right center of higher learning for a Master of Public Health (MPH) degree can be a daunting task. Fortunately, the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) has created a list of standards for public health programs that is making that choice simpler for students nationwide.
What is CEPH accreditation?
CEPH is the only independent agency recognized to accredit graduate schools of public health as well as the graduate public health programs. CEPH examines these centers of learning and assists in evaluating the quality of their instructional, research and service efforts. The group then awards accreditation to those schools and programs that meet its published criteria.
The CEPH equates excellence in education with proficiency of practice. By looking at the results of students in the school or program first, CEPH proves the current efficacy of the program and the true application of learning from each person in the program. This means the graduates set the standard for each school. Prospective students will get a real firsthand look at their future experience in each program, trusting they will gain a level of competence appropriate to their education and previous experience and stay current with developments in public health and related fields.
Why choose a CEPH accredited school?
Accreditation serves a consumer protection purpose. It means the program has been evaluated and meets standards established by the profession. It also assures that the curriculum covers essential skills and knowledge needed for today’s jobs. In addition, it promotes professional mobility and enhances employment opportunities. Universities that have achieved CEPH accreditation offer students a strong advantage in the job market after graduation.
The U.S. Public Health Service, many U.S. military public health jobs and some state and local government agencies all now require graduates of CEPH-accredited schools and programs to fill future positions at the MPH level. The National Board of Public Health Examiners, the body for the national credentialing exam for individuals who possess a graduate-level degree in public health, now offers the exam only to graduates of accredited programs and schools.
In addition, some fellowships are only available to students attending CEPH-accredited schools and programs that are also members of the Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH).
What can Benedictine’s CEPH accredited online MPH do for you?
The Benedictine University online MPH program has enjoyed 30 years of success and is a prime example of the values that the Council on Education for Public Health holds as standard. Students can choose from four certificate areas to earn in conjunction with their master’s degree including:
- Health Education and Promotion
- Health Management and Policy
- Emergency Preparedness
- Epidemiology
To learn more about the benefits of CEPH accreditation and the MPH program at Benedictine University, visit the program page or call us at (866) 295-3104 to speak to a Program Manager.