What are the basic requirements for admission into the Master of Public Health program?
- Complete application (paper or online).
- Transcripts demonstrating successful completion of a bachelor’s degree from an accredited college or university, with a cumulative grade average of B or better.
- Submission of a professional statement that demonstrates your rationale for pursuing the masters program, why the Brown School is a good fit with your goals, potential for leadership, professional or volunteer experience, and analytical and communications skills.
- Submission of Essay #2.
- A comprehensive resume.
- Three letters of recommendation from professional and/or academic colleagues. Please be sure the letter is in a sealed envelope with the signature of the recommender over the seal.
- Official GRE, GMAT, LSAT, or MCAT scores.
- A non-refundable application fee of $40 for online application.
Do I have to submit a transcript from a school I attended in the past if the classes are listed on my current school transcript?
Yes, you must submitt official transcripts from all colleges and universities attended. They must be submitted in a sealed envelope.
Should I submit academic or professional recommendations?
We require three recommendation forms (required) and letters (optional, but strongly recommended). You should attempt to provide at least two recommendations from professional (supervisors or managers for a human service-related paid, volunteer, research or internship position the applicant performed) or academic recommenders (faculty members who taught a class the applicant completed or youracademic advisor at the college or university level). The third recommendation can be from another academic or professional recommender or from anyone in a good position to evaluate the applicant’s potential for a successful educational or professional social work career.
Can recommendations be completed online?
We strongly encourage applicants to have letters of recommendation submitted online. There is a section of the online application that will allow you to add the names of your three recommenders. They will be emailed a link to the form and you will be notified when they complete it. You may also submit letters of recommendation through the mail.
Is the GRE required?
The GRE is required for admission into the MPH and PhD programs. The Brown School does not use the GRE in its MSW admissions process.
Is an interview required for acceptance?
We do not require an interview In some cases, the admissions committee may request to interview an applicant before making their final decision.
Is the TOEFL required for International applicants?
Only for those students that English is not their first language. Exceptions are made for students whose primary language is English, or students who have studied in the United States.
International students must meet the following criteria:
- Paper Based Test (pBT): 575
- Computer Based Test (cBT): 233
- Internet Based Test (iBT): 90 – 91
When is the application deadline?
Our admissions process is rolling and we do not have an application deadline. Applicants to our MPH program enter in the fall semester. However, if you wish to apply for a scholarship, we suggest that you complete all application materials by March 1 to ensure that you receive priority consideration for scholarships.
Can I apply to start the program in the summer?
The MPH program does not offer beginning enrollment in the summer. We offer only Fall (August) enrollment.
Do you offer scholarships? How do I apply for this?
Yes. Several scholarships and tuition awards are available to public health students. We do not require a spearate application for scholarships. Just check the box on the application indicating your interest in being considered for scholarship support. We must receive all required admissions materials before the scholarship deadline. We award scholarships on the merit of your MPH application. Submit your application by January 1 for fall early decisions or March 1 for all other fall decisions. (Scholarship deadlines are the same for U.S. and International Students)
What type of financial assistance can I receive? How do I apply for this?
At the Brown School, a complete financial assistance form and government FAFSA form determine your need. We will mail these forms to the student upon accpeptance to the program. The FAFSA is submitted to the federal government and has no filing fee. If you are admitted, you will need to file as soon as possible. Based on your needs (tuition, housing and other expenses), financial assistance is awarded to you as a package. Depending on your financial forms evaluation, this may include work-study, tuition remission, and loans. For specific questions on Financial Assistance, please call 314-935-6655.
What criteria does the admissions committee utilize in making admission decisions?
Admissions decisions are based primarily on a review of the following.
- Your commitment to the mission of the Brown School and our MPH program.
- Applicant’s undergraduate GPA over the last 60 – 75 semester credit hours (90 - 105 quarter credit hours) on transcripts provided at the time of application.
- Your standardized test scores (GRE, MCAT, LSAT, GMAT).
- Additional academic work you undertake following completion of an undergraduate degree, if applicable.
- Specialized training(s) relevant to the degree program
- Your public health, human service, or related experience (paid, volunteer, research and internship experience).
- Your analysis of social problem or public health issue.
- Recommendation letters and/forms submitted.
How important is my GPA?
Different masters programs have different GPA requirements; however, all will look to your GPA as an indicator of academic preparedness for graduate school. Brown School requires that students have a cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.0 in a scale of 4.0. We also evaluate a number of other factors including demonstrated critical and analytical thought, commitment in social services, and demonstrated leadership and judgment.
What type of undergraduate degree do I need to be admitted to the MPH program?
Our students come from a wide variety of backgrounds. You do not need an undergraduate degree related to public health to be admitted to the MPH program.
What other classes should I take outside of my major?
Look for courses that focus on communication (written and verbal), and train you to think analytically. Most importantly, select a diverse body of studies. The MPH program requires that students have a human biology course in their undergraduate or graduate studies. Brown School will accept Physiological Anatomy, Physiological Psychology, Physiological Anthropology, Human Sexuality and others to complete this requirement.
Should I do an internship or community service?
Relevant internships and other community service activities are highly valued by the Brown School admissions committee.
When will I know if I have been admitted?
We will review your application once we receive your complete application, including all letters of recommendation and transcripts. Generally, our review takes six to eight weeks. If you are an international student, transfer student, or Washington University undergraduate, contact our office for further information.
If admission is granted, is an enrollment deposit required?
Yes, a $200 non-refundable enrollment deposit is required to secure your place in the incoming class. The enrollment deposit will be applied to your student account.
If I am admitted but cannot begin the program in the fall can I defer admission?
Admitted students may request a one-year deferment.
What is the ratio of faculty to students?
The student-faculty ratio averages at 12 to one.
Can I visit the School before I apply?
Yes, we encourage prospective students to visit the Brown School. We believe that in choosing a public health program, there is no substitute for a campus visit. Plan to visit our campus on your own or with your family and experience the Brown School firsthand.
To schedule a campus visit, contact our office at (314) 935-6676 and we will contact you to coordinate your visit. In addition, we invite you to attend one of our monthly information sessions.
How many credit hours?
The MPH program is a forty-six hour program; two of the credit hours are practicum hours.
What undergraduate courses are required for the program?
Human Biology is required for the MPH program. To meet the requirement, you must receive a grade of C or better in Human Biology. If the requirement is not met, students may take the Human Biology proficiency exam in the semester you enter the program.
Can I transfer credits from other programs? How can I find out which credits will transfer to the Brown School?
Yes. We may accept up to 12 hours of master's level work from other disciplines, for which you received a grade of "B" or better. The master's level courses are evaluated on a course-by-course basis. Credits from other Master of Public Health programs are evaluated on a course-by-course basis also.
Does the school offer evening or weekend classes?
Currently, the MPH courses are only offered during the day on Tuesday, Wednesday, and Thursday.
Do you offer a part-time program?
We do not offer a formalized part-time MPH program. You may take classes on a part-time basis, which is defined as 3-6 credit hours a semester. Due to the structure of our MPH curriculum, Foundations of Public Health courses must be completed prior to taking other MPH courses.
Does the MPH program offer online courses/distance learning?
No. All courses must be taken at the Brown School .
What is practicum?
A practicum is a learning experience that contributes to professional identity, provides a comprehensive base of theory, knowledge, and skills, and builds on personal short and long-term career objectives.
Does the curriculum include practicum?
Yes, the MPH program includes practicum experiences. Practicum is part of your program requirements and its purpose is to provide a challenging, innovative, and experiential practicum learning experience; to prepare students to assume responsibilities as public health professional exhibiting ethical and professional behavior; and to ensure skilled supervision by experienced field instructors who have been affiliated with our School based on demonstrated knowledge in the field.
Do you start practicum your first semester?
No. Most students in the MPH program begin their practicum during the summer between their first and second year, although the practicum requirement can be completed anytime after the first semester.
Is the MPH included in a dual degree program?
Yes, currently we offer a dual MSW/MPH program (Social Work and Public Health). Separate applications are required and are reviewed independently according to their criteria. A short application form is available for current MSW students.
How is practicum assigned?
You can choose your MPH practicum experience from a list of affiliated practicum sites. Prior to entering the field, each student is required to attend a mandatory Field Preparation session. In these sessions, Field Education staff will explain the process for identifying practicum opportunities in detail and can assist in identifying various placement options.
Our practicum program allows you to exercise options regarding the location and timing of your field work. We require 240 hours of practicum for the MPH program.
Our Field Education staff, along with your academic advisor and other faculty members, will help you identify and locate sites that meet your professional interests and personal needs. The Office of Field Education also sponsors a Practicum Fair to help you find the right field placement.
Can I complete my practicum where I work?
A student is allowed to complete their practicum where they work if it is not under their usual supervisor or departments, and their tasks are different then their current tasks.
Is the MPH program accredited by the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH)?
We are currently in the process of accreditation and plan to be accredited in the fall of 2011, after the graduation of the first class in the program.
How much does the program cost?
Tuition fees for the Brown School’s MPH program are based on each credit hour taken. Each credit hour is for 2009-2010 is $1,006. For the MPH program, tuition for 2009-2010 academic year based on 24 credit hours would be $24,144. There is a mandatory student health insurance fee of $686 and a $25 student council fee per semester.
How many of the students are awarded scholarships or financial assistance?
At the Brown School, we award more than 200 scholarships to top students who have demonstrated academic achievement, leadership, and commitment to social justice and social work practice. Over 90% of the MPH class apply for and receive some form of grant and/or scholarship assistance.
How does the Financial Aid application process work?
The process for requesting financial aid for graduate studies is much the same as for undergraduate studies. The primary form is the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA), which can be completed online at www.fafsa.ed.gov. Once you arrive at this website, request a personal identification number (PIN). This electronic access code number allows you to apply online for federal student aid, “sign” your application electronically, make online corrections to your FAFSA, access your Student Aid Report (SAR), “sign” a master promissory note for a federal student loan and access your federal student loan history on NSLDS.
Next, you will complete the FAFSA. As a graduate student, you are considered independent and do not use your parent’s financial information to complete this. You will need the school code (002520), your 2009 Federal Income Tax Return, and your PIN to complete the FAFSA electronically. Upon completion, your information will be electronically sent to the Brown School and you will receive a Student Aid Report (SAR) containing all the information reported on the FAFSA and the calculated results. Once the school receives the FAFSA and the Financial Assistance Form distributed with the Admissions Registration Packet, you will receive a financial aid award letter and detailed instructions on how to complete your aid.
Will I qualify for Financial Aid?
There are basic eligibility requirements that must be met in order to qualify for federal assistance. In general, students must:
- Be a U.S. citizen or eligible non-citizen.
- Not be in default on a federal student loan.
- Be registered with the Selective Service, if required to register.
- Be enrolled in an eligible program at an eligible institution.
- Be enrolled at least half-time.
- Complete the FAFSA.
If you meet these basic requirements, then financial aid options are available to graduate and professional students. Although some funding sources, such as the Federal Pell Grant, are available only for undergraduate study, there is a wide variety of funds available for graduate study. While some forms of funding are based on your Expected Family Contribution (EFC) as determined by the FAFSA, not all funding is subject to these restrictions. In general, financial aid is available to assist with tuition, books, fees and other expenses such as room and board up to the cost of attendance.
How much money can I get? What loans are available?
Other than scholarship funds awarded during the admissions process, there are 2 basic forms of aid available for graduate study.
- Federal Work-Study (FWS) allows you to obtain part-time employment while you are enrolled in school to help pay your educational expenses. These funds are need based and will be available for all students who qualify and wish to participate. These funds are paid directly to the student throughout the school year as they are earned.
- Student loans are the primary source of financial aid for many graduate students and require half-time enrollment. There are several different loan programs available to students.
- Federal Perkins Loan is a subsidized loan available to graduate and professional students on an institutional basis. Eligibility for the Perkins Loan is need based. The graduate annual maximum is $8,000.
- Federal Stafford Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loan programs require half-time enrollment. Annual loan limits are tied to the cost of attendance and individual eligibility, with a maximum of $20,500 (no more than $8,500 of these funds may be subsidized). When a loan is subsidized, the borrower is not responsible for the interest that is accumulating while enrolled at least half-time and during grace periods and deferments. In the case of unsubsidized loans, interest accumulates and may be paid during these periods or capitalized (added to the principal) at a specified time.
- Grad PLUS Loans may be available to students enrolled at least half-time in a graduate or professional program. Grad PLUS borrowers may borrow up to the cost of attendance for the period of enrollment, minus other estimated financial assistance received for that period. Grad PLUS loans are subject to credit review.
- Private educational loans (also called alternative loans) may be available when the federal loans are insufficient to cover the student’s cost of attendance. These loans are non-need-based unsubsidized funds provided by lenders for educational purposes and may also have annual and aggregate limits.
Can I have a job while I am at school full time?
Most students work part time (10-20 hours per week) when enrolled in the full-time program. Many students apply for and receive work-study funds.
How do I apply for work-study?
To apply for a work-study award, complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). The University Office of Financial Aid will provide you a work-study award if you meet the eligibility requirements and if funds are available at the time that you apply.
I have a work-study award, how do I find a job?
To review a list of work-study positions visit our career services website and click on “Symplicity” Symplicity is our new career management system that offers a wide range of tools to help you connect with prospective employers. When you see a position of interest, contact the hiring department to inquire about hiring procedures.
What is the cost of living in St. Louis?
The St. Louis area living costs vary according to neighborhoods and apartment complexes. Your expenses per month and year will depend on living costs and the amount of personal debt you carry (car, charge cards, etc.). The average cost of living near the University is $600 per month for rent and utilities. Washington University offers a resourceful "Apartment Referral Service" to all incoming and current students.
Is housing available at the Brown School?
No. Most students live off campus within walking distance of the Brown School.
I live out-of-state, how can I easily find a place to live?
Washington University provides an apartment listing services called Quadrangle Housing. Through QH, you can obtain computer listings of apartments by rental rate, location, number of bedrooms, rooms to rent, etc. You may use this service simply by going to their office and presenting a copy of your acceptance letter.
If you would like Quadrangle Housing to send you general information on housing in the St. Louis area, please request it by writing or calling QH at:
Quadrangle Housing
700 Rosedale Ave., Box 1016
St. Louis, MO 63112
(314) 935-9511 / 1-800-874-4330
We provide a list of apartments for lease in the surrounding areas of Washington University, including:
Apartment Search, www.apartment-search.com
Helix Realty, www.helixrlty.com
Barron Realty Company, http://barronrealty.com
How can I find a roommate?
We create a roommate directory before the fall and spring semesters. We send this information to incoming students well in advance of the beginning of the semester.
Do I need a car in St. Louis?
It is possible to get around St. Louis City and the university area by means of public transportation. However, if you arrange for a practicum site that is a considerable distance away you will need a car. Full time students are able to use bus and light rail system free of charge.