Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health MPH Program: FAQ + Application Tips

Are you obsessed with the idea of helping people live longer, better, and healthier lives? Perhaps you’re already doing that as a healthcare professional but want to amplify your impact. Pursuing a Master of Public Health (MPH) from Harvard University could be an exceptional next step.

This comprehensive guide provides applicants with insights into Harvard’s MPH program, including eligibility criteria, application requirements, career outcomes, and how the school prepares global leaders in public health.

Is Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health a Good School?

Harvard University’s T.H. Chan School of Public Health is highly respected and ranked third on the U.S. News Best Public Health Schools ranking. The school offers multiple graduate degrees in public health, including master’s, doctoral, and non-degree options. Harvard MPH programs specifically focus on equipping graduates for careers in professional public health practice rather than academia.

What Is Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health Known For?

The Harvard T.H. Chan School is renowned for its leadership in public health activism, health policies, and global health initiatives. Faculty members, including health professionals from world-class health facilities such as Boston Children’s Hospital and Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, actively engage students in cutting-edge research and real-world projects.

Students collaborate with experts to develop specialized skills they need in epidemiology, health economics, leadership and management, policy analysis, and more, preparing them to address global public health challenges.

For me, school has been one of the greatest vehicles for achieving my biggest goals — and pairing that with mentorship made all the difference.

Harvard MPH Degree Program Application Requirements:

Admission requirements vary by program track:

45-Credit MPH Program:Doctoral degree holders (MD, DO, PhD)Health-related master’s degree holders (MSN, MSW) with at least two years of relevant health experienceDental or medical students who completed the primary clinical yearHarvard Law School 1L studentsBachelor’s degree holders with at least five years of relevant health experienceMPH 65-Credit Degree:Bachelor’s degree holders with a minimum of two years of relevant health experience

Applications must be submitted through SOPHAS (the centralized application system).

GRE Requirement:

Traditionally, Harvard requires standardized test scores (GRE, MCAT, GMAT, LSAT, DAT). Due to COVID-19, this requirement was temporarily waived but is expected to resume from the 2024-2025 academic year.

Successful applicants typically score in the 60th percentile or higher on the GRE quantitative section (around 157).

How to Stand Out on Your Harvard MPH Application:

Your application should highlight academic strengths, professional accomplishments, and public health experience clearly:

Strong GPA: Harvard’s MPH students typically have an average undergraduate GPA of 3.65. Aim for a GPA in the 3.65–4.0 range.Relevant Experience: Clearly articulate your health-related work experience, including volunteer roles, internships, or professional responsibilities.Address Weaknesses: Explain any academic or professional gaps transparently, providing context to help admissions officers understand your trajectory.

One thing I always remind our clients in our Application Accelerator program is that you don’t need to try to impress Harvard by pretending to be someone you’re not. What works is showing up as the most honest, powerful version of who you already are.

Our amazing client, Lily, who studied Business Honors, Supply Chain Management, and Government in college, earned admission to the MPH program at Harvard. You can check out Lily’s inspiring journey here.

Harvard MPH Acceptance Rate:

While Harvard University’s general acceptance rate is approximately 3.24%, the acceptance rate for the Harvard MPH program is about 49%. Despite this higher acceptance rate, applications are reviewed rigorously, and only well-prepared applicants are successful.

Eligibility Criteria for Harvard MPH:

Good MPH applicants fulfill these criteria:

Relevant degrees or sufficient public health experienceStrong communication skills (quantitative and verbal aptitude)Demonstrated academic and professional competence

Harvard does not explicitly state a minimum GPA, but competitive applicants generally have GPAs of 3.65 or higher.

Can Applicants with a Low GPA Apply?

Applicants may apply even with lower GPAs but must compensate by excelling in standardized testing, professional experience, or presenting a persuasive personal statement.

I’ve helped hundreds of clients get into Harvard — even those with imperfect stats. A strong test score is helpful, yes, but it won’t carry your whole application. You’ve got to bring your full story.

Writing a Strong Harvard MPH Personal Statement:

Your MPH personal statement is a key part of your application. It should:

Clearly state your chosen MPH field of study (e.g., epidemiology, global health, health policy).Demonstrate your academic and professional preparation for public health.Explain your career aspirations after graduation.

The statement should be concise, under 600 words, with an additional 200-word section addressing your quantitative skills, relevant coursework, or practical experiences.

Harvard isn’t looking for a made-up story. They want to know you. That’s why authenticity isn’t just encouraged — it’s essential.

Cost of Attending Harvard MPH Program: 45-credit MPH : $74,340 tuition + $6,108 in health fees = $80,448 total 65-credit MPH : $65,160 tuition + $6,108 in health fees = $71,268 totalGeneralist 45-credit MPH (2 years, part-time, online): $37,170 tuition (no health fees listed)

Additional costs include late registration fees ($80), course materials, parking, and library fees. Students extending beyond the standard time-to-degree are assessed an Extended Enrollment Fee per additional term.

For a full breakdown of tuition and fees, visit the official tuition page.

Is a Harvard MPH Respected?

A Harvard MPH degree is highly respected globally, preparing graduates to become influential leaders who effectively address public health issues worldwide.

Related Links and Resources:SOPHAS – Centralized Application ServiceHarvard T.H. Chan School – Official Program DetailsFinancial Aid and Scholarships InformationFinal Thoughts on the Harvard MPH Program:

Pursuing a Master of Public Health at Harvard T.H. Chan School is a valuable step in your professional journey, providing access to outstanding education, extensive job opportunities in a variety of industries, and lifelong learning possibilities.

If this program is on your heart, trust that instinct. You were chosen for this for a reason. Know it — and lean all the way into it.

As always, we encourage applicants to carefully consider application requirements, eligibility criteria, and career paths to confidently apply and maximize their potential for success.

Ready to turn your vision into a real, winning application?
Our team specializes in helping bold, mission-driven candidates get into top public health programs, often with significant funding. Book a free Quick Call with our team.

Let’s map out your path and see what’s possible.