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College of Health Sciences

4+1: Public Health, BS + MPH

Earn your BS and MPH in just five years through SHSU’s accelerated 4+1 program—launch your public health career faster with real-world experience and flexibility.

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Degree
  • Master of Public Health
  • Bachelor of Science
Location
  • Huntsville
  • Online
Type of Instruction
  • Face to Face
  • Online
Length

4 + 1 Years

Start Changing Lives Sooner

SHSU’s 4+1 Public Health program helps you earn your BS and MPH in only five years—saving time while gaining the hands-on skills and experience to make an impact in communities across Texas and beyond.

Accelerated Pathway to a Graduate Degree

This innovative 4+1 program allows motivated students to complete their BS and MPH degrees in just five years. Undergraduate students can apply after completing 90 credit hours and begin taking graduate-level coursework during their senior year.

Gain Career-Ready Public Health Skills

Graduates develop core competencies in epidemiology, health policy, and program design, as well as hands-on experience in research and community health. The program prepares you to address complex health challenges and advance into leadership roles.

Why Choose the 4+1 Public Health Program

​​When you earn your Master of Public Health from Sam Houston State University, you step into a career with a true global impact. You’ll have the knowledge, skills, and practices to manage the health and safety concerns of communities in the next town or around the world. You’ll have hands-on experience that give you a deeper understanding how policies affect people, and how to use your knowledge to improve the lives of others.​

  • Accelerate Your Education

    SHSU’s 4+1 Public Health program lets you earn your BS and MPH in just five years—saving time and tuition while gaining advanced skills sooner. Begin graduate courses during your senior year and apply your knowledge immediately through hands-on projects. The program’s flexible design helps you balance academics and field experience while positioning you for leadership in a rapidly expanding public health field.

  • Hands-On Experience

    Gain practical experience through internships and practicum opportunities with hospitals, public health departments, and nonprofits. SHSU students apply classroom learning to real-world health challenges and explore topics like health disparities, global health, and preventive care. Whether you choose the thesis or non-thesis option, you’ll graduate ready for a meaningful, impact-driven career in public health.

  • Growing Career Field

    Public health professionals are in high demand, and SHSU’s 4+1 program helps you stand out. Graduates are prepared for careers as Health Education Specialists, Epidemiologists, and Health Service Managers. With a focus on leadership, communication, and cultural awareness, you’ll be equipped to design programs, influence policy, and promote wellness in communities across Texas and beyond.

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Find Your Future Career

​​With a Master of Public Health, you’ll be ready for a career as a health education or public health specialist, a health service manager, epidemiologist, emergency management director or director of health promotion.​

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Expert Faculty to Advise You

​​Sam Houston State University faculty bring a wealth of experience to the classroom. The professors who will guide you through your degree path are supportive, collaborative and dedicated to your success.​

Become a Bearkat

Ready to see what a degree can do for you or to start your application to SHSU? Our Admissions team is here to help.