For those interested in research, social theory, and professional positions that affect local and global health policies, a master's of public health degree online is an excellent choice. Online and on-campus degree programs in D.C. offer several concentrations, including areas like community health support and chronic disease prevention.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in public health to increase by 7% between 2017 and 2026.
Promisingly, the Bureau of Labor Statistics projects employment in public health to increase by 7% between 2017 and 2026. Several governmental and public organizations working in public health offer internships and study abroad programs for students of public health. Consider enrolling in a master's of public health degree program online or on-campus in D.C.
Featured Online Programs
Public Health Initiatives in D.C.
D.C. Mayor Muriel Bowser's improves city health by maintaining a number of public health initiatives, including chronic disease management services, animal health and control, emergency room usage management, and the review of uncompensated care and community benefit programs and policies. Mayor Bowser also recently announced plans to construct an acute care hospital on St. Elizabeth's campus. She even started the My Health GPS program for Medicaid beneficiaries to improve public health and minimize hospital visits. Additionally, the department of health battles the opioid epidemic by combining the efforts of the local government, public health organizations, and law enforcement agencies.
Public Health Internships & Fellowships in D.C.
Paid or unpaid internships exchange services for work experience. Undergraduate students seek out internships during summer semesters and earn college credit for their work. New graduates at the associate and bachelor's level also seek out these positions to bolster their resumes. Fellowship programs pay students working on their graduate degrees or post-graduate resumes to research topics in their field of expertise. Students in a master's of public health degree program in D.C. may seek out these positions to augment their training and career.
This internship offers a hands-on experience by combining public health science with public health policy. Interested applicants can apply online. More Information
Public Health Careers in D.C.
Salaries for public health officials varies depending on experience, credentials, and location. The earning potential for professionals with advanced degrees generally exceeds those without advanced degrees. Completing an online master's degree in public health multiplies employment options, makes holders more competitive in the job market, and can helps holders earn more money. In D.C., the hourly mean wage and annual mean wage are both higher than the national average. Major cities with public initiatives to improve public health conditions provide lucrative employment opportunities for qualified professionals.
| Employment | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| D.C. | 375 | $46.28 | $96,250 |
| United States | 63,260 | $32.60 | $67,810 |
Source: BLS
Public Health Employers in D.C.
Applying for positions at large public health employers increases your chance of getting a job after graduation. Big companies have more resources and business connections, offer employees competitive salaries and benefits, and provide career advancement.
| Employers | Number of Employees |
|---|---|
| Medstar Health | 16,500 |
| INOVA Health | 17,500 |
| World Health Organization | 7,000 |
Public Health Research Centers in D.C.
Learning about opportunities at local research institutions helps recent graduates secure jobs. Nonprofit organizations, local and state governments, and other public health organizations also offer non-research positions for recent graduates. Both research and non-research positions can be found at the research centers listed below.
Institute for Public Health Innovation: This center works with the government, healthcare providers, academic institutions, and funding organizations to develop and implement innovative public health strategies.
National Center for Health Research: This nonpartisan group improves healthcare by disseminating research results to the public and to policy makers. They specialize in medications, eldercare, and cancer treatment.
The Urban Institute: The Urban Institute helps diagnose health issues within communities. Their researchers work with government and nonprofits at all levels to positively affect policy.
Public Health Professional Organizations in D.C.
Students enrolled in an online master's of public health degree in D.C. should consider organizational membership. These groups offer their members resources like job services and job boards, as well as opportunities for networking, continuing education programs, and annual conferences. These organizations collaborate with collegiate and public health research communities to offer resources for public health professionals entering the job market.
Society for Public Health Education: This nonprofit hosts nearly 4,000 professional members. Their website includes updates on articles and events dealing with national health education and how both new and established professionals can get involved.
The Association of Schools and Programs of Public Health (ASPPH): Members at ASPPH help transform public health education, research, and service. ASPPH offers numerous events, including conferences, recruitment and job services, and fellowships and internships.
International Society for Evolution, Medicine, and Public Health: In addition to in-person meetings at annual conferences, this society offers an email list for members to connect on public health issues of interest. They organize an annual conference, publish a peer-reviewed journal published by Oxford University Press, and provide an online repository of educational resources for students and working professionals.
Public Health Certifications and Licenses in D.C.
the Office of Health Professional Boards administers 70,000 professional licenses in D.C.
Approximately 30 health professional licenses are available through the Department of Health in D.C., and the Office of Health Professional Boards administers 70,000 professional licences in the city. Various certifications are also available to workers in both the public and private sectors. The board of Public Health Examiners recommends that public health professionals obtain certification to demonstrate their health sciences knowledge. Certification increases your earning potential and keeps you updated on changes in the field. However, both licensure and certification may not be required. Students should contact the Department of Health to ensure that they obtain the correct license or certification.
Accreditation for Online Public Health Master's Programs in D.C.
Colleges and universities obtain regional or national accreditation after a peer review board evaluates and approves the school's educational practices. While both regional and national accreditation are significant designations, regionally accredited schools are usually held in higher regard. Regionally accredited institutions offer a wide range of degrees, and nationally accredited schools offer career-centered, vocational training with fewer degree options. Accreditation assessments and standards apply to both on-campus and online programs. Schools accredited by recognized U.S. accrediting organizations will be listed in the Council for Higher Education Accreditation database. For specialized accreditations that assess the standards and practices of public health programs, you may also locate programs reviewed by the Public Health Accreditation Board.
Scholarships for Public Health Master's Degrees in D.C.
In honor of the first African-American Fellow at the American College of Healthcare, this scholarship is for minority students. Scholarship money offsets tuition costs, student loans, and miscellaneous school-related expenses.
Amount Offered: $5,000Scholarship Deadline: October 15Eligibility Requirements: Applicants must be currently enrolled in their final year at an accredited U.S. college or university, have U.S. or Canadian citizenship, and must demonstrate financial need. See Scholarship