There is a wide selection of concentrations and specializations for prospective students looking for a Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program in the state of Florida. The field of Public Health is a broad discipline which takes account of the many different variables that can influence health of large populations, so there are many subsets within MPH programs. Different specializations will prepare students for particular jobs within the field of Public Health, so students should be aware of their career options, for reference you can check out our list of the 50 Top Public Health Jobs. The unique institutions in the state of Florida that offer MPH programs have different specializations available within their programs. Some of the most common specializations in the field of Public Health are: Biostatistics and Epidemiology, Environmental Health, Health Policy and Management, and Social and Behavioral Sciences, though some institutions have many more offerings. For a list of the top Public Health degree programs in the state of Florida, check out our list of The 5 Best Public Health Degree Programs in Florida. Let’s take a look at the curriculum differences between some of the most common concentrations for Master’s in Public Health programs.
Biostatistics and Epidemiology
Biostatistics and Epidemiology are closely related fields within Public Health that are sometimes taught in conjunction, and are sometimes taught separately. Biostatistics and Epidemiology are fields of study within Public Health that uses statistical analysis to address public health issues. Epidemiology students are expected to have strong math skills, as concepts like fractional calculus are often used to model the spread of disease through large populations. Biostatistics students will focus on a wider range of statistical analysis, such as rates of medication effectivity, individual patient data, and health care availability. Schools with specializations in Epidemiology and Biostatics in the state of Florida include the University of Florida, Florida International University, and the University of Miami. For some interesting statistics about epidemiology, check out our infographic about Epidemics of America.
Environmental Health
The field of Environmental Health is a concentration which prepares its students to analyze the factors that play a part in the health of populations within specific environments. Students will study how particular areas such as industrialization, food production, and air and water quality play a role in Public Health. Schools in the state of Florida with MPH programs that offer concentrations in Environmental Health include the University of Florida, the University of Southern Florida, and the University of Miami.
Health Policy and Management
The field of Health Policy and Management is a specialization which prepares its students for careers in legislative and administrative positions within the field of Public Health. Students who specialize in Health Policy and Management will learn the dynamics of the U.S. health care system, as well as the logistical issues that go into providing patients with the treatment they require. Institutions that offer MPH specializations in Health Policy and Management include the University of Florida, Florida International University, and the University of Miami.
Social and Behavioral Sciences
Social and Behavioral Sciences is a discipline within Public Health that gives their students a holistic understanding of the cultural dynamics at play in issues concerning public health. Students should have a strong understanding of sociological concepts, like how individuals function within larger institutions. Schools with MPH concentrations in Social and Behavioral Sciences in the state of Florida include the University of Florida, and the University of Southern Florida.
