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Summary
The 60-credit Online Master of Science builds the quantitative and research skills needed to generate, analyze, and communicate evidence that advances public health work. Students receive training in epidemiology, biostatistics, data science, causal inference, study design, and scientific communication, culminating in a master’s thesis.
Designed for students seeking rigorous research training in a flexible format, the fully online program can be completed over two or three years through asynchronous coursework, optional live sessions, and peer learning, without the need to relocate.
Questions about the program? Contact onlinesm@hsph.harvard.edu.
About
The Online Master of Science offers two pathways for completing the 60-credit degree. Students may complete the program over four semesters, with full-time study during the first academic year and part-time study during the second. Students may also complete the degree on a part-time basis over three years, providing additional flexibility for balancing academic and professional commitments.
Courses are delivered asynchronously, allowing students from around the world to learn on their own schedules. Optional live sessions provide opportunities to engage with faculty and classmates in real time, while peer-to-peer learning supports collaboration throughout the program.
The curriculum progressively builds the research skills students need to conduct and communicate rigorous public health research. Students begin with foundational training in epidemiology, biostatistics, and the broader public health landscape. Required coursework also includes emerging and topical areas such as health data science and artificial intelligence.
Beginning in the second semester, students select electives that allow them to tailor their learning to their interests. The program concludes with a culminating experience and a written research paper. Students also develop practical research skills in responsible conduct, academic writing, scientific communication, and publishing.
Online • Full-time/Part-time (two-years) • Part-time (three-years)
Curriculum
Public Health Core
- Foundations for Public Health for SM
- Public Health in Research
Field of Study
- Applied Regression Analysis
- Core Principles of Data Science I
- Core Principles of Data Science II
- Elements for Epidemiological Research
- Introduction to Epidemiology Methods
- Introduction to Statistical Methods
- Models for Causal Inference
- Scientific Integrity and Good Research Practices
- Study Designs
- Writing and Publishing Scientific Literature
Written Report
- Master’s Thesis I
- Master’s Thesis II
- Applications of Epidemiology
- Decision Science for Public Health
- Design and Conduct of Trials in Preventative Medicine
- Interventions for Global Health: Concepts and Methods
- Introduction to Implementation Science
- Introduction to Machine Learning and Risk Prediction
- Introduction to Qualitative Research Methods for Public Health
- Investigating Outbreaks
- Linear and Longitudinal Regression
- Practical Scientific Methods for Improving Health and Heath Care
- Survey Research Methods for Public Health
- Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Competencies
- Design research studies in medicine and public health (e.g., study design and population selection, sample size justification, data analysis plans, methods of data acquisition and organization, data management methods, and protocol development).
- Analyze and interpret quantitative data for scientific inference (e.g., graphical and tabular displays and visuals, descriptive statistics, statistical inference, and choice of appropriate statistical software for the data analysis).
- Critically evaluate and apply principles of epidemiologic methods, including exposure and outcome measures, measures of association, bias and confounding, and study design options.
- Collaborate and communicate effectively with research scientists in related disciplines.
- Disseminate new knowledge in a research discipline through the preparation of a written report, comparison of different methodologies, and oral presentation of results.
Career Outcomes
Graduates of the Online Masters of Science degree will have a wide range of pathways to a meaningful and impactful career across diverse industries, including:
- Academic institutions
- Government
- Biotech/pharma
- Health care organizations
- Non-profit/Non-government organizations
- Public health agencies
Our Community
Learn in a global online community
Students from around the world learn together through asynchronous coursework, peer-to-peer learning, and optional live sessions with faculty and classmates. This flexible format creates opportunities to exchange perspectives and build connections while studying from wherever students live and work.
Eligibility Criteria
Eligible applicants for the Online Master of Science must hold a bachelor’s degree or non-U.S. equivalent.
Application Requirements
All applications must be submitted through SOPHAS – the centralized application for schools and programs of public health. As part of the application, you must submit:
- Statement of purpose
- Standardized test scores (optional with guidance)
- Three letters of recommendation
- Resumé/curriculum vitae
- Post-secondary transcripts or mark sheets (World Education Services credential evaluation for applicants with degrees from outside of the United States.)
- English language proficiency (TOEFL/IELTS/Duolingo English Test), if applicable
Application Deadline: December 1
Applicants may apply to only one degree program for either full- or part-time status. Applications are reviewed in their entirety and decisions are released via email in late February/early March. Decisions are not released until all application components are received.
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