Accelerated BS/BA in Biology - MPH

*Applications to this program are not currently being accepted. Please contact FSPH academic advising for additional assistance.

The accelerated 4+1 BS/BA in Biology to MPH allows students to graduate with both Bachelor of Science or Bachelor of Arts in Biology and Master of Public Health degrees in just five years.

This program is one year less than the traditional six-year path of obtaining a bachelor’s and master’s degree, saving time and money and giving students the specialized skills and experience needed to be the next champions of public and population health.

Students interested in the accelerated program are encouraged to meet regularly with their academic advisor in Biology throughout Years 1-3 of their biology degree. Students should also consult the program plan outlined in iGPS. 

Application information

Deadline to apply: June 1

The accelerated program is a competitive opportunity for outstanding public health students. To be eligible, students must have a minimum cumulative undergraduate GPA of 3.5. 

Students are encouraged to apply to the MPH program during fall or spring semesters of their junior year; however, the deadline is June 1. Students admitted to the MPH program will still be considered an undergraduate student in year four until they complete their bachelor’s degree.

How to apply

Submit the accelerated program application
Applicants should complete the application in the spring semester of their junior year by the application deadline.

Accelerated application form

Accelerated application form example

You are strongly encouraged to meet with your academic advisor and FSPH undergraduate academic advisor early to begin planning. Please visit our advising page for complete instructions on how to schedule an appointment with an advisor.

Begin planning early

Prospective accelerated program students are encouraged to meet with their academic advisor early to begin planning.

Students admitted to the 4+1 accelerated program will finish their biology credits while completing the following MPH credits in year four:

Fall semester of Year 4:

• PBHL P510 Introduction to Public Health (3 credits)
• PBHL P511 Comprehensive Methods and Applications in Biostatistics and Epidemiology (3 credits)
• PBHL Required or Elective Course in the Student’s MPH Concentration (3 credits)

Spring semester of Year 4:

• PBHL P512 Communication and Leadership (3 credits)
• PBHL P513 Planning, Evaluation and Management (3 credits)
• PBHL Required or Elective Course in the Student’s MPH Concentration (3 credits)

Up to 15 graduate credits taken in Year 4 can be used to fulfill biology electives, thus these 15 graduate credits can double count toward both the MPH and the BS in Biology. Students should consult their MPH faculty advisor to discuss completion of the remaining MPH credits.