Combined Degree: DVM/UNC MPH

This program combines the traditional 4-year veterinary curriculum with a 2 year  Masters of Public Health program at the University of North Carolina, Gillings School of Public Health.  All 12 MPH concentrations are available for DVM students to complete the MPH in two years.  One MPH concentration, Population Health for Clinicians, is available to be completed in one intensive academic year. All coursework will be completed at UNC Chapel Hill. 

Students can be eligible after the completion of their second year of the veterinary curriculum. Students will return to the DVM curriculum after completion of the MPH.

Students can apply to the program in December of their second year after attending an informational session on the program. Students interested in applying are strongly encouraged to discuss their interest and plans in advance of their application with Dr. Laura Nelson (Associate Dean of Academic Affairs).

CVM Global Health Program

Global health is collaborative, transnational research and action to promote health for all.

In the coming decades, many of the major challenges to human health will originate outside of the human health sector. These range from emerging zoonotic diseases to pollution and climate change. Tackling these challenges effectively will require multidisciplinary approaches with consideration given to the broader systems that encompass health.

Program Details

The 12 MPH concentration areas include a wide range of research and practice portfolios – from helping to solve the opioid abuse epidemic, to preventing and controlling cancer, to improving water access and quality, to using big data and machine learning. Explore all of these areas and see how UNC’s engaged faculty, students and staff members work with communities and across disciplines — in North Carolina and around the world — to solve some of our most challenging health problems.

Visit the Residential MPH Frequently Asked Questions page for more information.

The MPH program is comprised of 42 credits of core, concentration, practicum and elective credits.  Students have the opportunity to work in the field during their applied practicum experience in the summer between their first and second years.  This 200 (minimum) hour planned, mentored and evaluated applied practice experience (paid or unpaid) gives students an opportunity to use their Gillings MPH training in a professional public health setting.

Tuition and Scholarships

Tuition for the MPH is approximately  $ 20,000/year for North Carolina residents. Scholarships for at least some of the tuition costs may be available for exceptional students that apply by the December (early) deadline.

Additional Information

For additional information on the program please contact Dr. Laura Nelson (Associate Dean of Academic Affairs) or Karla Townley-Tilson, MPH Program Director at Gillings School of Global Public Health.