Students enrolling in the clinical programs may be eligible for a medical dual degree option leading to a master of public health degree. This option enables students to combine their clinical knowledge and practice with expertise gained in the master’s degree program, helping their patients and enhancing their professional options and career. Course work for the public health master’s degree can be completed entirely online.
The M.P.H. program is designed to provide students with the skills to lead community efforts in improving the health of populations of all ages. Courses provide the opportunity for students to develop skills in identifying, resolving and preventing health problems that affect communities and populations.
Students must complete 45 semester hours to earn the M.P.H. degree. The public health program will recognize up to 6 credit hours from the clinical program toward completion of a dual degree.
How to apply
Below you will find a checklist for the required dual degree application documents. Please be aware of application deadlines. Please review the calendar below for upcoming application deadlines and term start dates.
| Term | Application Deadline | Notification of Admission Decision | Registration Deadline | Term Start Date |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Fall 2012 | May 1, 2012 | June 2012 | August 13, 2012 | August 20, 2012 |
| Spring 2013 | October 2012 | Mid October 2012 | December, 2012 | January 2013 |
Required documents for M.P.H. dual degree application
- Submit clinical dual degree application
The clinical dual degree application is only for current DMU clinical program students (D.O., D.P.M., D.P.T., PA). - A current resume
- Submit a personal statement
Submit an original personal statement, not to exceed 2 pages, single spaced. Topics for personal statement should address the following:- Career goals and how the DMU M.P.H program will help you achieve your goals.
- Past contributions to the field of public health (eg: service, leadership, research, volunteerism, education).
- Professional and personal strength that will help you succeed in our program.
- How will you deal with the expected challenges of a dual degree.
- How do you plan to manage your time effectively as a dual degree student.
- Discuss the clinical dual degree with your primary program advisor.
Your primary clinical advisor will need to approve your application to the dual degree and submit the advisor approval form on your behalf.
Submit all documentation to Enrollment Management office:
M.P.H. Admission
3200 Grand Avenue
Des Moines, IA 50312