Catalog
Registered Dietitian (RD/RDN)
Master of Public Health

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill Master of Public Health online

Prepare to anticipate and combat today’s most urgent public health challenges.

About the program

Global alumni network: UNC Gillings School connects you to public health leaders around the globe, representing 53 countries across six continents.
No GRE scores required: Your passion for advancing health matters more than standardized test scores.
Accredited program tracks: The MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, Applied Epi tracks are all CEPH-accredited. The Nutrition and Dietetics track is ACEND-accredited.

About University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, the oldest public university in the United States, remains a global leader known for its innovative teaching and groundbreaking research. Today, UNC-Chapel Hill brings online programs to learners around the world, offering enriching experiences that support their academic and professional interests at any stage of their career.

Tuition and fees

Tuition and fees are subject to change and may increase each academic year. Tuition does not include student fees, technology platform licensing, or support services. Learners are also responsible for travel and accommodation costs related to any in-person immersions or residentials.

Technology and services powered by 2U, Inc., the parent company of edX.

Program tracks

The 42-credit online Master of Public Health program offers an interdisciplinary understanding of the cultural, environmental, and social issues that create inequities in modern-day society. No matter which track you choose, you’ll graduate prepared to lead sustainable change and create a more equitable world. Learners can choose from four track options:

MPH Leadership: Lead teams, projects, and organizations in eliminating health disparities, improving individual well-being, and fostering change in local and global communities. You’ll learn how to develop practical solutions to systemic challenges in any area of public health. Complete in as few as 20–24 months.
MPH Nutrition: Improve the health of individuals, families, and communities through nutrition outreach, policy, and education. In addition to core public health knowledge, you’ll focus on nutrition science, behavior change, counseling, and the broad effects of dietary culture. Complete in as few as 16 months.
Applied Epidemiology: Use data to improve population health in the UNC Gillings School’s Applied Epidemiology concentration for the online MPH program. You’ll learn to understand public health surveillance systems, recommend study designs, conduct analyzes to address research questions, and communicate findings to a variety of audiences. Complete in as few as 20–24 months.
Nutrition and Dietetics: Prepare to meet the requirements to sit for the Commission on Dietetic Registration exam and become a registered dietitian. In addition to completing 1,000 hours of field experience, you’ll develop a scientific understanding of nutrition and dietetics and a strong foundation in public health practice and research. Complete in as few as 36 months.

Admissions

The Gillings School of Global Public Health at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill looks for candidates whose academic background, professional experience, and leadership abilities meet the demands of the online Master of Public Health (MPH) program. There are three start dates per year for the MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, and Applied Epidemiology track options. The Nutrition and Dietetics program has one start date per year. Below are the admission requirements:

Online application
Résumé or CV
Transcripts from all postsecondary institutions attended
Statement of purpose
Letters of recommendation

Fieldwork

In addition to experiencing a collaborative online learning experience, you will have the opportunity to apply public health concepts, values, and skills in a real-world setting through in-person practicum.

MPH Leadership, MPH Nutrition, or Applied Epidemiology: Learners enrolled in these concentrations will complete 200 hours of a planned, mentored, and evaluated work experience in their local communities.

Nutrition and Dietetics: Learners enrolled in this concentration will complete 1,000 hours of supervised practice experiences.

A dedicated placement specialist will work with you to find an ideal setting close to you.² During these fieldwork experiences, you will hone your career goals, collaborate with experienced public health professionals, and contribute to organizations that are actively advancing public health.