Public health professionals, such as epidemiologists and health educators, study health trends and implement plans to improve community health. The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14.1% increase in the number of health educators in Virginia, compared to a 12.2% increase nationally. This growth means graduates of public health programs in Virginia have plenty of employment opportunities.
The Bureau of Labor Statistics projects a 14.1% increase in the number of health educators in Virginia, compared to a 12.2% increase nationally.
Virginia public health officials address issues such as obesity and opioid addiction. The Centers for Disease Control classifies 28.5% of Virginians as obese, and Virginia struggles with an opioid addiction crisis. According to the Virginia Department of Health, more than 1,200 people died of opioid overdoses in 2016. Opioid overdoses also contribute to thousands of emergency hospital visits per year, burdening healthcare facilities. Another health challenge is the state’s aging population, since older residents require specialized senior care. Graduates of online MPH programs in Virginia work to alleviate these issues and improve residents’ quality of life.
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Public Health Initiatives in Virginia
To address the state’s high obesity rate, the Virginia Department of Health (VDH) leads efforts to educate children and adults about the health risks of obesity and to provide access to healthy food and opportunities for exercise. Other issues stem from Virginia’s aging population. The U.S. Census Bureau projects the number of Virginians 65 or older will represent 18.89% of the state population by 2030. The Virginia Division for the Aging helps older residents and their caregivers access senior care resources.
Opioid addiction burdens Virginia’s healthcare infrastructure; overdoses accounted for more than 9,000 emergency hospital visits in 2016. VDH efforts to abate this public health emergency include counseling, treatment programs, and educating doctors and patients about how to safely handle prescription opioids. The VDH also oversees the distribution of naloxone, a medication that reverses opioid overdoses.
Public Health Internships & Fellowships in Virginia
Internships and fellowships provide students and recent graduates with real-world experience. Internships may be paid or unpaid and involve the performance of limited job functions. In contrast, fellows receive pay and perform tasks similar to regular employees’ responsibilities. Fellowships normally last for a specified amount of time, so fellows receive supervised workplace training before moving on to full-time positions. The following list includes internship and fellowship opportunities for students in online MPH programs in Virginia.
Association of State and Territorial Health Officials (ASTHO) Internship
Working with top public health officials from throughout the United States, Arlington-based ASTHO interns focus on specific issues affecting public health, including disease control, maternal health, and health improvement. Students can apply on ASTHO’s website.
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Chester Family YMCA Wellness Internship
This internship at the Chester Family YMCA of Greater Richmond supports community programs focused on healthy living, social responsibility, and youth development. Interns gain experience working with senior staff at a major community organization. More information is available on the Chester Family YMCA website.
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University of Virginia Health System Administrative Fellowship
This fellowship offers developing public health professionals opportunities to learn best practices in health administration at one of the largest and most respected medical institutions in the state. Apply through the UVA Health System website.
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Virginia Commonwealth University Public Health Internship
This internship provides MPH-seeking Virginia Commonwealth University students opportunities to gain hands-on experience implementing public health solutions. Interns work on projects in partnership with state and national public health organizations.
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Virginia Department of Health Dietetic Internship
This internship is for aspiring public health dietitians and nutritionists. Interns work with Virginia and Maryland WIC programs to provide women and children with access to healthy food. Apply through the VDH or the Maryland Department of Health.
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Public Health Careers in Virginia
The public health field encompasses several professional roles, which each pay different salaries. Salaries also vary with experience and academic qualifications; public health professionals who hold advanced degrees earn higher wages. Another factor is geographic location. For example, public health educators in Virginia earn less than those in the District of Columbia.
| Employment | Hourly Mean Wage | Annual Mean Wage | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Virginia | 1,290 | $29.55 | $61,450 |
| United States | 63,260 | $32.60 | $67,810 |
Source: BLS
Public Health Employers in Virginia
Public health professionals fill critical public safety roles. However, relatively few total jobs exist in this specialized profession. Students earning their master’s in public health online in Virginia should research the largest public health employers in the state for the best chance of securing employment after graduation.
| Employers | Number of Employees |
|---|---|
| Virginia Department of Health | 3,683 |
| Virginia Beach Department of Human Services | 1,144 |
| Norfolk Department of Human Services | 525 |
Public Health Research Centers in Virginia
Since public health relies heavily on research, understanding the latest findings in the field fosters career success. Students in online MPH programs should be familiar with the state’s largest research centers, for both current information and employment opportunities.
- Center for Public Health Practice and Research: This center at Virginia Tech conducts interdisciplinary research in public health issues. CPHPR provides program design and evaluation resources to support community-based projects throughout Virginia.
- Division of Epidemiology: The Division of Epidemiology at Virginia Commonwealth University specializes in the study of disease control and uses cutting-edge research methods to advance the understanding of biological and social factors affecting population health.
- Institute for Public Health Innovation: This nonprofit organization builds relationships across disciplines to improve public health and supports research initiatives throughout Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia. The institute’s focuses include abating the regional obesity epidemic and ensuring access to health resources.
Public Health Professional Organizations in Virginia
The field of public health requires the exchange of new research findings and best practices among specialized practitioners; public health organizations hold conferences that bring together health professionals. Joining professional organizations benefits current MPH students and recent graduates beginning public health careers in Virginia. Many organizations offer continuing education and networking opportunities, and some arrange internships and fellowships.
- Association of State and Territorial Health Officials: This national organization based in Arlington unites U.S. health officials who are researching disease prevention, maternal health, and other public health challenges. The association holds regular meetings, organizes continuing education seminars, and supports public health agency research projects.
- Public Health Association at Virginia Tech: This organization comprises Virginia Tech students, alumni, and faculty in departments related to public health. Members gain practical experience working on collaborative solutions to public health issues on Virginia Tech’s Blacksburg campus.
- Virginia Public Health Association: Based in Richmond, this association improves public health in Virginia by supporting the development of public health professionals. The association publishes a journal, holds conferences, and arranges fellowships.
Public Health Certifications and Licenses in Virginia
Many public health positions require certification or licensure. Public health employers in Virginia prefer candidates who hold the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential, especially when filling leadership roles. The National Board of Public Health Examiners oversees CPH certification, which requires passing an exam about theoretical foundations and best practices in public health administration.
Public health employers in Virginia prefer candidates who hold the Certified in Public Health (CPH) credential, especially when filling leadership roles.
Some public health jobs require a license issued by the state of Virginia, particularly positions that involve working with vulnerable populations or controlled substances. Health professionals who work with children typically obtain licensure through the Virginia Department of Social Services, and those who offer counseling services may need a license from the Virginia Board of Counseling. Public health employees who work in drug rehabilitation and handle potentially dangerous substances, such as naloxone, register with the Virginia Board of Pharmacy.
Accreditation for Online Public Health Master’s Programs in Virginia
Public health employers need qualified candidates. Public health professionals perform critical services and often work with sensitive populations, so employees need rigorous training. Candidates prove the quality of their training by earning a degree from an accredited institution. Accreditation is the process by which external agencies verify that educational institutions meet set academic standards. To ensure potential employers recognize the value of their academic credentials, students considering online MPH programs in Virginia should choose an accredited program.
The two main types of accreditation in the United States are regional and national. Regional accreditation typically applies to academically oriented institutions, including those offering public health programs in Virginia. National accreditation is usually reserved for vocational programs. Regional accreditation is more highly regarded and is crucial for students pursuing advanced degrees, as degrees and credits from nationally accredited schools rarely transfer to regionally accredited institutions. Students pursuing MPH programs in Virginia should also look for accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health, an independent agency that sets strict criteria for training public health professionals.
Directory of Online Master’s in Public Health Programs in Virginia
Eastern Virginia Medical School
Eastern Virginia Medical School is located in Norfolk. The community of Hampton Roads built a new medical school in the 1960s, and in 1973, EVMS opened its doors. More than four decades later, the school continues to evolve, innovate, and give back to the local community, providing an economic impact to the region.
The school offers one of the best public health programs in Virginia, which is a joint program between EVMS and Old Dominion University. The 43-credit master of public health is delivered online or through evening courses. The program prepares students to become advocates for positive change at all levels of public health. There are four specializations to choose from: epidemiology, which focuses on disease prevention; health management and policy, which addresses support of health care institutions in the face of rapid change; global environmental health, which explores contemporary issues like foodborne illness, air and water quality, and disaster preparedness and recovery; and health promotion and education, which examines the impact lifestyle solutions can have on individual health, chronic disease, and healthcare cost. As part of the core curriculum, each concentration requires a community practicum and capstone seminar, where students demonstrate their mastery of public health theories and principles by applying them to current challenges in the field.
New classes begin three times per year: spring, summer, and fall. This allows full-time students to complete all degree requirements in five semesters, or two years. Part-time MPH candidates have six years to graduate. EVMS uses a holistic approach for admissions, meaning the school weighs and gives balanced consideration to all aspects of an application. Applicants must possess a four-year degree with a minimum GPA of 2.5 and submit GRE scores (the GMAT or MCAT may substitute), three letters of recommendation, and a personal essay.
George Mason University
Established in 1957, GMU is the largest public research university in the Commonwealth of Virginia, with an enrollment of more than 34,000 students. Mason Online offers over 50 online and blended programs in business and management, education, engineering and technology, science, math, and health.
Among the best online MPH programs in Virginia is GMU’s 42-credit master of public health with a concentration in public health practice, which examines ways to improve population and community health, as well as the social and environmental factors at play. The interdisciplinary curriculum prepares graduates to sit for the Certified Public Health, Certified Health Education Specialist, and Master Certified Health Education Specialist exams. For students able to attend on-campus courses, the school offers five other concentrations: community health promotion, epidemiology, global health, health policy, and public health communication. The public health practice emphasis requires no campus visits. Graduates are able to conduct systematic research; choose evidence-based policies, programs, and health services that benefit population and community health; and formulate strategies for obtaining input from the community and stakeholders. For each track, students participate in a 200-hour practicum and produce a culminating experience based on fieldwork.
Along with transcripts and GRE scores, applicants must submit a resume, two letters of recommendation, and a statement of goals that details the prospective student’s professional plans and career objectives. There is no minimum score for the GRE, but typical applicant section scores are 152 verbal, 151 quantitative, and 4.0 analytical writing. Once matriculation begins, students must complete all MPH requirements within six years, with most students graduating in two or three years. To graduate, students must maintain a 3.0 GPA. Applicants must also have at least two years of public health work experience.
Scholarships for Public Health Master’s Degrees in Virginia
Anne Anton Koval Scholarship
This scholarship supports Richmond-area students in health-related fields who demonstrate financial need.
Amount Offered: $1,500
Scholarship Deadline: March 2
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be 21 or older and must be seeking a health-related degree from an institution in the greater Richmond area.
Franklin D. Boyce Annual Health Scholarship
This scholarship benefits residents of select Virginia counties who are seeking graduate degrees in health science fields.
Amount Offered: $2,500
Scholarship Deadline: February 15
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must live in one of the designated counties, must demonstrate financial need, and must have at least a 3.0 GPA.
Gregg E. Hosack Scholarship
This scholarship, which honors a government service professional who was committed to the Hopewell community, supports students pursuing continuing education in Virginia.
Amount Offered: $1,000
Scholarship Deadline: February 15
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be a continuing education student residing in Hopewell or a surrounding community.
Health Focus Scholarship
This scholarship, offered by Health Focus of Southwest Virginia, supports Virginia students seeking degrees related to health and wellness.
Amount Offered: Up to $3,500
Scholarship Deadline: May 15
Eligibility Requirements: The recipient must have at least a 2.75 GPA and must be seeking a health-related degree.
Leo Bourassa Scholarship
Offered through the Virginia Lakes and Watersheds Association, this scholarship assists Virginia students pursuing degrees related to to water quality issues.
Amount Offered: $3,000
Scholarship Deadline: April 1
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be working toward a degree relevant to water resource issues. Preference is given to those who demonstrate academic achievement and who participate in extracurricular activities related to water resources.
Lisa Higgins-Hussman Foundation Scholarship
This scholarship supports students under 35 years of age who are affected by cancer and who live in the region encompassing Maryland, Virginia, and the District of Columbia.
Amount Offered: $2,500
Scholarship Deadline: March 11
Eligibility Requirements: The recipient must be under 35, must live in the target region, and must be diagnosed with cancer or have a close relative who is diagnosed with cancer.
Liz Courain Madison House Graduate Degree Scholarship
This scholarship, offered through the University of Virginia Health System, is available to UVA graduates enrolling in health-related graduate programs.
Amount Offered: $2,500
Scholarship Deadline: May 15
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be a UVA graduate pursuing a health-related graduate degree and must have volunteer experience in the UVA Health system.
Meadows L. Phillips & Thomas H. Weatherford Veterans Scholarship
This scholarship supports veterans who are full-time students at Virginia Commonwealth University.
Amount Offered: Varies
Scholarship Deadline: February 28
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be a full-time student who served in the United States military and must prove honorable discharge from any branch of the U.S. armed forces.
Resident Graduate Priority Program
This scholarship supports Virginia residents in graduate programs at Liberty University.
Amount Offered: $2,000
Scholarship Deadline: May 2 and June 1
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be a new, full-time graduate student at Liberty University.
Virginia Tuition Assistance Grant Program
Offered through the State Council for Higher Education for Virginia, this award supports full-time graduate students in fields other than religious education or theology.
Amount Offered: $1,650
Scholarship Deadline: July 31
Eligibility Requirements: The applicant must be a Virginia resident and a full-time student at a qualifying institution.
