Format: Asynchronous Canvas Course
SPH Online Orientation is a series of modules that introduce new graduate students to SPH, the student experience, academic expectations, planning for success, and campus resources. It is hosted in Canvas, along with your fall courses, so you will gain practical experience navigating Canvas. Modules will open beginning in early May and you are able to complete them at your own pace, though it is highly recommended to do them prior to the start of the semester.

Who completes online orientation?
New graduate students are strongly encouraged to complete the online orientation course as it was designed to give you the flexibility and autonomy to engage with based on your personal needs and interests. It can serve as a resource for you well into your academic career.

How do I access online orientation?
New incoming graduate students admitted for Fall 2024 who have paid their admission deposit will be auto enrolled into the SPH Online Orientation course in Canvas beginning early May. UMN Information Technology has instructions for how to access courses in Canvas as well as how to get the Canvas Mobile App.

8:45 a.m. – 1 p.m. School Wide Orientation 

Format: On Campus
During SPH New Student Orientation you will have the opportunity to get to know SPH, learn to navigate campus and begin to make connections within the SPH community. Registration will open in mid-July.

How do I get to McNamara Alumni Center?
Use these directions to find your way to McNamara Alumni Center. You can park in the University Ave. Ramp, take MetroTransit lightrail or bus, or bike to campus.

1-4 p.m. Program Orientation 

Each academic degree program will offer their own orientation the afternoon of August 22 to provide an in-depth overview of your academic experience. Check with your program coordinator for details on location and timing.

Biostatistics (MS, MPH & PhD)
Public Health Data Science (MPH)
Contact Sally Olander (brown198@umn.edu) for additional information.

Environmental Health Sciences (MS, MPH & PhD)
Occupational Hygiene (MS & PhD)
Contact enhsssupport@umn.edu for additional details

Epidemiology and Community Health (MPH, MS, PhD)
Contact epichstu@umn.edu for additional details

Master of Healthcare Administration (MHA) Residential
Contact mhamn@umn.edu for additional details

Public Health Administration & Policy (PHAP) MPH
Contact hpmphap@umn.edu for additional details

Health Services Research Policy & Administration (HSRPA) MS & PhD
Contact will7698@umn.edu for additional details

Public Health Practice (MPH)
Contact php@umn.edu for additional details.

Audience: New Incoming Students & Returning Students
Format: In person events on August 23
Additional workshops will be held on campus on August 23 to engage with SPH, student groups, and resources before the start of the semester. Events will continue both on campus and virtually through the start of the fall semester.

SPH wants to ensure that students are able to fully participate in available programming. If you are diagnosed with a disability, health condition, or suspect that you have one, and would like to have a confidential discussion about accommodations during your time as a student, please contact Disability Resource Center at drc@umn.edu or complete the appointment request form to schedule an initial appointment or consultation.

What should I do if I cannot attend an orientation event?
If you cannot attend your academic program orientation, please contact your program coordinator. If you miss SPH Orientation and would like to access the content or connect with the people presenting, please email sph-ask@umn.edu with your contact information.