Application Process
To Apply
The online application process is through SOPHAS, the centralized application service for schools and programs of public health. Final deadlines vary by program.
(for MPH, MHA, PhD, MS, dual-degree)
SOPHAS Express (opens in new window)
(for certificate and 4+1 program)
SOPHAS Fee Assistance Program: A limited number of fee waivers are available through SOPHAS’ Fee Assistance Program.
If you would like to apply to additional degree programs, please indicate any other programs to which you would like to apply by filling out this form. We will create the additional application(s) on your behalf. Please note that applying to more than one program does not guarantee acceptance.
Requirements for Degree Programs
See your program’s page for specific information about prerequisite coursework, required tests, and minimum scores.
Note that student applications are carefully considered as part of a holistic review process. GPAs listed are preferred minimum performance levels and provide competitive points of reference for admission, but is not alone decisive in the admissions review.
General admissions requirements include (all items must be submitted through SOPHAS):
- U.S. baccalaureate degree (or international equivalent) from a regionally accredited institution of higher education
- Cumulative undergraduate GPA of not less than 3.00
- Statement of Purpose and Objectives
- Resume or C.V.
- Official transcripts
- Required entrance exams – The GRE is not required for any of our degree programs.
- 3 letters of recommendation from academic and/or professional references.
- International applicants or applicants who attended a post-secondary institution outside of the U.S. or Canada – see additional requirements for International Students.
- Proof of English Language Proficiency – non-native English speakers, including International applicants or applicants for whom English is not your native language – see additional requirements for International Students.
- PhD applicants – Environmental Health and Epidemiology both require a statement of research interests. See these program pages for additional information.
Details about Application Requirements
Tips for writing a strong statement of purpose and objectives:
- Share your passion for the field of public health and/or the specific program to which you are applying. Write about why you believe this area of study is the right choice for you.
- Highlight your experiences that you believe make you a strong candidate for admission.
- Explain why you want to pursue your education at the University of Minnesota.
- Edit, edit, edit!
Official transcripts are required from each U.S. and English-speaking Canadian institutions attended and must be sent directly from that institution to SOPHAS to be considered official. This includes a University of Minnesota transcript (if applicable). For more information on the SOPHAS transcript requirement visit the SOPHAS FAQ page.
All applicants must provide proof of a U.S. bachelor’s degree or its equivalent from an accredited institution. Applicants with transcripts from an international institution are required to submit a WES ICAP evaluation directly to SOPHAS. For more information visit the SOPHAS FAQ page.
All transcripts/WES evaluations must be received by SOPHAS by the program’s deadline to be considered complete. If you use the Professional Transcript Entry service, the complete date must be prior to the program’s deadline as well.
Grade Point Average
The minimum preferred GPA is 3.0. Some programs may have a higher preferred minimum GPA. Check with specific programs for details.
Note: No applicant will be permitted to register for classes who has not completed at least a U.S. baccalaureate degree (or foreign equivalent) from a regionally accredited university or college. There are no exceptions to this rule.
The U of M School of Public Health is not requiring the GRE for all master’s and doctoral degree programs effective 2021.
- GRE scores will not be considered as part of the admission evaluation process.
- Previously reported GRE scores will be redacted and the School of Public Health will not accept scores reported through the GRE score-reporting service.
- The Admissions Committee will continue to evaluate candidates based on a holistic and overall assessment of the numerous required application materials.
- Learn more about our application review process.
Application fees associated with applying to the University of Minnesota School of Public Health are assessed through SOPHAS, which charges $145 to apply to one school and $55 for each additional school.
SOPHAS offers limited application fee waivers. We encourage you to inquire about these opportunities early in the application cycle as they are limited and typically cover the larger $145 fee, which is higher than the application fee assistance we provide. More Info.
Curious about our school and want to know if it’s a good fit?
Admissions Questions?
Student Services Center
612-626-3500 | 800-774-8636
sph-ask@umn.edu
