Frequently Asked Questions
Applying to our school
You may apply online via SOPHAS to our MPH, MHA, MS, PhD and Certificate in Core Concepts programs. SOPHAS is the centralized Schools of Public Health Application Service.
Remember to designate the University of Minnesota School of Public Health as one of your school choices along with your desired program.
We'll let you know by e-mail once we receive your application from SOPHAS.
Do I have the right background to be eligible for the program?
Even if your undergraduate degree is not in math or statistics, if you meet our academic requirements and have had the prerequisite coursework, you are eligible for the program. If your undergraduate degree is not in mathematics or statistics, it is especially important that you have done the required work in mathematics (linear algebra and mathematics through multivariable calculus). Courses in or experience with applied statistics and computer programming are highly recommended.
What if I haven't taken the prerequisite courses?
If you are admitted to the program but do not have some of the prerequisite courses, you may be asked to take these courses in your first year of study. To discuss any lack of prerequisites with the chair of the Admissions Committee, email bstadmit@umn.edu.
Can I apply directly to the PhD program if I do not already have an MS in statistics or biostatistics?
Yes.
Is financial aid available?
Financial aid, usually in the form of graduate research and teaching assistantships (which carry an annual salary and cover tuition and health insurance expenses), is awarded to students competitively based on merit.
How many new students are admitted each year and how many total students are in the program?
Currently, there are 75 students (35 Ph.D., 35 M.S., 5 M.P.H.) enrolled. The admissions rate for Fall 2011 was approximately 40% for students applying to the Master's and 30% for those applying to the Ph.D. Each year's incoming class typically includes 6-12 Ph.D. students and 8-20 Master's students.
How do I register to take the standardized tests for admission?
Find test times, dates, and registration forms for the GRE at www.gre.org or by calling Educational Testing Services (ETS) at (609) 771-7670. Most applicants take the computerized version, which provides us with an official score from the ETS within 10-15 days after the exam date. Applicants should have their GRE and/or TOEFL test scores sent to the School of Public Health -- Institution Code 6874 (University of Minnesota) and Department code 0616 (Public Health).
What are the average GPAs and GRE scores of students admitted to the MPH program?
- Median GPA: 3.64
- Median GRE scores: 770 Quantitative, 560 Verbal, 4.0 Analytical Writing
Must I be a full-time student?
Not necessarily, although the nature of the program makes part-time study more difficult. Currently, we have part-time MS and PhD students. The Graduate School places limits on the maximum time to degree completion.