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Program at a Glance
Advancing health across people, animals, and the environment.
The Virginia Tech Public Health Program prepares students for innovative careers by combining core public health training and cross-disciplinary practices. In partnership with a veterinary college, medical school, and an academic health department, our work embodies Virginia Tech's motto, Ut Prosim, "That I May Serve." Students engage in research and outreach in our surrounding communities and beyond in our signature areas: One Health and Appalachian Health. In the lab and in the field, we advance scientific discoveries and improve community health.
The Bachelor of Science in Public Health (BSPH) degree provides preparation for success in graduate programs, government, the private sector, and a range of health-related professions. The Master of Public Health (MPH) degree, with concentrations in infectious disease, environmental health, and public health education, can be completed in just two years. Virginia Tech undergraduate students in any major can begin the MPH program early through the accelerated Master of Public Health, saving both time and money. Students pursuing a DVM, MD, or any other Virginia Tech graduate degree can add the MPH degree to enhance their professional training. Students in the MPH degree programs are eligible to sit for the Certified in Public Health (CPH) and the Certified Health Education Specialist (CHES) examinations.
The Virginia Tech Public Health Program is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). CEPH is the sole accrediting body for schools and programs of public health in the United States. The program underwent reaccreditation review in December 2025 and was awarded reaccreditation for the full 7-year period (through December 31, 2033).
Why Choose Public Health At Virginia Tech?
the public health program offers dedicated and multidisciplinary mentoring from faculty engaged in impactful research and practice-based programs.
Dedicated Mentoring
Students receive individualized guidance from faculty mentors who support their academic, career, and personal development, building lasting relationships that extend well beyond the classroom.
Multidisciplinary Faculty
Our multidisciplinary faculty bring unique perspectives and opportunities for collaboration across the university and throughout the region.
Career Readiness
A curriculum built around real-world public health practice prepares students for immediate employment, as well as advanced study, equipping graduates with the skills and experience employers and graduate programs value most.
Active Learning Environment
Our classes create an environment where students engage directly with instructors and peers, facilitating meaningful hands-on learning, skills practice, and active participation in every course.
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Hear from our Alumni
"My experience in the MPH program provided me with the skills and knowledge that shaped my career as an entrepreneur and private practice dietitian in Martinsville, VA. Through the program, I learned how to conduct a needs assessment, which helped me identify a gap in nutrition services within my community—leading me to establish my own practice...My clients often express appreciation for my well-rounded approach. I credit this perspective to my MPH education and am grateful to be an alumnus!"
-Samantha Seay Turner, Class of 2020
"The Master of Public Health (MPH) program equipped me with critical knowledge and skills in population health, epidemiology, and health policy. It enhanced my ability to analyze health-related data and navigate complex healthcare systems. This foundation has supported my professional growth and impact, from an individual contributor to senior-level leader providing technical guidance to federal healthcare systems."
-Michael Moini, Class of 2011
Latest News
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Board of Visitors recognizes veterinary college faculty , articleMany congratulations to veterinary college faculty recognized by the Virginia Tech Board of Visitors at the June 2 meeting.
Date: Jun 08, 2026 - -
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Faculty members honored with emeritus title , articleThe Board of Visitors awarded the emeritus title to 10 faculty members at its last quarterly meeting.
Date: May 28, 2026 - -
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Ivermectin could help beat malaria, veterinary college researcher finds in running the numbers , articleIvermectin has been used in veterinary medicine for decades. Cassidy Rist has produced the first real-world economic analysis showing it could be a cost-effective tool against malaria — if the funding holds.
Date: May 21, 2026 - -
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Veterinary college alum honoree Tierra Price does not choose the quiet life , articleTierra Price, a 2020 Doctor of Veterinary Medicine and Master of Public Health graduate, owns and directs Unleashed Veterinary Care in Louisville and has received the 2026 Outstanding Recent Alumni Award from the Virginia-Maryland College of Veterinary Medicine.
Date: May 04, 2026 - -
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Class of 2026: Lauren Tucker builds bridges between science and the public , articleTucker's research translates public health research into accessible information that supports healthier communities.
Date: May 04, 2026 - -
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Kerry Redican honored with emeritus status , articleA member of the Virginia Tech community for more than 44 years, Redican made significant contributions building the university’s public health programs.
Date: May 01, 2026 - -
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Valerie Ragan honored with emerita status , articleRagan led the Center for Public and Corporate Veterinary Medicine and is recognized internationally as an expert on the globally important zoonotic disease brucellosis.
Date: May 01, 2026 - -
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Class of 2026: Emily Gaskill finds public health services research to be a rewarding pursuit , articleEmily Gaskill's research focuses on harm reduction, substance use disorders, and how integrated care models and drug policy reform can expand access to treatment.
Date: Apr 28, 2026 -
