2026 Top Public Health Specializations & Concentrations

by Imed Bouchrika, Phd

Co-Founder and Chief Data Scientist

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What is a public health specialization or concentration?

A public health specialization or concentration is a focused area of study within a Master of Public Health (MPH) program that allows students to build expertise in a specific field of public health.

Instead of only learning broad, general concepts, students choose a concentration, such as epidemiology, global health, or health policy, that tailors their coursework, research, and practical experiences to match their career goals.

This approach not only deepens their knowledge in a targeted discipline but also makes them more competitive for specialized roles in the public health workforce.

Key differences between a concentration and a specialization include:

• Terminology: Some universities use the term “concentration,” while others use “specialization,” but both generally mean a focused track within an MPH.
• Curriculum Depth: A concentration often requires a cluster of courses within one area, while a specialization may involve even more advanced or technical training.
• Career Alignment: Both prepare students for targeted career paths, but a specialization may signal a higher level of expertise or focus that employers recognize more explicitly. For example, students pursuing PMHNP MSN jobs often choose a specialization that highlights advanced knowledge in mental health and public health, making them more competitive in specialized healthcare roles.

What are the most common public health specializations available in MPH programs?

  Many MPH programs offer a range of concentrations that allow students to focus on specific areas of expertise. For those considering expanding their academic credentials, exploring the option of getting a second bachelor's degree can also provide valuable context for aligning educational goals with long-term career plans. Below are the most common public health specializations, each addressing different aspects of population health and career opportunities:  

Epidemiology

Epidemiology focuses on the study of disease patterns, causes, and risk factors in populations. Students gain skills in research design, data analysis, and disease surveillance to better understand and control outbreaks. This specialization is often considered the backbone of public health research and practice.

Biostatistics

Biostatistics emphasizes the application of statistical methods to public health data. Students learn to collect, interpret, and analyze data that informs research, interventions, and policy-making.

It is an essential specialization for anyone interested in evidence-based decision-making in healthcare, and its analytical skill set also overlaps with career paths connected to masters in biotechnology jobs, where data-driven insights guide innovation and medical research.

Environmental Health

Environmental health examines how factors such as pollution, climate change, and workplace hazards impact human well-being. This concentration prepares students to identify risks, enforce safety standards, and advocate for healthier environments. It is increasingly relevant as global concerns about sustainability and climate grow.

Health Policy and Management

Health policy and management focus on developing and evaluating policies and programs that shape healthcare systems. Students gain leadership, analytical, and administrative skills to improve access, efficiency, and quality of care. This specialization is ideal for those interested in leadership or policy-focused careers.

Social and Behavioral Sciences

  This specialization explores the role of social, cultural, and behavioral factors in shaping health outcomes. Students are trained to design interventions, health campaigns, and community programs that encourage positive behavior change. It bridges public health practice with human psychology and community engagement, preparing graduates for a range of social and behavioral sciences jobs in healthcare, education, and nonprofit sectors.  

Global Health

Global health addresses health challenges that extend across national borders, such as infectious diseases, malnutrition, and health inequities. Students gain exposure to international health systems, cultural contexts, and cross-border collaboration. This specialization appeals to those who want to make an impact on worldwide health issues.

Maternal and Child Health

Maternal and child health emphasizes the health of women, infants, and children throughout the life course. This specialization prepares students to design programs that improve outcomes in reproductive health, prenatal care, and child development. It plays a vital role in reducing health disparities among vulnerable populations.

Public Health Nutrition

Public health nutrition focuses on the relationship between diet, health, and disease prevention at the population level. Students study nutrition policy, food systems, and interventions to address chronic disease and malnutrition.

It is an essential concentration for tackling global challenges related to diet and health, and many professionals pair this expertise with programs such as an MSN public health nursing online degree to broaden their impact in community health.

What is the difference between a generalist MPH and a specialized track?

A generalist MPH program provides a broad foundation in public health, covering core areas such as epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, and social and behavioral sciences.

Students in a generalist track gain a comprehensive understanding of public health principles, preparing them for a wide range of roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare settings. This approach is ideal for those who want flexibility in their careers or are still exploring which area of public health they want to pursue in depth.

In contrast, a specialized MPH track allows students to focus on a particular concentration, such as epidemiology, global health, maternal and child health, or health policy and management. These programs offer advanced coursework, field experiences, and research opportunities specific to that area, equipping graduates with deeper expertise and targeted skills.

According to the most recent education data, U.S. institutions awarded 42,551 degrees in public health disciplines in 2023, highlighting a significant output of trained professionals entering the field. For students balancing family and academics, finding the best colleges for single parents can make a major difference in achieving both educational and personal goals. This volume of graduates underscores growing interest in public health education and the expanding demand for experts capable of navigating complex health challenges.

How much can you earn with an MPH specialization degree?

The average salary for public health professionals in the United States is $90,179 per year, but earnings can be much higher depending on career path and specialization.

With an MPH degree, graduates of public health specializations gain access to diverse roles in healthcare, policy, and management that often exceed this average. For those exploring advanced education options, understanding the benefits of getting an MBA after college can also help determine how different graduate programs align with long-term career and salary goals.

Below are some of the top career paths for MPH graduates, along with their typical salaries:

• Physicians ($249,660): Physicians with an MPH specialization often combine clinical expertise with population health knowledge. They play key roles in preventive care, epidemiology, and health policy leadership.
• Pharmacists ($125,164): Pharmacists with public health training contribute to medication safety, drug policy, and community health initiatives. They also support vaccination programs and improve access to essential medicines.
• Medical and Health Services Managers ($119,404): These professionals oversee healthcare facilities, programs, and systems while applying public health principles. Their responsibilities include budgeting, compliance, and strategic planning to improve patient outcomes, and many expand their leadership potential through specialized pathways such as an online MSN in Clinical Nurse Leadership that combines nursing expertise with advanced management training.
• Nurse Practitioners and Midwives ($116,780): Nurse practitioners and midwives with MPH training integrate clinical care with public health practice. They often lead community health programs, advocate for underserved populations, and design preventive care strategies.
• Registered Nurses ($85,364): Registered nurses with public health expertise extend their impact beyond bedside care into community health and education. They help design outreach programs, track health trends, and promote wellness at the population level.

The chart below shows the average salary for various MPH specializations:

Which public health specialization is best for a student interested in policy vs research?

For students most interested in policy, the best fit is typically a Health Policy and Management specialization. This track emphasizes leadership, systems thinking, and policy analysis, equipping graduates to design, implement, and evaluate health policies at local, national, or global levels.

It prepares students for roles in government agencies, nonprofit organizations, and healthcare administration, where decision-making and policy development are central.

For students leaning toward research, Epidemiology or Biostatistics public health specializations are often the strongest choice. These concentrations focus on scientific investigation, data collection, and advanced analysis to understand health trends, risk factors, and interventions.

Graduates with these specializations are well-positioned for academic, governmental, or research institute roles that drive evidence-based public health solutions.

What do epidemiology concentration courses typically include?

An epidemiology concentration equips students with the skills needed to investigate health trends, track diseases, and generate data that informs public health decisions. Coursework in this area combines theory, research methods, and hands-on application to prepare graduates for roles in both academic and applied settings.

According to the American Public Health Association (APHA), epidemiologists provide critical insights that shape policies, guide prevention programs, and strengthen public health systems. Here are some of the roles of epidemiologists:

• Study Design and Research Methods: These courses teach students how to design epidemiological studies that answer key public health questions. They also emphasize ethical considerations, sampling techniques, and strategies for minimizing bias.
• Biostatistics for Epidemiology: Students learn how to apply statistical techniques to interpret health data and identify disease patterns. Coursework often includes training in software and data modeling tools.
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology: This area focuses on the transmission, prevention, and control of infectious diseases. Students examine real-world case studies and learn outbreak investigation methods.
• Chronic Disease Epidemiology: Courses explore the risk factors, patterns, and prevention strategies for chronic illnesses such as diabetes, cancer, and heart disease. Students learn how to evaluate long-term health trends within populations.
• Public Health Surveillance: This coursework emphasizes systems for monitoring and reporting health outcomes across populations. Students develop skills to analyze surveillance data and provide actionable recommendations for policy and practice.

What careers are common for graduates in health policy and management?

Graduates of public health specializations in Health Policy and Management often qualify for leadership and analytical roles in healthcare, public administration, and policy-making. The salaries for these roles tend to be higher than those of many entry-level public health positions, reflecting the responsibility, strategic oversight, and specialized knowledge required.

• Health Policy Manager ($130,446): Health Policy Managers guide the development, implementation, and evaluation of health policies at local, state, or national levels. They collaborate with government agencies, non-profits, and stakeholders to ensure policies are evidence-based, equitable, and effective.
• Medical Policy Manager ($126,504): Medical Policy Managers focus on drafting, reviewing, and enforcing policies related to medical practices, payer reimbursements, and regulatory compliance. They serve as liaisons between providers, payers, and regulatory bodies to ensure policy coherence and legal adherence.
• Population Health Manager ($109,055): Population Health Managers design and oversee programs aimed at improving health outcomes for defined populations. They use data analytics, health education, and preventive strategies to manage costs and improve access to care.
• Health Policy Specialist ($96,920): Health Policy Specialists conduct research, analysis, and reporting to support policy development and public health decision-making. Their work often includes reviewing legislation, performing cost-benefit analyses, and advising health departments or NGOs.
• Medical and Health Services Manager ($117,960): Medical and Health Services Managers direct operations of healthcare facilities, programs, or departments and ensure efficiency, regulatory compliance, and quality of care. Their responsibilities include budgeting, staffing, and coordinating between clinical and administrative teams.

From guiding national policy initiatives to managing population health programs, these positions demonstrate the breadth of opportunities available to those with specialized training. For students wondering what can you do with a public health MSN degree, health policy and management careers provide a clear path to leadership and influence within healthcare systems. 

The chart below highlights several common career paths in this field along with their average salaries, giving a clear picture of how expertise in health policy and management translates into real-world impact and financial reward.

How is biostatistics used in real-world public health careers?

Biostatistics plays a critical role in public health by turning raw health data into meaningful insights that guide decision-making. Professionals trained in this area apply statistical methods to solve real-world problems, from tracking disease outbreaks to evaluating health programs.

• Epidemiological Research: Biostatisticians design and analyze studies that identify risk factors for diseases and evaluate interventions. Their work provides the evidence base that informs policies and preventive strategies.
• Clinical Trials: In pharmaceutical and medical research, biostatisticians ensure trials are properly designed, monitored, and analyzed. This guarantees that new drugs, vaccines, or treatments meet rigorous safety and effectiveness standards.
• Health Policy Evaluation: Biostatistics helps measure the effectiveness of policies like smoking bans or nutrition programs. By analyzing population-level data, professionals can assess whether initiatives improve health outcomes as intended.
• Genetic and Genomic Studies: Public health researchers use biostatistical methods to uncover links between genetics and disease. This work supports advancements in precision medicine and targeted interventions.
• Program Monitoring and Evaluation: Biostatisticians track the progress of public health programs such as immunization campaigns or maternal health initiatives. Their analyses help optimize resource allocation and improve program impact.

What makes global health different from general public health?

General public health focuses primarily on protecting and improving the health of populations within a specific country, region, or community. It emphasizes issues like disease prevention, health education, policy development, and access to care in a local or national context. The scope is often shaped by the healthcare system, cultural norms, and socioeconomic conditions of the population being served.

Global health, on the other hand, addresses health challenges that cross borders and affect people worldwide, such as pandemics, malnutrition, and climate change. It emphasizes international collaboration, health equity, and solutions that can be applied across diverse cultural and economic settings, and many professionals enhance their impact through flexible pathways like online MSN FNP programs.

Key differences include:

• Scope: General public health focuses on local or national issues, while global health addresses cross-border and international challenges.
• Collaboration: Global health involves cooperation between multiple countries and organizations, whereas public health typically works within a single system.
• Focus Areas: Public health may prioritize regional concerns like vaccination coverage or chronic disease prevention, while global health targets issues like pandemics, health inequities, and access to care worldwide.
• Equity: Global health places a strong emphasis on reducing disparities between high-income and low-income countries.
• Approach: Public health often develops context-specific solutions, while global health seeks strategies that can be adapted across different cultural and economic settings.

The World Health Organization’s estimate of a projected shortfall of 11 million health workers by 2030, primarily in low- and lower-middle income countries. While general public health typically focuses on strengthening systems within a single country, global health must address workforce imbalances across borders and consider how shortages in one region affect health outcomes worldwide.

This challenge underscores the collaborative, equity-driven nature of global health, which seeks not only to improve care locally but also to ensure that vulnerable populations in resource-constrained settings are not left behind.

How should students choose the right public health concentration?

Choosing the right public health concentration is an important decision that shapes a student’s career path, skills, and future opportunities. The process involves evaluating personal interests, professional goals, and the practical demands of different fields within public health.

• Assess Career Goals: Students should first identify whether they want to work in research, policy, healthcare delivery, or international development. Each concentration prepares graduates for distinct career tracks.
• Evaluate Strengths and Interests: A passion for numbers might make biostatistics or epidemiology a natural fit, while strong leadership and communication skills align better with health policy or health promotion.
• Consider Job Market Demand: Some fields, like epidemiology and global health, are growing rapidly due to pandemics and international health crises. Exploring resources such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) can provide insight into emerging workforce needs.
• Think About Work Environment: Students should reflect on whether they prefer working in labs, government agencies, nonprofits, or global organizations. Concentrations often determine the typical settings where graduates will work.
• Look at Salary Potential: Different public health specializations align with different salary ranges, with management and physician-related paths typically offering higher pay. Financial goals can be a practical factor when narrowing options.
• Review Program Curriculum: Comparing course offerings across MPH programs helps students understand which schools emphasize research, leadership, or applied practice. This ensures the academic experience matches their expectations.

Here’s what graduates have to say about their public health degree with specializations:

Other things you should know about public health specializations and concentrations