Pursuing a master’s degree in public health is an excellent step towards a meaningful and impactful career. However, landing a spot in a competitive MPH program often involves acing an interview. Admissions committees use this opportunity to better understand your motivations, skills, and alignment with their institution’s mission. Feeling overwhelmed? No need to panic! Here’s how you can confidently prepare and make an impression that stands out.

Why Is the MPH Interview Important?

Admissions committees conduct interviews to assess more than just your academic qualifications. They’re interested in understanding your passion for public health, leadership potential, and ability to contribute to the program. Think of the interview as a two-way street—it’s an opportunity for them to learn about you and for you to determine if the program aligns with your goals.

Being prepared is key. Read on to discover expert tips to ace your MPH interview.

1. Research the Program Thoroughly

Before you head into your interview, make sure you’ve done your homework. Admissions committees expect you to know the unique strengths of their program.

Key Points to Research

  • Faculty Focus Areas: Learn about faculty members who specialize in research areas you’re passionate about.
  • Program Mission: Does the program emphasize global health, epidemiology, or healthcare management? Ensure your goals align with theirs.
  • Alumni Success: Check what past graduates have achieved—this shows admissions officers that you’re invested.

For example, if the program offers a strong focus on health policy and that’s your area of interest, be ready to discuss why that focus resonates with your career goals.

2. Anticipate Common Questions

Most MPH interviews include a mix of personal, professional, and program-related questions. Practicing beforehand ensures you’ll have polished responses ready to go.

Sample Questions to Prepare For

  • What inspired you to pursue public health?

Share your personal motivation or an experience that sparked your passion. Was there a specific moment or event that made you realize public health is your calling?

  • What are your long-term career goals?

Discuss how the program fits into your vision. Make sure to connect your goals with the opportunities the program offers.

  • How do you handle challenges in teamwork or leadership situations?

Provide a concrete example that highlights your ability to collaborate effectively.

Preparing thoughtful answers to these will demonstrate that you’re not just interested in the program but genuinely dedicated to contributing to public health.

3. Craft a Standout Personal Statement

Many MPH programs will ask about your personal and academic background. Treat this as an opportunity to showcase who you are beyond your transcripts and GPAs.

Be ready to discuss what has shaped your public health interests, whether it’s a background in healthcare, an internship in epidemiology, or firsthand experience witnessing disparities in community health. Highlight the unique perspective you bring to the program.

Tip: Practice summarizing your story in about 1–2 minutes.

4. Showcase Your Knowledge of Current Public Health Issues

As a future public health professional, you need to be informed about pressing global and community health challenges. Expect the admissions committee to ask about these.

Ideas to Think About

  • Global pandemics and responses
  • Health equity and access to care in low-income communities
  • Climate change and its effects on public health
  • The impact of misinformation on vaccination rates

Discuss how these issues connect to your personal goals and how you hope to address them with the tools you’d gain from the program. Keeping up-to-date with these trends will signal your commitment to staying informed and proactive in the field.

5. Dress and Act Professionally

This might sound obvious, but professionalism goes a long way in setting a positive tone for your interview. Choose business attire, and ensure you’re well groomed.

Additionally, keep these points in mind during the interview:

  • Maintain good posture and eye contact.
  • Speak clearly and avoid unnecessary filler words.
  • Smile and show enthusiasm—after all, you’re excited about the opportunity!

6. Ask Insightful Questions

Interviews aren’t just for the admissions committee to evaluate you—they’re also an opportunity for you to evaluate the program and its fit for your goals. Come prepared with a couple of thoughtful questions.

Examples

  • Can you share some recent student capstone projects and what made them impactful?
  • What type of support does the program offer for internships or research opportunities?
  • How does the program integrate real-world fieldwork experiences into the curriculum?

Well-informed, specific questions demonstrate genuine interest and initiative, leaving a lasting impression.

Final Thoughts

Preparing for an MPH program interview may seem daunting, but with the right mindset and preparation, you’ll walk in feeling confident and ready to shine. Research the program thoroughly, anticipate common questions, and showcase your unique perspective on public health.

Remember, this is your chance to not only highlight your skills and ambitions but to also confirm whether the program aligns with your career aspirations.

Now, it’s time to put your best foot forward and ace that interview!