FAQ

Below are a few frequently asked questions.

If you have a question not answered here, please feel free to request more information or email us at egh-programs@phhp.ufl.edu.


How does the University of Florida compare to other universities?

How long does it typically take to complete each program?

How are Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Research Assistants (RAs) chosen?

May I complete an online MHS or PhD?

Are certain undergraduate degrees required to obtain an MPH or PhD in Environmental Health?

Do I have to take the GRE for the MPH, MHS, or PhD programs?

Are there English Proficiency requirements?


How does the University of Florida compare to other universities?

With an enrollment of over 50,000 students, the University of Florida is the largest university in the South, and it is one of the five largest universities in the United States. The university ranks among the nation’s 51 leading research universities as categorized by the Carnegie Commission on Higher Education, and it holds membership in the prestigious Association of American Universities, thus being ranked among the top 60 US research institutions.

Three institutions — the University of Minnesota, Ohio State University, and the University of Florida — offer more academic programs on a single campus than any of the other approximately 3,000 colleges and universities. The University of Florida has 19 colleges and schools and over 60 interdisciplinary research and education centers, bureaus, and institutes. The Graduate School coordinates programs in approximately 90 academic departments leading to over 100 master’s degrees and 60 doctoral degrees.

For more information on the University of Florida click here.

How long does it typically take to complete each program?

Most master’s students are able to complete their programs of study in two years, however, there is a part-time option available for students needing more flexibility. The estimated average length of time to complete the PhD program is varied by each student’s area of research, but is expected to take three to four years.

How are Teaching Assistants (TAs) and Research Assistants (RAs) chosen?

Department of Environmental and Global Health students are appointed as a TA or RA as a mechanism for financial support. The department usually takes a preliminary look at course enrollment numbers before deciding how many TAs to appoint and for which courses. Students are not usually given these opportunities until after the first semester of classes. This first semester allows each student to get the fundamental teaching they’ll need to help in these roles. Some students are able to secure Research Assistant positions through one of our research centers or laboratories. New students should express interest in RA or TA assignments to both their advisor and the Program Coordinator.  The department will accommodate as many requests as possible. The availability of positions is determined by the grant funds received each year.

May I complete an online MHS or PhD?

The Department of Environmental and Global Health does offer an online Master of Health Science program. For our PhD program, we do not operate a distance education program. There are a few courses that are web-based, but most courses require on-campus attendance. It is strongly encouraged that students take on-campus classes rather than online courses whenever possible.

Are certain undergraduate degrees required to obtain an MPH or PhD in Environmental Health?

Entering students have a variety of academic backgrounds. No specific undergraduate degrees are required. Undergraduate preparation, however, must include two semesters of biological sciences and mathematics.

Do I have to take the GRE exam for the MPH, MHS, or PhD programs?

No, we do not require GRE results to apply to our programs.

Are there English Proficiency requirements?

For all programs, international applicants must submit one of the following:

  • Minimum TOEFL scores of 550 paper‐based, 213 computer‐based, or 80 Internet‐based
  • Minimum IELTS  score of 6
  • Minimum MELAB score of 77

International students whose native language is English or who have attended a college or university in the United States for at least one year are not required to submit TOEFL scores. For a list of countries whose citizens are exempt from the TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) requirement that most non‐US applicants must meet, go to the Graduate School English Language Testing Exemptions.  Please consult with the Academic Programs Coordinator if you are uncertain whether you need to take an English proficiency examination.

 

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