NP/MPH

VivaRN · Mar 14, 2010

I do, and so glad I do. In my current role the MPH is not front and center, but it gives me more options. For example if in the future I want to do something less directly clinical and more public health oriented, that MPH is quite handy. I've also found that I have a better understanding of epidemiology, research, the rationale behind screening, how guidelines are created, and can discuss it at another level. This understanding has augmented my clinical practice and professional relationships. There's a lot one can do with both.

yuanica · Apr 6, 2010

Hi VivaRN,

I've read some of your threads and appreciate your input/advice. Can you describe some more the kind of work you are doing? I'm an RN seriously considering a dual NP/MPH track but still unsure what I want to be doing ultimately. I'm curious as to what kinds of positions are available for nurses with these credentials. Hopefully the investment (time and cost-wise) will put me on the right path.

My email is [email protected] if you'd like to chat more in detail. Would love any words of wisdom you have to offer!

VivaRN · Apr 7, 2010

I know there are a few programs out there but I can only speak from my own experience and the people I know. A lot of us didn't know what we would ultimately be doing when we set out on this path. I think it came from a desire to have a greater understanding of the issues affecting health at the populations level, and how to know "is your help helpful?" - how to create the largest impact with the best intervention.

At present I'm working in clinical AIDS research and care, though moving in more of a research direction. I like research patients and I like being on the cutting edge - where we figure out what works and watch it disseminate into practice. How we do HIV has huge public health implications and I love educating my patients and following the literature.

Though there's a variety of things people are doing, including Epidemiologic Intelligence Service (EIS) at CDC. You are qualified because of the 2 masters degrees. Though generally CDC can be difficult to get into as it is more MD focused. Other former classmates of mine are working at or managing free clinics, community midwifery, some ambitions to run for office, in public health departments managing various programs, hospital positions with emphasis on health education. Very few positions advertise specifically for NP, MPH. It is more like choose your own adventure with more options.

It can be hard to do something that uses both degrees equally. You will probably end up choosing which direction interests you most, though having both gives you flexibility over time. Some jobs one could do with just one or the other, or even RN, MPH, or MSN/MPH (no NP) so think hard if it's important to you to be a provider, or if you mainly like public health/populations/projects.

alloteysn · Nov 17, 2014

I am interested in an MSN-NP/MPH degree, I know John Hopkins offers that but their tuition is very expensive. UVA has a similar program PHNL/NP but they are not accepting applications at this time due to low enrolment. Can you tell me of other places that you know that offer this preferably online. I live in VA

llisamar · Jan 4, 2015

I have an MPH. I'm presently a FNP student. I believe it will help in terms of applying prior knowledge and any future job opportunity.

MPH to FNP · Jan 6, 2015

I have an MPH and recently graduated from a MSN/FNP program. I found that my MPH degree and previous HIV programs and research background was very attractive to the community clinics to which I applied for FNP positions.