These requirements apply to master's programs at the UTMB School of Public and Population Health (SPPH). Review them, along with the notes for your program, before you start your application in SOPHAS, the Schools of Public Health Application Service, where every SPPH application is submitted.
- Master of Public Health (MPH), with concentrations in Bioethics, Biostatistics (in person or online), Epidemiology, and Public Health Practice
- Master of Science (MS) in Aerospace Medicine
- MS in Biostatistics and Data Science
- Master of Arts (MA) in Bioethics and Health Humanities
Faculty review each application as a whole, weighing your academic record, program-specific potential, experience, and fit with the program. SPPH's preferred minimum GPA is 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, but GPA alone does not decide admission. The GRE is not required.
What to submit in SOPHAS
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Resume or curriculum vitae (CV)
Include your education, professional and clinical experience, and any research, publications, or certifications.
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Official transcripts
Submit official transcripts from every postsecondary and professional institution you have attended. If you studied outside the United States, see the international applicant requirements below.
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Statement of purpose and objectives
Your statement is your opportunity to show faculty reviewers your qualifications, your motivation, and the contribution you hope to make in your field. Write it for the specific program you are applying to, and address each of the following.
- Your academic and professional preparation for graduate study in your chosen field
- Your interest in the program, concentration, or track you are applying to
- Your career plans after you complete the degree
- Relevant strengths in your background, along with any weaknesses or gaps you want reviewers to understand
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Three letters of recommendation
Letters are submitted electronically through SOPHAS. Ask people who can evaluate your academic and professional performance, ability, motivation, and character. Unless your program's notes below say otherwise, at least one letter should come from a current or former professor or instructor.
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Writing sample for selected programs
Some programs require a writing sample, and others accept one as an optional upload. Submit an example of your academic writing, such as a peer-reviewed publication, a course paper, a thesis, or another scholarly product. Bioethics reviewers look especially for evidence that you can write analytically and build an argument.
Writing sample requirements by master's program Program Writing sample MA in Bioethics and Health Humanities Required MPH in Bioethics Required MPH in Public Health Practice Required MPH in Epidemiology Optional MPH in Biostatistics (in person) Optional MS in Aerospace Medicine Optional MPH in Biostatistics (online) Not required MS in Biostatistics and Data Science Not required
Master's application deadlines for 2027 entry
Your application must be complete and verified by SOPHAS by the deadline for your program and start term. SOPHAS lists the official deadline for each program, and dates are subject to change. Check the Prospective Students page for Application Deadlines.
Additional requirements for the MS in Aerospace Medicine
UTMB Aerospace Medicine residents beginning residency training should not apply through SOPHAS. Contact your residency program director instead.
- The program admits licensed clinicians, doctoral-level professionals, military members, and other qualified professionals. Review the eligibility list for the MS in Aerospace Medicine before you apply.
- At least one of your three letters of recommendation must come from a current supervisor.
- Your statement of purpose should be original and reflect your own experiences, goals, and perspective. Statements generated wholly or substantially by artificial intelligence (AI) are strongly discouraged.
- The program is full time and in person. Plan to live in the Galveston and Houston area for the full 12 months. There is no part-time or remote option, and admission cannot be deferred.
Requirements for international applicants
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Credential evaluation from World Education Services
If you completed coursework at an institution outside the United States or English-speaking Canada, submit a World Education Services (WES) iCAP course-by-course evaluation in place of official transcripts from that institution. Degrees earned outside the U.S. must be equivalent to the U.S. degree required for admission.
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English language proficiency scores
Submit TOEFL or IELTS scores that are less than two years old and meet one of these minimums.
- TOEFL iBT overall score of 5.0 or higher on the 1 to 6 scale, or a total score of 95 or higher on the 0 to 120 scale for tests taken before January 21, 2026
- IELTS overall score of 7.0 or higher
If English was the primary language of instruction at your institution and your WES evaluation lists it, you may request a waiver in writing from SPPH Admissions at spphadmissions@utmb.edu.
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Student visas
Most international students enroll on an F-1 visa. Visa processing times vary, so apply early. Before you apply, review international student information for SPPH, including visa requirements, estimated costs, and the I-20 request process. If you will need a student visa, contact SPPH Admissions before applying to the online MPH in Biostatistics.
Tuition, scholarships, and application fees
Review SPPH tuition and fees and scholarships for SPPH students. SPPH does not offer application fee waivers, though SOPHAS provides a limited number.
Questions about applying to an SPPH master's program
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Questions about applying to an SPPH PhD program
Contact Tawny Stromberg, Coordinator II for Admissions and Dual Programs, at tlstromb@utmb.edu or 409-266-8457. You can also reach SPPH Admissions at spphadmissions@utmb.edu.
When your materials are ready, start your application in SOPHAS and select your UTMB program.