Public Health Schools and MPH Programs in Arkansas

Students exploring public health schools and MPH programs in Arkansas have several strong options to consider, including CEPH-accredited programs at the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences and the University of Arkansas. These programs prepare graduates for careers in areas such as epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy, community health and health administration, with applied training that can translate to roles in state and local health departments, hospitals, universities, nonprofit organizations, community health programs, and federal agencies. For prospective students, CEPH accreditation matters because it signals that a program meets nationally recognized standards for public health education and may be preferred by public health employers.

The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences (UAMS) offers CEPH-accredited Master of Public Health programs in both on-campus and online formats from its Little Rock campus. Students can pursue concentrations including biostatistics, epidemiology, environmental health sciences, health behavior and health promotion, health policy and management, and rural and global public health practice. 

MPH coursework examines public health challenges from multiple perspectives and emphasizes applied learning through research, interdisciplinary collaboration, and practice-based projects. Because Arkansas has a limited number of CEPH-accredited MPH programs, many students also consider online MPH options for additional flexibility and specialization opportunities. UAMS continues to offer an online MPH pathway, although the available concentration options may differ from those in the on-campus program.

Public Health Careers Outlook in Arkansas

Public health professionals’ help and dedication are important for the delivery of public health services, the investigation into widespread illnesses and diseases, and the organizations available to educate the public.

In Arkansas, public health career outlooks vary according to career and county. The table below shows the demand and earning potential for public health careers in Arkansas, based on data from the Bureau of Labor Statistics (May 2025).

Job TitleMedian Salary in AR, 2025 (Annual)Median Salary in U.S. (Annual)Projected Job Growth in U.S., 2024-2034
Statisticians
$105,720
$103,300
9%
Environmental Scientists and  Specialists
$57,220
$80,060
4%
Epidemiologists
*n/a
$83,980
16%
Medical and Health Services Managers 
$94,340
$117,960
23%
Health Education Specialists
$62,270
$63,000
4%
Occupational Health and Safety Specialists
$73,130
$78,900
12%
Medical Records Specialists
$41,740
$50,250
7%
Dietitians and Nutritionists
$65,540
$73,850
6%
Health Technologists & Technicians
$42,820
$67,310
15%

Information last updated: May 2026