However, Mase says that an M.S. is good for people who are interested in management and travelling.

June M. Chan '94, a second year doctoral student in epidemiology, agrees.

Chan, who worked in a department of cancer epidemiology overseas on a Fulbright Scholarship, says she feels that her year overseas allowed her to "gain a better perspective" of the field of public health.

She says that a large percentage of students who attend SPH have an interest in conducting or interpreting research projects.

The Road to SPH

Unlike tracks such as the one premedical students must take, there is "no preparatory curriculum" for SPH, Daniels says.

However, she says most departments at SPH look for particular qualifications and experience in their applicants.

"Most departments look for relevant experience," she says. "[In] some cases, [that may be] full time work experience."

Ware also says that being at a college like Harvard with such a competitive environment can indicate to officials that the applicant is capable.

As a matter of fact, Daniels says there are a "fair number" of Harvard students at SPH.

Bertone adds that many of her professors "seem to be pleased to see Harvard students [in their classes]."

Daniels says the SPH only specifically requests GRE test scores from its applicants, but will accept other graduate level standardized test scores under certain circumstances.

For instance, medical school students interested in fitting the year-long MPH program into their training, can apply using their MCAT score. This also pertains to doctors who graduated from medical school even many years ago.

Law students and practicing lawyers may submit their LSAT scores in lieu of the GREs.

Padding the Resume