Jonathan Earnest on applying to Gillings

Jonathan Earnest, director of admissions at the Gillings School, provides an overview of the admissions process, including key deadlines, tips for standing out and the importance of early applications to increase the chances for funding and scholarship opportunities.

Applying to the Gillings School

Each program at the Gillings School of Global Public Health has a different set of application expectations and application deadlines.

Important Dates

  • If you are interested in the online MPH program, you may request more information or submit an application at the MPH@UNC website.
  • The UNC Graduate School has a priority deadline of December 10, 2024, for maximum funding consideration, however some programs have earlier application deadlines. Please check final application deadlines for your specific program below or on The Graduate School website.

Undergraduate Students

Undergraduates at UNC-Chapel Hill will typically apply to the major of their choice during the fall or spring of their sophomore year. In addition, all majors require that students meet certain prerequisites prior to applying. These prerequisites, along with other course specific details, can be found in the UNC-Chapel Hill Undergraduate Bulletin. We encourage students to meet with their adviser and contact their department prior to applying.

Master of Public Health (MPH) Students

If you are applying to the MPH program, you must first apply to SOPHAS. Once you submit your application, you will be provided with a link to the UNC Graduate School. The individualized link created by the SOPHAS application must be in place in order to start the UNC Graduate School’s application.

Online MPH Students
(MPH@ UNC)

The Online MPH program has its own application.

All other Master's Students
(MSPH, MS, MSCR, MSEE and MHA)

Interested students must apply through the UNC Graduate School.

All Doctoral Students

Interested students must apply through the UNC Graduate School.

Frequently Asked Questions
I am submitting my application to a Gillings School graduate program through SOPHAS. Why am I also expected to apply directly to UNC-Chapel Hill and pay another fee?
Can you give me an idea of general criteria used to review applications to the Gillings School’s graduate programs?
What should I include in my personal statement?
Who should write my letters of recommendation?
When will I hear that I’ve been admitted to the program?
I’m interested in transferring from another institution to one of your programs. Is that feasible? And if so, how?
Do your programs accept transfer credits?
Does the Online Master of Public Health program have a different application?
Where can I find more information about the online MPH program?
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Phone: (919) 445-1170
Contact: sph-admissions@unc.edu

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233 Rosenau Hall, CB #7400
Chapel Hill, NC 27599-7400
(919) 445-1170

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