International Health
We are committed to improving the health, nutrition, and well-being of the world’s most disadvantaged people with cutting-edge science, responsive and innovative public health practice, educational programs, and focused capacity building.
International Health Headlines

How Human Challenge Trials Accelerate Vaccine Development
Vaccinated, intentionally infected, and sequestered in a hospital unit, volunteers help researchers fast-track promising vaccine candidates.

New Low-Cost Rapid Field Diagnostic Tests for Pathogens ETEC, Shigella, and Cholera May Be the Future in Infectious Disease Outbreak Response and Surveillance
Researchers developed a new, highly sensitive, molecular diagnostic field assay that detects cholera from a stool or water sample in minutes. The Bloomberg School team has already used similar technology to develop rapid tests for both ETEC and Shigella.

Medical Industry Can Reduce Its Carbon Footprint by Relying Less on Single-use Supplies, Lancet Commentary
Medical waste could be reduced, and environmental issues mitigated, by revisiting more sustainable and reusable options, according to a recent Lancet commentary.
What We Do in the Department of International Health
The Department of International Health is a global leader and partner in identifying, developing, testing, and implementing practices and policies that help the world’s most vulnerable and disadvantaged people improve their health and well-being. We work directly and collaboratively with communities, scientists, public health practitioners, and policymakers around the world to understand their needs and support changes to improve health globally.
International Health Highlights
First
academic program in international health (1961)
Largest Department in Global Health
over 250 full-time faculty working across the globe
Global Network
have worked in over 90 countries on 6 continents
Publications
500+ peer-reviewed articles published a year
International Health Programs
The Department of International Health is organized into four program areas: Global Disease Epidemiology and Control; Health Systems; Human Nutrition; and Social and Behavioral Interventions.
We offer a Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH) and doctoral-level training for research (PhD) in these program areas, as well as a Master of Health Science in Health Economics (MHS). We also offer many continuing education programs online and on campus.
Master of Health Science (MHS) in Global Health Economics
The MHS in Global Health Economics is a nine-month program that provides students with the skills necessary to use economic tools in the promotion of healthy lifestyles and positive health outcomes. Students will learn how to develop health systems that promote equitable access to care, using applied health cases from around the world.
Master of Science in Public Health (MSPH)
The MSPH training program is intended for students who wish to pursue a professional career in the field of public health. Some prior health and/or international experience is preferred.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
The PhD prepares students to become independent investigators in academic and non-academic research institutions, and emphasizes contributions to theory and basic science.
Centers, Institutes, and Initiatives in the Department of International Health
The Department is home to a number of centers, institutes, and initiatives that allow faculty from the Department, the University, and the world to collaborate directly on specific global health issues.
Center for Global Digital Health Innovation
Center for Human Nutrition
Center for Humanitarian Health
Center for Indigenous Health
Center for Immunization Research
Center for Implementation Research & Practice
Institute for International Programs
Institute for Vaccine Safety
International Center for Maternal & Newborn Health
International Vaccine Access Center (IVAC)
Johns Hopkins International Injury Research Unit (IIRU)
Johns Hopkins University Global mHealth Initiative
Johns Hopkins Vaccine Initiative
The IDEA Initiative
Alliance for a Healthier World
The Alliance for a Healthier World integrates diverse expertise and perspectives from across Johns Hopkins University to create groundbreaking research and policy solutions in support of global health equity.

Children working in a brick kiln in Nepal where they are exposed to high levels of silica dust. The Alliance is working on improving kiln design to reduce respiratory disease. Learn more about the Project. Photo credit: David L. Parker
Melissa A. Marx, PhD,
evaluates maternal, child, and infectious disease programs, and has led response efforts for outbreaks including SARS, Ebola, and COVID-19.

Support Our Department
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