AUTHOR=Sullivan Lisa M. , Velez Amanda A. , Longe Nikki , Larese Ann Marie , Galea Sandro 

TITLE=Removing the Graduate Record Examination as an Admissions Requirement Does Not Impact Student Success

JOURNAL=Public Health Reviews

VOLUME=Volume 43 - 2022

YEAR=2022

URL=https://www.ssph-journal.org/journals/public-health-reviews/articles/10.3389/phrs.2022.1605023

DOI=10.3389/phrs.2022.1605023

ISSN=2107-6952

ABSTRACT=Background:  The predictive validity of components of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) on student success is inconsistent, and the test itself has been shown to be a barrier for prospective students historically underrepresented in graduate programs.
Evidence: We analyzed three admissions cycles for the Master of Public Health degree before and after eliminating the GRE for diversity and quality of applications, student success, and employment outcomes.  We observed some increases in diversity, but no loss of quality, as measured by undergraduate grade point averages.  We also saw similar performance in required core courses and graduate employment before and after eliminating the GRE.   
Policy Options and Recommendations: We recommend removing the GRE as an admission requirement for the MPH as a step toward diversifying the public health workforce.  This change alone is necessary but insufficient.  We also need to develop support programs, tailored specifically to the needs of our future students, to ensure their success.
Conclusions: Eliminating the GRE as an admissions requirement for prospective students does not result in loss of student quality or worse program performance.