Upcoming Challenge Exam dates:

Both exams are in room 1218 from 1:00-3:00pm on their respective dates.  Click on a date to register for the exam. 

Who should consider taking the challenge exam?

Degree-seeking graduate students who do not have a master’s or bachelor’s degree in Public Health from Tulane need to take SPHL 6020 or pass the challenge exam with a score of at least 70. 

Who doesn't have to consider taking the challenge exam or SPHL 6020?

Tulane BSPH graduates and combined degree students do not have to take SPHL 6020 or pass the challenge exam because the foundational competencies required in SPHL 6020 have been completed in the undergraduate program. The BSPH curriculum has been documented to satisfy the 6020 competencies.

Students with an MPH from an accredited institution must either take SPHL 6020 or pass the challenge exam.

When do students take the challenge exam?

Students can register and take the challenge exam one time only. 

Where do students go to take the challenge exam?

Students with a confirmed registration will take the Challenge Exam in the 12th floor computer lab, Tidewater Room 1218 from 1-3pm.

When do students know their results?

Students will receive their results within minutes of submitting the exam in Canvas. Students must score at least 70 points to pass and can sit for the exam one time only. Students who score below 70 points must register for SPHL 6020 in their next semester of study.

How do students register for the challenge exam?

Students can register for the SPHL 6020 Challenge Exam up until 2 days before the scheduled exam.  Follow these instructions to register for the challenge exam. 

How do students take the challenge exam?

Students who have received registration confirmation should plan to arrive at the correct day, time, and room provided in that email. They should bring their Tulane IDs or other picture ID. A proctor will be on hand to help them sign in and get set up at a computer. The exam is comprised of 50 multiple choice questions that relate to the required D1 competencies addressed in the course. Students have two hours to complete the exam and may submit one time only.

How is the SPHL 6020 waiver processed?

Confirmation of successful completion of the challenge exam is sent to the Office of Student Experience for the student’s record and to the departmental Program Managers to confirm waiver of the course. Passing the challenge exam waives the SPHL 6020 course requirement but does not give degree credit.

Please email sphl6020challengeexam@tulane.edu if your question was not answered here.