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PhD Program Description

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in epidemiology prepares students for careers in research and teaching, often at a university, federal or state agency, or private research institution. Students develop research and teaching skills in epidemiology through coursework and practice opportunities. The curriculum provides training in epidemiologic methods for clinical, observational and community-based research including study design, statistical analysis, biological principles and disease etiology to meet the rigors of the scientific community. The program’s etiologic orientation is based on the premise that knowledge of genetic, behavioral, environmental, and physiologic factors contribute to understanding the underlying causes of complex human diseases needed to develop effective preventive measures.

Upon completion of the PhD degree in Epidemiology, graduates should be able to:

  • Design investigations of acute and chronic conditions as well as other adverse health outcomes in targeted populations.
  • Analyze and evaluate data from epidemiologic investigations and surveillance systems.
  • Evaluate health behaviors and outcomes in populations by age, sex, race, ethnicity, educational and professional backgrounds, disability status and sexual orientation.
  • Critically evaluate results of epidemiologic studies, including study design, analysis results, and conclusions.
  • Prepare written and oral reports and presentations to effectively communicate necessary information to professional audiences, policy makers, and the general public.
  • Prepare research proposals for extramural peer-reviewed funding.
  • Promote and model ethical conduct in epidemiologic practice.
  • Bring epidemiologic perspectives to the development and analysis of public health policies.

Students who have not earned a relevant master's or professional degree may still be admitted to the doctoral program; however, these students are required to complete basic public health/epidemiology courses at the Master's level in the Department of Epidemiology before they begin their doctoral coursework. This may add one to two years to the program depending on their preparation. These applicants should still apply directly to the PhD program.

Graduates of the PhD in Epidemiology program typically work as faculty members in academic institutions, scientists in research centers such as the NIH, CDC or the industry, or may assume leadership positions in state, or federal health agencies (such as CDC, FDA, EPA, etc.).