Competencies

Each department identifies competencies for each degree offered. These competencies reflect the full range of knowledge, skills, and other attributes that a student will acquire as a result of completing the requirements for a particular degree.

Upon graduation, a student completing the Dr.P.H. curriculum in epidemiology will be able to:

• conduct independent epidemiologic literature reviews and summarize studies using qualitative and quantitative techniques;
• utilize epidemiologic skills for the design, development, and implementation of research studies or programs with direct public health application;
• formulate specific hypotheses and determine an appropriate study design and analysis plan using quantitative data analysis techniques;
• design and implement studies to conduct outbreak investigations;
• develop expertise in evaluation of public health programs and conduct of public health surveillance;
• design reliable and valid measurement instruments;
• design, implement, and assess ordinary data collection systems for public health research, including quality control for data entry;
• apply principles of intervention and prevention in public health settings;
• demonstrate sufficient skills in cultural competence;
• develop skills to effectively work on multidisciplinary teams, including scientists and community and other stakeholders;
• integrate principles of community-based participatory research in the design of public health programs;
• develop skills in translating epidemiologic research findings for public policy;
• demonstrate knowledge of public health law, jurisdiction, and public health ethics, including anticipating and following Institutional Review Board expectations and requirements;
• develop proficiency in communicating with public media and policymakers, especially in regards to risk assessment;
• demonstrate skills in budgeting a major public health program; and
• demonstrate competency in teaching epidemiologic research methods at the graduate level.