The master of science (M.S.) degree in epidemiology is designed to equip students with comprehensive knowledge and skills in epidemiological research and methodology. The objectives of the M.S. in epidemiology are to: (1) prepare graduates to collaborate and consult as epidemiologists across various disciplines in the biomedical, clinical, and public health sectors; (2) address the increasing demand for master's-level epidemiologists in healthcare, governmental, and non-governmental organizations, as well as in the pharmaceutical and research industries; and (3) identify and mentor promising students for advanced doctoral training in epidemiology. Students can choose to concentrate their studies in either epidemiology or pharmacoepidemiology.
The epidemiology concentration provides students with in-depth training on how to evaluate strengths and limitations of health data for public health research and/or practice, analyze and interpret epidemiologic data to enhance current public health knowledge, and utilize epidemiologic techniques to quantitatively assess patterns and changes in disease occurrence. With this knowledge, graduates may pursue careers in multiple sectors as a research professional or continue their scholarship by pursuing a doctoral degree.
Pharmacoepidemiology, the study of the utilization and effects of medications and therapeutic products in large numbers of people, utilizes epidemiological methodologies in pharmaceutical research. The pharmacoepidemiology concentration provides students with in-depth training to bridge the gaps between epidemiology, pharmaceutical science, therapeutics, and population health with specialized coursework in pharmacoepidemiology research and real-world data.
M.S. IN EPIDEMIOLOGY CURRICULUM SUMMARY
Students seeking the M.S. in epidemiology degree must complete 36 credits of academic work with a minimum GPA of least 3.0; earn no more than 6 credits bearing grades less than B, and complete the degree requirements within five years.
Students must also complete a comprehensive mentored research project that deepens their understanding in epidemiological and statistical methods and participate in journal club to strengthen their ability to discuss and critique literature. The M.S. in epidemiology degree coursework is distributed as follows:
- 12 credits in core areas of public health
- 18 credits of courses required by the concentration (epidemiology or pharmacoepidemiology)
Degree Requirements 
