Epidemiology

Andy Odegaard, Ph.D., Graduate Program Director
https://publichealth.uci.edu/departments/epidemiology-biostatistics/

The mission of the Ph.D. program in Epidemiology is to train and educate graduate students, so they are on a path to becoming independent scientists who can formulate original research questions, lead epidemiologic related research, as well as teach and communicate epidemiologic methods and research findings to scientific and lay groups. Ph.D. students receive further training in advanced epidemiologic and biostatistical methods, develop content expertise in an area relevant to their research interests, gain experience and practice communicating via coursework, seminars, research experience, and serving as Teaching Assistants.

The first year is largely devoted to required coursework in epidemiology, biostatistics, and developing content expertise of individual research interests via elective courses and directed study. There is a comprehensive written exam at the end of the first year on core epidemiologic and biostatistical methods to ensure basic mastery. The second year includes additional coursework in advanced epidemiologic methods and concepts, further biostatistical training, and continued development of content expertise specific to individual research interests with elective courses and directed study courses. Most coursework is completed after two academic years, and the student is expected to advance to candidacy sometime during the third year by presenting and defending a Ph.D. thesis proposal to the faculty. The remaining time with the program is largely devoted to completing the thesis. The formal defense of the thesis is a public event. The overall course of study is expected to be three to five years. Graduates typically go on to post-doctoral academic positions, research scientist positions, faculty positions, or positions in government or industry.

Admission

Master’s level degrees in epidemiology, public health, other health-related disciplines, or clinical training are the preferred preparation for admission to the Ph.D. in Epidemiology. However, applicants with background in other disciplines are encouraged to apply but may be required to take supplementary courses to fulfill prerequisites for some graduate level courses in epidemiology and biostatistics.

Requirements

Ph.D. students who do not have a degree from a Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)-accredited public health school or program, must take PUBHLTH 200 to meet the CEPH-required 12 learning objectives.

Ph.D. requirements: At least 72 quarter credit units and at least 12 dissertation unit credits (84 units total).

In addition to completing the course requirements for the M.S. in Epidemiology, Ph.D. students are required to complete the following.

Program Requirements

Approved Electives