Master’s in Epidemiology Online

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MPH epidemiology online programs allow students to complete up to 80 percent of their didactic coursework at their location of choice. The remaining 20 percent of the program includes one on-campus course per year. University programs permit online epidemiology master’s students up to four years to complete their degree; however, most students finish their degree in 26 months. Graduation requirements can vary by program from 45 to 60 credits.

MPH/epidemiology coursework focuses on research strategies, biostatistics, public health policy and management, infectious disease, and public health data analysis. Students also complete an on-site internship with a public health organization. Online courses are offered in two required modalities: asynchronous and synchronous. The asynchronous component allows students to complete their degree at their own pace, while synchronous online courses must be attended on schedule to provide live lectures and class sections with their peers. The online courses use multimedia, virtual chat, discussion threads, instructional podcasts, Skype, and email. Students may work with a faculty adviser via chat or by phone.

Curriculum and Skills Gained in an MPH Epidemiology Online Programs

Curriculum requirements for the epidemiology program include satisfactory completion of a supervised internship lasting for one or two semesters. Coursework focuses on survey design, causal analysis, statistical methods, medical informatics, biomedical research, regression, and healthcare systems. Programs may also require the completion of a research project and scholarly paper or a comprehensive exam. Here are samples of the core courses offered in an online master’s in epidemiology program:

Principles and Methodology
This course comprehensively explores fundamental principles and research methodologies essential for epidemiological investigations. Students delve into study design, data collection, statistical analysis, and ethical considerations, gaining critical skills for conducting rigorous epidemiological research.

Epidemiology of Communicable diseases
This course analyzes infectious disease patterns, determinants, and dynamics within populations. Students explore disease transmission, outbreak investigation, preventive measures, and public health strategies, equipping them to contribute to controlling and managing communicable diseases.

Public Health Policy and Management
This course addresses formulating, implementing, and evaluating policies in public health contexts. Students study healthcare systems, policy analysis, organizational management, and leadership skills, preparing them to navigate the complexities of public health administration and contribute to effective policy development.

Community Outreach and Education
This course emphasizes developing strategies for engaging communities and disseminating health information effectively. Students learn to design and implement outreach programs, assess community health needs, and employ educational methods to promote public health. This course equips students with skills for fostering community well-being and preventive health practices.

Epidemiologic Method
This course thoroughly explores the principles and techniques essential to epidemiological research. Students explore study design, data collection, statistical analysis, and interpretation, equipping them with the methodological foundation necessary for investigating and understanding the distribution and determinants of health-related events in populations.

Some of the core courses in a Master’s in Epidemiology program may include:

• Pharmacoepidemiology
• Outbreak Investigations
• Biostatistics for Research
• Intro to Multivariate Stats
• SAS Data Management
• Epidemiology of HIV/STDs
• Field Epidemiology
• Epidemiologic Surveillance
• Health Budgeting & Financial Management
• Computer Analysis in Public Health
• Participatory Action Research
• Environmental and Occupational Health
• Sociocultural & Behavioral Aspects of Public Health
• Maternal and Child Health Epidemiology

Upon graduation, students can expect to gain the following skills:

• Acquire proficiency in designing and conducting epidemiological studies to investigate patterns of health and disease.
• Develop advanced skills in statistical analysis, interpreting health data, and drawing evidence-based conclusions.
• Understand and contribute to developing and implementing public health policies related to epidemiology.
• Learn techniques for monitoring and tracking the spread of diseases to support timely interventions.
• Gain expertise in investigating and managing disease outbreaks, including identifying sources and implementing control measures.
• Design and implement effective health education and promotion programs for communities.
• Master statistical methods essential for analyzing health data, ensuring accurate interpretation and presentation.
• Understand and apply ethical principles in epidemiological research and public health practice.
• Develop effective communication strategies for conveying epidemiological findings to diverse audiences, including policymakers and the public.
• Cultivate teamwork and leadership skills to collaborate with multidisciplinary teams and lead initiatives for improving population health.

Master’s in Epidemiology Degree Types

The Master’s in Epidemiology offers diverse degree types, such as the research-focused Master of Science in Epidemiology (MS) and the practice-oriented Master of Public Health (MPH). These programs equip students with specialized skills, blending rigorous scientific inquiry (MS) and applied public health strategies (MPH) to address complex health challenges and contribute to evidence-based interventions.

Specializations for Master’s in Epidemiology Students

Specializations in Epidemiology, such as infectious diseases, chronic diseases, and environmental epidemiology, allow students to customize their Master’s in Epidemiology to specific interests. These specialized tracks deepen knowledge and skills in targeted areas, providing a focused and comprehensive understanding. Students graduate with expertise that aligns with their career goals, enhancing their ability to contribute effectively to public health initiatives and research.

Timeline for graduation in Master’s in Epidemiology Online

Timelines for completing an online Master’s in Epidemiology vary based on factors such as part-time or full-time enrollment, program format, university policies, and credit load per semester. Typically, online Master’s in Epidemiology programs span 2 to 3 years, allowing flexibility for working professionals to balance academic commitments with other responsibilities. Individual pacing, elective choices, and potential research or capstone project requirements may influence the duration.

Accelerated Master’s in Epidemiology Online Programs

Accelerated Master’s in Epidemiology programs offer a condensed timeframe, allowing students to complete their degree swiftly. This benefits students by saving time and potentially reducing tuition costs. However, it’s crucial to choose accredited programs for quality assurance. Accredited programs adhere to recognized standards, ensuring a rigorous curriculum and increasing the credibility of the earned degree. Prospective students should prioritize accredited institutions to secure a valuable and reputable education. Here are a few universities that offer accelerated master’s in epidemiology programs:

• Boston University of Public Health¹
• Drexel University²
• Florida International University³

Admission to Master’s in Epidemiology Online Programs typically mandates an accredited Bachelor’s degree, often in a related field. Some programs may require coursework in biology, statistics, or related subjects. Alternatively, applicants with degrees in other fields might need additional coursework and, in some cases, professional experience in epidemiology or a related field. Here are a few of the standard requirements to be considered for admission:

• A bachelor’s degree
• Transcripts from previous academic institutions
•  GRE   scores (some colleges waive the GRE)
•  Statement of Purpose or a Personal statement
• Letters of Recommendation
•  Relevant work experience 
•  Completed application form and application fee
•  Application fee (if applicable)

The admission requirements at most universities that offer MPH Epidemiology Online degrees include a GRE test score. However, many universities provide MPH Epidemiology Online No GRE programs. These universities emphasize the program quality and do not want students’ time and effort into the GRE test but instead want the students to spend time in the program and become epidemiology professionals. Here are some universities that offer MPH Epidemiology Online No GRE programs:

• Drexel University⁴
• Kent State University⁵

Accreditation for MPH Epidemiology Online Programs

It is important to check for Accreditation before students apply for Master’s in Epidemiology Online degrees. Online university programs with an epidemiology specialization must be accredited by The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)⁶. Some employers, particularly the U.S. Public Health Service and state and local agencies – hire only graduates of CEPH-accredited MPH programs. As long as the program students apply to is accredited by CEPH, students can be confident about the degree’s value.

Universities can also be accredited by any one of the six regional accrediting agencies:

• New England Commission of Higher Education (NECHE)
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities (NWCCU)
• Western Association of Schools and Colleges (WASC) Senior College and University Commission (WSCUC)

Free online courses provide a valuable opportunity for students to access diverse learning resources at no cost. These courses cover various subjects and often offer certificates, showcasing acquired skills upon completion. While these certificates may not be accredited, they serve as valuable credentials for showcasing knowledge and commitment to continuous learning in a flexible and accessible manner. Here are a few free online courses for master’s in epidemiology students can explore:

Master’s in Epidemiology graduates pursue diverse careers, often finding roles in state government agencies, hospitals, research firms, and federal positions like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)¹⁰. Beyond disease investigation, their expertise extends to areas like bioterrorism, occupational health, and substance abuse. Epidemiologists contribute to public health, research, and emergency response, with employment opportunities spanning clinical settings, government agencies, and international health organizations. Here are a few careers for students with an online master’s degree in epidemiology:

Certifications for Master’s in Epidemiology students are not universally mandatory, but their relevance depends on specific career paths. Some roles, especially in clinical or applied settings, may require certifications. Licensing is generally not compulsory, but fulfilling state-specific requirements may be necessary for certain positions or research involving human subjects.

Master’s in Epidemiology students benefit from various additional resources enhancing their educational experience. Online forums, webinars, and virtual conferences facilitate connections with professionals and peers, fostering collaborative learning and networking opportunities. Access to online libraries, databases, and research tools supports academic excellence, while mentorship programs guide seasoned experts. These resources collectively enrich students’ online learning journey and contribute to their professional development. The following sites provide online epidemiology master’s students access to statistical information, professional news, case studies, and other resources to assist their research:

American Public Health Association
The American Public Health Association (APHA) is a prominent organization advancing public health initiatives. With a mission to protect and improve community well-being, APHA provides resources, advocacy, and platforms for collaboration. It is pivotal in promoting health equity, shaping policies, and fostering collective efforts for public health advancement.

CDC National Center for Health Statistics
The CDC National Center for Health Statistics (NCHS) is a vital source of health data and information in the United States. NCHS conducts surveys, compiles statistical reports, and disseminates critical health-related information. It is a key resource for researchers, policymakers, and the public, contributing to evidence-based decision-making and public health initiatives.

International Epidemiological Association
The International Epidemiological Association fosters global communication among epidemiology professionals with 1,300 members in 100+ countries. Committed to promoting epidemiology in diverse health fields, it achieves its aims through scientific meetings, publications, and member interactions. Membership is inclusive, transcending boundaries of race, religion, sex, politics, and origin.

Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) in Atlanta, Georgia, is a federal agency under the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Dedicated to safeguarding communities, ATSDR responds to environmental emergencies, investigates health threats, researches hazardous waste sites, and supports state and local health partners with actionable guidance.

Important Journals for Master’s in Epidemiology Students

• The American Journal of Epidemiology
• Epidemiology
• Annals of Epidemiology Journal
• The Journal of Epidemiology and Community Health
• International Journal of Epidemiology