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The PhD in Epidemiology is a terminal research degree granted on evidence of overall proficiency in epidemiology and particularly on the ability to apply the skills in an independent investigation as demonstrated in a dissertation presenting original research with a high degree of literary skill.
The core coursework of the PhD program was designed to incorporate competencies recommended by the American College of Epidemiology and the Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health, and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and the Council for State and Territorial Epidemiologists’ Applied Epidemiology Competencies: Competencies for Applied Epidemiologists in Governmental Public Health Agencies.
Graduates of the PhD in Epidemiology program will be able to:
- Apply epidemiological methods to address critical and/or emerging public health and clinical research issues through the use of:
- Appropriate epidemiological research designs
- Advanced statistical analysis methods for health studies
- Data structures and measurement methods for health research
- Biological, behavioral, and social theory applied to the understanding and prevention of contemporary threats to health and well-being
- Depth of knowledge in an area of specialization
- Assimilate the history, philosophy, and ethical principles of epidemiology into current research
- Develop grant proposals and manage research projects
- Write scientific papers for publication in peer-reviewed journals, and communicate research results to scientists, policy makers, and the public
- Compete successfully for research and teaching positions in academic institutions, federal or state agencies, or private institutions
The program consists of the following requirements:
- 90 credits of coursework
- 36 credits of core coursework
- 39 credits of elective coursework
- 15 credits of dissertation research
- Formation a Supervisory Committee of at least four members in the first year of the program
- A 3.0 GPA overall and a 3.0 GPA in the epidemiology core courses
- A 3.0 GPA in any minor courses, if a minor is declared
- Maintenance of appropriate professional conduct throughout the program
- Successful completion of a preliminary and qualifying comprehensive examination
- Preparation and successful defense of a dissertation proposal and admission to candidacy
- Preparation and successful oral defense of a dissertation