Epidemiology Degree Programs

After careful consideration, we are pausing admissions for our epidemiology and biostatistics doctoral degree (PhD) programs for the upcoming Fall 2025/Spring 2026 academic year. We remain deeply committed to graduate education and will revisit our PhD admissions for future academic years.

Review of applications to our epidemiology and biostatistics Masters degree programs remains unchanged for the upcoming academic year (i.e., the Fall 2025 entry class). Please contact epi.grad@msu.edu if you have any questions. 

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GRADUATE PROSPECTIVE STUDENTS

The department will host an open house for prospective students to learn more about our degree programs, hear from our admissions team about tips for navigating the application process, and connect with faculty, staff, students, and alumni.  LEARN MORE

 

PhD in EPIDEMIOLOGY

 

• About the PhD Program
  The PhD program is designed for students who plan to become independent researchers in epidemiology. Emphasis is on the development and mastery of epidemiologic and biostatistical skills required for the highest levels of scholarship, investigation, and leadership in public health work. Students design and complete their own investigator-initiated research projects, and are prepared to compete for research grant awards supported by the National Institutes of Health and other agencies that fund epidemiology research. Learning experiences are pursued through coursework and readings, apprenticeships with supervising faculty, participation on a research team, and completion of the dissertation research project.

MASTER'S in EPIDEMIOLOGY

• About the Masters Program

  The master's degree program is designed to provide students with the epidemiologic and biostatistical skills essential to engaging in clinical and population-based research. Students are trained in a wide range of applications of epidemiologic methods, from investigation into the causes of disease to the means for prevention. The program prepares students to participate in public health activities sponsored by government and non-governmental organizations such as health planning, disease control, and community health projects.

CAREERS/GRADUATES/FACULTY