Program Description
Epidemiologists are individuals who have the personality of a “medical detective” in that they are able to design and participate in biomedical research studies to investigate what people do, or are exposed to that either increases or decreases their risk of acquiring a disease as well as the process of moving toward optimum health. The epidemiologist studies the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. The process of conducting epidemiologic research incorporates the use of statistical techniques and an understanding of environmental, genetic, and social characteristics important in disease development and spread. The investigative techniques employed by the epidemiologist has become an integral part of public health with epidemiologic findings that permeate all fields of public health.
Program Length
1.5 to 2 years (6 to 8 quarters)
Possible Careers
Epidemiologist, Parasitologist, Researcher, Infection Control, Epidemiologist Investigator, Data Analyst, PhD Epidemiology candidate, positions in federal, state, and local health departments, academic and research institutions, health maintenance organizations, and hospitals.
Admissions Requirements
Bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited institution, transcripts from all universities attended, three letters of reference, and official GRE scores (note: if your cumulative undergraduate GPA is a 3.2 or higher, the GRE requirement can be waived).Prerequisites
- College Algebra or equivalent (calculus preferred)
- Three semesters or four quarters of undergraduate courses in the biological sciences
Expected Cost of Attendance
Academic Year 2023-2024
| Year of Program: | Year 1 | Year 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Tuition | $34,225 | $27,726 |
| Fees | $2,985 | $3,980 |
| Books & Supplies | $1,270 | $720 |
| Instruments | — | — |
| Misc (e.g., Boards, Licensing exam, Uniforms) | — | — |
| Total | $38,480 | $32,426 |
Notes
Expected costs for the 2023-2024 academic year are based on full time attendance. From year to year, increases are anticipated consistent with inflation in the professional education sector.
Estimated Living Expenses
Academic Year 2023-2024, off campus, with a roommate
| Year of Program: | Year 1 | Year 2 |
|---|---|---|
| Months enrolled | 9 | 12 |
| Room & Board | — | — |
| Transportation | — | — |
| Personal Expenses | — | — |
Notes
- Amounts are what a student can apply to borrow for the number of months shown in each academic year based on living off campus with a roommate and not with a relative.
- International students need to calculate 12 months of living expenses based on the numbers listed here.
- In general, to qualify for financial aid a student must be enrolled at least half time taking degree requirements. Half time is 6 units in a quarter for undergraduate programs and 4 units in a quarter for graduate programs.