Epidemiology studies describe the occurrence of disease in communities—who, what, when, where—and determine how and why disease occurs. The findings of these studies are then used to control and prevent disease and protect and improve the public’s health.

Epidemiologists study all health phenomena, such as infectious diseases, cancer, heart disease, diabetes, maternal and child health, substance abuse, and injuries. They also work with policy makers, clinicians, and other health professionals to eliminate health disparities and improve health equity locally, nationally, and globally.

A BSPH in epidemiology prepares you to enter the public health field as an entry-level epidemiologist responsible for carrying out a range of investigative and analytical epidemiologic activities related to the surveillance, detection, and prevention of diseases and injuries.

Entry-level epidemiologists often work under the direction of a senior epidemiologist, conducting routine epidemiologic functions comprising surveillance, data collection, data analysis using basic epidemiologic methods, and assistance with epidemiologic investigations.

This degree also provides excellent preparation for completing a Master of Public Health program. After completing the BSPH in epidemiology, you will be able to:

1. Assist in design of epidemiologic investigations and studies, including creating hypotheses and analysis plans.
2. Apply descriptive and analytic epidemiologic methods to recognize public health problems pertinent to the population.
3. Analyze data, summarize results, and draw conclusions from an epidemiologic investigation.
4. Collaborate with others inside and outside the agency to identify and address public health problems.
5. Identify public health surveillance data needs and support the evaluation of surveillance systems.
6. Use identified informatics tools in support of epidemiologic practice.
7. Develop an understanding of the social and behavioral determinants of health.
8. Apply understanding of complex biological, environmental, and behavioral disease risk factors to determine potential mechanisms of disease.
9. Assist in developing recommended evidence-based interventions and control measures in response to epidemiologic findings with appropriate cultural, social, and political frameworks.
10. Prepare written and oral reports and presentations that communicate necessary information to professionals and the general public.
11. Follow ethical, privacy, and confidentiality guidelines and principles when planning studies; conducting research; and collecting, disseminating, and using data.

Students will also have opportunities to develop research skills, teamwork and leadership skills, and have international health experiences through additional coursework and practical opportunities.