Widener University

What you'll study

This PhD pathway combines advanced coursework, applied research methods and an original dissertation project centred on veterinary epidemiology and public health. Core topics typically include experimental and observational epidemiologic methods, biostatistics for infectious disease, disease surveillance systems, spatial epidemiology and modelling, zoonotic disease ecology, One Health frameworks, risk assessment and outbreak investigation.

Coursework is complemented by training in laboratory and field methods relevant to animal health, data management and informatics, and qualitative methods for community and policy research. Students undertake seminars in ethics and research design, and may take elective modules in food safety, veterinary public health policy, comparative immunology or environmental health depending on research interests.

The programme emphasises applied, translational research: students develop a dissertation proposal, complete a practicum or targeted field placement with public health, veterinary, or governmental partners, and present research in departmental seminars and at professional conferences. Qualifying examinations or portfolio assessments are used to transition from coursework to candidacy, followed by focused dissertation research under faculty supervision.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A relevant master’s degree (for example public health, epidemiology, veterinary medicine, biomedical sciences) is normally required; exceptional applicants with a strong professional record and a relevant bachelor’s degree may be considered.
• Research experience: Prior experience in epidemiologic research, surveillance, laboratory work or a clinical veterinary setting is highly desirable. Applicants should demonstrate an ability to design and carry out independent research.
• Application materials: A curriculum vitae, academic transcripts, a statement of research interests and career goals, and names of referees are required. Applicants should include a concise research concept or potential dissertation topics to help align with faculty supervision.
• English language: Evidence of English proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English; acceptable tests or institutional waivers are applied according to university policy.
• Interview: Shortlisted candidates may be interviewed by faculty to discuss research fit, methodological preparation and potential supervision arrangements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for leadership roles across academia, public agencies and industry where expertise in animal–human health intersections is required. Typical career destinations include university and research institute faculty positions, epidemiologist or surveillance scientist roles in national and regional public health agencies, veterinary public health units, international organisations and NGOs focused on zoonoses and outbreak response.

Other pathways include positions in pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies (vaccine development, diagnostics), food safety and supply-chain risk assessment, environmental health consultancies, and One Health policy roles within governmental or intergovernmental organisations. The programme’s emphasis on applied methods and partnerships also prepares graduates for research leadership in translational and multidisciplinary teams.

Why study at Widener University

Widener provides a personalised doctoral environment with access to interdisciplinary expertise across health sciences, environmental studies and public policy. The university’s regional partnerships with public health departments, veterinary practices and clinical laboratories offer practical placements and collaborative research opportunities that bridge academic inquiry and public-health action.

Students benefit from close mentoring by faculty experienced in epidemiology, infectious disease ecology and One Health research, as well as support for presenting and publishing original research. The programme’s applied focus, combined with opportunities for laboratory and fieldwork, equips graduates to address complex animal–human health challenges in academic, governmental and industry settings.