Syracuse University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health training with specialised coursework and experiential learning in veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease control. Core modules cover biostatistics, introductory and advanced epidemiology, environmental and occupational health, public health policy and ethics, and methods for programme evaluation. Veterinary and One Health–focused modules explore zoonoses, comparative pathology, animal population health, disease surveillance systems, diagnostic laboratory methods, and risk assessment.

• Foundational courses: principles of public health, introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, health communication.
• Veterinary epidemiology & One Health: zoonotic diseases, outbreak investigation, animal health surveillance, comparative immunology.
• Applied methods: laboratory techniques relevant to infectious disease detection, GIS for public health, quantitative and qualitative research methods.
• Policy and systems: public health law and policy, emergency preparedness, global health systems and ethics.
• Capstone and experiential learning: field placements or internships with public health departments, veterinary public health units or NGOs, and a research or practicum capstone project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are typically expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with strong preparation in the sciences and mathematics. Recommended secondary subjects include biology and chemistry, and coursework or experience in statistics, environmental science or animal science is advantageous. Admission considers a combination of academic record, personal statement expressing interest in One Health and public health, and relevant extracurricular activities such as volunteer work, laboratory experience or internships. Applicants whose first language is not English may need to meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge animal and human health across government, non-profit and private sectors. Typical entry-level jobs include public health analyst, disease surveillance technologist, outbreak investigation technician, environmental health specialist, research assistant in infectious disease projects, and positions in animal health agencies. The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study leading to careers as a public health practitioner, epidemiologist, veterinarian (with further training), infectious disease researcher, or policy adviser in local, national and international health organisations.

Why study at Syracuse University

Syracuse University’s College of Arts and Sciences and allied professional colleges provide an interdisciplinary environment for public health training and One Health work. Students benefit from faculty with expertise in epidemiology, environmental health and policy, hands-on laboratory and GIS facilities, and partnerships that support internships and field placements with public health departments and animal health organisations. The campus career services and practicum structure help students build professional networks and practical experience, preparing graduates for both immediate employment and further professional or graduate study.