Valparaiso University

What you'll study

The programme blends core MPH subjects with specialised modules on animal-associated disease dynamics and control. Core topics include epidemiology, biostatistics, research methods, environmental and occupational health, and health policy and systems. Veterinary-focused content covers zoonotic disease ecology, surveillance and outbreak investigation, diagnostic methods, vaccine strategies for animal populations, and risk assessment.

• Foundations of Epidemiology and Biostatistics
• Infectious Disease Ecology and Zoonoses
• Surveillance Systems and Outbreak Investigation
• Veterinary Public Health and One Health Principles
• Research Design, Data Analysis and Spatial Epidemiology
• Risk Assessment, Biosecurity and Disease Control Strategies
• Applied Practicum in a field placement and a capstone project or thesis

The curriculum emphasises practical skills: designing and analysing surveillance data, laboratory liaison, field investigation methods, and intersectoral communication. Students complete a supervised practicum with partner agencies or clinics and undertake a culminating research project focused on a real-world veterinary public-health problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold an accredited bachelor’s degree in a relevant discipline such as biology, animal science, veterinary medicine, public health or a closely related field. Admissions assessors look for evidence of quantitative ability and prior laboratory or field experience; applicants with substantial professional experience in animal health or public health are also considered.

• Transcripts demonstrating a strong academic record (many successful applicants have the equivalent of an upper‑second or better).
• Two or three professional or academic references.
• A personal statement outlining research or practice interests in veterinary epidemiology and public health.
• A CV/resume documenting relevant coursework, clinical experience or fieldwork.
• Proof of English language proficiency for non-native speakers, where required.

Some applicants may be asked to provide a sample of written work or attend an interview. Professional registration (for example, a veterinary degree) is helpful but not always required if academic and practical preparation is sufficient.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles across government, industry, academia and non-governmental organisations that address animal and zoonotic disease threats. Typical career paths include:

• Veterinary epidemiologist or disease surveillance officer in national or state public-health and agriculture agencies
• Outbreak investigator and field epidemiologist with public-health bodies or international agencies
• Research scientist in universities, public laboratories or private sector companies focused on vaccines, diagnostics or One Health research
• Policy advisor on animal health, food safety and zoonotic disease control
• Programme manager for NGOs or international health organisations working at the human–animal–environment interface

The programme equips graduates with transferable skills in data analysis, scientific communication, project design and intersectoral collaboration that are valued across allied sectors including pharmaceuticals, biotechnology and environmental health.

Why study at Valparaiso University

Valparaiso University offers a close-knit learning environment with faculty who combine disciplinary expertise in epidemiology, public health and biological sciences with applied experience in field and laboratory settings. The university’s liberal-arts background supports interdisciplinary teaching and strong communication skills, while small class sizes enable personalised mentoring.

• Emphasis on One Health and applied practice, with opportunities for practicum placements in regional public-health and agricultural agencies.
• Faculty mentorship and support for applied research projects that address local and regional animal‑health challenges.
• Preparation for both practice-oriented roles and further research training, including pathways towards doctoral study.

Students benefit from Valparaiso’s regional partnerships and a curriculum designed to build practical competence in surveillance, outbreak response and interdisciplinary collaboration across animal and human health sectors.