University of Michigan–Flint

What you'll study

This MPH emphasis combines core public health training with specialised study in veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease control. Core modules cover epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health principles, public health policy and research methods. Specialist subjects typically include:

• Principles of veterinary epidemiology and disease ecology
• Zoonoses and emerging infectious diseases
• Disease surveillance systems and data management
• Outbreak investigation and field epidemiology methods
• Risk assessment and biosecurity for animal and public health
• One Health approaches to integrated human, animal and environmental health
• Applied laboratory methods relevant to surveillance (conceptual study)
• Public health communication, policy and leadership in veterinary contexts

The programme is structured around core coursework, elective options to tailor technical skills, a practicum or field placement with a public or animal health agency, and a final applied project or capstone. Students gain hands-on experience in analysis of surveillance datasets, outbreak simulation exercises and collaborative projects with local and regional health partners.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a bachelor’s degree from an accredited institution; commonly accepted backgrounds include veterinary medicine, animal science, biology, ecology, public health or related health sciences. Typical entry expectations include:

• A completed undergraduate degree with a competitive GPA (exact thresholds are set by the admissions office)
• Transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended
• A statement of purpose that outlines relevant experience and career goals in veterinary/public health
• Curriculum vitae or résumé demonstrating academic, research or professional experience; clinical or laboratory experience is advantageous
• Letters of recommendation, usually two or three from academic or professional referees
• Evidence of quantitative preparation (for example, coursework in statistics or calculus) may be required or recommended
• For applicants whose first language is not English, proof of English language proficiency is required

The programme may consider applicants with non-traditional backgrounds who demonstrate relevant experience; prospective students should consult the university’s admissions guidance for programme-specific prerequisites and any information about standardised tests.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that sit at the intersection of animal and public health. Common career paths include:

• Field epidemiologist or disease surveillance officer in governmental public health agencies and veterinary services
• Veterinary public health officer within local, state or national animal health departments
• Outbreak investigation specialist with public health or agricultural agencies
• Programme officer, policy analyst or advisor for non-governmental organisations and international agencies focused on zoonoses and One Health
• Research assistant or coordinator in academic, governmental or private research settings working on infectious disease ecology and control
• Positions in pharmaceutical, diagnostic or biotech sectors related to animal and zoonotic disease prevention
• Pathway to further academic study, such as a PhD in epidemiology, veterinary science or public health

Practical placements and applied capstone projects build skills in surveillance, data analysis, risk communication and policy translation that employers in public and animal health value.

Why study at University of Michigan–Flint

University of Michigan–Flint provides a campus environment with close connections to regional public health and animal health agencies, offering opportunities for practicum placements and collaborative applied research. The programme emphasises an interdisciplinary, One Health approach that draws on faculty expertise in epidemiology, environmental health and health policy. Smaller cohort sizes can offer more personalised advising and mentorship, while the location within the University of Michigan system creates access to broader resources, seminars and cross-campus collaborations. The curriculum is oriented toward workforce readiness, with an applied capstone and community partnerships that prepare graduates for immediate roles in surveillance, outbreak response and veterinary public health practice.