Marymount Manhattan College

What you'll study

The programme integrates core public health disciplines with specialised training in veterinary epidemiology and One Health principles. Core courses cover introduction to public health, principles of epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and ethics, and research methods. Veterinary‑focused modules examine zoonotic diseases, disease surveillance and outbreak investigation, animal population health, food safety and inspection, and diagnostic approaches used in veterinary public health.

Students engage with a mix of classroom learning, laboratory exercises (basic microbiology and diagnostic techniques), case studies and field methods courses that teach sampling, data collection and biosecurity. A capstone research project or practicum places students in applied settings such as public health departments, animal health agencies, non‑profit organisations or research laboratories, where they design or contribute to surveillance, education or control programmes.

Elective options and seminars allow deeper study in areas such as spatial analysis and GIS for disease mapping, global health, environmental toxicology, risk communication, and policy analysis. The curriculum emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration, critical appraisal of evidence, and the communication skills required to work with diverse stakeholders including clinicians, veterinarians, public officials and community groups.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is from secondary school or equivalent. Applicants should present a strong academic record with coursework in biology and mathematics; prior study in chemistry or statistics is advantageous. Admissions consider transcripts, a personal statement demonstrating interest in public and animal health, and one or more academic or professional references.

Mature applicants or those with relevant work, volunteer or laboratory experience are welcome and may be asked to submit a portfolio or attend an interview. Where standardised tests are optional or not provided, admissions will place greater weight on subject preparation, letters of recommendation and evidence of commitment to public health practice.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry‑level roles in human and animal health sectors, including positions as surveillance technicians, research assistants, public health educators, field epidemiology support staff, and food safety inspectors. They often work for local and state public health departments, animal health and regulatory agencies, non‑governmental organisations, private diagnostic laboratories and international health organisations.

The degree also provides a solid foundation for postgraduate study leading to professional degrees such as an MPH, MSc in Epidemiology, or a veterinary degree (DVM), and for careers in policy, research, environmental health, or global health programmes focused on zoonotic disease control and One Health initiatives.

Why study at Marymount Manhattan College

Marymount Manhattan College offers small class sizes and close faculty mentorship within a liberal arts context, enabling personalised learning and interdisciplinary enquiry. Located in New York City, the college provides convenient access to municipal and regional public health institutions, non‑profits, research centres and community organisations, facilitating internships and practicum placements that bring classroom theory into practice.

The college emphasises experiential education and professional development; students benefit from career services, internship support and networking opportunities across the city’s public health and animal health landscape. Faculty teaching this programme draw on applied public health experience and collaborate across disciplines to prepare graduates to address complex health challenges where human, animal and environmental health intersect.