University of Memphis

What you'll study

The programme builds core public‑health knowledge in epidemiology, biostatistics and environmental and health systems, with specialist content on zoonoses, One Health principles and veterinary epidemiology. Typical modules include:

• Foundations of Epidemiology – study design, measures of disease frequency and association, bias and confounding.
• Biostatistical Methods – applied statistics for public health, regression models and data interpretation using statistical software.
• Infectious Disease Epidemiology – transmission dynamics, outbreak investigation and control strategies for infectious agents.
• Zoonoses and One Health – ecology of zoonotic infections, cross‑species transmission, surveillance at the human–animal interface.
• Surveillance Systems and Field Epidemiology – design and evaluation of surveillance systems, case definitions, and field investigation methods.
• Environmental and Occupational Health – environmental drivers of disease and exposure assessment relevant to animal and human populations.
• Public Health Policy and Communication – policy development, risk communication and stakeholder engagement for animal and human health issues.
• Practicum/Capstone or Thesis – applied placement or research project with a public health, veterinary or One Health partner to consolidate skills.

The programme combines classroom instruction, applied data analysis and a supervised practicum or research capstone. Students select elective modules to tailor their training toward surveillance, outbreak response, research or policy.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor's degree in a relevant subject such as biology, animal science, public health, veterinary technology or a related discipline. Academic preparation in statistics and biological sciences is advantageous. Typical application materials include an academic transcript, CV, personal statement outlining public‑health interests and career goals, and two academic or professional references. Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English. The programme may consider applicants with substantial relevant professional experience even if their undergraduate degree is in a different field.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that protect both animal and human populations by preventing and controlling disease. Common career paths include:

• Field or applied epidemiologist in state or local public health departments or animal health agencies
• Surveillance officer or outbreak investigator for governmental bodies or international organisations
• One Health specialist working across human, animal and environmental health sectors
• Researcher in academic or laboratory settings focusing on zoonotic diseases or veterinary public health
• Policy analyst or advisor for regulatory agencies, NGOs or industry on animal‑related public‑health issues

Graduates may find employment with public‑health agencies, departments of agriculture, animal health laboratories, non‑governmental organisations, research institutes and private sector companies working on vaccines, diagnostics and biosecurity.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers an MPH delivered by faculty with expertise in epidemiology, environmental health and community engagement, and provides practical learning through practicum placements in the Memphis metropolitan area. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary approaches and One Health thinking, facilitating collaboration with regional public health and animal‑health partners. Students benefit from applied research opportunities, access to community networks for field experience, and small‑group mentoring to support professional development toward careers that span human and veterinary public health.