Canisius University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public‑health training with specialist modules that focus on the epidemiology of animal diseases, zoonoses and the One Health framework. Core MPH subjects typically include epidemiologic methods, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and systems, and research methods. Specialist veterinary and One Health modules cover topics such as veterinary epidemiology, infectious disease ecology, zoonotic disease surveillance, outbreak investigation and response, diagnostic methods for animal pathogens, animal population health management, and risk assessment.

Practical skills are emphasised: students learn field and laboratory surveillance techniques, sample collection and data management for animal health, geographic information systems (GIS) for spatial epidemiology, molecular epidemiology basics, and strategies for intersectoral collaboration between animal and human health agencies. The programme usually culminates in a supervised practicum or field placement with a public‑health agency, veterinary laboratory, NGO or community partner, and a final capstone project or thesis applying epidemiological methods to a real‑world problem.

Typical modules

• Principles of Epidemiology
• Biostatistical Methods for Public Health
• Veterinary Epidemiology and Population Health
• Zoonoses and One Health Approaches
• Disease Surveillance and Outbreak Investigation
• GIS and Spatial Analysis in Epidemiology
• Laboratory Methods and Biosafety for Animal Pathogens
• Health Policy, Ethics and Communication
• Research Design and Capstone/Thesis

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine, animal science, biology, microbiology, public health, or a related discipline. Relevant professional experience in animal health, laboratory work, epidemiology or public‑health practice can strengthen an application.

Typical academic expectations include a satisfactory undergraduate record; many programmes prefer applicants with coursework in biology, microbiology, ecology or statistics. Required application materials commonly include a personal statement or statement of purpose describing research or career goals, two or three academic or professional references, and an up‑to‑date CV. International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency where applicable.

Some students with limited quantitative background may be admitted conditionally and required to complete preparatory modules in statistics or epidemiology before starting advanced courses.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles at the interface of animal and human health. Common career paths include positions in public‑health and animal‑health agencies at local, state and national levels, roles in diagnostic and surveillance laboratories, and work with international organisations or NGOs focused on zoonotic disease control and One Health programmes.

Other destinations include outbreak investigation and emergency response teams, pharmaceutical and biotech companies working on animal or zoonotic diseases, environmental and wildlife health organisations, and academic or policy research roles. The combination of epidemiological and veterinary‑public‑health skills is also valued in risk assessment, biosecurity, and consultancy positions supporting transboundary animal disease management.

Why study at Canisius University

Canisius University offers a small, student‑centred learning environment where interdisciplinary collaboration and experiential learning are priorities. Students benefit from small class sizes and close faculty mentoring, which supports hands‑on training in epidemiologic methods and applied public‑health projects.

The university’s location provides access to regional public‑health networks, laboratories and community health partners, enabling practicum placements and applied fieldwork opportunities. Canisius emphasises community engagement and ethical leadership consistent with its Jesuit educational tradition, preparing graduates to work effectively across sectors in One Health and veterinary public‑health settings.