Epidemiology

The Master of Science in Epidemiology at Columbia University is an intensive graduate program designed to equip students with the fundamental principles and advanced techniques necessary to investigate the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. This program emphasizes a rigorous understanding of epidemiologic methods, biostatistics, study design, and data analysis to prepare graduates for careers in public health research, policy development, and disease prevention.

Students will engage with a comprehensive curriculum that covers core concepts such as infectious and chronic diseases, environmental health, genetic epidemiology, and social determinants of health. The program fosters critical thinking through coursework and practical training, enabling students to design, implement, and interpret epidemiologic studies effectively. Collaboration with leading faculty members involved in cutting-edge research offers invaluable opportunities for mentorship and professional development.

Throughout the program, students will gain hands-on experience with real-world data sets, statistical software, and research methodologies. The curriculum also emphasizes ethical considerations, communication of findings, and translation of research into public health action. With a strong foundation in quantitative analysis, students are prepared to pursue careers in academia, government agencies, health organizations, and research institutions.

Columbia University's location in New York City provides a unique advantage by giving students access to a diverse and dynamic population, numerous public health initiatives, and collaborations with local and international health agencies. The program's rigorous academic environment and extensive network facilitate ongoing professional growth and opportunities in epidemiology and related disciplines.

Graduates of the MSc in Epidemiology at Columbia are well-positioned to contribute significantly to the understanding and control of health issues worldwide. They emerge from the program ready to tackle pressing health challenges through research, policy-making, and innovative solutions that improve population health outcomes on a global scale.

Doctoral students are required to complete and defend a dissertation to be awarded the PhD. After completing their qualifying exams, students identify a topic and a dissertation sponsor, who then appoints other members of the dissertation committee.

The dissertation committee usually consists of the sponsor, a chair, and a second reader all in the Epidemiology Department, as well as two other members extraneous to the Department. Working closely with their sponsors, students develop and defend a research proposal first to their committee and then at a public seminar.

Having successfully met these challenges, the students complete a literature review relevant to their specific aims, undertake the appropriate analyses, and usually complete the dissertation in the form of at least two empirical and publishable papers with associated introductions and appendices. They defend the final dissertation before their committee in closed session. 

Doctoral Required Courses

Core Methods Sequence 

• P6400 Epi I: Principles of Epidemiology *
• P8438 Epi II: Design and Conduct of Observational Epidemiology * 
• P8400 Epi III: Applied Epidemiologic Analysis  *
• P9400 Epi IV: Critical Thinking in Epidemiology
• P9485 Epi V: Concepts in Causal Inference
• P9487 Epi VI: Advanced Techniques in Epidemiologic Methods 

Core Skills Sequence 

• P8483 Applications of Epidemiologic Research Methods I  *
• P9489 Applications of Epidemiologic Research Methods II
• P9494 Publications, Presentations, and Grants
• P9405 History of Epidemiology
• P9410 Biology and Physiology for Epidemiologists

*Master's level course

Requirements

All applicants must have, or be in the process of completing, a master's degree in epidemiology or a related field. Individuals who have completed a doctoral degree in a program that does not confer a master's degree (e.g., MD) are also eligible.

Applicants should be committed to public health research and practice, so past research and/or other work experience in public health are encouraged.

Course work in mathematics (e.g. calculus and statistics), and a strong background in the natural and/or social sciences are strongly recommended. Oral and written communication skills, as well diversity in terms of gender, race and ethnic background, and areas of interest or expertise are highly valued.

In addition to the requirements listed below, all students must submit an official transcript showing courses and grades from each prior institution, a statement of academic purpose, a writing sample as described below, and three letters of evaluation from academic and/or work sources. All international students whose native language is not English or whose undergraduate degree is from an institution in a country whose official language is not English must submit Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or IELTS scores.

• Resume/CV
• Writing sample
• GRE General

Scholarships

• Training program fellowships (departmental or institutional)
• Other scholarships and fellowships arising both inside and outside the University
• Research-based employment—Graduate research assistantships (GRAs)
• Seminar leadership
• NIH individual dissertation grant awards (F31 and R36)

The Master of Science in Epidemiology at Columbia University is a rigorous, research-focused program designed to equip students with essential skills in the principles and methods of epidemiologic research. Located at the Mailman School of Public Health in New York City, the program prepares graduates to analyze the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. It provides a comprehensive curriculum that covers core topics such as biostatistics, epidemiologic methods, disease transmission, and public health policy. Students also have opportunities to specialize in areas like infectious disease epidemiology, chronic disease epidemiology, or environmental health, enabling them to tailor their education to their specific interests and career goals.

The program typically combines rigorous coursework, practical training, and research projects. Students gain hands-on experience through internships and fieldwork, often collaborating with leading health organizations and research institutes. Mentorship from renowned faculty members engaged in cutting-edge research allows students to deepen their understanding of epidemiologic techniques and public health challenges. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for careers in academia, government agencies, non-profit organizations, and private sector research firms. They may contribute to epidemiologic investigations, disease surveillance, health policy development, or program evaluation.

Columbia University’s Epidemiology program emphasizes the importance of multidisciplinary approaches and the integration of epidemiologic science with other public health disciplines. The program embraces innovation and technological advancements, incorporating training in modern statistical software and data analysis methods. Students are encouraged to engage in collaborative research efforts, often involving epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental sciences, and behavioral sciences.

Admissions to the program are competitive, requiring a strong academic background in sciences or related fields, relevant research experience, and a demonstrated interest in public health. The program also promotes diversity and inclusion, aiming to foster a community of scholars with varied perspectives and experiences. Graduates of the program are equipped to address complex health issues through evidence-based research, and many go on to lead impactful epidemiologic studies that improve public health outcomes globally.

Overall, the Columbia University Epidemiology program offers a comprehensive and immersive educational experience, integrating theoretical foundations with practical applications, preparing students to become leaders in epidemiologic research and public health practice.