Become an Epidemiologist

Epidemiologists identify public health hazards, evaluate health interventions and monitor health systems data to protect public health. Every day epidemiologists across the world analyze data, conduct studies and share recommendations based on science to prevent illnesses and improve healthcare outcomes.

As a student in the Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology program, you’ll gain a solid grasp of the fundamental principles of epidemiology and health statistics. You’ll learn about study design, data collection and analysis, and assessment of bias. 

The program can be completed 100% online, or in a blended on-campus and online format. International students must complete this program through a mix of on-campus and online courses.

Career Outlook

Graduates of the Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology program have found exciting and meaningful careers in the public sector, private corporations, non-profit organizations, and academia.

Iffat Farah.

UMass Lowell's Master of Public Health recent graduates have worked at:

  • Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
  • Massachusetts Department of Public Health
  • United States Department of Veterans Affairs
  • Rhode Island Department of Public Health
  • New Hampshire Department of Health and Human Services
  • World Congress
  • Evidera, Marsh & McLennan Agency
  • Abt Associates
  • Partners in Health
  • Massachusetts General Hospital
  • Boston Medical Center
  • Lowell Community Health Center
  • North Suffolk Mental Health Associates
  • Home Health Foundation
  • The Community Health Center, Inc.

Job titles include:

  • Chronic Disease Epidemiologist
  • Clinical Research Coordinator
  • Healthcare Data Business Analyst
  • Surveillance Program Coordinator
  • Project Manager for Community Research
  • Superfund Human Health Risk Analyst
  • Public Health Inspector

Curriculum

The Master of Public Health (MPH) in Epidemiology program is a 42-credit, post-BS program that has been developed to provide a comprehensive public health education to all graduates.

Core Courses

All MPH students will take five core public health courses plus a two-semester, six-credit MPH practicum (21 credits total):

  • Environmental Health
  • Epidemiology & Biostatistics
  • Public Health Policy
  • Leadership & Management in Public Health
  • Social and Behavioral Determinants of Health
  • MPH Practicum
  • Integrated Practical Learning

The Epidemiology advanced curriculum includes courses that provide skills in biostatistics, biostatistical programming, quantitative models, advanced regression, and applied epidemiology methods. For more information, view the MPH in Epidemiology degree pathway.

For a complete list of courses and academic requirements, please visit the Master of Public Health page in the Academic Catalog.

Tuition and Admissions

Eligible students must complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to be considered for financial assistance.

Complete the FAFSA

Take the Next Step

Start your online application today!

Spotlight: Students and Recent Graduates

UMass Lowell student Edward Judge sits at a desk.
EJ Judge ’19, ’21
Applied Biomedical Sciences, Master of Public Health

EJ Judge received his Master of Public Health degree during the pandemic, which provided real-world opportunities to learn what epidemiology is all about.

I wanted to get into a field where I could help people. I was supported by professors who quickly became mentors.
Read More About EJ Judge 
Shannon Gray headshot
Shannon Gray '18, '19
Public Health

Shannon Gray started earning her master's degree in Public Health with a focus on epidemiology as an undergraduate. Her internship with the Uxbridge Board of Health broadened her exposure to the role public health professionals play and strengthened her skills.

The curriculum, professors and internships for the MPH program are excellent.
Read More About Shannon Gray 
Namrata Chauhan poses for photo in her graduation gown in front of O'Leary Library.
Namrata Chauhan '23
Master of Public Health

Namrata Chauhan ’23 secured a position as a surveillance epidemiologist with the Massachusetts Department of Public Health in the Bureau of Climate and Environmental Health.

My professors helped me build my skills in reporting, documentation and communicating, which are all core responsibilities of my job.
Read More About Namrata Chauhan 
Chandni Shahdev in front of Coburn Hall in UMass Lowell south campus
Chandni Shahdev '20
Public Health – Epidemiology

Her master’s degree in public health and research experiences helped Chandni Shahdev get a job with the CDC Foundation, working with employers to prevent and contain outbreaks of COVID-19.

UMass Lowell stood out. I was really impressed by the research the faculty were doing.
Read More About Chandni Shahdev 
Cosette Scott.
Cosette Scott '24
Master of Public Health in Epidemiology

Cosette Scott’s internship working with a lead epidemiologist in the Massachusetts Department of Public Health is making an impact on public health policy.

I’m excited to apply what I learned in the classroom to this research.
Read More About Cosette Scott 

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UMass Lowell's Master of Public Health and BS programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health. Visit the CEPH website for more information.