Georgetown University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health training with specialist modules in veterinary epidemiology, zoonoses and One Health. Core topics include epidemiologic methods, biostatistics, public health surveillance and health policy. Specialist coursework covers infectious disease ecology, diagnostic and laboratory methods relevant to animal health, outbreak investigation and control, risk assessment for zoonotic transmission, and surveillance system design for domestic and wild animal populations.

Teaching is delivered through lectures, case-based seminars and practical workshops. Practical elements typically include training in study design and data analysis, laboratory methods demonstrations, and simulated outbreak responses. A supervised practicum or field placement with a public health agency, international organisation or research group gives hands-on experience, and students complete a capstone project or research dissertation that applies epidemiologic methods to a real-world veterinary public health problem.

Typical modules

• Foundations of Epidemiology
• Biostatistics for Public Health
• Principles of One Health and Zoonoses
• Surveillance Systems for Animal and Public Health
• Infectious Disease Ecology and Modelling
• Outbreak Investigation and Emergency Response
• Laboratory Methods and Diagnostics in Veterinary Public Health
• Policy, Ethics and Risk Communication
• Practicum and Capstone Research Project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a bachelor's degree from an accredited institution, typically in a relevant science, health or veterinary subject. Applicants with degrees in related disciplines and relevant professional experience in public health, veterinary practice, laboratory work or international development are also considered. Strong quantitative skills are important given the programme's emphasis on epidemiologic methods and biostatistics.

Admissions materials usually include a statement of purpose outlining relevant experience and interests, academic transcripts, letters of recommendation and a current CV. Evidence of practical experience in health, animal care, surveillance or research strengthens an application. Proof of English language proficiency is required for applicants whose first language is not English. Some applicants may be asked to demonstrate prior coursework in biology or statistics; bridging modules can be recommended where necessary.

Career prospects

Graduates move into roles across public, international and private sectors where animal and human health intersect. Typical positions include veterinary epidemiologist, field epidemiologist, surveillance officer, disease control specialist, research scientist, policy analyst and programme manager. Employers include national public health and veterinary services, international organisations (such as UN agencies and regional bodies), non-governmental organisations, research institutes, and the pharmaceutical and diagnostics industries.

The programme prepares students for work on zoonotic disease prevention and control, outbreak response, surveillance system design and evaluation, risk analysis and policy development. Graduates are also well placed to continue to doctoral study in epidemiology, infectious disease ecology or related fields.

Why study at Georgetown University

Georgetown's location in Washington, D.C. gives students proximity to major public health and policy organisations, offering networking, internship and practicum opportunities with government agencies, international bodies and NGOs. The university emphasises interdisciplinary approaches to global health challenges, enabling collaboration across public health, medicine, policy and social sciences.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, faculty who are active in applied epidemiology and policy engagement, and a curriculum that integrates technical skills with policy and communication training. The programme's focus on applied research and field experience prepares graduates to translate epidemiologic evidence into public health action at local, national and international levels.