Murray State University

What you'll study

This programme combines foundational public-health training with specialised study in veterinary epidemiology, zoonoses and One Health. Core public-health topics include principles of epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and health promotion. Veterinary-focused modules cover animal disease surveillance, zoonotic disease ecology, diagnostics and laboratory methods, animal population health management, and outbreak investigation involving animal reservoirs.

• Foundations of Public Health: introductory epidemiology, biostatistics and research methods, health systems and policy.
• Veterinary Epidemiology: study design for animal populations, disease transmission dynamics, and surveillance systems for livestock, companion animals and wildlife.
• Zoonotic Diseases & One Health: ecology and control of zoonoses, cross-sectoral collaboration, risk assessment and prevention strategies.
• Laboratory & Field Methods: basic diagnostic techniques, sample collection and biosafety, spatial analysis and use of GIS in disease mapping.
• Applied Practice: practicum or placement with public health departments, veterinary services, research laboratories or non-governmental organisations; and a capstone project or senior research thesis focused on a veterinary public-health problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical admission criteria include satisfactory academic performance in high-school science subjects (biology and chemistry strongly recommended) and mathematics. Murray State considers whole-application evidence, so a personal statement outlining interest in public health and animal health, relevant extracurricular experience (volunteering in clinics, animal care, community health work) and letters of recommendation strengthen an application.

Specific GPA thresholds, standardised-test policies and transfer-credit rules are set by the university and may vary; prospective students should consult Murray State's admissions office for precise, current requirements. Mature applicants and those with college coursework or significant relevant experience may be considered through alternative admission pathways.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for roles that intersect animal and human health. Common career paths include positions as disease surveillance technicians, public-health programme assistants focusing on zoonotic disease control, laboratory support staff, field epidemiology technicians, animal-health extension officers, and research assistants in university or government projects. With further postgraduate training or veterinary qualification, graduates may progress to epidemiologist roles, veterinary public-health officer posts in national agencies, roles with international organisations responding to outbreaks, or careers in biosecurity and infectious-disease consultancy.

The degree also provides a strong foundation for graduate study in public health, epidemiology, veterinary medicine or related disciplines.

Why study at Murray State University

Murray State offers a student-centred undergraduate experience with relatively small class sizes and direct access to faculty who teach applied public-health skills. The university’s location provides opportunities for placements with state and regional public-health agencies, local veterinary clinics, agricultural communities and wildlife organisations, enabling real-world experience in rural and regional health settings.

Students benefit from hands-on laboratory training, field-based learning and applied research projects that emphasise One Health approaches to complex disease problems. Murray State supports experiential learning through practicum placements and community partnerships that help students build practical skills and professional networks relevant to veterinary epidemiology and public health careers.