Florida International University

What you'll study

The programme combines core MPH training with specialised coursework in veterinary epidemiology and public health. Core modules typically cover epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental and occupational health, public‑health systems and policy, and research methods. Specialist modules explore zoonotic disease ecology, surveillance and outbreak investigation, diagnostic methods, quantitative disease modelling, risk analysis, food safety and antimicrobial resistance. Students also study spatial analysis and geographic information systems (GIS) for disease mapping and may select electives in laboratory methods, wildlife health or global health.

Learning is delivered through lectures, case studies, practical laboratory or field sessions, and applied data analysis. The curriculum includes a practicum or field placement with a public‑health, veterinary or One Health partner, and a culminating experience such as a capstone project or thesis that emphasises applied research or programme evaluation.

Entry requirements

• Academic background: A bachelor's degree from an accredited institution in veterinary medicine, biology, animal science, public health or a related discipline. Candidates with other appropriate professional or scientific backgrounds may be considered.
• Academic record: Demonstrated strong academic performance at the undergraduate level; exact GPA requirements vary by admission cycle.
• Supporting documents: Personal statement explaining professional goals and fit with the programme, curriculum vitae or résumé, and at least two letters of recommendation.
• Standardised tests and language: Some applicants may be required to submit GRE scores depending on departmental policy; non‑native English speakers must provide acceptable proof of English proficiency (e.g. TOEFL or IELTS) unless exempt.
• Experience: Relevant professional experience in animal health, laboratory work, public health, or research is desirable and can strengthen an application.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge animal and human health. Typical career paths include positions in state and federal animal‑ and public‑health agencies, such as disease surveillance and outbreak response teams; food safety and inspection services; international organisations and NGOs working on zoonotic disease control; pharmaceutical and diagnostic companies; and environmental and wildlife health programmes. Other opportunities include applied epidemiology and biostatistics roles, policy and risk‑assessment posts, laboratory management, and continued research or doctoral study.

Why study at Florida International University

Florida International University offers interdisciplinary public‑health training with access to a diverse, subtropical ecosystem and a high volume of international travel and trade, all of which provide rich real‑world contexts for studying zoonoses and emerging infectious diseases. The university's public‑health faculty are research active in epidemiology, infectious diseases and One Health‑oriented topics, and students benefit from applied practicum placements with local and state health agencies and animal‑health organisations.

Studying in Miami gives proximity to ports, wildlife habitats and varied agricultural systems, creating opportunities for fieldwork and community partnerships. The programme emphasises applied skills—data analysis, outbreak investigation, risk communication and policy translation—preparing graduates to operate effectively in multidisciplinary teams addressing global and regional animal‑human health challenges.