Michigan State University

What you'll study

The programme combines advanced coursework, methodological training and an independent research dissertation focused on the biology, epidemiology and control of infectious diseases in tropical and low-resource environments. Core study areas typically include:

• Infectious disease biology — pathogen biology, host–pathogen interactions and immunology relevant to tropical infections.
• Epidemiology and biostatistics — study design, surveillance methods, statistical analysis and modelling for infectious disease data.
• Global and tropical medicine — clinical and public health aspects of neglected tropical diseases, malaria, vector-borne diseases and emerging infections.
• Research methods — laboratory techniques, field epidemiology, qualitative methods, mixed-methods research and data management.
• Health systems and policy — implementation science, programme evaluation, health economics and policy approaches to disease control.
• Professional skills — scientific communication, grant writing, ethics in global health research and project management.

Programme structure generally involves initial coursework to develop breadth and technical skills, laboratory or field rotations (where appropriate), a qualifying examination or comprehensive assessment, followed by focused, original research leading to a written dissertation and public defence. Students work closely with a supervisory committee and are encouraged to engage in interdisciplinary collaborations across MSU’s colleges and research centres. Opportunities for supervised fieldwork and partnerships with international health organisations are commonly available depending on the research topic.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant graduate degree (such as an MD, MSc, MPH or equivalent) or a strong bachelor’s degree with substantial research experience in a related discipline. Typical requirements include:

• A background in biological sciences, public health, epidemiology, medicine or a closely related field.
• Evidence of research experience, such as publications, a master’s thesis, laboratory or fieldwork, or substantial research employment.
• A competitive academic record; programmes normally expect a strong GPA in prior university study.
• A statement of purpose outlining research interests and fit with potential supervisors or research groups at Michigan State University.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can attest to research potential.
• Proof of English proficiency for international applicants, where required.

Specific application components and any standardised test requirements (such as the GRE) may vary by department and over time; applicants should consult the programme’s admissions page and contact potential supervisors to discuss fit and available research openings.

Career prospects

Graduates of a PhD in Hygiene & Tropical Medicine typically move into research, academic and leadership roles that address infectious disease and global health challenges. Common career paths include:

• Academic positions (postdoctoral research, faculty roles) conducting basic, translational or implementation research.
• Public health practice and leadership within national public health institutes, ministries of health or international agencies.
• Research and technical roles in international NGOs, foundations and multilateral health organisations focused on disease control and health systems strengthening.
• Positions in pharmaceutical, diagnostics or biotechnology sectors working on vaccine development, therapeutics or surveillance tools for tropical and neglected diseases.
• Consultancy, policy analysis and programme evaluation roles supporting evidence-based decision-making for global health interventions.

The programme is designed to develop both the technical research skills and the applied public health perspective needed to influence policy, lead multidisciplinary projects and secure competitive research funding.

Why study at Michigan State University

Michigan State University offers an interdisciplinary research environment with links across the College of Human Medicine, College of Natural Science, and public health and global health initiatives. Students benefit from access to well-equipped laboratories, biostatistical and informatics support, and established collaborations with international partners that facilitate field-based research.

At MSU, doctoral students receive close mentorship from faculty engaged in infectious disease, epidemiology and global health research, and have opportunities to participate in collaborative centres and institutes that focus on international health challenges. Funding support through research assistantships and traineeships is commonly available for qualified candidates, and students are encouraged to present and publish their work as part of professional development.