University of Delaware

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health principles with specialised courses in animal health, disease ecology and epidemiological methods. Core modules typically include introductory public health, principles of epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health and health policy. Veterinary-focused modules commonly cover zoonotic diseases, infectious disease ecology, veterinary public health, animal population health and diagnostics.

Students develop practical laboratory and field skills through modules in laboratory methods, disease surveillance, GIS for health applications, and quantitative data analysis. The curriculum usually culminates in a capstone research project or practicum placement with a public health agency, animal health laboratory, NGO or research group where students apply surveillance, outbreak investigation and risk assessment techniques.

• Introduction to Public Health and Health Systems
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Biostatistics for Public Health
• Zoonoses and Veterinary Public Health
• Infectious Disease Ecology and One Health
• Laboratory and Field Methods in Disease Surveillance
• Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for Health
• Research Methods and Capstone Project or Practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised high school diploma or equivalent. Typical academic preparation includes strong performance in biology and mathematics; chemistry and statistics are advantageous. Admissions consider a combination of grades, personal statement and any relevant experience such as volunteering or work in animal care, laboratories or public health settings.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through recognised tests if their education was not in English. Where standardised tests are used in the admission process, consult the university for current guidance; mature applicants with relevant work or research experience are also welcome to apply.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that require understanding of the links between animal and human health and the skills to support surveillance, control and prevention of disease. Many graduates enter positions with public health departments, state and federal animal health agencies, diagnostic and research laboratories, non-governmental organisations, and private sector companies in animal health and pharmaceuticals.

Typical entry-level roles include disease surveillance technician, public health analyst, research technician, outbreak investigation assistant and animal health liaison. Those seeking advanced scientific or leadership roles—such as veterinary epidemiologist, policy advisor, or academic researcher—commonly pursue postgraduate study (e.g. MPH, MSc, DVM or PhD) or professional training.

Why study at University of Delaware

The University of Delaware offers an interdisciplinary approach that emphasises the One Health perspective—integrating human, animal and environmental health. Undergraduates benefit from hands-on laboratory teaching, field-based courses and opportunities for undergraduate research with faculty who work on applied public health and infectious disease problems.

Students have access to practicum and internship opportunities with state public health and animal health agencies, regional diagnostic labs and non-profit organisations. Small class sizes in advanced modules and a campus environment that encourages collaboration across biological sciences, environmental sciences and policy make it a strong choice for students aiming to build practical skills and professional networks in veterinary epidemiology and public health.