Indiana University Bloomington

What you'll study

The programme delivers core MPH training in epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental and social determinants of health, and public health policy, with specialist modules focused on veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease control. Typical taught topics include:

• Principles of epidemiology — study design, measures of disease frequency and association, and analytical reasoning for infectious and non-infectious conditions.
• Infectious disease and zoonoses — ecology and transmission dynamics of zoonotic pathogens, reservoir hosts, spillover events and control strategies.
• Surveillance systems and outbreak investigation — design and evaluation of animal and integrated human–animal surveillance, case investigation and field epidemiology methods.
• Biostatistics and data analysis — statistical methods commonly used in epidemiology, including regression modelling and the use of software for analysis.
• One Health approaches — interdisciplinary frameworks that link animal, human and environmental health for prevention and response planning.
• Laboratory & diagnostic principles for public health — interpretation of diagnostic testing, quality assurance and the role of laboratory data in surveillance (taught at a conceptual level; practical lab placements may be offered through partners).
• Spatial analysis and informatics — use of geographic information systems (GIS) and digital tools for mapping disease spread and targeting interventions.
• Policy, ethics and risk communication — regulatory frameworks for animal health, food safety policy, stakeholder engagement and communicating risk to diverse audiences.

Students complete experiential learning through a supervised practicum or internship in a public health or animal health setting, and a capstone project or research dissertation that applies epidemiological methods to a real-world veterinary public health problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants typically need a bachelor’s degree in veterinary medicine, animal science, biology, public health, or a related discipline. The programme welcomes both recent graduates and professionals with relevant work experience. Typical requirements include:

• A first degree from a recognised institution; applicants with clinical veterinary (DVM/VMD) or animal-health technician backgrounds are particularly well suited.
• Evidence of quantitative readiness — coursework or experience in statistics, biology or epidemiology is desirable. Applicants lacking this background may be asked to take preparatory modules.
• A personal statement outlining relevant experience, career goals and reasons for choosing the veterinary epidemiology pathway.
• Academic transcripts and at least two references (academic or professional).
• For international applicants, proof of English language proficiency where applicable (e.g. recognised English test scores or institutional exemption).

Standardised tests (such as the GRE) are not uniformly required; prospective applicants should consult the School of Public Health admissions guidance to confirm current testing and documentation expectations.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles at the intersection of animal and human health. Common career destinations include:

• Public health or animal health agencies at local, state/provincial and national levels, working on surveillance, outbreak response and policy development.
• International organisations and non-governmental organisations focused on zoonotic disease control, pandemic preparedness and One Health initiatives.
• Veterinary public health units and diagnostic laboratories supporting surveillance and risk assessment.
• Food safety and biosecurity roles within government and industry, addressing pathogen control along production and supply chains.
• Research and academic positions in epidemiology, infectious disease ecology or One Health, as well as roles in data analysis, modelling and health informatics.

Practical practicum experience and a research capstone help build the applied skills employers seek, including outbreak investigation, surveillance system evaluation, statistical analysis and science communication.

Why study at Indiana University Bloomington

Indiana University Bloomington offers MPH training through its School of Public Health with strengths in epidemiology, biostatistics and interdisciplinary public health practice. Students benefit from a research-intensive campus environment, access to methodological expertise in data analysis and informatics, and opportunities to connect with statewide public health initiatives. The programme emphasises experiential learning — practicum placements and faculty-supervised research allow students to apply epidemiological methods to animal–human health problems. The campus setting also provides access to broader resources across life sciences, environmental studies and policy, supporting an integrated One Health education.