Central Washington University

What you'll study

The programme builds a foundation in population health, epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health and health policy, while adding targeted coursework in animal health, zoonoses and surveillance methods. Core public‑health modules typically include introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental and occupational health, health behaviour and programme planning.

• Veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease: disease ecology, transmission dynamics between animals and humans, outbreak investigation focused on zoonoses.
• Laboratory and diagnostic methods: basic microbiology, sample collection and interpretation of diagnostic results used in animal and public‑health settings.
• Surveillance and informatics: surveillance system design, data management, use of GIS and digital tools for tracking disease in animal and human populations.
• One Health approaches: interdisciplinary study of human, animal and environmental health, policy and communication across sectors.
• Applied experience: field practicums, capstone projects or internships working with local health departments, animal health clinics, laboratories or community organisations.

Students progress through lower‑division science prerequisites (biology, chemistry, statistics) into upper‑division public‑health and specialised veterinary epidemiology courses, finishing with an applied capstone or internship that demonstrates competency in surveillance, outbreak investigation or programme implementation.

Entry requirements

Typical entry requires a high‑school diploma or equivalent with academic preparation in science and mathematics. Recommended preparatory subjects include biology, chemistry and algebra or statistics. Central Washington University also welcomes transfer students from community colleges; transfer applicants should present college transcripts and any relevant science coursework.

Admission considers academic record and required application documentation. International students must demonstrate proficiency in English through recognised tests or approved institutional pathways. Specific GPA expectations, placement testing and any prerequisite course requirements are provided by the university’s admissions office and academic advisors.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge animal and human health, including:

• Disease surveillance technician or epidemiology aide in local, state or federal public‑health agencies
• Outbreak investigation support staff and field epidemiology teams focusing on zoonotic events
• Laboratory support roles in diagnostic or veterinary laboratories
• One Health coordinator or programme officer for NGOs and international organisations
• Public‑health educator or community outreach specialist working on prevention of zoonotic diseases

Many graduates also pursue postgraduate study—such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM) or research degrees—to specialise further and move into advanced epidemiology, clinical veterinary medicine, policy analysis or academic research.

Why study at Central Washington University

Central Washington University's campus offers small class sizes and direct access to faculty with applied experience in public‑health practice and research. Located in a region with diverse agricultural and rural communities, the programme provides opportunities for hands‑on fieldwork and engagement with real‑world animal health and zoonotic challenges.

The university emphasises experiential learning: students benefit from applied laboratories, local practicum placements and capstone projects that build practical skills employers seek. Interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, environmental sciences and public health supports a One Health perspective that is central to veterinary epidemiology and contemporary disease control.