Trinity University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public-health and epidemiological methods with specialist modules on animal disease dynamics, zoonoses and the interface between animal, human and environmental health. Teaching is delivered through lectures, seminars, practical laboratory and field-based exercises, and case-based outbreak simulations.

• Core epidemiology and biostatistics: study design, measures of disease frequency and effect, multivariable analysis, survival analysis and applied biostatistics using standard software.
• Veterinary epidemiology: population-level disease modelling, transmission dynamics, sample-size calculations for herd-level studies and diagnostic test evaluation.
• Zoonoses and One Health: ecology and transmission of zoonotic pathogens, wildlife reservoirs, interfaces with livestock and humans, and integrated surveillance approaches.
• Disease surveillance and outbreak investigation: principles of surveillance systems, case definitions, field investigation methods, contact tracing and control strategies.
• Risk analysis and policy: quantitative and qualitative risk assessment, decision-making under uncertainty, animal-health policy, legislation and international frameworks (e.g. OIE/FAO guidance).
• Laboratory methods and diagnostics: practical laboratory techniques relevant to veterinary pathogens, sample handling, and interpretation of diagnostic results in a surveillance context.
• Geospatial analysis and data management: GIS for disease mapping, spatial epidemiology and data management for large animal-health datasets.
• Applied research project or dissertation: a substantial independent research project, often in collaboration with an external partner such as a government agency, industry or research institute.

Structure

The programme typically comprises taught modules followed by an individual research dissertation or applied project. Some students undertake an optional placement with a public- or animal-health organisation to gain practical experience. Assessment methods include coursework, written examinations, practical reports and the dissertation.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant honours degree or professional veterinary qualification (for example BVSc, DVM or equivalent). Candidates with a strong honours degree in biological or veterinary sciences combined with relevant work or research experience will also be considered. Typical additional requirements include:

• Evidence of competence in quantitative methods or statistics, or willingness to undertake pre-course training where required.
• Professional or field experience in veterinary practice, animal health, public health, laboratory work or research is advantageous.
• Two academic or professional references and a personal statement outlining motivations and relevant experience.
• For applicants whose first language is not English, a recognised English language qualification at the level specified by the university is required.

Career prospects

Graduates are well placed for careers across animal and public health sectors where epidemiological and One Health expertise is required. Typical roles include:

• Field and surveillance epidemiologist in national or regional animal-health agencies and public-health institutes.
• Outbreak investigator or disease control officer within government departments, veterinary services or public-health units.
• Technical or advisory positions with international organisations (for example agencies dealing with animal health, food safety and zoonoses), non-governmental organisations and aid agencies.
• Research posts in universities, independent research institutes and diagnostic laboratories.
• Industry roles in pharmaceutical, diagnostic and agritech companies focusing on disease control, surveillance products and risk management.
• Policy, risk assessment and consultancy positions that require translating epidemiological evidence into practical control strategies.

Why study at Trinity University

Trinity University offers an interdisciplinary learning environment that brings together veterinary science, public health, epidemiology and environmental health under a One Health approach. Students benefit from access to experienced academic staff with applied research links, laboratory and field-training facilities, and collaborations with national and international animal-health and public-health agencies.

The programme emphasises applied skills—data analysis, outbreak response and policy translation—so graduates leave prepared for operational and research roles. Small-group teaching, hands-on practicals and opportunities for placements or collaborative research projects ensure students gain both theoretical understanding and practical experience relevant to contemporary challenges in veterinary public health.