Alvernia University

What you'll study

This programme combines core public health training with specialised courses in veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease control. You will study foundational subjects such as epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health and health policy alongside veterinary-focused topics including zoonoses, animal disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, diagnostic laboratory methods and One Health principles.

• Core public health modules: Introduction to Public Health, Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental and Occupational Health, Health Policy and Ethics.
• Veterinary and One Health modules: Zoonotic Diseases, Veterinary Epidemiology, Animal Population Health, Comparative Immunology, Diagnostic Laboratory Techniques.
• Applied skills: Geographic Information Systems (GIS) for disease mapping, outbreak investigation methods, sampling and surveillance design, data analysis with statistical software.
• Practical experience: Field practicums and internships with public health departments, animal health organisations or community partners; laboratory practicals; and a capstone project or senior research thesis focused on a real-world public or veterinary health problem.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in sciences. Typical admissible preparation includes coursework in biology and chemistry; mathematics or statistics is strongly recommended. Admissions will consider academic transcripts, a personal statement explaining interest in One Health and public health, and letters of recommendation. Mature applicants or those with relevant volunteer or workplace experience in animal care, public health or laboratory settings are encouraged to apply. Standardised testing requirements may be optional depending on institutional policy.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that intersect animal and human health. Career pathways include positions in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, public health departments, animal health services, diagnostic laboratories, non-governmental organisations and biosecurity. Many graduates go on to further study such as a Doctor of Veterinary Medicine (DVM), a Master of Public Health (MPH) with a focus on epidemiology, or master's programmes in veterinary public health and infectious disease. The programme also provides a solid foundation for research assistantships, laboratory technician roles and policy or advocacy work in One Health initiatives.

Why study at Alvernia University

Alvernia’s small cohort sizes and emphasis on experiential learning let students build close relationships with faculty and gain hands-on experience. The university’s health sciences focus and local community connections create opportunities for internships, clinical practicums and applied research in regional public health and animal health settings. Students benefit from a values-based liberal arts education that highlights service, ethical practice and interdisciplinary collaboration—key competencies for careers in veterinary epidemiology and public health.