Eastern Michigan University

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health coursework with specialised study in veterinary epidemiology, zoonoses and One Health. You will gain a grounding in disease transmission, population health, biostatistics and environmental determinants of health, together with practical skills in field investigation and laboratory methods.

• Core public health modules: introductory epidemiology, principles of public health, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and ethics, and research methods.
• Veterinary epidemiology and One Health: zoonotic disease ecology, animal health systems, comparative infectious disease, One Health concepts and cross-species transmission dynamics.
• Laboratory and field skills: diagnostic testing basics, biosafety, sample collection, outbreak investigation techniques and geographic information systems (GIS) for disease mapping.
• Applied practical experience: capstone project and practicum or internship placements with public health departments, animal health agencies, veterinary clinics, research labs or NGOs focused on animal-human health interfaces.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: courses in microbiology, ecology, statistics, health communication and policy to tailor studies toward research, surveillance or community interventions.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary school qualification. Typical preparation includes study of biology and chemistry and a solid foundation in mathematics. Admission is based on academic records and any required university application materials.

• Academic background: successful completion of high-school coursework including biology and chemistry; mathematics (algebra or higher) is also recommended.
• Application materials: official school transcripts and any institutionally required forms. Standardised test submission may be optional depending on institutional policy; check the university admissions pages for current guidance.
• Transfer and mature applicants: credit for prior college coursework or relevant work experience may be considered. Applicants with practical experience in animal care, laboratory work or public health work enhance their candidacy.
• International applicants: equivalent secondary qualifications are required; English language proficiency must be demonstrated through accepted tests or institutional exemptions.

Career prospects

Graduates leave prepared for entry-level roles that address the interface of animal and human health, or as a stepping stone to graduate study. Typical pathways include employment in government, industry and non-profit sectors concerned with disease prevention and control.

• Public health technician or surveillance specialist in local, state or federal health agencies
• Animal health technician, disease investigator or laboratory assistant supporting veterinary public health work
• Outbreak response or field epidemiology support roles with public health or animal health organisations
• Positions in biosecurity, food safety and zoonotic disease risk assessment with regulatory agencies or private industry
• Further study: many graduates progress to master's programmes in epidemiology, public health, veterinary public health or related clinical and research degrees

Why study at Eastern Michigan University

Eastern Michigan University offers a personalised learning environment with opportunities to integrate biological sciences, public health practice and community-based placements. The programme emphasises applied, experiential learning through practicum placements and faculty-led projects that reflect regional public and animal health priorities.

• Interdisciplinary strengths: access to courses and laboratories across biology, health sciences and environmental studies supports a One Health approach.
• Practical experience: structured practicum and capstone opportunities help students build real-world skills in surveillance, outbreak investigation and applied research.
• Faculty and local partnerships: teaching staff with public health and veterinary-related research interests guide student projects and mentorship; students benefit from placement links with regional health and animal health agencies.
• Career support: campus career services and departmental advising help students identify internships, employment and graduate study pathways in public and veterinary health sectors.