University of Central Oklahoma

What you'll study

This programme combines core public health training with specialised veterinary epidemiology and zoonoses content. Core modules typically cover epidemiologic methods, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and programme planning. Specialist modules focus on animal disease surveillance, veterinary public health, zoonotic disease control, diagnostic interpretation, outbreak investigation and One Health principles.

• Core public health methods: introductory and intermediate epidemiology, applied biostatistics, research methods and public health programme design.
• Veterinary epidemiology: study design for animal populations, herd-level disease dynamics, surveillance system design and evaluation.
• Zoonoses and One Health: ecology and control of zoonotic infections, risk assessment, cross-sectoral collaboration and policy implications.
• Applied laboratory and diagnostic interpretation: basics of diagnostic test performance, laboratory data interpretation and links between field surveillance and laboratory confirmation.
• Fieldwork and practical experience: practicum or placement with public health or animal health agencies, outbreak simulation exercises and applied data projects.
• Capstone or thesis: research project or practice-based capstone addressing a real-world problem in veterinary public health or epidemiology.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised bachelor’s degree in veterinary science, animal science, biology, public health, or a related discipline. Practical experience in animal health, laboratory work or public health is advantageous. Typical requirements include a competitive undergraduate grade point average, a personal statement outlining relevant experience and career goals, and academic references.

• Relevant undergraduate degree (or equivalent) in a biological, veterinary or public health field.
• Demonstrable quantitative skills or coursework in statistics or epidemiology are preferred; applicants without this background may be required to take preparatory modules.
• One or more academic or professional references and a statement of purpose describing research or practice interests.
• Professional experience in veterinary practice, public health or laboratory settings strengthens an application; international applicants may need to meet English language proficiency requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge animal and human health sectors. Typical career destinations include positions in government animal health services, public health agencies, international organisations, non-governmental organisations, diagnostic laboratories and the pharmaceutical and biotechnology industries.

• Epidemiologist or surveillance officer in state or national animal health agencies.
• Public health specialist focusing on zoonoses and One Health programmes.
• Outbreak investigation team member or field epidemiologist for emergency response.
• Research roles in academic institutions or research institutes studying animal and zoonotic diseases.
• Consultancy and policy advisory positions on disease control, biosecurity and food safety.

Why study at University of Central Oklahoma

University of Central Oklahoma offers an MPH pathway that integrates practical public health training with specialised veterinary epidemiology content, delivered by faculty with applied experience in population health and disease investigation. The university’s location provides proximity to regional public and animal health organisations, offering opportunities for placements and collaborative projects. Students benefit from an applied curriculum emphasising hands-on fieldwork, data analysis and a capstone or research component designed to build transferable skills for One Health careers.