Loyola University Chicago

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health foundations with specialised study in veterinary epidemiology, zoonoses and One Health. Core modules cover principles of epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and ethics, and health communication. Specialist modules address animal disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, diagnostic epidemiology, pathogen ecology, and risk analysis for zoonotic threats.

• Core public health: introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, public health systems, environmental and occupational health, health promotion and policy.
• Veterinary epidemiology specialism: population dynamics of animal disease, surveillance systems for livestock and wildlife, laboratory methods for infectious disease detection, comparative pathology and zoonoses.
• Research and practice: applied research methods, data analysis using statistical software, capstone or honours thesis, and a supervised practicum/field placement with public health, veterinary or conservation agencies.
• Electives and interdisciplinary options: ecology of infectious diseases, food safety and inspection, global health, GIS for health, and policy approaches to animal and human health.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised secondary-school qualification suitable for university admission. Typical successful applicants have strong grades in science subjects, particularly biology and chemistry, and competence in mathematics. Admissions may consider the whole application including personal statement, references and any relevant volunteer or work experience with animals, laboratories, public health or community organisations.

International applicants must demonstrate equivalent academic achievement and English language proficiency as required by the university. Mature applicants with relevant professional experience are also encouraged to apply and will be assessed on their individual qualifications.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that intersect animal, human and environmental health. Career pathways include positions in government agencies, animal health services, non-governmental organisations, diagnostic and research laboratories, food safety and biosecurity, and wildlife health programmes.

• Epidemiology or surveillance officer (animal health/public health)
• Field investigator for zoonotic disease outbreaks
• Laboratory technician or research assistant in veterinary or infectious disease labs
• One Health programme coordinator for NGOs and international agencies
• Careers in regulatory agencies concerned with food safety, animal welfare and public health
• Further professional or graduate study: MPH, DVM, MSc/PhD in epidemiology or related fields

Why study at Loyola University Chicago

Loyola offers an interdisciplinary approach grounded in Jesuit values emphasising social justice, service and ethical practice. The university's location in Chicago provides access to a wide range of public health institutions, research centres and veterinary and animal-health partners for practicum placements and collaborative projects.

Students benefit from small-group teaching, faculty engaged in applied research across One Health and zoonotic disease topics, and a curriculum that integrates hands-on fieldwork, data analysis and community-engaged learning. The programme is designed to prepare graduates to respond to real-world animal and human health challenges at local, national and global levels.