University of Memphis

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health training with specialised topics that address disease transmission between animals and humans. Core modules typically cover introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and health promotion. Specialist modules emphasise veterinary public health and One Health concepts, including zoonotic disease ecology, animal population health, food safety and inspection, outbreak investigation and surveillance systems.

Students learn laboratory and field methods relevant to veterinary epidemiology, such as sample collection, diagnostic test interpretation and data management for animal health studies. Research methods and scientific communication are embedded throughout, culminating in a practicum or capstone project that places students in public health departments, animal health agencies, food safety laboratories or community organisations to apply skills to real-world problems.

• Introduction to Epidemiology
• Biostatistics for Public Health
• Environmental and Occupational Health
• One Health and Zoonoses
• Animal Population Health and Disease Control
• Food Safety and Inspection
• Outbreak Investigation and Surveillance
• Research Methods and Capstone/Practicum

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a secondary school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in biology and mathematics. Typical academic expectations include satisfactory grades in science subjects; colleges and departments often state minimum GPA requirements and consider whole‑profile evidence such as relevant extracurricular activity or work experience.

Standardised test requirements (if any) and English language proficiency expectations depend on applicant status. Transfer applicants are evaluated on college-level coursework; those without previous public health courses may be asked to take introductory modules. Applicants with volunteer or work experience in animal care, laboratories, public health or community health settings are viewed favourably.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles that bridge animal and human health. Typical employment pathways include positions in local or state public health departments, animal health and veterinary public health units, food safety and inspection services, diagnostic and research laboratories, and non-governmental organisations focused on zoonoses and disease control.

Many alumni also progress to postgraduate study such as a Master of Public Health (MPH), veterinary medicine (DVM), epidemiology or infectious disease research degrees. Job titles may include surveillance or epidemiology technician, food safety inspector, animal health officer, research assistant or programme coordinator for One Health initiatives.

Why study at University of Memphis

The University of Memphis offers a School of Public Health with multidisciplinary teaching that emphasises practical skills and community engagement. Studying in Memphis provides opportunities for practicum placements and collaborations with regional public health agencies, healthcare providers and laboratories, giving hands‑on exposure to urban and regional health challenges.

Students benefit from faculty with applied public health and research experience, access to local practicum sites and a curriculum designed to integrate human, animal and environmental health perspectives. The programme is suited to students seeking a grounded, practice‑oriented education that prepares them for careers or further study at the intersection of veterinary and public health.