Slippery Rock University

What you'll study

The programme blends core public health coursework with specialised topics in veterinary epidemiology, zoonoses and One Health. You will build a foundation in epidemiologic methods, biostatistics, environmental health, health policy and health promotion while taking targeted modules that cover disease ecology, infectious disease transmission between animals and people, and animal population health management.

• Core public health modules — introductory epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental and occupational health, health systems and health communication.
• Veterinary epidemiology and One Health — principles of animal disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, zoonotic disease control, and interfaces between human, animal and environmental health.
• Laboratory and field methods — diagnostic laboratory techniques, sample collection and biosafety, spatial analysis and use of GIS for disease mapping.
• Research and data skills — applied epidemiologic study design, data management, statistical software for public health analysis and critical appraisal of scientific literature.
• Applied learning — practicum or internship in public health agencies, veterinary diagnostic labs, animal health organisations or wildlife disease programmes, and a capstone or research project focused on a real-world problem.

Teaching methods combine lectures, laboratory practicals, field exercises and supervised placements. Students are encouraged to engage in faculty-led research and community outreach that emphasises interdisciplinary collaboration.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with preparation in biology and mathematics; chemistry is strongly recommended. Slippery Rock typically looks for academic readiness demonstrated through transcripts and references. Standardised test requirements may vary; check the university’s current admissions guidance.

Successful applicants often show evidence of relevant experience or interest—such as volunteer or work experience with animal care, community health, environmental projects or laboratory settings. Transfer students should provide college transcripts and descriptions of completed coursework to determine credit transfer. International applicants must demonstrate English proficiency according to university requirements.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for roles where animal and public health intersect. Typical entry-level positions include disease surveillance technician, public health investigator with a focus on zoonoses, laboratory technician in veterinary diagnostic services, field technician for wildlife or livestock health projects, and public health outreach coordinator working on education and prevention.

Many graduates move into specialist or leadership roles after gaining experience or pursuing postgraduate study. Common further pathways are a Master of Public Health (MPH) with epidemiology, graduate training in veterinary medicine (DVM) for those pursuing clinical or diagnostic careers, or MSc/PhD study in epidemiology, infectious disease or One Health. Alumni also work in state and federal animal health agencies, non-governmental organisations, food safety and regulatory bodies, research institutions and industry roles in biosecurity and animal health policy.

Why study at Slippery Rock University

Slippery Rock offers a personalised learning environment with small classes and hands-on laboratory and field training, allowing close mentorship from faculty with public health and applied research experience. The university’s location provides access to regional public health agencies, veterinary diagnostic laboratories and agricultural communities for practical placements and internships.

Students benefit from interdisciplinary collaboration across biology, environmental science and health-related departments, support from career and pre-professional advising, and opportunities to participate in community health initiatives. The programme emphasises applied skills, ethical practice and the One Health perspective, preparing graduates to address complex health challenges at the animal–human–environment interface.