Indiana University of Pennsylvania

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health topics with specialised training in veterinary epidemiology and zoonotic disease dynamics. Typical subjects include introductory and applied epidemiology, biostatistics, infectious disease ecology, zoonoses and veterinary public health, environmental health, microbiology and laboratory methods, surveillance systems, outbreak investigation, and public health policy and ethics.

Students follow a mix of classroom lectures, laboratory practicals and applied project work. Key learning elements are:

• Epidemiology and Biostatistics: study design, data analysis, interpretation of surveillance data and risk assessment methods.
• Zoonotic Disease and One Health: transmission pathways, reservoir hosts, modelling of cross‑species disease spread and integrated control strategies.
• Laboratory and Diagnostic Techniques: basic microbiology, sample handling, diagnostic test interpretation and biosafety principles relevant to animal and human pathogens.
• Applied Fieldwork and Surveillance: outbreak investigation methods, participatory epidemiology, data collection in field settings and design of surveillance programmes.
• Policy, Communication and Ethics: public health law and regulation, risk communication, community engagement and the ethical issues of animal and human health interventions.
• Capstone/Practicum: an applied practicum or research capstone with a public health agency, animal health laboratory or community partner that synthesises classroom learning in a real‑world setting.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a high school diploma or equivalent with a strong background in science. Typical preparation includes courses in biology and chemistry; mathematics, particularly statistics or algebra, is recommended. Admissions consider academic performance, personal statement and any relevant volunteer or work experience in animal care, public health or laboratory settings.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted test or equivalent qualification. Candidates with prior college coursework in biology, microbiology or math may be eligible for advanced standing or transfer credit, subject to departmental approval.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for entry‑level roles in public health and animal health sectors, or further professional and graduate study. Common career pathways include:

• Public health technician or epidemiology assistant working with local or state health departments.
• Animal health surveillance officer, field disease investigator or biosecurity technician for agricultural agencies.
• Laboratory technician in diagnostic or research laboratories that support animal and zoonotic disease testing.
• Positions with non‑governmental organisations focusing on One Health, wildlife health, or international zoonoses control.
• Progression to graduate training such as a Master of Public Health, veterinary medicine (DVM) or specialised epidemiology and research programmes.

Why study at Indiana University of Pennsylvania

Indiana University of Pennsylvania offers a practical, regionally engaged public health curriculum with opportunities for hands‑on learning through laboratory courses and community practicum placements. The programme emphasises interdisciplinary One Health approaches that connect animal, human and environmental health, and benefits from faculty with applied experience in epidemiology and public health practice.

Students can draw on campus laboratory facilities, partnerships with regional public health and agricultural agencies, and support services for internships and career development. The programme’s applied capstone and practicum options help graduates build the practical skills and professional networks needed to enter the workforce or to advance to postgraduate study.