MPH* Epidemiology Specialization

Description

The MPH* in Epidemiology provides a solid base in epidemiological methods, an understanding of the breadth of community health and opportunities for applied experiential learning in epidemiologic practice, research and policy. The degree program is intended for students who want a research career (including pursuit of a PhD in epidemiology), and those who want to work in an applied public health setting. The curriculum emphasizes quantitative methods, critical appraisal of evidence, data analysis and interpretation. In contrast to strictly skills-based training, the degree is aimed at developing leaders who will make independent contributions when faced with public health challenges, and direct initiatives in the field. In addition, completion of the program meets the requirement for physicians training to be Medical Officers of Health in Ontario, and Royal College of Physicians and Surgeons of Canada requirements for Community Medicine residents. Our graduates have pursued careers in academic research institutes, applied research agencies, and public health settings.

Objectives

The objective of the program is to provide students with a base of knowledge and skills in epidemiological methods and public health that will enable them to pursue careers in applied epidemiological research, or evidence-based public health practice.

Graduates will:

• be able to work as part of a research group or a public health practice;
• be able to describe trends and patterns of disease incidence and prevalence, disease burden, factors affecting health status, and major etiologic and prognostic factors;
• understand the strengths and weaknesses of major methodological and analytical techniques;
• exhibit practical skills, including the ability to develop an epidemiological question, refine the question in light of the literature and community situation, design an appropriate study to answer the question, collect relevant data, analyze these data using commonly available statistical software, and interpret the findings relative to the literature and the community/ organizational context;
• be able to prepare a paper for peer-reviewed publication, and present epidemiological information;
• have knowledge of public health principles and practice; and
• be able to read, understand, and critically appraise the scientific literature, and understand the effectiveness of core public health interventions.

Admission

• Applicants are required to have completed an undergraduate statistics course with a minimum B+ 
  or 77% grade.
• Please review our general admission requirements.
• Click here for information regarding the application process.

In addition to the requirement that a statistics course must be completed prior to submitting the application (before February), the Admissions Committee looks for excellence in grades, research experience, and references; as well as a cogent and compelling letter of intent which explains the value of the degree with respect to the applicants medium- and long-term career goals.

  *known as the MHSc degree prior to September 1, 2009.
 

Epidemiology Main Page

MPH*

• Description  & Objectives
• Admission
• Progress through the MPH*
• Course Requirements
• Practica and the Capstone Project