Some examples of epidemiologic investigations include: a study of whether a disease occurs more frequently in a particular population or subgroup, a study to measure disease burden and how best to intervene to reduce or prevent it from occurring in the population, studies of whether cell phone use or breast implants are associated with adverse health outcomes such as cancer, studies to measure risk from environmental pollution, and studies to ensure the efficacy and safety of prescription drugs.

Our mission is to provide students with a comprehensive and rigorous education that prepares them for an exciting and rewarding career in epidemiologic research, practice, and education. Emphasis is on theory and methods. In addition, students are given structured opportunities to put into practice what they have learned, by participating in activities outside the university that give them real life experience of epidemiology. Students may be provided with opportunities to participate in cutting-edge faculty research, or teaching, and may receive stipends for some of these positions. Our aim is that with the unique training received, students would be able to competently embark on a career in any of the various specialty areas in epidemiology, and this is reflected in our curriculum. Faculty members in the department are friendly, readily accessible, and highly trained to deliver quality education. Applicants are encouraged to visit the department during the application process, to click on to the other links to learn more about the department and the academic programs offered, and to familiarize themselves with the research interests of our faculty.