M.P.H. Public Health - Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness/Epidemiology (Joint Concentration)

Entry Requirements for Postgraduate programs

Academic Requirements:

1. Bachelor's Degree: Applicants must have completed a bachelor's degree or its equivalent from a recognized institution. The minimum required percentage for admission is typically 60% or above.

English Language Proficiency: 

1. IELTS (International English Language Testing System): A minimum overall score of 6.5 is required, with no individual band score lower than 6.0.

2. TOEFL iBT (Test of English as a Foreign Language - Internet-Based Test): A minimum overall score of 80 is often required.

3. PTE (Pearson Test of English): A minimum score of 54 may be required.

4. DET (Duolingo English Test): A minimum score of 110 is typically accepted.

Saint Louis University (SLU) in the United States offers a range of scholarships and financial aid opportunities to support international students in their pursuit of higher education. These scholarships are designed to recognize academic excellence, promote diversity, and assist students in managing the costs of their education.

1. Merit-Based Scholarships: SLU offers merit-based scholarships to international students based on their academic achievements, typically in the form of tuition reductions. These scholarships may vary in amount and eligibility criteria, but they are generally awarded to students with outstanding academic records.

2. International Student Scholarships: SLU specifically offers scholarships for international students to promote diversity and foster a global campus community. These scholarships may consider factors beyond academics, such as leadership, community involvement, or extracurricular achievements.

3. Departmental Scholarships: Some academic departments within SLU may offer scholarships to international students pursuing specific majors or fields of study. These scholarships can be a valuable resource for students with strong academic interests in particular disciplines.

4. Graduate Assistantships: SLU provides graduate assistantship opportunities to international students pursuing postgraduate degrees. These assistantships often include a stipend and may involve teaching, research, or administrative responsibilities.

5. Government and External Scholarships: International students may explore scholarships offered by their home governments, international organizations, or external agencies that support higher education. SLU's financial aid office can provide guidance on external scholarship opportunities.

6. Need-Based Financial Aid: SLU is committed to assisting students with financial need. International students can explore need-based financial aid options and work with the university's financial aid office to determine eligibility.

7. Fellowships: SLU may offer fellowship programs for outstanding graduate students. Fellowships often provide financial support, research opportunities, and professional development experiences.

8. Assistantships: In addition to graduate assistantships, SLU may offer research or teaching assistantships to international students pursuing advanced degrees. These positions can help cover tuition costs and provide valuable academic experience.

9. Study Abroad Scholarships: SLU encourages international experiences, and there are scholarships available for students participating in study abroad programs. These scholarships can help offset the costs of studying in another country.

10. Global Scholarship Exchange Programs: SLU collaborates with partner universities worldwide, enabling students to participate in exchange programs. These programs often include scholarship opportunities that facilitate international academic experiences.

It's important for international students to research and apply for scholarships early in the application process, as deadlines and eligibility criteria may vary. 

Upon completing the M.P.H. in Public Health - Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness/Epidemiology program at SLU, graduates are well-positioned for a variety of rewarding career opportunities. The M.P.H. in Public Health - Biosecurity and Disaster Preparedness/Epidemiology program at Saint Louis University provides graduates with the knowledge and skills to excel in various roles related to public health emergencies, disaster preparedness, and epidemiology.

1. Epidemiologist: Graduates can work as epidemiologists, studying the patterns, causes, and effects of diseases in populations. They may be involved in disease surveillance, outbreak investigation, and data analysis to inform public health decisions.

2. Emergency Preparedness Specialist: Public health emergency preparedness specialists play a critical role in planning for and responding to disasters, epidemics, and public health emergencies. They develop and implement emergency response plans and ensure that communities are ready to respond effectively.

3. Biosecurity Analyst: Biosecurity analysts focus on preventing and responding to biological threats, including bioterrorism and emerging infectious diseases. They work to safeguard public health by assessing and managing biosecurity risks.

4. Public Health Researcher: Graduates may pursue careers in public health research, conducting studies to identify trends, evaluate interventions, and contribute to evidence-based public health practices.

5. Healthcare Administrator: Some graduates choose to work in healthcare administration, managing public health programs, clinics, or healthcare facilities. They oversee budgets, staff, and resources to ensure the efficient delivery of healthcare services.

6. Non-Profit and NGO Roles: Graduates can find opportunities in non-profit organizations and non-governmental organizations (NGOs) dedicated to public health and disaster relief. These roles may involve program management, advocacy, and community engagement.

7. Government Positions: Government agencies at the local, state, and federal levels offer positions related to public health, emergency management, and disaster response. Graduates may work for agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the Federal Emergency Management Agency (FEMA).