M.S. in Epidemiology

Program Overview

The M.S. in Epidemiology at UB is a research-based degree program, typically completed over two years of full-time study. It emphasizes rigorous training in core epidemiological principles, biostatistics, and research methods. Students gain hands-on experience in designing and conducting epidemiological studies, collecting and analyzing data, and interpreting research findings. The program culminates in a required research thesis, providing students with a significant opportunity to contribute original work to the field. Graduates are well-prepared for roles in research institutions, public health agencies, or for pursuing further doctoral studies in epidemiology or related fields.

STEM Designated: Yes, the M.S. in Epidemiology program at the University at Buffalo is STEM-designated. This is a crucial advantage for international students, as it allows for an Optional Practical Training (OPT) extension of 24 months beyond the initial 12 months, totaling up to 36 months of work authorization in the U.S. after graduation. This designation underscores the program's strong quantitative, analytical, and scientific foundations, which are central to the practice of epidemiology.

Curriculum: The curriculum for the M.S. in Epidemiology is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of epidemiological principles and methods. Required courses typically include "Principles of Epidemiology," "Biostatistics," "Epidemiologic Methods," "Advanced Statistical Computing," and "Public Health and Population Well-Being." Students also take elective courses that allow for specialization in various areas such as chronic disease epidemiology, infectious disease epidemiology, social epidemiology, genetic epidemiology, environmental epidemiology, and advanced biostatistical methods. The program culminates in a required research thesis, where students apply their knowledge to conduct an independent research project and present their findings.

Research Focus: The M.S. in Epidemiology at UB has a strong research focus, aiming to prepare graduates to conduct, utilize, and translate epidemiological research. Faculty within the Department of Epidemiology and Environmental Health are actively engaged in diverse and impactful research areas. These include cancer epidemiology, cardiovascular disease epidemiology, infectious disease epidemiology, genetic epidemiology, environmental epidemiology, social epidemiology, and the epidemiology of chronic diseases. Students have numerous opportunities to participate in faculty-led research projects, leveraging large datasets, and gaining practical experience in all phases of epidemiological investigation, from study design and data collection to analysis and dissemination of findings.

Industry Engagement: The M.S. in Epidemiology program at UB is highly focused on preparing graduates for direct entry into the workforce in various public health and research settings. Graduates are well-prepared for roles as epidemiologists or research scientists in local, state, and federal public health agencies (e.g., Centers for Disease Control and Prevention - CDC, National Institutes of Health - NIH, state health departments), academic research institutions, pharmaceutical companies, contract research organizations (CROs), and non-profit organizations. The program's emphasis on practical research skills and data analysis ensures students are equipped with competencies highly valued by these employers.

Global Perspective: The M.S. in Epidemiology at UB inherently fosters a global perspective by addressing diseases and health conditions that are global in scope and impact. Epidemiological principles are universal, and the program prepares students to investigate disease patterns and determinants across diverse populations and international contexts. Many faculty members engage in research on global health issues, such as infectious disease outbreaks, chronic disease burdens in low- and middle-income countries, and health disparities across different regions. As a major public research university, UB attracts a diverse international student body and faculty, enriching the learning environment with varied cultural viewpoints and approaches to global health challenges. This exposure prepares graduates to contribute to international public health efforts and research collaborations.