Why ODU for epidemiology?

Understanding the causes, patterns, and prevention of disease is at the heart of protecting public health. ODU’s Epidemiology Certificate equips professionals with the foundational knowledge and tools to assess health trends, investigate disease patterns, and inform public health action.

In this program, you will:

  • Learn the principles of disease distribution and determinants
  • Explore epidemiologic methods used in public health practice
  • Gain skills to assess population health trends and support evidence-based decisions

This program supports ODU’s mission to strengthen the public health workforce and build community-oriented health professionals who are ready to lead with data and insight.

When you complete this certificate, you will be prepared to contribute to disease prevention and health promotion efforts in clinical, research, and community health settings.

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If you are interested in pursuing an undergraduate degree, we can provide a free unofficial evaluation of your domestic transcript(s).





Additional accreditation information

The Joint School of Public Health is undergoing a review by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) for accreditation. Part of this process includes the provision of a third-party comment period, which allows anyone, including students, alumni, faculty, staff, community and practice partners, and members of the public, to share relevant information about the Joint School of Public Health directly with CEPH. If you have any information about the Joint School of Public Health you would like to share with CEPH to inform their review, send your comments to submissions@ceph.org by October 9, 2025.

Program Information

Total
15 Credit Hours

You will take five courses to complete this certificate. Courses include:

  • Statistical Reasoning for Public Health
  • Principles of Epidemiology
  • Research Methods

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Total
15 Credit Hours

You will take five courses to complete this certificate. Courses include:

  • Statistical Reasoning for Public Health
  • Principles of Epidemiology
  • Research Methods

Explore Courses in the Graduate Catalog

Access course materials online from any location. Many classes don't have a scheduled meeting time, so you can fit class into your personal schedule. The instructor may schedule assignments and exams at specific times. All courses follow ODU's regular academic calendar.

Cost & Aid

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Calculating Cost
In-state Virginia Residents
$486 per credit hour*
Out-of-state Students
$649 per credit hour

Rates are effective Fall 2025 and subject to change.
* In-state rate assumes residency requirements are met.

The newest class of graduates through ODUGlobal celebrated commencement in May 2024.
Scholarships & Aid

Scholarship Opportunities for Online Students

At ODUGlobal, we offer a variety of scholarships to support and empower you in achieving your academic and career goals, making quality education accessible wherever you are. 
 

Careers in Epidemiology

Professionals trained in epidemiology are vital for identifying health risks, informing policy, and preventing disease.

Career paths for certificate holders include:

  • Public health analyst
  • Epidemiology assistant or coordinator
  • Clinical research associate
  • Infection prevention specialist
  • Health data analyst
Epidemiologists
Growth
18.8%
Median Salary
$81,390
Clinical Research Coordinators
Growth
7.5%
Median Salary
$157,740
Biostatisticians
Growth
11.8%
Median Salary
$104,110
Community Health Workers
Growth
13.1%
Median Salary
$48,200
Allergists and Immunologists
Growth
3.9%
Median Salary
$236,000

Bright Outlook

Employment of epidemiologists is projected to grow 27 percent from 2022 to 2032, much faster than the average for all occupations.
— Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Outlook Handbook, May 2024

Ready to Apply?

Applications to the graduate public health certificates must be started in the Schools of Public Health Application Service (SOPHAS).

If you are an international student interested in taking this program online from your home country, please contact the ODU International Admission Office for assistance.