About This Concentration

Epidemiologists are public health professionals dedicated to understanding the causes, patterns, and prevention of diseases and injuries in populations. As a foundational science of public health, epidemiology plays a crucial role in reducing health risks and improving community well-being.

ODU’s MPH concentration in Epidemiology provides rigorous training in epidemiological methods and analytical skills needed to assess and address public health challenges. You will learn to measure and describe population health using data-driven strategies, preparing you to make a meaningful impact in the field.

Through a multidisciplinary and evidence-based approach, this program equips you with expertise in epidemiological research, data management, statistical analysis, and health trend evaluation—essential skills for today’s evolving public health landscape.

A clinical laboratory specialist stands confidently in front of a computer for health research.

Accreditation Information

ODU's online Master of Public Health degree program is fully accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH)

The Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited the Old Dominion University MPH Program. The program was initially accredited on June 6, 2000, and its most recent accreditation term concluded on December 31, 2025. The MPH Program holds continuing accreditation and is not under probation. If an accredited school or program complies with all procedural requirements and hosts a site visit before the end of the accreditation term, the accreditation term automatically continues until the Council meets to consider reaccreditation. The program has complied with all procedural requirements and hosted a site visit on November 10-12, 2025, as part of the Old Dominion University & Norfolk State University Joint School of Public Health, an applicant for initial accreditation. The Council will review the school and all of its programs for accreditation during the spring meeting on June 11-12, 2026.

The Old Dominion University & Norfolk State University Joint School of Public Health is listed as an applicant for accreditation on the CEPH webpage: https://ceph.org/about/org-info/who-we-accredit/applicants/

For more information about CEPH, please visit www.ceph.org. For questions about CEPH accreditation please contact Dr. Ewers, Director of Accreditation at sewers@odu.edu.

Careers in Epidemiology

The demand for skilled epidemiologists continues to grow as public health challenges evolve. Professionals in this field play a critical role in areas such as substance abuse prevention, mental health research, and emergency preparedness.

Graduates of this concentration will be well-prepared for careers in:

  • Public health agencies and government organizations
  • University research institutions
  • Private industries, including pharmaceutical companies
  • Nonprofit organizations focused on health initiatives

With a strong foundation in epidemiology, you’ll be equipped to advance your career and contribute to improving public health on a local, national, and global scale.

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

Helpful Resources

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