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

The Master of Public Health (MPH) program is accredited through December 31, 2025 by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). The program received its initial CEPH accreditation in June 2000 and was last re-accredited in June 2020 in a report demonstrating full compliance across all CEPH criteria. Currently the program is an approved applicant as a multi-partner school of public health. For more information, see CEPH Applicants. For more information about CEPH, please visit their website.  

For questions about CEPH accreditation and to obtain copies of the final CEPH self-study and accreditation report, please contact Ms. Stephanie Ewers, Director of Accreditation at sewers@odu.edu.

 

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.

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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