Epidemiology master’s program ranks in top 25

The master’s in epidemiology program at the UNMC College of Public Health has been ranked 16th out of 25 programs nationally by MPH Online.

“This ranking reflects all the work we’ve put into revamping our curriculum,” said Deborah Levy, Ph.D., chair of the UNMC Department of Epidemiology in the College of Public Health. “We increased the rigor and the number of methods courses and topic areas we offer and put it all online more than a year ago.”

“UNMC’s program has attracted a more diverse population, especially from health professionals in other disciplines who want training in public health and epidemiology. It’s been especially good for our rural state where it would be challenging to attend an on-campus course,” she said.

“While applications nationwide for public health schools were down, we maintained our enrollment in our program because we offer it online,” Dr. Levy said.

Epidemiologists study diseases, injuries, natural disasters, contaminations and other things that impact the health of various populations. Those populations can include neighborhoods, states, countries and even the global population. Current epidemiological studies prepare students for that research in the field.

With 42 credit hours, the UNMC curriculum focuses on the foundational requirements for epidemiology, as well as the different methodologies required for professionals. This program also is one of the more affordable options available to students, as they can obtain an advanced education online and with the assistance of financial aid, if needed.

UNMC allows students to spend the duration of their education enhancing and mastering skills to fit the needs of their career following graduation. Like all programs at UNMC, students have the ability to customize and develop their program to fit a variety of careers.

MPH Online is an independent online resource for students and professionals in the public health sector, offering expert information and guidance regarding public health degrees. MPH Online ranked programs on cost, salary potential and student satisfaction, using data from Niche, College Scorecard, and Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System. These three factors indicate that students can expect a solid return on their investment and a master’s degree that makes a real difference.