Admission Requirements – Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology
Overview
The Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology program provides preparation in methodologic and applied epidemiology, emphasizing the use of advanced design and analytic techniques to problems of etiology, human biology, public health and evidence-based medicine. Applications are encouraged from those with strong quantitative skills who have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree in the biological sciences, public health, medicine, allied health, or related fields.
Application Deadlines
Fall
December 1st
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Admission Requirements
Applicants to the program should satisfy all requirements for admission to the Graduate School. Applicants not meeting Graduate School requirements for regular standing may, with approval of the Graduate School, be conditionally admitted to select programs.
The GRE is not required.
A Bachelor’s degree and minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0
Official transcripts must be received from each accredited college or university attended.
A minimum of three (3) letters of recommendation
ALL letters must be less than a year old and on department letterhead. At least one letter must be academic. Letters from peer colleagues or friends will not be accepted.
Supplemental questions
This program has required supplemental questions within the application.
Curriculum vitae (C.V.) or resume
Preferred Graduate Preparation
In addition to the Graduate School requirements, applicants must have completed a relevant Master’s degree to qualify for the program.
Master’s Degree in related discipline
Competitive candidates will hold a Master’s degree in a related discipline (e.g., mathematics, statistics, epidemiology, public health) and have completed a Master’s thesis. Candidates without a Master’s degree may be considered with an extensive background in the field of epidemiology.
Master’s Thesis
Applicants with a Master’s Degree should have completed a Master’s thesis as a component of their degree requirements. Students entering the program with a relevant Master’s degree that does not require a thesis (e.g. Master of Public Health) will be assigned an administrative or research mentor upon entering the program who will evaluate their quantitative and writing skills before the student takes the screening exam.
Required Undergraduate Preparation
Applicants to the PhD in Epidemiology program should have completed undergraduate coursework in:
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applied statistics
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college algebra
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introductory and basic computer programming
We encourage applicants with strong quantitative skills who have completed an undergraduate or graduate degree in the biological sciences, public health, medicine, allied health, or related fields.
How to Apply
Apply to the program via SOPHAS
Prepare to apply by gathering all materials and information to complete your online application. These materials include personal statement, resume/CV, recommender’s information, personal, financial and education information.
Create a SOPHAS account and complete all parts of the online application.
Pay application fee.
Submit official transcripts - see instructions at links below.
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We are available to help you navigate the application and admissions process. Reach our admissions and program staff at msphsadm@usc.edu.
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