PhD in Epidemiology in Davis United States | University of California Davis

Epidemiology integrates principles and techniques from biology, economics, mathematics, and statistics to study disease patterns, causes, and impacts on population health, while developing strategies for prevention and management. The program delivers comprehensive training in epidemiological theory and practice, focusing on advanced analytical approaches and fostering original research. Specializations cover infectious diseases, wildlife health, zoonotic and vector-borne illnesses, biostatistics, occupational/environmental health, nutrition, healthcare systems, social/behavioral factors, and reproductive/developmental health. UC Davis provides exceptional research resources through its Medical and Veterinary Schools, Primate Research Center, Environmental Health Center, Agricultural Sciences programs, and Mathematical Sciences division.

The Graduate Group primarily focuses on the Ph.D. program. Qualified students can finish core coursework within four quarters. Advancement requires passing an oral qualifying exam, with the Ph.D. granted upon dissertation completion. A Master's program is also available. We actively seek applicants from underrepresented groups. Ph.D. candidates must complete 45 core units plus 12 elective units, including epidemiology seminars. Full-time enrollment requires 12 quarterly units across academic, research, and seminar courses. Required courses must be taken for letter grades unless only offered as S/U. After fulfilling requirements, students often meet unit minimums through EPI 299 research credits. Core courses are graduate-level (200 series), except statistics requirements which may be 100-level. Electives may be taken at either level.