Melbourne Graduate School of Science

Master of Science - Epidemiology

Epidemiology is the scientific method used to track population health, to find cause of disease (and health) and to identify ways to prevent disease. It is often called the basic science of public health, but its principles extend to clinical research and practice. Epidemiologists are the medical detectives for populations. They solve puzzles about who gets diseases, what causes disease and how to prevent disease.

Students will have the ability to undertake independent research in Epidemiology with the potential to progress to a PhD degree.

Course structure

The Master of Science - Epidemiology comprises six core subjects, approved science electives, Professional Tools and a substantial research project.

Delivery mode and duration

This is a 2 year full-time course, and is available part-time to eligible applicants. All program subjects are delivered on-campus (Parkville).

Entry requirements

A bachelor degree with a major in an appropriate discipline with at least an H3 (65%) in the major, or equivalent.

As part of their degree studies, applicants must have completed an appropriate mathematics or statistics subject. Candidates who have not completed any mathematics or statistics subjects at university level will be required to sit the Graduate Record Examination (GRE) and submit these results as part of their application.

How to apply

How to apply for Science graduate course programs.

Career prospects

Epidemiologists are in high demand because of a national shortage. Graduates might expect to find employment in:

  • Medical research institutes
  • Biotechnology companies
  • Hospitals
  • Universities
  • Non-profit organisations
  • Pharmaceutical companies
  • Government

MSc (Epidemiology) graduates may also transition into a PhD in the School of Population Health.

Contact details

The Melbourne Graduate School of Science
The University of Melbourne
Tel: +61 3 8344 6404
Fax: +61 3 8344 5804
CRICOS Code 062189B

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