Accredited Online Epidemiology Degree Programs

A master’s in epidemiology is a graduate-level degree program that prepares students to study patterns of disease, analyze data, and develop strategies for protecting community health. Depending on the public health program, students may choose to pursue a Master of Public Health (MPH) or Master of Science (MS) in epidemiology. An MPH in epidemiology is generally more practice-focused, emphasizing applied epidemiology skills for working in public health departments, nonprofit organizations, or healthcare systems. In contrast, an MS in epidemiology is a research-intensive program, with a stronger emphasis on biostatistics, epidemiologic research methodology, and preparing graduates for academic or analytical research careers. 

Core competencies in this program typically include data analysis, outbreak investigation, public health surveillance, and assessing the effectiveness of prevention measures. Students gain experience interpreting health trends, designing studies, and applying statistical tools to guide health promotion and intervention strategies. 

Common backgrounds for students include biology, psychology, nursing, health sciences, statistics, healthcare administration, or sociology. While prerequisites vary, some programs may require prior coursework in calculus or statistics, and a few still ask for GRE scores. 

If you’re seeking flexibility in your graduate education, many universities offer a master's in epidemiology online, including options for an online MPH in epidemiology, making advanced training more accessible to working professionals.

An online MPH in epidemiology offers the same rigorous training as traditional campus programs while providing added flexibility. For working professionals, parents, military members, and students in rural areas, online study makes advanced education more accessible without the need to relocate. Most schools design their master’s in epidemiology distance learning programs to mirror on-campus versions—taught by the same faculty, carrying the same credits, and leading to the same degree.

Coursework for online programs is typically delivered through platforms such as Canvas, Blackboard, Brightspace, or Zoom, allowing students to participate in lectures, discussions, and group projects from anywhere in the world. Many programs combine asynchronous (self-paced) classes with synchronous (live, scheduled) sessions, allowing students to balance their learning with work and family responsibilities.

For example, a full-time registered nurse in Kansas might complete her coursework at night after her shift and join live seminars with professors from the University of North Carolina (UNC). Doing this allows her to earn her MPH online while continuing to apply principles of health education and public health nutrition in her workplace. 

By choosing a distance format, you don’t sacrifice academic rigor—you gain the flexibility to apply what you learn directly to real-world challenges while advancing health policy initiatives and striving towards public health leadership roles in clinical epidemiology or related fields.

An epidemiology master's curriculum combines core public health concepts with advanced analytical training.

To give you an example, here are some of the courses offered in Emory University’s MPH in Epidemiology program:

These classes develop the skills necessary to design studies, analyze data, and comprehend how social and public health policy factors influence health trends. 

Most programs require an epidemiology practicum or culminating experience, which allows students to apply classroom knowledge in real-world settings. Practicum sites may include local or state health departments, research hospitals, nongovernmental organizations (NGOs), or government agencies such as the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) or the National Institutes of Health (NIH).

In addition to core courses, students often have the opportunity to choose a specialization or concentration that aligns with their career interests.

Here are some common epidemiology MPH specializations:

There are numerous other pathways students can explore, including geographic information systems (GIS) for mapping disease spread, as well as digital disease detection courses that utilize technology and social media to identify outbreaks in real-time. Some programs even incorporate public health data science, providing students with advanced tools for analyzing large and complex datasets.

If you’re set on a master’s in epidemiology, the next thing to consider is the admissions and application processes. While specifics vary by school, most programs share common expectations. Applicants generally need a bachelor's degree—a background in biology, statistics, or another science is helpful but not always required. Schools typically look for a 3.0 GPA or higher, along with official transcripts, a personal statement, and letters of recommendation. Many programs also request a resume or CV that highlights academic, professional, or volunteer experiences in health-related fields.  

Since 2020, the GRE has become optional at many universities, though some still require it⁴. Previous coursework in statistics or calculus may be required as part of the online epidemiology degree prerequisites, so it’s essential to review each school’s guidelines. 

Another common concern for prospective students is whether or not they need work experience in public health. While prior experience can strengthen your application, it’s not always a hard requirement. Some programs welcome students directly from undergraduate studies, while others prefer applicants with professional or research backgrounds.

Since requirements vary, the best approach is to contact the admissions offices directly to request more information. Speaking with an advisor will help you understand the MPH epidemiology admission requirements for your chosen school and can prepare the strongest application possible.

So, how long does it take to get a Master of Public Health? Depending on enrollment status and program design, a full-time MPH in epidemiology can take about 18 to 24 months to complete. If you’re considering the part-time route, it can extend your studies up to four years. Seeking something fast-paced? Some universities also offer 1-year MPH programs online, providing an accelerated option for highly motivated learners. 

Graduate epidemiology programs may follow either a semester or quarter system, which can impact course pacing and credit loads. Online MPH formats are designed with flexibility in mind, allowing students to continue working while completing coursework. 

Even in online programs, the field practicum—particularly the applied practice experiences (APEs) or integrative learning experiences (ILEs)—remains an essential component. APEs provide students with the opportunity to apply what they’ve learned in their programs to real-world situations under the guidance of a preceptor. ILEs are similar, but they focus more on synthesizing and connecting knowledge and skills from different sources to address complex public health challenges.

Schools typically help students arrange placements with local health departments, hospitals, or nonprofits, ensuring practical experience without the need to relocate. This structure enables learners to apply new knowledge immediately in their own communities as they progress toward graduation.

Another major factor to consider is the cost of an MPH in epidemiology. This price varies depending on the institution. For example, the University of South Florida’s MPH with a concentration in Epidemiology can cost between $18,000 and $38,000, depending on whether the program is offered online or in-person, and if the student is a Florida resident. In contrast, Johns Hopkins University’s MPH in Epidemiology can cost around $69,000 (or $17,250 per term) for a four-year annual tuition^5,6. 

The good news is that several forms of financial aid for public health degrees can help graduates focus less on costs and more on studying towards their future career in epidemiology. Most students start by submitting the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to access federal loans. 

Many schools and professional organizations offer scholarships specifically for MPH students, which can reduce overall costs. Additionally, some employers—particularly hospitals, government agencies, and nonprofits—may provide tuition assistance or reimbursement to employees pursuing advanced degrees.

When considering affordability, it’s crucial to consider return on investment. Graduates enter a growing job market with strong career prospects in epidemiology and related fields. According to the BLS, the average master's in epidemiology salary in 2023 was $90,000 annually⁷.

By balancing upfront costs with financial aid options and long-term career growth, you can make an informed decision about which programs best fit your goals and budget.