Master's in Epidemiology/Biostatistics (MPH)

Our program offers a curricular track directed toward acquiring proficiency in both biostatistics and epidemiology. Training emphasizes the development of skills applicable to the study of the occurrence and distribution of disease, focusing on determining the impact and magnitude of disease frequency so that effective control measures can be designed. Areas of study include the investigation of the natural history and clinical course of disease, as well as the study of statistical methods used to identify and evaluate risk factors associated with disease outcomes.

Curriculum

Our two-year program’s course of study consists of 48 units. While generally devoting a substantial portion of course hours to topics in epidemiology and biostatistics, students have the opportunity to take additional courses in areas of interest to them and/or courses needed for their research.

A comprehensive exam is required as well as a master’s paper and presentation.

Qualifications

Applicants have completed undergraduate course work in the biological, social or math sciences.

Common undergraduate majors for admitted applicants: Health, biological, natural, social and cognitive sciences.
Common work experience for admitted applicants: Volunteer work in public health, research assistants or lab technicians.

Employment

Graduates are qualified for positions in federal, state and local health departments, as well as positions in academic research and in the private medical and health care fields. Some graduates decide to pursue doctoral studies in epidemiology or biostatistics.

Admissions Statistics

61/225 Admissions Ratio

3.7 Average GPA of admitted applicants

89% Average Verbal GRE percentile

80% Average Quantitative GRE percentile

24 Average age upon admission

5 Average years of work/research experience

Bethany Lee

MPH ’19

I came here so I could learn the epidemiologic tools to carry out rigorous research and analyze the effects of policy on health. Not only did my time at Berkeley equip me with these skills and more, but it also solidified my passion to work in the intersection of research and policy.

Andrea Seet

BA ’18, MPH ’20

Berkeley's Epidemiology/Biostatistics MPH takes in around 22-25 students and I have learned firsthand that working with this smaller cohort has been a wonderful aspect of the program. You have the opportunity to learn with driven individuals who each have their own specific career interests and are amazing people to collaborate and work with in classes.

Gene Ho

MPH ’20

Seeing the health disparities in Laos made me realize the potential in public health, and that there is a lot of work that needs to be done globally to address these issues and health inequities. I want to be part of that change.