Academic Background
MS applicants must hold a Bachelor’s degree from a recognized college or university. Doctoral applicants must have a Masters degree in epidemiology (or a related field) or have a health-related professional doctorate.
A minimum grade point average of 3.2 is required for a competitive applicant. GPA is calculated based on the last 60 undergraduate units, or if the applicant has 12 or more graduate units, the GPA will be based on graduate units.
A competitive applicant to the Epidemiology Program will generally have a strong biological and quantitative background, including:
- At least one year of biological sciences
- At least one year of college level mathematics (algebra and above)
- Calculus is highly recommended, although not required
Letters of Recommendation
Applicants must provide a minimum of three letters of recommendation from academic advisors, professors, supervisors, mentors or anyone else familiar with his or her academic and/or professional ability. Letters may submitted to SOPHAS either electronically or in hard copy format.
Resume or CV
Applicants are asked to submit a resume or CV outlining his or her academic and professional experience and achievements.
Statement of Purpose
The statement of purpose should include:
- Why you are interested in epidemiology
- Specific areas of interest in epidemiology
- Reason for selection of this program
- Academic and professional background, with an assessment of your quantitative and biological background and skills
- Experience/expertise with epidemiology related topics
- Future goals and objectives
GRE Scores
Applicants must submit official scores of the Graduate Record Examination (GRE). GRE test scores are recommended, but not required, for applicants holding a doctoral degree from a U.S. institution. GRE scores of 1200 and greater (combined verbal and quantitative) are considered competitive. The analytical writing portion of the GRE is required. When completing Graduate Record Examination (GRE) applications, please indicate The University of Arizona institutional code #4832, which is listed under Arizona. For more information about the GRE, visit the GRE website.
Other Factors
Experience in a health related field, voluntary or paid, strengthens all applications.
Further Information
For more information about the Epidemiology Program, please visit the MS Epidemiology page or the PhD Epidemiology page, or contact Becky Corran, Recruitment and Admissions Coordinator, at phadmit@u.arizona.edu or 520.626.3201.
