FAQ

MPH students learn the full spectrum of public health with a focus on epidemiology. While they learn research skills, they also gain experience through a hands-on practicum in the field. MS students in epidemiology focus on enhancing their research skills and learn to work in a research-related field within epidemiology. They acquire deep theoretical knowledge and specific skills to advance their research careers.

Our program is specially designed for students of a wide variety of backgrounds: full-time working professionals that want to advance their research careers but need a flexible format, and recent graduates who are looking to dive into epidemiologic research in a socially distant and safe manner. This online format has both a synchronous educational component comprised of face-to-face interaction with instructors one weekend a month and an asynchronous component that requires students to work remotely at their own pace throughout the month prior to meeting with instructors. Thus, providing a flexible but rigorous curriculum without sacrificing interaction with experienced instructors to help the student achieve their educational goals. We are also committed to helping our students achieve their educational goals, and each student is assigned an advisor to help them with their goals. If you find yourself anxious or feel unequipped to fully commit to online learning, we have made available a Student Online Learning Toolkit(link is external and opens in a new window) to help students make the best out of the online learning experience.

Yes, most of our students work full or part-time. The MS in epidemiology is particularly designed to be flexible for students with work and other responsibilities and rigorous to deliver the best Columbia experience. 

No, the knowledge and skills acquired through both the regular and online format of the MS in Epidemiology are the same. However, the online format was designed to be inclusive of students that have time constrains due to work or other life situations. 

We use the term “online” to refer to the format in which the curriculum is delivered. However, the degree conferred is a fully valid MS in Epidemiology degree by Columbia University and it appears as such in all certifications of education completion.

Applications are submitted online through SOPHAS(link is external and opens in a new window). When selecting the desired program in SOPHAS(link is external and opens in a new window), the Online MS in Epidemiology appears as "Executive MS in Epidemiology". For more detailed information about application materials please see our Apply Section.