Admissions Requirements

View admissions requirements.

Program-Specific Prerequisites

To apply to this program, you should hold an advanced degree in a related field. You should have prior coursework in biological or behavioral sciences and satisfactory grades in college-level courses such as statistics, algebra, calculus, or trigonometry. Demonstrated excellent writing skills are also desirable.

Before You Apply

You are encouraged to contact the Director of Student and Academic Affairs for EpiCH at least several weeks prior to completing the application materials to obtain additional information about the application process. Reach out by emailing epichstu@umn.edu.

Essay and Research Statement

PhD applicants are asked to submit both a personal essay and a statement of research interests. The statement of research interests is intended for the applicant to demonstrate a strong interest in a specific epidemiologic area and, if possible, to indicate interest in particular methodologies or study designs.

This statement is where you should describe, in some detail, the specific content area in which you propose to focus in your doctoral work, and why this area is of interest to you. It is not intended to be as specific as a dissertation statement and will not preclude your exploring other areas during your doctoral work.

The admissions committee expects that you have chosen a specific content area within your desired field of study, and within that content area, have some specific issues in which you are interested. If appropriate, you can also discuss methodologies related to this content area. Familiarity with the field is essential for successful application to the program.

The essay and statement are submitted via SOPHAS as part of a complete application.

After You Apply

Application reviews begin in early December. Applicants will receive an update on their application status between January and February.