Epidemiologists play a vital role in maintaining health and in disease prevention and control, by studying the determinants and patterns of disease in populations. Through rigorous coursework, the Department of Epidemiology prepares students to confront some of the most consequential health conditions affecting our local and global communities. Many faculty and graduates of our epidemiology programs are leading experts in chronic and infectious diseases, helping to extend life expectancy, advance health equity, improve quality of care, and pave the way for innovations in how we address future health events.

The Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology confers mastery of epidemiologic concepts, theories, and methodology with a significant capacity for independent study. The doctoral program is research-intensive and is designed for students who plan to pursue university-based academic or research careers in epidemiology and disease prevention and control. Students in the program prepare themselves to become independent epidemiologic investigators and have the option to acquire graduate-level teaching experience.

See the Fall 2024 to Summer 2025 PhD Epidemiology Degree Planner.

See the Fall 2024 to Summer 2025 PhD Epidemiology - Direct Admit Degree Planner.

All doctoral students have access to expertise, faculty, and research across all locations.

This degree program is managed by the Department of Epidemiology.

The department chair is Dr. Alanna Morrison.

The academic and admissions advisor for epidemiology programs is JR Bright. 

For more information about the Department of Epidemiology, Human Genetics and Environmental Sciences, visit their web page.

Epidemiology PhD candidates must meet the UTHealth Houston School of Public Health’s general admission requirements.

The PhD program requires students to complete 48 credit hours* as detailed in the Epidemiology PhD degree planner. Most full-time students complete the PhD program in three to five years. All students are eligible to elect to complete one or more graduate certificates in addition to required coursework. 

For more information about academic requirements at UTHealth Houston School of Public Health, reference the academic catalog. 

*For students who do not hold a graduate degree in public health, additional coursework and time to bring you up to competence may be required.