The field of epidemiology is a broad one and it takes time to understand all of its intricacies. This is why those who earn an MPH degree in Epidemiology are considered to be masters of their field. However, beyond just a basic Epidemiology degree there are also various sub-specializations that can help a student concentrate their efforts even further. Social Epidemiology is a perfect example of this and is one of the best areas you can choose to enter. Numerous colleges and universities offer courses in this field of study and learning a bit more about it may help you understand exactly why it’s so worthwhile.
- Social Epidemiology essentially focuses on the study of the distribution of disease and its impact on society as well as how society affects disease.
- Examples include things like how hand-washing deters the spread of germs or how sexually transmitted diseases impact society and vice-versa.
- Programs usually focus on theories and skills that influence the student’s ability to function in the social epidemiology field.
- In order to enroll in these programs students must usually complete the basic core curriculum that makes up the Public Health Field and then focus on the specialized courses within the social epidemiology spectrum.
- Courses also include ethics, history, public health and interventions, and much more.
While the overall criteria for entering these programs will vary from school to school, some basics are generally shared in terms of admissions requirements. Generally a student will be required to:
- Have a bachelor’s or higher degree
- Have a 3.0 GPA during their undergrad studies
- Have solid GRE or GMAT scores
If a student meets the basic criteria for acceptance into a public health program, odds are that they’ll be able to enroll in a social epidemiology program as well.
Numerous schools offer social epidemiology programs, and each one is a slight bit different while still sharing many basic overall themes and classes. Some of the best programs in the field include:
- University of North Carolina – The UNC Gillings School of Global Public Health is one of the most well-known and highly respected schools for Social Epidemiology students. Classes cover theories like social ecology and socio-political theories as well as tools and techniques for measurement of social public health issues and more.
- University of Minnesota – The Social Epidemiology track from the University of Minnesota is just one example of its numerous epidemiology related programs. The school offers an in-depth look at the theory, measurements, and application of data within the social epidemiology sphere of study.
Other schools also offer excellent programs in this field, but these two are the best examples. If you’re looking to take your education in epidemiology even further than before, choosing to specialize in social epidemiology will help you make a difference around the world.
More on Epidemiology
- MPH in Epidemiology – An Overview
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- Best Epidemiology PhD Programs – Course Descriptions
- 10 Epidemiology Schools and Colleges – School Overviews
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