Overview
The Department of Epidemiology at the USF College of Public Health is dedicated to understanding the determinants of health and disease, improving population well-being, and shaping evidence-based policies. Our faculty are experts in causal inference, advanced quantitative methods, and the study of risk factors, intervention effects, and disease prediction—training the next generation of epidemiologists to tackle pressing public health challenges.
Through a rigorous curriculum, hands-on research, and interdisciplinary collaboration, our students develop the skills to design impactful studies, analyze complex health data, and translate findings into meaningful action. Whether studying infectious diseases, chronic conditions, or the social and environmental factors that influence health, our graduates emerge prepared for leadership roles in academia, government agencies, healthcare, and industry.
Our faculty and students contribute to high-impact research published in leading scientific journals, working with partners across public health, medicine, and our local communities to drive innovation and improve health outcomes. We foster an environment where curiosity, collaboration, and scientific excellence thrive – empowering future epidemiologists to make a difference locally and globally. Check us out to discover how you can become part of this mission and shape the future of public health through epidemiology at USF!
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Career Impact
Alumni succeed in academia, government, industry, and non-profits, including the FBI and Epidemic Intelligence Service.
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Research & Collaboration
Our students co-author peer-reviewed publications with faculty, contributing to cutting-edge epidemiologic research.
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Faculty Excellence
Our faculty lead high-impact studies with support from top public health organizations like the CDC and NIH.
Why Choose COPH Epidemiology?
- Cutting-Edge Research & Expert Faculty: Work alongside renowned faculty on high-impact epidemiologic research spanning infectious and chronic diseases, maternal and child health, cancer epidemiology, and environmental exposures. Our programs emphasize rigorous training in advanced quantitative methods, causal inference, health data science, and implementation science, preparing students to contribute to groundbreaking studies published in leading scientific journals.
- Hands-On Learning with Real-World Impact: Gain practical experience through applied research, analysis of large-scale health datasets, and partnerships with government agencies, healthcare organizations, and community groups. Our department plays a vital role in bridging academic research with real-world public health solutions, ensuring findings are translated into meaningful action that benefits populations locally and beyond.
- A Supportive & Collaborative Community: Be part of a vibrant academic environment where faculty, students, and researchers work together to advance public health. The department-affiliated Epidemiology and Biostatistics Students Association (EBSA) offers opportunities for students to grow academically and professionally through networking, mentorship, and learning experiences with professors, alumni, and professional organizations. Students also benefit from department-hosted seminars, journal clubs, and collaborative research opportunities.
- Flexible & Tailored Educational Pathways: Choose the program that fits your career goals, whether it’s the MPH for applied public health training, the MSPH for advanced research methods, or the PhD for developing independent research expertise. With options for in-person and online learning, our programs provide the flexibility to meet your needs.
"The faculty at the College of Public Health are not only experts but also deeply invested in student success and passionate about improving public health outcomes. Their mentorship and support has shaped my research, strengthened my skills, and built my confidence as a researcher and instructor. When I doubted myself, they wouldn’t let me give up—pushing me to recognize my potential even when I couldn’t see it myself. When your practice is truly your passion, it shows—and that is the culture here." - Rashida K. Jones, PharmD, Doctoral Candidate in Epidemiology
"Epidemiology is all about working together to understand how diseases affect our communities and how to protect vulnerable populations. The College of Public Health excels in fostering a collaborative atmosphere and the supportive faculty and administration have helped me explore different projects and discover my research passion. This is a great place to learn and to learn from each other!" - Michaela McGuire, MPH, Doctoral Candidate in Epidemiology
Drs. Joe Bohn and Jason Salemi recognized with COPH Excellence in Teaching Award
Drs. Joe Bohn and Jason Salemi were honored with the prestigious COPH Excellence in Teaching Award by the Public Health Student Association during the college’s National Public Health Week ceremony. The award recognizes faculty members who have made significant contributions to student development and the quality of education within their department and the college.
Drs. Joe Bohn and Jason Salemi recognized with COPH Excellence in Teaching Award
MPH student brings public health passion to Colombia through IHSC medical mission
MPH student Jonathan Andreadakis recently completed a service trip with USF's International Health Service Collaborative to Medellín, Colombia. The trip, part of a long-standing collaboration between USF Health and Universidad CES, sent an interprofessional team of students to a densely populated neighborhood facing complex health challenges.
MPH student brings public health passion to Colombia through IHSC medical mission
USF study reveals how smartphones may benefit kids, risks of posting publicly to social media
Findings will help inform a 25-year national study that will track young people’s digital media use and wellbeing into adulthood.