EPIDEMIOLOGY GRADUATE CERTIFICATE

The graduate certificate in Epidemiology requires satisfactory completion of the 4 graduate level courses (12 credits) listed below. Each certificate program course must be completed with a grade no lower than a C-; the overall GPA of the Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology courses must be no lower than 3.0.

Applicants to the Epidemiology graduate certificate must submit an application and all required materials through the University of Delaware graduate application system.

Applicants from diverse educational and professional backgrounds who have a strong interest in public health and epidemiological methods are encouraged to apply. Each application will be evaluated individually on the basis of prior academic achievement, professional experience, and interest in public health. Acceptance to the program is based on a composite of the applicant’s scholastic record, letters of reference, and a personal statement. Relevant work experience may also be taken into consideration.

The online application process prompts applicants for the following information:

- First name, last name, phone, email.

- Current degree program (if any), expected completion date, current GPA.

- Academic transcripts of degrees earned previously.

- Brief statement explaining why the applicant seeks to answer the following prompts: 1) What educational background and scientific research or employment experience prepares you for this Graduate Certificate in Epidemiology; 2) How will acquiring this graduate level training in epidemiology help you achieve your long-term professional objectives; and 3) What disease/condition are your content areas of interest and/or expertise.

- Two letters of recommendation. The applicant provides names and email addresses of the recommenders, and recommendation forms are emailed directly to them from the online application. Instructions are provided as to how to return the completed forms electronically.

- A resume or curriculum vitae that documents the applicant’s prior work experience, publications, honors and awards received, and a summary of educational credentials including documentation of relevant experience.

- For international students: Per university requirements, applicants must demonstrate a satisfactory command of English. The TOEFL (Test of English as a Foreign Language) or TOEFL Essentials is required of all foreign applicants. If TOEFL scores are submitted, a minimum score of 550 (paper-based test) or 79 (TOEFL iBT) is required for consideration for admission. Please refer to the Graduate College regarding requirements for any and all updates such as accepted test scores and accepted measures of language proficiency. The minimum requirements outlined by the Graduate College apply to Epidemiology certificate, there are no additional language proficiency requirements.

Prior Degree Requirements

Candidates must hold a bachelor’s degree in any academic field from an accredited college or university with an earned GPA of 3.0 or higher. 

Q: Can credits earned in the Certificate Program be applied toward a full MPH degree?
A: Yes, credits earned in the Epidemiology Certificate Program can typically be applied toward the Master of Public Health (MPH) degree at the University of Delaware. However, students should consult with an academic advisor to confirm that they meet all requirements and to understand any specific conditions that may apply regarding credit transfer.

Q: How does the Certificate Program differ from the full MPH in Epidemiology?

A: The Epidemiology Certificate Program is designed to provide foundational knowledge and skills in epidemiology and biostatistics over a shorter timeframe, requiring 12 credits. The full MPH program requires 42 credits and offers a broader curriculum that encompasses various public health disciplines. The certificate is particularly suitable for individuals seeking to enhance their qualifications or gain specialized knowledge without committing to a full degree program.

Q: What job will this Certificate qualify me for?

A: Completing the Epidemiology Certificate provides students with essential knowledge in epidemiologic study design, biostatistical analysis, and social determinants of health. This foundational training may qualify graduates for various roles within health departments, hospitals, clinics, or non-profit organizations that require basic epidemiological skills. This format maintains consistency while providing clear and comprehensive answers in paragraph form.

Q: How much does the Certificate Program cost?

A: The certificate program consists of 12 graduate credits completed over one year. Students will pay tuition based on these 12 graduate credits. Current rates per credit can be found on the Student Financial Services website.

Q: Are there scholarships for domestic or international applicants?

A: At this time, scholarships are not available for either domestic or international applicants for this program.

Q: What is the format of the coursework?

A: All courses in the Epidemiology Certificate Program are offered online and follow an asynchronous format. This allows students to complete weekly assignments and course content on their schedule within set deadlines. Importantly, students do not need to reside in Delaware to enroll in this program.

Q: I am an international student but completed my undergraduate degree in English. Do I still need to submit TOEFL or equivalent testing scores?

A: Yes, proof of English proficiency remains a requirement for graduate school admission. All international applicants must submit TOEFL or equivalent testing scores, regardless of whether their undergraduate degree was completed in English.