5.3 Master of Science
The Master of Science degree is intended for students whose interest is in the academic subject matter of the field rather than in professional practice. It is a natural entry point for many students who will eventually continue for the PhD. Because of this orientation, the emphasis in the MS degree program is on building a strong foundation in a particular specialty field, along with the research methods important in that field.
To reflect this research and academic orientation, the MS ordinarily requires the preparation of a thesis. The online Master of Science degree with a specialization in Biomedical Informatics requires 47 credit hours, the Master of Science degree with a specialization in Epidemiology requires 46 credit hours, and the Master of Science degree with a specialization in Biostatistics requires 45 credit hours. The Master of Science with a specialization in Environmental Public Health (offered jointly with the Environmental Sciences Graduate Program) requires 39 credit hours. Students should review the ESGP Handbook for specific program details. There is no required applied practice experience requirement for the MS degree programs.
The curriculum consists of:
- Public Health 6010 – Essentials of Public Health
- Required courses for the specialization
- Approved electives
- Thesis
Master’s Thesis
The thesis is an integral part of the MS degree, allowing the student the opportunity to investigate a topic of personal interest and importance to the field, and to integrate and synthesize from the knowledge and skills presented in the program. Because of the research orientation of the degree, it is essential that students work closely with their advisors to plan their use of electives to build the expected skills and support their thesis.
Additional details concerning the policies regarding the thesis, including format, typing, deadlines, etc., are available from the Graduate School. Policies specific to a thesis in CPH can be found in section 3.3 of this handbook (link to new handbook).