The MSPH is an academic, research-oriented degree (in contrast to the MPH, which is geared toward practice). Individuals interested in pursuing further education often earn an MSPH to build the skills necessary to conduct independent research at the doctoral level. It is ideal for individuals who intend to remain in academic research settings.

All MSPH degree programs at UAB begin with a brief overview of the profession and science of public health and factors related to human health. The majority of the coursework focuses on the application of biostatistics, epidemiology, and other research methods to public health issues; specific coursework varies by concentration. All MSPH students engage in mentored research resulting in the development and presentation of a Master’s thesis or project, which may take the form of a publishable scientific manuscript.

Following completion of the MSPH degree, many individuals continue working in academic research settings as research assistants/associates, analysts, program coordinators, etc. Career paths outside academia include epidemiologists with health departments, research analysts with managed care organizations, coordinators of clinical trials in the pharmaceutical industry, and data analysts in a wide range of settings.

The MS degree in the UAB School of Public Health is offered through the Department of Biostatistics. This rigorous, research-based degree requires strong preparation in mathematics, including three semesters of calculus and a course in linear algebra. Students in the MS program are exposed to both theory and application in biostatistics, as well as advanced statistical computing. Students sit for a two-part qualifying examination covering both theory and applied statistics; they also complete a mentored research project which must be presented both orally to the Department and in writing.

Some students pursue additional training in a Biostatistics doctoral program following completion of the MS degree, while others begin careers as research-oriented scientists performing high-level data management and statistical analysis in academic, governmental, or industry settings.

The UAB School of Public Health offers the PhD in a range of disciplines to help prepare students for high-level careers in academia, government, and industry. For students without a public health background, all degree program begins with a brief overview of the profession and science of public health and factors related to human health. Students take advanced coursework in their chosen discipline, along with additional training in research methods. Students also sit for comprehensive exams to demonstrate their mastery of the discipline. The culmination of the degree is the preparation and defense of a dissertation reflecting independent research of publishable quality.