Master of Epidemiology

The Master of Epidemiology (MEpi) at the University of Melbourne is designed for students to want to increase their research skills in epidemiology with the aim of either contributing to epidemiological or medical research or developing a research career, but who don't want the breadth of subjects required for the MPH.

The course combines five compulsory integrated subjects in epidemiology and statistical methods, one specialty elective subject and a research report where students conduct an applied project.

The Master of Epidemiology is an excellent grounding for undertaking a PhD or other graduate research program. It also develops skills that enable clinical researchers to undertake their own research. Graduates are expected to:

• Understand the epidemiological and biostatistical theory and methods that underpin epidemiological practice and research with a solid foundation in epidemiological and analytical skills
• Build competence in critical appraisal, and develop core skills for research and practice in epidemiology
• Investigate and describe the causes and spread of disease and develop the means for prevention or control

The project may involve a student analysing existing data, performing a systematic review or developing a research protocol, allowing further development in a specialty interest area of the student's choice according to methods, disease groups and/or population setting.

On completion of this course, graduates are expected to have:

• An advanced understanding of epidemiological theory and its role and contribution in health-related disciplines
• An understanding of basic statistical concepts and their role in epidemiological design and analysis
• A critical approach to the appraisal of research work
• The skills to identify and prioritise issues in health research and practice

• The capacity to apply epidemiological and biostatistical theory and methods in practice including the demonstrated ability to:

  > Identify health issues and formulate research questions
  > Locate, synthesise and critically appraise epidemiological data, systems and research.
  > Design and appraise epidemiological studies
  > Summarise and report epidemiological data
  > Apply standard methods of statistical analysis used in epidemiology
  > Interpret and apply the findings of epidemiological studies
  > Prepare grant applications and manuscripts and deliver effective oral presentations

Epidemiologists have a big role to play not only in public health, but also in clinical health and health services.

The Melbourne School of Population and Global Health, which coordinates the Master of Epidemiology, has been integral to the COVID-19 pandemic response, both state-wide and federally.

The School's teaching staff have helped to shape public policy and inform society's understanding of this global pandemic, and our students and graduates have also assisted organisations such as the Victorian Department of Health and Human Services (DHHS) in dealing with the crisis.