Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in Epidemiology and Biostatistics - Global Health Epidemiology

The PhD Program in Epidemiology and Biostatistics draws on the core disciplines of biostatistics and epidemiology to support students in developing the knowledge, skills and competencies needed to assume positions of leadership with the ultimate goal of advancing the public’s health. Students accepted into the PhD program will master the rigorous scientific and analytic methods necessary to be at the forefront of efforts to not only describe, but effectively evaluate and improve the public’s health. All incoming PhD students take a required 36-credit core curriculum, which includes a 24-credit common core, 12-credit concentration core, and 6-credits of electives from one of five areas of concentration: Genetic Epidemiology and Bioinformatics, Global Health Epidemiology, Health Behavior and Prevention Science, Health Care Organizations, Outcomes and Policy, and Modern Biostatistics (see descriptions below). On completion of all core requirements, students take a qualifying examination that leads to advancement to candidacy. When ready to embark upon the Doctoral dissertation, the student must choose a research advisor to have the major responsibility for facilitating, guiding, and advising the student in his or her research. Curriculum The Doctor of Philosophy degree in the Department of Epidemiology and Biostatistics comprises the following components: Basic Core Curriculum (24 credits) or Statistical Alternative Core (24 credits) Specialization/Concentration Core Curriculum (12 credits) Concentration Approved Electives (9 credits) Seminar Requirements (501 & 502, 503, 504, or 505) Passing the Qualifying Exam Portfolio Presentation Dissertation (18 credits) Global Health Epidemiology The World Health Organization (WHO) and the US Institute of Medicine (IOM) defines Global Health as “health problems, issues, and concerns that transcend national boundaries, may be influenced by circumstances or experiences in other countries, and are best addressed by cooperative actions and solutions”. We believe that, at its core, Global Health (and more broadly, population health sciences) is built upon the disciplines of epidemiology and biostatistics. The unifying theme of this concentration is the relatedness of health across diverse geographic areas and communities and the application of epidemiology in the context of related disciplines to define, quantify, and address health determinants, measurements, and trends. CWRU is a recognized leader in Global Health research and education. Academic opportunities in the field of Global Health are extensive and have been formally organized through the CWRU Framework for Global Health with nine departments, five schools and The Center for Global Health and Diseases at CWRU. Recognizing that Global Health is not limited to international settings or “developing countries”, the concentration also recognizes neglected diseases and vulnerable populations within the USA that transcend cultural boundaries. The spirit of this concentration is advanced, innovative training to invite and strengthen the brightest new researchers in the field of global health. To accomplish this to the highest degree possible, we take advantage of our own connections within the University and our deep resources in Global Health professionals. Since the focus of this concentration is the development of research impact in a global perspective of health, prior or current experience in cultural settings from which these populations arise is strongly encouraged.