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Epidemiology and Applied Health Research (PhD)

 Study epidemiology and build strong health system research skills you can use in real‑world settings. 

Program Type
PhD
Faculties
Unit
Location
Program Start
September
Program Options
Thesis
Practicum

Why choose this program?

In this PhD program, you will focus on epidemiology and applied health research through independent study. You will work closely with a supervisor and develop advanced health research skills that are applicable in academic and applied settings. 

This is a thesis‑based PhD. Your program centres on original research guided by a faculty supervisor. 

You will: 

  • Complete required graduate coursework in epidemiology and research methods 
  • Meet comprehensive examination requirements 
  • Conduct and defend an original doctoral dissertation 

Coursework and research expectations follow Faculty of Graduate Studies regulations and the Academic Calendar. 

Careers

This PhD prepares you for research‑focused roles that support population and public health in academic, government, and applied research settings.

You develop skills in research design and methods, data analysis, and knowledge translation. These skills support careers where you lead or contribute to health research, policy development, and evaluation. Career paths vary based on your research focus, experience, and professional goals. 

Program options

This is a research‑focused, thesis‑based PhD. You work closely with a faculty supervisor to design and complete original research in epidemiology and applied health research. Coursework and independent study support your research and prepare you for comprehensive exams and your dissertation. 

All graduate programs at Dalhousie are collaboratively delivered by a home Faculty and the Faculty of Graduate Studies.

Admission requirements

You'll need to meet the Faculty of Graduate Studies minimum requirements as well as any program-specific admission requirements before you can apply.

The deadline to apply for this program is December 1 of the year prior to anticipated admission.


Program-specific requirements

This program requires you to meet the following criteria:

  • A master’s degree or equivalent in a relevant field. 
  • Identification of a suitable faculty supervisor. 
  • Admission is competitive and based on academic preparation and research fit. 

Proof of English language competency if the first language is not English. (TOEFL iBT 100; IELTS 7.5; EAP2 A) 

For more information about other English language proficiency tests, please visit the  Faculty of Graduate Studies English language proficiency requirements.

Applicants are expected to identify a faculty supervisor as part of the application process.

Financial information

Questions about tuition and fees? Contact Student Accounts.

Email student.accounts@dal.ca or phone 902-494-3998.

Learn more