Epidemiology and Applied Health Research

Dalhousie University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Epidemiology and Applied Health Research programme offers you the opportunity to gain knowledge and skills in research methodology, biostatistics, and health policy. Graduates go on to have meaningful careers in a variety of health-related sectors: government, non-government organizations, not-for-profit, academia, hospitals, and the private sector. 

Dalhousie University ‘s Doctor of Philosophy in  Epidemiology and Applied Health Research programme provides opportunities to engage directly with clinical departments, public health professionals, policy makers and community stakeholders.

The Department of Community Health & Epidemiology is committed to a diverse and inclusive academic culture. We encourage prospective students from all equity-denied groups to apply, especially those from our local Mi’kmaw or other Indigenous communities, and African Nova Scotian communities. We also welcome applicants whose background includes work experience in a field related to evaluative sciences or data analytics, or those with health professional training.

By the end of the programme learners will master many core competencies and will be able to:

• think critically about concepts and principles related to measurement of health outcomes and epidemiology;

• use comparative reasoning to evaluate health risks and benefits from treatment in the fields of epidemiology and applied health research;

• provide in-depth critique of methodological issues relating to health research;

• demonstrate successful interpersonal collaborative skills to succeed in health research and professional contexts;

• demonstrate effective communication skills (written and oral) for scientific and professional audiences;

• demonstrate responsible use of individual and societal values and ethical principles in personal, scientific and professional contexts.

Possible careers include:

• Healthcare professional

• Professor 

• Researcher

• Government consultant 

Programme options

Thesis: Conduct applied health research that contributes to improving quality of life, culminating in the development and defence of a thesis.

Courses include:

• Teaching & Learning in Higher Education

• Epidemiology and Applied Health Research

• PhD Professional Development Seminar

• PhD Placement 

• PhD Comprehensive Examination

• PhD Thesis