Veterinary Epidemiology MSc

Overview

This is a joint programme provided by LSHTM and the Royal Veterinary College (RVC). There is a shortage of trained veterinary epidemiologists and there are excellent career opportunities for graduates. This course provides training in essential methodological skills for the design, conduct, analysis, interpretation and communication of epidemiological studies; and surveillance and disease control in animal and human populations.

In a world where global transport links allow rapid movement of people and animals, disease can spread more quickly than before and is harder to control than ever. In such a world there is a growing need for trained veterinary epidemiologists at the front line of disease surveillance and control.

This unique programme is delivered jointly by LSHTM and RVC and is supported by policy makers from the forefront of the UK government. You will learn essential methodological skills for the design, conduct, analysis, interpretation and communication of epidemiological studies; and surveillance and disease control in animal and human populations.

Your areas of study will combine LSHTM's strengths in epidemiological principles and communicable disease epidemiology, with the RVC’s expertise in veterinary epidemiology, animal health and production.

Objectives

By the end of this programme students will be able to:

• design and implement epidemiological studies and surveillance systems
• analyse and interpret data from epidemiological studies
• undertake risk analysis and apply this to animal health economics
• apply epidemiological principles to disease control within animal and human populations
• give pragmatic advice on animal health linked to welfare, production and public health
• communicate effectively on the health of animal and human populations to a range of audiences, including the general public, farmers, researchers, politicians and other key policy makers

Applicants should have a first- or second-class university honours degree or equivalent. Individuals with degrees in veterinary science, biological sciences, veterinary or human medicine, mathematics or statistics, and relevant postgraduate experience, are all encouraged to apply. Applicants are expected to have a high level of numeracy skills (e.g. A Level Mathematics or Statistics or a module with a good mark in their university degree).