Epidemiology
The Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health was ranked #1 in Epidemiology by peers in the 2024 - 2025 U.S. News & World Report Rankings. We improve the public’s health by training epidemiologists and advancing knowledge concerning the causes and prevention of disease and the promotion of health.
Epidemiology Headlines
![Jim Tonascia in Sommer Hall Jim Tonascia](/https/publichealth.jhu.edu/sites/default/files/styles/card_image/public/2024-08/pamphlet2.jpg?h=ddb1ad0c&itok=8iekg6PV)
Noted Biostatistician and Epidemiologist Jim Tonascia Retires
Jim Tonascia, whose public health career in biostatistics and epidemiology spanned more than five decades, retired from the Bloomberg School of Public Health this August.
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![A nurse assists a patient on a hospital bed with a pulse oximeter](/https/publichealth.jhu.edu/sites/default/files/styles/card_image/public/2024-07/gettyimages-1349580412.jpg?h=119335f7&itok=GI3rVgo-)
The Problem with Pulse Oximeters: A Long History of Racial Bias
How did a racially biased medical device become the standard of care—and what’s being done to fix it?
Racism Is A Public Health Problem
The Department of Epidemiology denounces individual and systemic racism in all its forms.
What We Do in the Department of Epidemiology
The Department of Epidemiology is focused on generating fundamental and transformative knowledge to improve public health. We are committed to having a diverse and inclusive Departmental community that provides unparalleled training for the next generation of epidemiologists in the competencies, practice, and translation of epidemiology.
Epidemiology Highlights
1st
autonomous department of epidemiology in the world
8
different research tracks
13
countries with active research projects
100+
primary faculty
Epidemiology Programs
Within four degree programs (three master's and one doctoral), students have opportunities to engage directly with faculty, study internationally, and complete practicums in the field.
Students can choose from eight different tracks to focus their study and research. Additionally, there are several pre- and postdoctoral training programs available.
Our students graduate with marketable skills and real-world experience, ready to make an impact, from the #1 school of public health.
Master of Health Science (MHS)
The MHS is designed for students who are new to the field and for those who want to gain the quantitative skills necessary to conduct research.
Master of Science (ScM)
Many students pursuing the ScM find themselves conducting a "mini doctoral dissertation" in terms of breadth and scope of their research.
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Training is offered through a core methodologic sequence with the addition of more focused courses in specialized areas. Most training areas of concentration require specific courses. Students are expected to tailor their curricula, working with their advisers to create a comprehensive plan of study and research.
Bachelor's / Master of Health Science (MHS)
The Bachelor's/Master of Health Science MHS combined degree program prepares students for further graduate work or prominent careers in research and science. It is an opportunity for undergraduate students at Johns Hopkins University who are majoring in Public Health Studies.
Centers and Institutes in the Department of Epidemiology
Center for Drug Safety and Effectiveness
Center for Public Health and Human Rights
Cochlear Center for Hearing and Public Health
Environmental influences on Child Health Outcomes (ECHO) Data Analysis Center (DAC)
George W. Comstock Center for Public Health Research and Prevention
Johns Hopkins Center on Aging and Health
Johns Hopkins Center for Clinical Trials and Evidence Synthesis
Johns Hopkins Center for Health Equity
Johns Hopkins Evidence-Based Practice Center
Spatial Science for Public Health Center
The Johns Hopkins Institute for Clinical and Translational Research
Welch Center for Prevention, Epidemiology and Clinical Research
Wendy Klag Center for Autism and Developmental Disabilities
Tanjala Purnell, PhD '12,
uses epidemiology and health services research to advance equity in transplantation and related conditions, including kidney diseases, hypertension, and diabetes.
![Tanjala S. Purnell Tanjala S. Purnell stands on the steps with her back to a column, wearing a purple cardigan, black pants and shoes](/sites/default/files/styles/image_component/public/2023-08/tanjalapurnell.png?h=eab7d389&itok=o-8IqMhD)
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