
The Population Health Sciences master’s program at University of Duke offers a two-year curriculum designed to provide students with advanced knowledge in public health, epidemiology, and health policy. Students gain expertise in statistical analysis, population health research, and health systems evaluation while learning to develop evidence-based strategies to improve community health outcomes. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and applied research, preparing learners to analyze population-level data, identify health disparities, and implement interventions. Its structured format ensures students develop both technical proficiency and applied problem-solving skills within public health contexts.
Participants benefit from mentorship by experienced faculty, hands-on research opportunities, and collaborative projects with healthcare organizations. The curriculum emphasizes epidemiology, health policy, statistical analysis and population research, enabling students to assess health trends, evaluate programs, and develop interventions that promote health equity. Through applied projects, case studies, and research-focused coursework, learners strengthen analytical, technical, and professional skills, preparing them for careers in research, public health practice, and healthcare consulting.
Semester 1 – Foundations in Population Health Sciences
• Principles of Epidemiology
• Introduction to Biostatistics
• Health Policy and Systems
• Seminar in Population Health Research
Semester 2 – Applied Research & Data Analysis
• Advanced Statistical Methods
• Social Determinants of Health
• Elective in Specialized Health Topic
• Applied Project / Lab Work
Semester 3 – Advanced Methods & Intervention Design
• Program Evaluation and Policy Analysis
• Health Data Management and Analytics
• Research Project / Applied Study
• Elective in Global or Community Health
Semester 4 – Capstone & Professional Integration
• Independent Research / Master’s Thesis
• Applied Population Health Analytics
• Seminar: Emerging Trends in Public Health
• Professional Portfolio Development
Graduates of this program are prepared for professional roles in public health research, population health management, epidemiology, and health policy. Common career paths include epidemiologist, population health analyst, health policy specialist and public health consultant. Additional opportunities exist in government agencies, research institutions, hospitals, non-profit organizations, and global health programs. The program also provides a foundation for students pursuing doctoral studies in public health, health sciences, or epidemiology. By combining technical knowledge with applied research experience, graduates are equipped to develop strategies and programs that improve population health outcomes.
This two-year master’s program is ideal for students seeking a comprehensive and applied approach to population health. The curriculum emphasizes epidemiology, health policy, statistical analysis and applied research, allowing learners to integrate analytical skills with practical public health expertise. Students engage in applied projects, research, and faculty-guided study that strengthen technical, analytical, and professional abilities. The program’s structured design ensures graduates are prepared for careers in public health, population health research, health policy, or further academic study. For those aiming to address health disparities and improve community outcomes, this program provides a highly practical and impactful pathway.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: +1 (919) 684-8111
Email: admissions@duke.edu
Address: University of Duke, Durham, North Carolina, United States