It is a natural entry point for many students who will eventually continue for the PhD. Because of this orientation, the emphasis in the MS degree program is on building a strong foundation in a particular specialty field, along with the research methods important in that field. To reflect this research and academic orientation, the MS ordinarily requires the preparation of a thesis.

There is no practice placement requirement for the MS, however the thesis is an integral part of the MS degree, allowing the student the opportunity to investigate a topic of personal interest and importance to the field, and to integrate and synthesize from the knowledge and skills presented in the program. Use the links below to learn more about the specializations in the MS: Biomedical Informatics Biostatistics Environmental Health Sciences Epidemiology.