Public Health was defined by C-E.A. Winslow as the science and the art of preventing disease, prolonging life, and promoting physical health and efficiency through organized community efforts with the goal of enabling every citizen to realize his/her birthright of health and longevity.
The disciplines of epidemiology and biostatistics are essential to achieving the goals of public health, and combining these two disciplines in a single department creates synergies for both training and research. Epidemiologists study the distribution and determinants of health and disease in populations. Biostatisticians develop and apply statistical theory, methods and techniques to public health research data and the planning, implementation and evaluation of public health programs. Given the strong overlap, epidemiologists and biostatisticians often collaborate to work toward the shared goal of generating and analyzing data to advance the public’s health.
Within the department, the degree programs are administered under two separate streams, the Division of Epidemiology and Division of Biostatistics.
Find out more about the department and what we offer in our welcome from the Chair.
We offer eight advanced degrees in epidemiology and biostatistics. Each graduate degree has specific application deadlines and requirements.
Director:
Dr. Robert Moran, Graduate Director for Biostatistics
Directors:
Directors:
Ph.D. in Biostatistics student Nasim Saba Nishat is determined to address health disparities by using data to help clinicians find the optimal treatment dosages for patients to ensure safer and more effective health care.
The Arnold School is pleased to announce the 2023 Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Awards, which are designed to recognize alumni, faculty, staff and students who have made exceptional contributions to advancing DEI.
The unexpected passing of Distinguished Professor Emeritus Steven N. Blair last month has had a widespread impact on Arnold School faculty, staff, students, alumni and friends. His career reached far beyond USC and spanned six decades.
Her research aims to improve maternal, newborn, and child nutrition, health and development in vulnerable populations by understanding the causes of adverse maternal and child health outcomes as well as the long-term consequences of adverse exposures in early life.
A USC-funded institute led by epidemiology associate professor Melissa Nolan will use global reach to solve local problems. The Institute of Infectious Disease Translational Research will allow her to operate complementary studies at labs based in SC, El Salvador and Brazil.
USC features epidemiology professor Angela Liese, who has won the 2023 Carolina Trustees Professorship in recognition of her excellence in teaching, research and service.
B.A. in Public Health alumna Tamera Gaffney gained experience with SC DHEC and the CDC before returning to the Arnold School to enroll in the Master of Public Health in Epidemiology program.