Master of Science Epidemiology

Epidemiology investigates the factors that cause illness and those that protect health at both individual and population levels. This evidence base has guided many public health policies and interventions. As lifestyles and environments change, new health threats are emerging and shifting the burden toward chronic and partly preventable diseases—making rigorous epidemiological training increasingly important.

This Master of Science provides core methodological and analytical training in epidemiology alongside up-to-date topics in public health research and education. The curriculum supports further specialization and offers focused pathways in classical Epidemiology, Clinical Epidemiology, Genetic Epidemiology, and Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, enabling you to pursue research, surveillance, or policy-oriented work within these areas.

Taught in English and based in Munich, the programme equips students with quantitative and conceptual skills applicable to academic research, public health practice, and policy development. International students will benefit from studying in a major German research hub while gaining expertise relevant for careers in health agencies, research institutes, hospitals, or industry.

Typical application requirements (confirm exact details on the programme’s official website):

• Bachelor's degree in a relevant field (e.g., public health, medicine, biology, statistics or related disciplines)
• Official transcripts and degree certificate
• Curriculum vitae (CV) and a statement of motivation
• Proof of English proficiency (e.g., TOEFL/IELTS) if applicable
• Letters of recommendation (where requested)

Program structure and overview

This is a two-year, 120 ECTS Master’s programme delivered over four semesters. The curriculum combines structured coursework with practical placements to develop advanced competencies in epidemiological research and applied public health.

How the programme is organised

Students select two specialisations during the course (one in the first semester and a second in the third semester), allowing focused study in two areas of interest within epidemiology. Practical training is built into the programme through two internships, each lasting nine weeks, which take place in the second and third semesters and give hands-on experience in real-world settings.

Key learning outcomes

Completing the programme equips students to apply advanced epidemiological methods and critical appraisal skills to design, conduct and interpret population health studies. The combination of specialist modules and internships strengthens practical research capabilities, data interpretation and the ability to translate epidemiological evidence into public-health practice or further academic research.

Program requirements (curriculum-related)

• Total workload: 120 ECTS over two years (four semesters)
• Selection of two specialisations: one in semester 1 and one in semester 3
• Two internships required: 9 weeks each, undertaken in semesters 2 and 3
• Further details and full curriculum information: https://www.en.ibe.med.uni-muenchen.de/academics/epidemiology/index.html

Graduates are prepared for analytical and research-focused roles in public health agencies, research institutes, hospitals, pharmaceutical and biotechnology companies, and non-governmental organisations. The programme's strong methodological and statistical training also equips students for positions in health surveillance, monitoring and evaluation, and evidence-based policy advising.

Many alumni pursue doctoral studies or research careers in epidemiology and public health, or take specialist positions in clinical research units and environmental/occupational health services where skills in study design, data analysis, and scientific communication are in demand.