MSc Epidemiology Syllabus, Colleges, Admission, Subjects, Jobs, Salary 2023

MSc Epidemiology is a postgraduate course which is of 2-year duration. Epidemiology is a medicine field that examines disease incidence, transmission, prevention, and treatment within a population.

Epidemiology is a crucial discipline that helps in determining and boosting public health. The course curriculum of this program includes subjects such as Public Health, Disease Epidemiology, Biostatistics in Research etc.

Top MSc Epidemiology Colleges	Top MSc Exams -21

This course aims at providing training in the methodology, design, conduct and understanding of the chronic and infectious disease epidemiological studies. It is especially appropriate for students who wish to learn epidemiological and bio statistical skills and engage in research projects.

A candidate with a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent qualification in Science stream with an aggregate of at least 55% marks is eligible to apply for MSc in Epidemiology.

Admissions are generally given on the basis of marks scored by the candidate in the Bachelor’s degree examin. However, some universities / colleges may ask the candidates to appear for the entrance test.

The average fees for an MSc in Epidemiology range from Indian Colleges/ Universities ranges between INR 30,000 and INR 2,50,000. The average salary stands in the range of INR 2,00,000 to INR 9,00,000 for MSc in Epidemiology degree holders depending upon the candidate’s expertise in the field. On completion of this course, students will be able to get hired as Epidemiologist, Associate Clinical Operations Manager, Medical Writer, Medical Consultant, Nutrition Specialist, Public Health Specialist, Research Administrator etc.

After completion of MSc Epidemiology course, one can opt to enroll in PhD in Epidemiology, MPhil, DSc etc.

Also check top MPhil Colleges in India.

Table of Contents

MSc Epidemiology Course Highlights
MSc Epidemiology: What is it about?
Why Study?
Admission Process
4.1 Eligibility Criteria
4.2 Top Entrance Exams
4.3 How to Prepare for Entrance Exam
4.4 How to Get Admission in Top College
Syllabus
Top Colleges in India
6.1 College Comparison
Courses Comparison
Jobs and Career Options
Future Scope
FAQs

MSc Epidemiology Course Highlights

Some of the major highlights of the MSc Epidemiology course have been tabulated below.

Course Level	Postgraduate
Duration	2 Years
Examination Type	Semester System
Eligibility	Graduation from a recognized university with a minimum aggregate score of 55%
Admission Process	Entranced/ Merit based
Top Entrance Exams	GATE, CUCET etc.
Average Course Fee	INR 30,000 to 5,50,000 per year.
Average Salary	INR 2,00,000 to 9,00,000
Top Career Prospects	Government hospitals, Health departments, Medical colleges and universities, Private clinics, Research labs, and Research Institutes.
Top Job Profiles	Epidemiologist, Associate clinical operations manager, Medical writer, Medical Consultant, Nutrition Specialist, Public health specialist, Research Administrator etc.

MSc Epidemiology: What is it about?

Information and details about the MSc Epidemiology course are as follows.

MSc in Epidemiology provides training in the methodology, design, conduct and understanding of the chronic and infectious disease epidemiological studies.
Epidemiology is a medicine field that examines disease incidence, transmission, prevention, and treatment within a population.
Epidemiology is a crucial discipline that helps in determining and boosting public health.
This course provides instruction in the methods, nature, conduct and analysis of the chronic and infectious disease epidemiological studies.
Epidemiological methods support clinical medical studies, public health practice and assessment of health services, analysis of the causes of the disease and assessment of disease prevention or control measures.
This program includes the epidemiology of infectious as well as non-communicable diseases.
In this course, students will be able to learn how to apply epidemiological approaches to determine the causes of the illness and measure the effects of treating and avoiding ill health interventions.

Why Study MSc Epidemiology?

MSc Epidemiology is one of the most sought after courses in India in terms of personal growth and career growth opportunities. The course has so many benefits attached to it. Some of the benefits and perks of pursuing this course are given below:

It is especially appropriate for students who wish to learn epidemiological and bio statistical skills and engage in research projects.
This program gives students a concentrated knowledge of health and disease, enhances their job opportunities and encourages them to immerse themselves in an area of their discipline.
This program equips students with the expertise and methodological skills to make important contributions to both scientific and public health studies in low- and high-income countries.
This is ideal for professionals pursuing expertise in epidemiology for a career in science, academic departments or health care facilities.
These are also ideal for those who need an understanding of epidemiology, including medical journalists or research officers.
Epidemiologists can practice in many areas of medicine and public health upon graduation, from hospitals to local health clinics to private research laboratories.
The course offers a handsome salary package ranging from INR 2,00,000 to 9,00,000.

What is the MSc Epidemiology Admission Process?

The most popular engineering entrance exams in the country are GATE and CUCET, which are required for admission into primarily public universities. Private institutes also conduct their own examinations or rely on the national/ state level entrance exams. The guide to apply for entrance exam based admission is as follows.

Merit-based selection

Submit the application to the colleges or universities you are interested in for admission.
Perform well in the undergraduate examinations as the scores obtained in these form the basis of the entire admission process.
In due course of time, colleges release their cutoff lists. Check if you are eligible for admission into the desired course.
If eligible, visit the college and submit all the required documents.

Entrance based selection

The guide to apply for entrance exam based admission is as follows.

Registration: Candidates have to register themselves by providing their basic details like email-id, phone number, etc.
Fill up details: Fill up the application form with all necessary details carefully.
Uploading of documents: Scan and upload all required documents like mark sheets. Documents need to be uploaded in a specific format only, as specified by the institute’s application portal.
Application fee: A minimal application fee is to be paid online during the submission of the application form. Payment can be done by all online payment modes.
Download admit card: Admit cards are released once all applicants are judged for eligibility. The admit card must be downloaded and printed out to be used on the day of the examination.
Examination: Prepare for the entrance exam as per the syllabus and past papers. Appear for the examination on the date announced.
Results: Results are announced after a couple of weeks of the exam day. If a candidate is successful in qualifying the entrance examinations, they can move on to the next round.
Group Discussion and Personal Interview: GD and PI rounds are conducted for students who have cleared the entrance examinations. The student can now take admission in the MSc Epidemiology course.

What is the MSc Epidemiology Eligibility Criteria?

The eligibility criteria for Msc Epidemiology aspirants is not complicated and is as follows. It must be noted that the eligibility criteria will differ from institute to institute.

Candidates should hold a BSc / BSc Hons / MBBS / BDS / Graduate in Science stream from a recognized university/institution.
Minimum aggregate of 55% marks or equivalent grade in Graduation.
Candidates having an educational background in Epidemiology are preferred.
In the case of reserved SC / ST / OBC / PH category, the relaxation of 5% marks or equivalent grade shall be granted in accordance with the UGC guidelines.
Candidates have to appear for the national / university level entrance test and personal interview / GD round if required.
Candidates can apply up to 45 year of age for MSc in Epidemiology.

Which are the popular MSc Epidemiology Entrance Exams?

There are many national and state-level entrance exams to appear for the admission into the MSc Epidemiology program.

Some of the top entrance exams conducted in order to shortlist students for admission into this course are given below.

GATE: GATE is a national level entrance exam conducted every year for admission into various postgraduate programs offered by the most prestigious institutes of India like IITs, NITs etc. Other than admission to MSc programs, GATE Scores are used by various PSUs for the recruitment of eligible candidates at various positions.

GATE Pattern & Syllabus	GATE Practice Papers	GATE Cutoff

CUCET: CUCET is a national level examination which is regulated by ten central universities jointly. It is a combined entrance test organized for providing admission into various UG, PG & other courses offered by the central universities across India.

CUCET Pattern & Syllabus	CUCET Practice Papers

The dates of application and examination for the above-mentioned examinations are mentioned in the table below.

Entrance Exams	Exam Dates
CUET PG	Check Here
BITSAT	Check Here
NEST	Check Here
IIT JAM	Check Here
DUET	Check Here
TISS NET	Check Here

Note:

Most of the entrance exams have been postponed due to COVID-19. The dates for the entrance exams will be released on the official website.
Most universities/institutes are opting for video-conference mode for the personal interview.

How to Prepare for MSc Epidemiology entrance examinations?

To help candidates prepare better and efficiently for the entrance examinations, the following pointers can be referred to.

Candidates are advised to focus on the preparation plan as each exam has a specific set of questions and time allocation.
On the basis of the previous year's paper, lay out a study plan which will allow you to cover the syllabus as well as revise it efficiently.
The MSc Epidemiology entrance exam comprises MCQs divided in different sections.
It will require in-depth knowledge of Health Sciences, analytical skills, and sharp memory to crack the exam.
Practicing sample question papers and model tests certainly offers students an advantage because they are able to learn the exam's style and layout well beforehand.
Consulting a student who is pursuing an MSc in Epidemiology can give a clear picture and a lot of guidance for the test.

How to get admission in a good MSc Epidemiology college?

To secure admission into a top-ranked MSc Epidemiology college, a number of factors come into play. Some of the following tips will be helpful in that regard.

To secure a seat in a good college for a MSc in Epidemiology, candidates must hold an exceptional academic record.
Candidates must look out for advertisements for MSc Epidemiology Entrance Exams / Admissions.
To gain a seat in a good college, candidates must appear for National Entrance Tests for MSc and achieve high ranking marks.
Candidates are advised to put their time and effort for the preparation of the entrance test as well as be prepared for a personal interview round.
Preparing for the entrance exam well in advance and solving mock tests before the test day.
Candidates must be well versed with the subjects studied in the Bachelor’s degree and general knowledge for Personal Interview.
Look for the qualifications, cut-offs, selection requirements, admission process, application process and other changes to help you plan better.

What is the Syllabus of MSc Epidemiology?

The subjects taught for the MSc Epidemiology program are almost similar in most of the engineering colleges. The syllabus for the entire MSc Epidemiology course is as follows.

engineering colleges. The syllabus for the entire BE Civil Engineering course is as follows.

Semester I	Semester II
Basic principles of Epidemiology	Biostatistics in public Health
Epidemiologic Methods. Descriptive and analytical.	Biostatistics in Research
Different types of epidemiological studies
Semester III	Semester IV
Infectious disease Epidemiology	Monitoring and evaluation of 4 services / programs
Chronic disease Epidemiology	Writing and reviewing scientific papers
Epidemiology of policy, public health programme. Health services etc	Study design: writing scientific papers
Roles of Genetic and Environmental Factors in Disease Causation	Dissertation

Which are the Top MSc Epidemiology Colleges?

The table below shows the best MSc Epidemiology colleges and universities that offer the course in a full-time mode.

Name of the College/ University	Admission Process	Average Annual Fees
Christian Medical College, Vellore	Entrance-Based	INR 38,405
Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai	HBNI EE	INR 60,000
Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Satara	Entrance-Based	INR 35,000
KLE University, Belgaum	Entrance-Based	INR 71,000
Central University of Tamil Nadu, Thiruvarur	CUCET	INR 20,228
Swami Rama Himalayan University, Dehradun	Merit-Based	INR 1,26,500
Tamil Nadu Dr. MGR Medical University, Chennai	Entrance-Based	INR 6,000
Himalayan Institute Hospital Trust, Dehradun	Entrance-Based	INR 1,23,000
Himalayan Institute of Medical Sciences, Dehradun	Entrance-Based	INR 1,26,500

Source: College Websites

MSc Epidemiology College Comparison

The tabulation below depicts the comparison made among the three top MSc Epidemiology colleges in India.

Parameter	CMC, Chennai	Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, Satara	KLE University, Belgaum
Objective	CMC, Vellore was established in 1918 with the purpose to train dedicated persons to run, manage and provide health care in the spirit of Christ through the mission hospitals.	Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences is a deemed medical institute which offers a large number of programs at the UG, PG and Research level.	KLE University, Belgaum was established in 2006 at Belgaum, Karnataka. It is one of the premier academic institutions offering education in the field of medicine.
Location	Chennai	Satara	Belgaum
NIRF Medical Ranking 2021	3	37	70
Average Fees	INR 38,405	INR 37,000	INR 71,000
Average Salary	INR 5,97,000	INR 5,00,000	INR 2,00,000
Top Recruitment Sectors	Government hospitals, Health departments, Medical colleges and universities, Private clinics, Research labs and Research Institutes etc.	Government hospitals, Health departments, Medical colleges and universities etc.	Government hospitals, Private clinics, Research labs and Research Institutes etc.

Source: College Websites

MSc Epidemiology vs MSc Audiology

MSc Epidemiology and MSc in Audiology are almost similar courses except for a few differences. Some of the key similarities and differences between these two have been tabulated below. Also check out the top MSc Colleges in India.

Parameters	MSc Epidemiology	MSc Audiology
Overview	MSc in Epidemiology course helps assess strategies for disease prevention or control, and research trends in public health.	This course aims to educate students in the strategies needed to interact with patients who have hearing loss and other associated sensory disorders.
Admission Process	Merit/ Entrance-Based	Merit/ Entrance-Based
Average Fees	INR 30,000 - 2,50,000	INR 50,000 to INR 2,00,000
Average Salary	INR 2,00,000 - 9,00,000	INR 2,00,000 - 8,00,000
Top job profiles	Epidemiologist, Associate clinical operations manager, Medical writer, Medical Consultant, Public health specialist, Research Administrator etc.	Audiologist, Counsellor, Language Specialist, Linguist, Rehabilitation Sign Language Interpreter, Program Director, Speech Pathologist etc.
Top Colleges	Christian Medical College, Krishna Institute of Medical Sciences, NIMS University, KLE University, Swami Rama Himalayan University etc.	All India Institute of Speech and Hearing, Post Graduate, University Of Mumbai, Dr. S.R. Chandrasekhar Institute Of Speech And Hearing etc.

M.Sc Epidemology VS M.Sc Audiology Salary

Source: College Websites

What are Job Prospects and Career Options after MSc Epidemiology?

MSc Epidemiology degree holders can get jobs in various sectors such as Government hospitals, Health departments, Medical colleges and universities, Private clinics, Research labs, and Research Institutes.
This course introduces epidemiological principles to students so that they can participate in epidemiological professional practices.

Some of the most common job profiles that a MSc Epidemiology student can opt for along with job description and salary package are mentioned in the table below.

Job Profile	Job Description	Average Salary
Epidemiologist	Epidemiologists try to establish trends by analysing data so they can understand how illnesses originate and how they can be avoided and treated.	INR 7,65,000
Clinical Researcher	Clinical Researchers are engaged in clinical research to study the efficacy of medical therapies, including how effective a particular medication, tool, or procedure is in the prevention or treatment of diseases.	INR 5,40,000
Data Analyst	A Data Analyst basically looks at data, often in large quantities, to draw conclusions or other useful facts. A data analyst can work in public health, reviewing large amounts of past medical information to find ways to avoid problems of public health.	INR 4,10,000
Associate Clinical Operations Manager	Medical Operations Managers have significant roles in preparing, coordinating and reviewing all patient procedures within their facilities. Directors of clinical operations operate with the goal of improving their medical team's economic and productive efficiency while providing high quality patient services.	INR 7,76,000
Nutrition Specialist	A Nutrition Specialist tends to help clients or the public reach health-related goals by the customisation of meal plans. CNSs also deal with diagnosed people with obesity, high blood pressure, diabetes, heart disease, elevated cholesterol and other chronic conditions.	INR 3,00,000

Source: College Websites

What are the Future Scope of MSc Epidemiology?

The MSc Epidemiology degree holders can prefer to do jobs on completion of this program or can go for higher studies. The most popular choices of education on completion of a MSc Epidemiology degree are as follows.

PhD: If one wishes to continue in the same field of education, the first program of choice is a PhD in related disciplines. It is a three to five year duration course and the eligibility criteria include having a MSc degree in Geology or other related disciplines.
DSc - Students can also opt for a Doctor of Science degree in a relevant field on completion of this course.

MSc Epidemiology FAQs

Some of the most frequently asked questions pertaining to the MSc Epidemiology program are as follows:

Ques. What is the eligibility to apply for a MSc Epidemiology course?

Ans. A candidate with a BSc / BSc Hons / MBBS / BDS / Graduate in Science stream or equivalent qualification securing a minimum aggregate of 55% marks is eligible to apply for MSc in Epidemiology.

Ques. Is the entrance exam mandatory to secure a seat in MSc Epidemiology course?

Ans. It varies from college to college. Admissions are generally given on the basis of marks scored by the candidate in the previous examination. Some universities / colleges may ask the candidates to appear for the entrance test.

Ques. How long does it take to complete an MSc Epidemiology course?

Ans. It takes a minimum of two years to complete the MSc Epidemiology program. It is divided into four semesters.

Ques. What can I pursue after completing MSc Epidemiology program?

Ans. If you want to go for higher studies, opt for MPhil and PhD in Epidemiology. After completing a PhD in Epidemiology, one can become a professor in various universities / colleges.

Ques. Why opt for MSc in Epidemiology course?

Ans. Undertaking an MSc is an excellent opportunity to gain in-depth experience in your chosen subject and to enhance your scientific research skills. Clinicians are increasingly searching for postgraduate credentials and having a Master's degree will aid you in your future career advancement.

Ques. Is there any extension for the application procedure for MSc in Epidemiology?

Ans. Yes, most of the institutes have extended the application procedure for MSc in Epidemiology. You can check the official website to be updated with the new dates for the application process. The admission committee monitors the announcements from the authorities.

Ques. Is Medical background compulsory to pursue an MSc in Epidemiology course?

Ans. It is not mandatory to have a Medical background to pursue this course. But candidates with a background in Science only are eligible to apply to MSc in Epidemiology course.

Ques. What is the MSc in Epidemiology?

Ans. MSc in Epidemiology course provides training in the methodology, design, conduct and understanding of the chronic and infectious disease epidemiological studies.

Ques. Who can opt for MSc in Epidemiology?

Ans. It is especially appropriate for students who wish to learn epidemiological and bio statistical skills and engage in research projects. This is ideal for professionals pursuing expertise in epidemiology for a career in science, academic departments or health care facilities.

Ques. Who are the top recruiters for MSc in Epidemiology degree holders?

Ans. The top recruiters for MSc in Epidemiology degree holders are Association of Science Society, ICON Clinical Research, iMEDGlobal, PAREXEL International Private Limited, Vantage Immigration Private Limited etc.

Ques. What is taught in the course duration of MSc in Epidemiology course?

Ans. The main framework of the course includes epidemiological processes, biostatistics and the epidemiology of infectious and chronic diseases. The modules are structured to represent areas of emerging research and include comprehensive tutoring in core epidemiological and statistical concepts and competences, drawing on expertise, experience and skills.