EPIDCR-PHD - Epidemiology and Clinical Research (PhD)

Epidemiology studies the distribution, determinants, and control of illness and impairment in human populations. It is the cornerstone of population health and informs policy decisions and evidence-based medicine by identifying risk factors for disease and targets for treatment and prevention. The Department of Epidemiology and Population Health (EPH) provides the analytical foundation for research conducted at the Stanford School of Medicine, offering expertise, research, and training on collecting and interpreting the scientific evidence essential to improving human health.

The scholars within EPH conduct a wide variety of health-related research. Using both observational and experimental research methods, our scholars uncover environmental, social, genetic, and behavioral factors to aid in human disease diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. Further, the faculty trains physician investigators in clinical research techniques and is committed to advancing knowledge in epidemiology and population health through educational programs for undergraduate, graduate, and postgraduate students.

The PhD program in Epidemiology and Clinical Research provides methodologic and interdisciplinary training to equip students to conduct cutting-edge epidemiologic research and develop new methodology. The program trains students in the tools of modern epidemiology, with heavy emphasis on statistics, causal inference, computer science, genetics, genomics, and informatics. We welcome applicants with diverse backgrounds.

See the department’s website for additional information on the admissions process. Address inquiries to epiadmissions@stanford.edu.

Submit your application through the Stanford Graduate Admissions website.

Applications are evaluated based on the applicant’s commitment to and aptitude for a career in epidemiology as demonstrated via transcripts, statement of purpose, relevant work and research experience, and letters of recommendation. The Graduate Record Examination (GRE) is optional. Applicants from non-English speaking countries should provide evidence of competence in English on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL). (Visit the Stanford Graduate Admissions webpage related to tests for additional information on Stanford University requirements regarding TOEFL.)

Required Supporting Documents (to be submitted in the Stanford Graduate Admissions Application)

•     Statement of Purpose that includes area(s) of interest

•     Three letters of recommendation

•     Official GRE General Test scores  (optional)

•     Official TOEFL scores (if applicable)

•     Unofficial transcripts for all college/university degrees

•     CV with relevant work and research experience