Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been at the forefront of providing quality education to students of color for over a century. These institutions are dedicated to promoting and empowering Black excellence in every field of academia, including public health.

HBCUs have produced some of the most prestigious epidemiologists, many of whom have gone on to make significant contributions to the field of public health. If you are interested in pursuing education in epidemiology, here are some of the best HBCUs you should consider:

1. Howard University.

Howard University is one of the most well-respected HBCUs in the country and has a long history of producing highly skilled and competent epidemiologists. Howard’s Department of Epidemiology is part of its College of Medicine and interdisciplinary by nature, making it a prime location for students who want to engage with professionals from different fields.

At Howard, students can choose from various degree options, including a Bachelor’s, Master’s, and Doctoral degree in Epidemiology. In addition to providing rigorous academic programs, Howard University’s Department of Epidemiology also gives students the opportunity to participate in cutting-edge research projects.

2. Meharry Medical College.

Located in Nashville, Tennessee, Meharry Medical College is another top HBCU that is dedicated to preparing aspiring epidemiologists for successful careers in public health. The program’s curriculum encourages students’ research and provides them with opportunities to gain experience in the field by working with faculty researchers and community-based organizations.

Meharry’s Master’s in Public Health (MPH) program with a concentration in Epidemiology empowers students with the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct research, collect and analyze data, and design public health interventions. Graduates of Meharry’s program are equipped to tackle complex public health problems, including health disparities that disproportionately affect communities of color.

3. North Carolina A&T State University.

North Carolina A&T State University is a research-integrated institution that offers undergraduate and graduate programs in numerous fields of study, including public health. The university’s public health program is housed in the College of Health and Human Sciences and is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

At North Carolina A&T, students pursuing a bachelor’s degree in public health have the option to select a concentration in epidemiology. This program provides students with the foundational knowledge in epidemiology to prepare them for a wide range of public health careers.

4. Florida A&M University.

Florida A&M University (FAMU) is a public institution in Tallahassee, Florida, that has a long and distinguished history of providing quality education to students of color. The university’s Master of Public Health program with a concentration in Epidemiology empowers students to conduct research, develop interventions, and engage with communities to address public health issues effectively.

FAMU’s program emphasizes the application of epidemiological principles to real-world health concerns, preparing students to work in public health agencies, healthcare organizations, and non-governmental organizations.

In conclusion, at these HBCUs, students who aspire to be epidemiologists will find a welcoming environment that fosters academic and professional development. Graduates from these institutions are among the most respected and successful epidemiologists in the field, a testament to the quality of education offered by these institutions.