What is a Master of Science in Infection Prevention & Control?
The Master of Science (MS) in Infection Prevention & Control degree trains students to work as professionals in the field of infection prevention.
The degree is offered entirely online to provide qualified students and working professionals with an opportunity to acquire these credentials regardless of restrictions in time and physical location.
This MS program is geared to prepare students for frontline and leadership positions in infection prevention and control.
Why Pursue an Infection Prevention & Control Master’s Degree at Drexel Dornsife?
Unique benefits of the MS Degree in Infection Prevention & Control program at Drexel Dornsife include:
Upon completion of the MS in Infection Prevention & Control program, students will be able to:
- Describe infectious pathogens that are associated with disease syndromes of clinical and public health importance
- Explain public health reporting requirements for community and healthcare associated infections
- Identify infection prevention and control strategies in healthcare and community settings
- Formulate prevention practices related to maintaining a safe and clean healthcare environment
- Describe the effects of safety climate, organizational culture, or clinical knowledge on patient or healthcare worker safety
Graduates will be prepared to work in healthcare and public health settings.
Read more about the Online MS in Infection Control and Prevention on the Drexel University Online website.
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The Dornsife School of Public Health seeks students with intellectual and interpersonal competencies who have the potential to serve as leaders in infection prevention and control.
The School has set a high priority on establishing a student body that is representative of the nation's population.
Admissions Requirements and Prerequisites for the MS in Infection Prevention & Control Program
To be considered for the MS in Infection Prevention & Control program, applicants must meet these admissions criteria:
- Bachelor's degree from a regionally accredited college or university, or an equivalent international institution
- Course work in biology and/or health sciences such as (cell biology, immunology, microbiology)
- Competitive applicants will possess a undergraduate GPA of 3.30 or higher.
Those with a lower GPA are encouraged to apply, and should highlight the following in their personal statement: relevant work experience, professional certifications, and/or continuing education that demonstrates academic excellence.
Application Requirements for the Infection Control Master's Program
To have your application reviewed, applicants must submit the following documents:
- A completed online application
- Official transcripts from all universities or colleges and other post-secondary educational institutions (including trade schools) attended
- Two letters of recommendation (can be academic or professional)
- Resume
- Essay of approximately 500 words discussing your interest in public health, current career goals, and why you are interested in Drexel University.
- Additional requirements for International Students
Applications for the Masters of Infection Prevention & Control program do not require the GRE. However, you may choose to submit scores to strengthen your application. There is not cost to apply to this Drexel Online program.
To learn more about Drexel Dornsife's application and admission requirements, please visit the page below:
Review Admissions and Application Requirements
Read more about the Online MS in Infection Control and Prevention on the Drexel University Online website.
Master’s in Infection Prevention & Control Curriculum
The MS in Infection Prevention & Control curriculum is a part-time, online program.
Students develop a course of study in the following areas:
- Infectious disease processes
- Epidemiological concepts
- Surveillance in the healthcare setting
- Prevention and control of infectious agents in the healthcare setting
- Principles related to safe environment of care
- Patient and healthcare professional safety
Some of the core courses in the MS in Infection Prevention & Control include:
- EPI 570 Introduction to Epidemiology - 3 credits
- BST 571 Introduction to Biostatistics - 3 credits
- EOH 650 Microbes in Public Health Practice I: Overview of Bacterial Pathogens - 3 credits
- EOH 651 Microbes in Public Health Practice II: Overview of Viral and Other Pathogens - 3 credits
- EOH 655 Infection Prevention and Control in the Healthcare Environment - 3 credits
- EOH 656 Surveillance of Healthcare Associated Infections - 3 credits
- EOH 564 Safety in Healthcare - 3 credits
Students have flexibility to select 12 credits of electives that align with their research interests and professional goals.
In order to receive a Master’s in Infection Prevention and Control, students complete a capstone course (EOH 698 and EOH 699).
Review Degree Requirements and Courses
Sample Plan of Study
Infection Prevention Degree Requirements
Completion of the MS in Infection Prevention & Control requires:
- A minimum of 45 credit hours of course work
Learn more about the MS in Infection Prevention & Control on the Drexel Online website.
Career Options with an MS in Infection Prevention & Control
A Master’s in Infection Prevention & Control Curriculum prepares individuals for career opportunities that include:
- Infection and control prevention specialist
- Infection preventionist
- Infection control nurse
- Infection prevention project manager
- Epidemiologist
There are many opportunities in public health and healthcare settings for graduates, and a 2019 survey found that the field of infection prevention faces staffing shortages and retirements.
Hear more about the future of careers in infectious disease from Drexel Dornsife alumni and faculty.
Master’s in Infection Prevention & Control Salary Scale
According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, the job outlook for epidemiologists is much faster than average, growing at 27% between 2022 and 2032.
While salary can range across industries, the median pay for epidemiologists in 2023 was $81,390, and the typical entry level education is a masters degree.
Further develop your skills and propel your career forward with a Master’s degree in Infection Prevention and Control.
start your application today