The mission of the master of science (MS) in the field of public health microbiology and emerging infectious diseases degree program is to provide training to a new generation of public health professionals to expand knowledge and expertise in the areas of disease mechanisms, with an emphasis on microbial pathogens, the use and application of modern biotechnologies, and in epidemiologic skills relevant to the prevention and control of problems in the community arising from infectious diseases.<br><br>Graduates of the MS program have an in-depth understanding of the major laboratory, clinical, and public health aspects of humankind's microbial pathogens, and acquire epidemiologic skills relevant to the prevention and control of problems arising from infectious diseases and modern biotechnologies. Areas of emphasis include the design and analysis of epidemiologic data, emerging infections, tropical diseases, and applications of genomics, proteomics, and bioinformatics. MS graduates are employed in academic and industrial research laboratories, international health agencies, NGOs, and private consulting groups. In addition, they may work in federal, state, and local public health agencies or state and local public health laboratories where their technical expertise and population-based perspective are extremely useful. Students earning this degree help meet a national demand that has reached critical proportions for a trained workforce in biodefense and emerging infections, and an international demand for training in diseases that affect the developing countries.