General description

The doctoral program in epidemiology and biostatistics includes the writing of a dissertation on the own independent scientific research project and is usually completed in three to four years (full-time). Students are trained as methodologists with specialized skills in designing, conducting and analyzing studies in a biomedical research context, their interdisciplinary knowledge in the bio-medical sciences is broadly extended and they are required to gain broader competencies in a research context. The program includes a curricular part of at least 12 ECTS credits, which is determined individually for each doctoral student through the thesis committee and focuses on the specific environment of the research area but also considers general research competences in epidemiology and biostatistics as well as the acquisition of transferable skills for the professional development inside and outside of academic institutions. It is mandatory to actively participate at least twice in the "Epidemiology and Biostatistics Methods Seminar". The Participation at conferences and research seminars, preparation of scientific publications and the presentation of own research results at internal seminars are not awarded ECTS credits, nevertheless these activities are intrinsic. Additionally, doctoral students must participate in the teaching activities of their institution.

Admission requirements

Admission to doctoral study is governed by the ordinance on admission to studies at the University of Zurich (Verordnung über die Zulassung an der Universität Zürich VZS). The main requirement for admission to doctoral study is a Master's degree from a university or an equivalent degree. Each PhD project must receive approval from a professor at the Faculty of Science or from a person who has the right to confer a PhD at the Faculty of Science. There is no general right to be granted admission to a PhD program. Admission may be made contingent on conditions and/or restrictions in the form of additional coursework. Conditions must be met prior to admission to doctoral study; restrictions may be fulfilled during doctoral study. Coursework required to meet conditions and/or restrictions may not exceed a total of 60 ECTS credits; requirements are specified according to the demands of the subject in which the PhD thesis will be written. The Vice Dean of Studies decides on admission, on recognition of similar degrees, and on conditions and/or additional requirements that may apply. As a rule, the language of instruction in the PhD programs is English. All applicants whose native language is not English, or whose prior studies have not been conducted in English, are required to provide proof of sufficient knowledge of English.

ECTS credits

12 ECTS Credits

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Language of instruction

English