Applied Epidemiology is a research-based program, where students learn to model diseases and disease indicators in populations. It enhances the student’s understanding and application of knowledge and research findings to public health settings by providing an opportunity to gain practical experience.

The domain of applied epidemiology has been characterized by the following five core purposes-

1.     Synthesis of results of etiologic studies as input to practice-oriented policies.

2.     Description of disease and risk-factor patterns as information to set priorities.

3.     Evaluation of public health programs, laws, and policies

4.     Measurement of patterns and outcomes of delivery of public health services and health care practice

5.     Communication of epidemiologic findings effectively to health professionals, different decision-makers, and the public.

Compared with classical epidemiology, those involved in applied epidemiology face a greater sense of urgency, use data covering a range of quality.

Applied epidemiologists often learn the methods of epidemiology on the job through experiential learning.

Macro trends that have driven this commentary are certain to be predictive of changes to come, likely at an accelerating pace.

To sustain the relevance and impact of applied epidemiology, training curriculums, continuing education programs, and recruitment of those who will serve in both the academic and applied sectors need to be continually refined.