FAQs for Future Students General FAQs Which Degree Should I Consider? What is the difference between population health and epidemiology? What are the typical career paths with each degree? What type of research have students pursued in each degree program? FAQs for MS and PhD Degrees What do students say about the program? What type of degree or academic background do I need to enter the program? Is a master’s degree required before applying to the PhD program? I can’t decide whether to apply to the MS or the PhD program. Can I apply to one and be considered for both? Or, if I start as an MS student can I later join the PhD program? I am already a current graduate student at the University of Wisconsin-Madison and want to change to or add your degree as my major. Are the application materials required different for me? What funding options are available to graduate students?