Certificate in Cancer
Biology, Epidemiology and Outcomes

Row of laboratory microscopes arranged on a reflective black countertop in a bright workspace, with multiple microscopes aligned in perspective.

This nine-credit program is designed to meet the educational needs of students and healthcare professionals interested in gaining a fundamental understanding of cancer biology, cancer risks and prevention activities, and the management of cancer and its impact on health outcomes. Individuals who may benefit from this program include those new to the oncology field and those who want to complement their existing studies with enhanced knowledge of oncology.

Requirements for Admission

  • Applicants for this graduate certificate must have earned a bachelor’s degree from an accredited US institution or equivalent.
  • The Certificate accepts current UF graduate students, interns, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals.
  • There are no prerequisites.
  • We are not currently accepting international students.

Requirements for Completion

  • GMS 6065: Fundamentals of Cancer Biology  (3 credits)
  • GMS 6812: Health Outcomes Research in Cancer (3 credits)
  • PHC 7007: Cancer Epidemiology (3 credits)

In a nine-hour graduate certificate program composed of three 3‐hour courses, the student must earn nine of the credits after being admitted to the graduate certificate program. If a student has previously completed one of the three‐hour courses before enrollment in the program, these credits can be applied to the certificate program.

The courses are available only in person during the fall and spring semesters.

Timeframe for Completion

  • Within 3 years of initial enrollment

Suggested Semester by Semester Plan

  • Spring – GMS 6065
  • Fall – GMS 6812
  • Spring – PHC 7007

Frequently Asked Questions

Am I eligible to apply for the Certificate in Cancer: Biology, Epidemiology, and Outcomes?

The certificate program is currently accepting current UF graduate students, interns, residents, fellows, and other healthcare professionals. The program can be completed concurrently with a degree program. Please note there is a $35 nonrefundable fee to apply to the certificate program.

How do I apply?

1) Go to https://admissions.ufl.edu/apply/certificates and fill out the online application. For degree seeking students, please apply as ‘currently enrolled UF students’ with your GatorLink account. If you are not a current UF student, you will need to create a new account via the application portal.

2) In the ‘Certificate Program’ section, the year and term you are applying for should be the term you plan to start this program, in most cases, the CURRENT year and term, or the earliest term the form allows if late in the current semester. Make sure you choose the College of Medicine. Under in the ‘Concentration’, pick the certificate title.

Can International students apply?

International students can apply to the certificate program if they are currently enrolled in a graduate program. However, international students cannot apply to the certificate program as a standalone program.

Is there a virtual option?

The three required courses are only offered in-person and on UF campus. These courses are not offered online.

What if I have already completed one or two of the required courses for the certificate at my previous institution or prior to being aware of this certificate program at UF?

If you have already completed any required courses before entering the program, please notify the coordinator. The coordinator will then send the application materials and note that courses have been completed to the faculty committee for approval of those courses to be applied towards your certificate of completion.

Can I transfer course credits from another institution?

It is the prerogative of the UF college to which the student is applying to determine how transfer credit satisfies the specific degree’s course requirements. Courses from Florida public community colleges and State University System schools generally adhere to the Statewide Course Numbering System. If the prefix (first three letters) and the last three digits of the course number are the same, then the course is considered equivalent.

You can also check your course via Transferology: Transferology

What is the cost of this program?

Financial information regarding tuition and fees is available on the UF tuition and fees website.

Do I have to start the program in the Fall semester?

Students may start the program during the Fall or Spring semesters.

What if I finish my degree program before finishing the requirements for the certificate program?

Please contact us at education@cancer.ufl.edu

How do I graduate with the certificate?

You must apply to graduate with your certificate separately from your degree program. Applying to graduate from your degree program does not ensure you will be graduated from your certificate program.

Currently enrolled UF graduate students can apply online. You will need your GatorLink username and password to apply.

For new students

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