Vector-borne and zoonotic diseases continue to emerge and re-emerge, threatening human and animal health. This comprehensive certificate program in Vector-Borne Diseases (VBD) aims to provide CSU graduate students with a solid foundation in vector-borne diseases, equipping them with the knowledge and skills in this disciplinary area for careers in fields such as public health, vector control, and epidemiology.

Students interested in graduate work should refer to the Graduate and Professional Bulletin.

Learning Objectives:

Upon successful completion, students will be able to:

  1. Explain the role of arthropods in the spread of emerging vector-borne pathogens, including the description of transmission cycles of prominent vector-borne diseases, and how vector physiology and host-pathogen interaction contribute to pathogen transmission.
  2. Apply vector control and epidemiologic principles in the context of managing emerging vector-borne diseases.

Effective Spring 2025

Additional coursework may be required due to prerequisites.

Core Courses
MIP 533/VS 533Epidemiology of Infectious Diseases/Zoonoses3
Biology of Disease Vectors Module: 2,3
MIP 567Introduction to Biology of Disease Vectors1
MIP 568Biology of Arbovirus Vectors/Genetics1
MIP 569Biology of Parasite/Bacteria Vectors1
Electives
Select a minimum of six credits from the following:6
AB 523
Advanced Evolution/Classification of Insects
AB 529
Pesticide Resistance Evolution and Management
AB 551
Advanced Integrated Pest Management
BSPM 794
Independent Study 1
JTC 630
Health Communication
MIP 535
Vector Collection and Identification Methods
MIP 537A
Advanced Virology: Fundamental Concepts and New Insights 2
MIP 537B
Advanced Virology: Mechanisms of Viral Disease 2
MIP 537C
Advanced Virology: Vector-Borne Viruses 2
MIP 540
Fundamentals of Biosafety and Biosecurity
MIP 573A
Bacterial Pathogenesis: Introduction to Mechanisms 2
MIP 573B
Bacterial Pathogenesis: Mechanisms and Lifestyle 2
MIP 573C
Bacterial Pathogenesis: Evading Host Defenses 2
MIP 795
Independent Study 1
Program Total Credits:12

*This certificate may have courses in common with other graduate certificates.  A student may earn more than one certificate, but a given course may be counted only in one certificate program.  

1

Variable credit can be obtained towards the certificate by conducting research in a vector-biology lab. These independent study credits can only be taken after the 9 regular course credits have been completed.

2

This course is offered in modular format, with three 1-credit modules.

3

All three modules must be taken to receive core credit.