The complexities of comprehensive exams in epidemiology

Comprehensive exams are a standard component of doctoral-level training programs in epidemiology. In this manuscript, we describe current practices in the administration of comprehensive examinations across doctoral programs in epidemiology and discuss variation in the content, format, and structure of these exams. We present results from a survey about the comprehensive exam process at thirty-three different epidemiology programs. We also discuss a symposium focused on comprehensive exams that was part of the 2025 Society for Epidemiologic Research annual meeting. The symposium included speakers with specific expertise on designing comprehensive exams as well as faculty from several different epidemiology programs across North America.. The survey found important differences in format (ie, written, oral, general epidemiology, substantive topics), when the exams are administered, and what level of epidemiology knowledge they are targeting. In this manuscript, we also discuss common challenges programs face, including creating and grading the exams. By sharing this information with a wide audience of epidemiologists, we aim to facilitate discussion to improve the comprehensive exam process for doctoral students in our field. This work also fits with abroader goal to initiate discussion about doctoral-level training in epidemiology.