Frequently Asked Questions

When is Epi Intense being offered?

A pilot of this new program will be offered Monday, July 9 – Wednesday, July 11.  Each day starts at 8:30AM and ends at 3:00PM.

What will I learn during Epi Intense?

Epi Intense is a fast paced and academically rigorous workshop focused on epidemiology, the systematic math-based study of diseases in populations.  Topics covered include epidemiologic study designs, data collection and data analysis.  Activities include short presentations by CDC experts, tutorials of epidemiology software led by a master teacher, survey design and administration, and analyzing data.

How is Epi Intense different from the CDC Disease Detective Camp?

The CDC Disease Detective Camp (CDDC) is a week-long program that gives an overview of the diversity of public health and CDC's work. While the first two days of CDDC are spent on introductory concepts of epidemiology, the topic is not covered in great detail. Epi Intense does just that-it digs into the details and nuances of this science, which is the cornerstone of CDC's work, for three days. Epi Intense does not cover microbiology, press conferences, lab techniques or other topics included in CDDC. 

Who can apply?

Epi Intense is open to motivated students who will be high-school juniors or seniors during the 2012-2013 school year. Previous experience with epidemiology or statistics will be beneficial, but is not necessary. Past CDDC participants are eligible for this program, but attending CDDC is not a pre-requisite.

How do I apply?

The application process is now closed. Please check back in December for information about the 2013 camps.

I think my son/daughter would really enjoy this workshop. How can I sign him/her up?

Based on the popularity of the CDC Museum's other student programs, we expect there will be more interested students then we can accommodate. For this reason, interested students must apply.
To ensure that the camp is an enjoyable experience for all participants, please discuss the camp with your son/daughter and refrain from applying on his/her behalf. We urge you and your son/daughter to read the information on this site and complete the application together. Applications are available online, or you may call 404-639-0830 to have an application mailed to you.

Can I reserve a spot until I mail in my application?

Because this is a competitive process, we cannot reserve spaces. Once the April 11th application deadline is reached, each application will be reviewed.

How are participants selected?

During the initial phase, applicants are selected based on the answers to the Application Essay Questions. We are seeking a diverse and eager-to-learn group of students who are willing to work diligently to learn all three days.

How will I know if I was selected?

All applicants are notified via email when their completed applications have been received. Be sure to add camp@cdc.gov to your email address book to avoid your notifications being sent to your spam folder.
Once the deadline date for applications has passed, applications are reviewed, and each applicant will receive a notification email indicating if he or she has been is given a slot in a 2012 pilot.  All applicants will receive an email indicating if they were given a slot in the program or not by May 4, 2012.

How much does it cost?

There is no cost associated with attending Epi Intense, but campers will need to pay for or bring their own lunches.

Where is the CDC?

CDC's main campus is located at 1600 Clifton Road, NE, Atlanta, Georgia. Epi Intense's headquarters is in the David J. Sencer CDC Museum, at CDC headquarters.

I do not live in the Atlanta area. May I attend?

Yes! Non-Atlanta residents may apply for the camp, but are responsible for providing their own accommodations and transportation. Participants in other programs in past years have stayed with family friends or relatives in Atlanta.

I work in the evenings. May I leave early?

No. To be respectful to camp presenters, campers are not allowed to leave early or arrive late. Please make arrangements that allow you to attend the camp 8:30-am – 3:00 pm each day.

My parents work at CDC. May I have lunch with them?

No. While we understand that you may want to visit with your parents, your best chance at getting to know your fellow participants is by staying with the group -- even during lunch.

What will I need to bring with me?

A government-issued picture ID is required to get through the security checkpoints. If you are selected as a participant, you will receive additional information on what you will need to bring with you.

How many slots are available for Epi Intense?

Twelve slots are available for the 2012 Epi Intense pilot.

Download FAQ's