The doctoral program in Public Health (DrPH) offers advanced training in the fundamental skills and knowledge central to each of the five core areas of public health—social and behavioral health, epidemiology, biostatistics, environmental health, and health systems –  as well as leadership. The DrPH program provides students with opportunities to achieve public health competencies in the full range of academic or professional roles within research, teaching and community practice.

Degree Requirements

Coursework.  The program requires 72 units, consisting of 19 courses. Students complete 52 units of core courses, 12 units of elective coursework that constitute a concentration, one transdisciplinary course and an advanced practicum.

Concentration. Students must successfully complete three courses or 12 units in one major field of study. Students may select from courses in the School of Social Science, Public Policy & Evaluation (Advanced Evaluation), Drucker School of Management (Leadership & Management), Center for Information Sciences & Technology (GIS or Health Informatics) and Applied Women Studies.

Research Tools. In lieu of a specific language requirement, demonstrated proficiency in one research tool tailored to individual needs is required. Research tools in public health  include statistics, computer programming, statistical programming applications, survey research, evaluation research, neurocognitive assessment, and physical activity/dietary assessment. The selection of research tools is part of each student’s advisement plan. Students should plan to fulfill the requirement within the first three years of study. 

Annual Reviews. Student work and progress is reviewed annually. Intended as a constructive and developmental process, the review provides feedback to the student on progress in the program, examines career goals and aspirations, and identifies avenues of continued development.

Qualifying Examination. Oral and written examinations center on the dissertation proposal and assess the depth and breadth of a student’s knowledge and aptitude in approaching and solving fundamental research issues in public health . Successful completion of the qualifying exam is required for advancement to candidacy.

Dissertation. Each candidate must submit acceptable dissertation research conducted with the approval of an advisory committee.  An oral examination is scheduled upon submission of the dissertation.

University Policies.  University policies detailed in the Student Information  section of the Bulletin apply, including the Transdisciplinary Course  and other University requirements disclosed in the Doctoral Degrees  section.