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 minor, one transdisciplinary course and an advanced practicum.

Minor. 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 is required. A research tool in public health must be completed with a grade of a B or better in CGH402, Advanced Research Methods.

Advanced Practicum. Students are required to complete one advanced practicum in public health in a practice setting. The advanced practicum is part of the culminating experience for the degree, allowing students to immediately apply knowledge and skills gained in the porgram.

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.

Transfer Credit.  The University’s policy on transfer credit  applies. The MPH program permits the transfer of up to 10 semester units from prior graduate work completed outside of CGU with advisor approval.