Program Overview
The PhD in Public Health is a research-intensive doctoral program developing scholars capable of conducting independent research contributing original knowledge to public health science. Students master advanced research methodologies, epidemiological techniques, and theoretical frameworks while investigating critical public health issues. The program emphasizes hypothesis-driven research, statistical analysis, and scholarly publication. Graduates are prepared for academic appointments, research leadership positions, senior policy roles, and executive positions in public health organizations requiring doctoral expertise.
To cultivate public health scholars who advance knowledge through rigorous research, develop innovative solutions to health challenges, and contribute to improving population health through scholarly excellence, policy influence, and research leadership.
- Total Credit Hours: 60 (post-master’s)
- Advanced Coursework: 24 credit hours
- Research Methods: 12 credit hours
- Dissertation: 24 credit hours
- Delivery: 100% Online with research mentorship
- Duration: 24-36 months
- Format: Research seminars and independent research
Program Educational Objectives
Within 3-5 years of graduation, PhD Public Health graduates will:
- Conduct independent public health research addressing critical health issues
- Publish research findings in peer-reviewed journals and present at conferences
- Teach public health courses at universities and training institutions
- Lead research projects and secure funding for public health investigations
- Develop theoretical frameworks and research methodologies
- Influence public health policy through research evidence
- Hold leadership positions in academic or research institutions
Program Curriculum
Course Code | Course Title | Credit Hours |
Advanced Coursework (24 Credit Hours) | ||
PhD 801 | Advanced Epidemiological Theory | 3 |
PhD 810 | Health Policy Analysis and Research | 3 |
PhD 820 | Social Determinants of Health Research | 3 |
PhD 830 | Environmental Health Research Methods | 3 |
PhD 840 | Global Health Systems Research | 3 |
PhD 850 | Health Disparities and Equity Research | 3 |
PhD 860 | Health Behavior Theory and Research | 3 |
PhD 870 | Advanced Seminar in Public Health | 3 |
Research Methods Courses (12 Credit Hours) | ||
RES 901 | Philosophy of Public Health Research | 3 |
RES 910 | Advanced Quantitative Methods | 3 |
RES 920 | Qualitative Research in Public Health | 3 |
RES 930 | Advanced Biostatistical Methods | 3 |
Dissertation (24 Credit Hours) | ||
DIS 950 | Dissertation Proposal Development | 6 |
DIS 960 | Dissertation Research I | 6 |
DIS 970 | Dissertation Research II | 6 |
DIS 980 | Dissertation Defense | 6 |