public health phd distance learning

Where To Earn An Online Ph.D. In Public Health In 2024

Updated: Nov 27, 2023, 9:40am

If you’re a public health professional seeking a leadership role, earning an online Ph.D. in public health can help you advance your career. Leaders in this field work to shape the future of public health policy or serve as professors teaching the next generation of public health professionals.

A Ph.D. in public health (Dr.PH.) builds on fundamentals like leadership, strategic planning, teaching and learning, and communication through problem solving. Ph.D. candidates also complete a practicum and a dissertation.

Examples of public health careers available with a Dr.PH. include college professor, director of patient safety, environmental health engineer, senior counsel for elder justice and city police chief. Read on to learn where you can earn an online Ph.D. in public health.

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Johns Hopkins University

Johns Hopkins University ’s online Ph.D. in public health allows full-time professionals to continue working while advancing their education. Most students in this program take one to two courses per eight-week term, and each course requires around three hours of study time per week.

Students can complete this Dr.PH. program entirely online. However, the university encourages learners to attend its summer and winter institutes (around one week each) to supplement their program with intensive coursework.

Applicants must have a master’s in public health or a related field and at least three years of full-time professional experience in their area of interest.

At a Glance

• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 64 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Statistical reasoning in public health, effective writing for public health change
• Concentrations Available: Environmental health, health equity and social justice, global health: policy and evaluation, health policy and management, implementation science, women’s and reproductive health, custom
• In-Person Requirements: No

Degree Finder

How to find the right online ph.d. in public health for you, consider your future goals.

If you’ve earned a master’s in public health or another health-related subject and want to advance into a leadership role or pursue a public health career in academia or research, you might benefit from a doctorate.

Some doctoral programs require that you have a minimum amount of professional experience in the concentration you want to pursue and a master’s in public health or a health-related field. Make sure you understand the admission requirements when considering whether to apply. Also, look for a program that will connect you with a faculty advisor who can help you in your academic and professional pursuits.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

An online Ph.D. in public health from Johns Hopkins University takes four to nine years to complete and costs $84,544 in total tuition.

To help fund their degrees, students can apply for federal financial aid through the FAFSAⓇ. Federal aid offerings may include grants, loans and scholarships.

Colleges and universities may also offer their own scholarships and fellowships for graduate students. For example, Johns Hopkins University’s Dr.PH. students can pursue a Bloomberg American Health Initiative fellowship to help pay for their studies.

Some employers offer tuition reimbursement programs as well, which can help to relieve some of the financial burden of graduate school.

Should You Enroll in an Online Ph.D. in Public Health Program?

Choosing an online Ph.D. in public health often allows you the flexibility to watch recorded lectures and complete assignments at a time most convenient with your schedule. In most cases, you will also avoid commuting to campus or relocating to pursue your education.

However, online programs come with their own unique set of challenges. Here are a few factors to consider before applying.

Online public health degree programs can be less expensive since they do not require housing, campus parking or a commute to school. Plus, some colleges and universities offer in-state tuition rates to all distance learners, regardless of where they live.

However, online students often have to pay an additional distance learning fee, and they are responsible for having reliable technology to access lectures and course materials.

Learning Style

Are you able to learn in a virtual setting without the presence of other students or face-to-face interactions with a professor? Many online classes are asynchronous, meaning they do not involve set class times. While asynchronous course delivery allows for maximum flexibility, it also requires strong self-motivation and time management skills.

If you think you’d struggle to keep up in a relatively unstructured learning environment, or if you aren’t technologically savvy, you might think twice about an online degree.

Time Commitment

Do you plan to continue working professionally while earning your public health degree ? If so, a part-time, online program like the one offered at Johns Hopkins University may take longer to complete, but it can allow you a greater work-life balance. If you want to earn your degree faster, a full-time program might be a better fit.

Accreditation for an Online Ph.D. in Public Health

If you plan to enroll in an online Ph.D. in public health program and apply for federal student aid, you’ll need to attend an accredited college or university. Institutional accreditation indicates that a college or university has been vetted by a reputable third party approved by the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) or the U.S. Department of Education.

Programs and departments within an accredited institution may also earn programmatic accreditation. For example, Johns Hopkins University’s Bloomberg School of Health, which offers the online Dr.PH. program, is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health.

CHEA maintains searchable directories of accredited institutions and programs.

Our Methodology

We scored one accredited, nonprofit college offering an online Ph.D. in public health program in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites. Data is accurate as of June 2023.

We scored schools based on the following categories:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We listed the only school in the U.S. that met our ranking criteria.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

Featured Online Schools

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Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) About Earning an Online Ph.D. in Public Health

Is it worth getting a ph.d. in public health.

Yes, for many students, a Dr.PH. is worthwhile. A Ph.D. in public health is the most advanced degree you can earn in the field. It prepares students for advanced careers in public health policy and health services.

Can you do a Ph.D. completely online?

Yes. For instance, the online Ph.D. in public health offered through Johns Hopkins University has no in-person requirements.

How many years is a Ph.D. in public health?

You can expect to spend at least four years completing a Ph.D. in public health. Part-time programs can take longer.

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Online Ph.D. Programs in Public Health

Explore and compare a list of accredited schools to enroll in your next program.

An online Ph.D. in public health is well suited for individuals passionate about improving health conditions in community populations. Strong candidates for a Ph.D. program understand patterns and possess critical thinking skills, statistical analysis training, and strong written and oral communication skills.

According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics, job outlook for graduates with a Ph.D. in public health generally trend toward the positive. For instance, employment of  epidemiologists  is expected to expand by 9%, and employment of  medical and health services managers  is expected to increase by 20%. Therefore, graduates with a Ph.D. in public health can expect a certain level of job security.

Should I Pursue a Ph.D. in Public Health Online?

A Ph.D. program challenges students intellectually and emotionally, and it is important to consider how earning a public health doctorate benefits personal and professional goals. Here are four primary reasons why you might decide to matriculate into an online Ph.D. program in public health: to teach on topics of public health at the undergraduate or graduate level; to conduct public health research in academia; to work as a public health researcher for a government, nonprofit, or private organization; or to be more competitive for an administrative position in public health.

Perhaps the most obvious reason to get a Ph.D. is to work in academia. Most academic positions in the field of public health require a Ph.D. as confirmation of a professor’s knowledge and experience. However, other positions exist in academia where having a doctorate may make you a more competitive candidate. For instance, many research think tanks, government organizations, or nonprofit groups often hire public health researchers and possessing a Ph.D. indicates an increased level of training and can make you a more desirable applicant.

In addition to professional reasons, students pursue a doctorate in public health for a multitude of personal convictions, including an ongoing passion for analyzing the health and risks of a population, enjoyment reading scientific articles and books in the field, or learning about methods of scientific analysis concerning larger populations.

What Can I Do with an Online Ph.D. in Public Health?

Graduates with an online doctorate in public health can access a wide variety of careers, including working in healthcare facilities, government positions, academia, and the public sector. Hospitals and clinics employ health services administrators and biostatisticians. Universities need public health professors and researchers. Health departments of state and local governments, research institutions, and nonprofit organizations often search for public health analysts, health policy analysts, and epidemiologists.

Typical public health careers, like those listed above, usually involve either teaching, research, or some combination of the two.  Professors and assistant professors of public health balance a combination of teaching and research responsibilities. Public health analysts, epidemiologists, and biostaticians focus primarily on research, which includes laboratory work, statistical analysis, and survey research.

Aside from these more common paths, a degree in public health can also unlock career opportunities in the fields of emergency management, nutrition, community health work, occupational health and safety, community service management, nursing, and industry management and leadership.  Some of these other options may require combining a public health degree with another specialty.

Industries search for innovative leaders with an advanced degree in public health, particularly if the industry carries a health-related product or deals with public health policy.  Application of the advanced skills and knowledge learned through the acquisition of an online Ph.D. in public health correlate to positions that may require data analysis, writing research reports, and an understanding of community health issues and how they might be improved.

Below are five examples of possible careers for a graduate with an online public health Ph.D.

Career Profiles

Professor of public health.

Median Annual Salary : $85,859

Professors of public health teach students in the classroom and grade papers, but they also guide students in creating research projects, dissertations, and theses. In addition, a professor may conduct their own original research and write academic articles or books.

Epidemiologist

Median Annual Salary : $69,660

Epidemiologists investigate causes of disease and illness in humans and analyze patterns of behavior in relation to widespread occurrences of infectious diseases, otherwise known as epidemics.

Biostatistician

Median Annual Salary : $75,545 Biostatisticians collaborate with other researchers to design a range of experiments, conduct statistical analysis, and prepare research reports on their findings.

Medical and Health Services Managers

Median Annual Salary : $98,350

Healthcare administrators and managers oversee and coordinate medical and health services provided at a particular facility or organization.

Public Health Analyst

Median Annual Salary : $60,315

Public health analysts conduct and analyze research on community health problems, propose solutions from their findings, and prepare reports for a variety of audiences.

Online Ph.D. in Public Health Program Overview

Several factors can influence choosing the right online public health Ph.D. program, including the research specialities of faculty, what types of courses or certification programs offer, what type of capstone project is required, and cost of tuition. Perhaps the most important factor is what types of careers students desire, since public health programs emphasize either practice or research, preparing students for different career paths depending on their chosen emphasis.

What is the Difference Between a Dr.PH. and Ph.D.?

Those interested in pursuing a Ph.D. in public health can choose between a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) or a Doctor of Public Health (Dr.PH.). The primary difference between these two types of programs is that a Ph.D. in public health focuses more on research methods and theory while a Dr.PH. is a professional degree that emphasizes the practical application of public health principles.

An individual looking toward work as a researcher in a medical lab, research institution, or university may prefer a Ph.D. program, whereas a Dr.PH. better suits an individual who hopes to work as a manager, director, or consultant in a health department or public health program.

Curriculum and graduation requirements can differ between these two types of doctorate programs. Ph.D. programs require writing and defending a dissertation in order to graduate; Dr.PH. programs may require an applied practicum as an alternative or in addition to the dissertation. Practicum components usually ask students to complete a project for a healthcare facility or organization to advance public health practice, similar to practicum experiences required by masters of public health programs. Both types of programs take around four years to complete, requiring about 55-65 credits of coursework.

Application Requirements and Admission Criteria

Applicants to online Ph.D. and Dr.PH. programs have typically completed a master’s degree, preferably in public health. Some programs also accept students holding a master’s degree in a subject outside of public health while other programs consider these students on a case-by-case basis. Yet other programs offer a combined MPH and Ph.D. of public health degree, in which case students enroll immediately after graduation from undergraduate study.

Most online doctorate programs in public health also require GRE scores, with a minimum combined score of 1000. Other application materials include a statement of purpose, resume or CV, transcripts from previous institutions demonstrating a GPA higher than 3.0, and three letters of recommendation. Some Dr.PH. programs may also require work experience in the health field.

Online doctorate programs in public health are typically structured by four main elements: foundational courses, concentration core courses, electives, and dissertation credits. Most public health programs allow students to further specialize in an area under the umbrella of public health such as biostatistics; epidemiology; health promotion and behavior; health services and policy research; or environmental health.

After taking foundation courses in topics such as advanced research methods, statistical analysis, and public health ethics, students often take courses of their choice in an area of concentration and elective courses. Core course requirements usually total 18 credit hours while concentration and elective courses equal around 30 credit hours. Most Ph.D. programs also require that students pass a comprehensive or qualifying exam before advancing to candidacy. After that, students continue on to complete practicum and/or dissertation research and writing hours. Potential courses for an online Ph.D. in public health are listed below.

Program Outcomes

Students should graduate from an online Ph.D. program in public health with the ability to conduct statistical and epidemiological analysis, design and carry out an original research project on public health issues, conduct literature reviews and write reports containing original research findings, and understand the ethical issues encountered in the public health field. These skills and competencies can directly translate to public health research, pedagogy, and administrative or leadership positions. Familiarity with statistical analysis and experience using statistical analysis software like STATA, SAS, or R, is particularly valuable to employers in a wide variety of career paths. Critical thinking and writing is also a marketable skill in both more traditional academic settings and practice-oriented positions. Many students aspiring to continue on in academia emerge from a Ph.D. with publishable or published material demonstrating their credibility and knowledge of the public health field.

Accreditation for Ph.D. Public Health Online Programs

Always verify that the online public health Ph.D. program you choose is accredited since accreditation helps ensure students receive a quality education by holding postsecondary programs to certain standards. Students should look for these accrediting bodies when evaluating online Ph.D. public health schools and programs.

Regional accreditation is generally more reputable and prestigious. In the United States, there are six regional accrediting organizations. Both the  U.S. Department of Education  and  Council for Higher Education Accreditation  compile databases of regionally accredited colleges and universities. In addition to these regional agencies, the main field-specific accrediting agency for public health is the  Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) .

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The Best Online Doctorate in Public Health Programs

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Online Ph.D. Public Health

Through innovative research, education, and policy leadership, public health specialists prevent disease and ensure that people possess the information and tools needed to lead healthy lives. A Ph.D. in public health online program prepares you for careers in education, research, and management. These professionals can also work with small towns and communities, international nonprofits, and government agencies to advance health initiatives.

Featured Online Doctorate in Public Health

East carolina university.

• Campus + Online
• In-State $4,452
• Out-of-state $20,729
• In-State $4,749
• Out-of-state $17,898
• Retention Rate 82%
• Acceptance Rate 79%
• Students Enrolled 28,651
• Institution Type Public

Johns Hopkins University

• In-State $55,350
• Out-of-state $55,350
• Retention Rate 97%
• Acceptance Rate 11%
• Students Enrolled 27,079
• Institution Type Private

Loma Linda University

• In-State $31,680
• Out-of-state $31,680
• In-State $26,880
• Out-of-state $26,880
• Retention Rate 0%
• Acceptance Rate 0%
• Students Enrolled 4,462

Nebraska Methodist College of Nursing and Allied Health

• In-State $15,422
• Out-of-state $15,422
• In-State $11,955
• Out-of-state $11,955
• Retention Rate 68%
• Acceptance Rate 97%
• Students Enrolled 1,128

University of Illinois at Chicago

• In-State $11,924
• Out-of-state $26,224
• In-State $13,276
• Out-of-state $23,850
• Retention Rate 79%
• Acceptance Rate 73%
• Students Enrolled 32,324

Best Online Doctorate

Public health, online doctorate in public health programs ranking guidelines.

We ranked these degree programs based on quality, curricula, school awards, rankings, and reputation.

What Else Can I Expect from an Online Ph.D. in Public Health Program?

Students enrolled in doctor of public health programs online may go by several nomenclatures, such as DPH or Ph.D., depending on the focus of individual colleges and universities. To maintain accreditation, schools standardize certain aspects of their curricula, like core classes and practicum requirements. However, outside of these similarities, doctoral degree programs are incredibly diverse due to the specificity that comes with this advanced level of study and work.

Curriculum for an Online Doctorate in Public Health

• Public Health and Healthcare: Here, students delve into theories, practices, politics, and organizations that shape public and private healthcare services in the United States. By understanding the forces that influence the structures of delivery systems, students use qualitative and quantitative methods to propose alternatives that address cost, quality, and access disparities among different populations. This course provides important training for all public health specialists, particularly those driven by statistical research.
• Public Policy Analysis: This course analyzes the historical framework for political decision making. Students then use interdisciplinary tools to assess the feasibility of alternative policies with respect to equity, efficiency, and institutional feasibility. By understanding these concepts and pursuing their own investigations, students prepare for work with community and government organizations as advocates and leaders.
• Strategies in Public Health Leadership: Building on students’ individual leadership styles, the course provides feedback and further development through a range of simulations and exercises. Additional topics include team context, managing group dynamics, and organizational strategies, like the nature of a project cycle, design theories, and implementation.
• Health Communication: The course provides tools to effectively inform individuals and entire organizations about significant health issues, thereby influencing policy and motivating positive changes. Students also learn to create and manage public health campaigns. Additional topics include disease prevention and community health promotion communication. This class is especially important for public health advocates, including educators and epidemiologists.
• Global Health Priorities: How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Public Health?A mainstay for anyone working with government or international health organizations, this course examines and analyzes health issues in developing and industrialized countries, particularly those facing growing challenges. Students also locate data sources to define the nature and impact of health problems in select geographical areas, and with respect to their particular cultures and delivery systems.

How Long Does It Take to Get an Online Doctorate in Public Health?

Students enrolled in a Ph.D in public health program online will have different program durations, depending on their school’s curriculum. However, most programs usually feature 40-80 credits of coursework, not including hours dedicated to independent study, practicums, and dissertation work. Most doctoral candidates earn their degree in 6-8 years, but, again, this may differ as certain career-oriented programs provided accelerated tracks that only require four years of work. Other students, meanwhile, may take up to 10 years or longer due to the nature of their dissertation. Generally speaking, DPH programs cater to professionals who want to advance to practical and field-work related careers, while Ph.D. in public health online programs emphasize research and theory and are generally more suitable for consultants and analysts.

As with other distance education options, you can expect most courses to be asynchronous. However, it’s rare for doctor of public health online programs to be fully remote due to research and experiential learning components. These usually necessitate residencies and close work with faculty. Additionally, some schools require you to take classes in a cohort style where you progress through the program at the same rate as your peers. If the length of a program is a concern, enroll in a school that enables you to schedule classes independently and transfer credits flexibly. Also seek out programs that let you fulfill practicum requirements where you live, preferably with your current employer.

Accreditation for Online Public Health Doctorate Degrees

To confer valid online Ph.D. in public health and similar doctorate degrees, colleges and universities must earn accreditation at the regional or national levels, with the top schools also holding an industry-specific recognition. Regional accreditation is granted from one of six regional organizations; accreditation indicates that a school meets state academic and institutional standards.

On a practical level, you should prioritize programs that hold regional accreditation, as it is more prestigious than national accreditation. Doctor of public health programs online may also receive specialized accreditation from professional organizations, including the Public Health Accreditation Board and the Council on Education for Public Health . Attending schools that hold both of these accreditations means you can be confident that you’ll receive a rigorous, industry-certified degree.

The ED and CHEA bestow national accreditation (and support regional accreditation) through their partner organizations. The ED is a government agency responsible for strengthening federal education regulations and rewarding complying schools with funding. With over 3,000 member institutions, CHEA is the most powerful private educational organization in the country. In addition to enforcing standards among its partner agencies, the council also advocates for members’ rights through research and policy advancement.

Employment Outlook for Doctorate in Public Health Graduates

Doctorate in public health careers.

An online Ph.D. in public health prepares you for advanced leadership-oriented careers in research, management, and academia. Health professionals channel their innate curiosity and attention to detail into analytical and administrative skills that propel their programs and organizations to success. With the proper experience and certification, you may work in one of many diverse settings, from government agencies and community programs to education institutions and private healthcare organizations. Whatever your career path, the public health field contains some of the fastest growing positions in the United States. Below, we’ve reviewed five popular career opportunities in the field.

Epidemiologist

Epidemiologist These public health experts investigate patterns of disease and their causes within a community or population. Using this information, epidemiologists reduce the risk of outbreaks and other negative health scenarios through research, education, and health policy. They may also oversee public health programs. Epidemiologists usually hold a master’s degree and professional certification from the Certification Board of Infection Control and Epidemiology (CBIC).

Medical Scientist

Medical Scientist These public health professionals conduct clinical trials and other laboratory investigations to improve human health, from creating procedures that ensure food safety to standardizing drug doses and potency. Medical scientists work independently or in small teams for health departments and research organizations. A doctorate degree is a standard requirement for this line of work, though some junior or assistant positions may be available for those with a master’s.

Postsecondary Teacher

Postsecondary Teacher Teaching in colleges and universities, these instructors ensure their students understand complex theoretical and historical concepts and apply what they know through practicums. Outside the classroom, college professors pursue their own research projects and engage with organizations in their field. Though adjunct teaching positions are available for those who hold a master’s, most full-time and tenured postings are reserved for public health specialists with a doctorate degree.

Health Service Manager

Health Service Manager Health service managers are responsible for the coordination and implementation of daily tasks and special projects within a medical department or entire healthcare facility. They train and supervise staff, oversee financial operations, and ensure that organizations meet business goals and comply with laws and regulations. Taking on this advanced leadership position requires at least a master’s, though most managers have a doctoral degree, professional licensure, and ample work experience.

Biostatician

Biostatician As the title suggests, biostaticians compile and analyze medical statistics to solve practical challenges and help health organizations of all sizes make effective and ethical decisions. They also develop and conduct tests, often partnering with epidemiologists or other public health specialists to locate the source of a disease outbreak or assess the effectiveness of a drug. Biostaticians generally need at least a master’s degree. Advanced research positions often necessitate an online Ph.D. in public health or similar accreditation.

Doctorate in Public Health Salary

With statistics aggregated from PayScale, the table below details five of the highest paying careers for professionals who have earned a Ph.D. in public health online or a similar degree. As in most jobs, your salary increases alongside your experience because employers recognize the value of hands-on skill development and networking efforts. How much you get paid is also contingent on your subfield. Professionals who specialize in data-assisted research and analysis enjoy access to the most lucrative positions. Certain fields reward — and, in some cases, only allow entry to — those who hold professional certification, such as CBIC credentials for epidemiologists.

Paying for Your Online Doctorate in Public Health

As you search for the doctor of public health online program that best aligns with your academic interests and career goals, cost should factor heavily into your decision of what college or university to attend. Pursue all avenues of financial assistance, beginning with the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA). This enables you to sign up for several scholarships, grants, fellowships, and loans simultaneously, and the FAFSA calculates the funding you receive based on need — or cost of attendance minus expected family contribution. Familiarize yourself with FAFSA, as it is an integral part of the admission process to almost all colleges and universities in the country.

You should also look for funding opportunities through private organizations such as the AfyaBora Fellowship in Global Health Leadership program for professionals who want to work in Africa, as well as opportunities through the Hispanic-Serving Health Professions Schools and Department of Veteran Affairs. Loans represent another option, but should be used sparingly due to the hefty burden that comes with escalating interest rates. If you do tap into loans to pay for your Ph.D. in public health online program, prioritize federal and state offerings over private options; the former usually come with more flexible stipulations.

Federal and state loans may also be reduced or negated entirely through governmental forgiveness programs. Opportunities include the Public Service Loan Forgiveness Program for professionals working in government agencies, and the repayment programs offered by the National Institutes of Health for those who commit at least two years of research at a participating nonprofit organization.

Header Image Credit: Hiraman | Getty Images

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Public Health, Global Health Leadership, Dr.P.H.

Become an innovative leader who can address complex public health problems with IU Online’s Doctor of Public Health in Global Health Leadership. With its global curriculum, global faculty, and global network, this program will heighten your ability to impact the health of populations anywhere in the world.

• Request Info

Course Delivery : 80-99% Online

Total Credits : 45

In-State Tuition Per Credit : $750.00

Out-of-State Tuition Per Credit : $1500.00

Cost of attendance may vary by campus. View the total cost calculator

Degree Overview

The IU Online Doctor of Public Health in Global Health Leadership is a three-year, cohort-based distance education program. It leverages relationships with international schools and programs and includes opportunities to collaborate with faculty and scholars around the world.

As a student in the program, you'll take classes via real-time video, meet your classmates face to face three times a year in years 1 and 2, and complete your dissertation or a field-based project in year 3. You’ll cultivate leadership skills through diverse experiences and exposure to a wide range of perspectives. You’ll learn experientially through highly interactive debates and discussions.

You’ll graduate with an Indiana University degree respected by employers worldwide—and you can work on yours anytime and anywhere. Plus, you’ll enjoy personalized support services throughout your academic journey.

And the benefits start long before graduation. More than half of IU Online students advance in their careers before they complete their degree.

To be accepted to this program, you must have:

• Master's degree or doctorate
• 3.0 GPA or above on a 4.0 scale

To apply to this program:

Complete an online application that includes:

• Transcripts
• Three letters of recommendation
• Statement of purpose and objectives
• Resume 

All finalists for admission to the Dr.P.H. will be interviewed at a distance by representatives of the admissions committee. 

Career Outcomes

The IU Online Doctor Program in Global Health Leadership prepares you for top positions in government agencies, foundations, non-governmental organizations, not-for-profit or for-profit organizations, and health ministries, including positions such as:

• Chief executive officer 
• Agency commissioner/secretary
• Executive director

Degree Requirements

To graduate with the Dr.P.H. in Global Health Leadership, you must complete 45 credit hours.

Requirements are broken down as follows:

• Leadership courses (15 credit hours) 
• Public health courses (7 credit hours) 
• Research courses (14 credit hours)
• Dissertation or a field-based, culminating project (9 credit hours)

Find course descriptions with our Search Schedule of Classes/Courses tool .

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Best Doctorate Degrees in Public Health Online

A doctorate in public health is a terminal degree designed to prepare graduates for academic opportunities, research positions, and top leadership roles in public health organizations. Public health professionals are in high demand across the U.S. and perform critical work improving the overall health of communities.

Those in the field provide invaluable services such as advocating for the healthcare of marginalized groups and communities, researching and combating diseases, and developing health education programs. Graduates may also work in top-level positions responding to the COVID-19 pandemic and other disease outbreaks.

A doctorate in public health may lead to high-paying careers. According to the Bureau of Labor Statistics (BLS), medical and health services managers earned median salaries of $104,280 as of May 2020.

The following guide offers a variety of resources for prospective doctoral students in public health and helps them choose from the top programs in the field.

Explore This Page: Why Get This Degree? | What To Expect | Jobs | Top Program Descriptions

Why an Online Doctorate in Public Health?

At all degree levels, professionals in the public health field work to prevent disease and promote individual, family, and community health. Public health doctoral programs align with these core concerns and build additional skills in research, policymaking, program development, and program evaluation.

Learners are often drawn to the doctor of public health (DrPH) for career advancement opportunities. Public health doctoral programs prepare students to enter high-level leadership positions in administration, practice, research, and education.

Three key benefits of completing a doctor of public health online include:

• Learning Flexibility: Several universities offer public health doctoral programs through remote learning formats. Studying online enables public health professionals to pursue a terminal degree without relocating or sacrificing their current employment.
• Diverse Job Opportunities: With a doctorate in public health, graduates can pursue advanced leadership positions in public health organizations, healthcare facilities, and government agencies. Opportunities also exist in public health research, consulting, and higher education.
• Salary Potential: According to the BLS, epidemiologists earn median salaries of $74,560 and biostaticians earn median salaries of $93,290 as of May 2020. With a terminal degree and extensive experience, public health professionals can earn wages in the top percentiles.

What to Expect From Public Health Doctoral Programs

Public health professionals interested in a terminal degree can select from two different pathways: the Ph.D. or the DrPH. We explore the differences between Ph.D. and DrPH programs in the following section. The DrPh program is outlined in more detail below

Completing a DrPH typically requires 45-60 credits, including an extensive dissertation project. Some programs also require a practicum. Courses focus on leadership, ethics, program and policy development, and practice-based research.

DrPH students may select a concentration based on their professional interests. Possible specialties include epidemiology, environmental health, or health policy and management.

In an online DrPH, students complete most classes through remote learning. However, some programs may require on-campus attendance.

Admission requirements typically include a master’s degree, several years of relevant professional experience, and, in some cases, GRE or GMAT scores. Full-time students can complete their DrPH degree in about 3-5 years. Part-time students may take 6-9 years to graduate.

Public Health Degree Options

Terminal degree seekers in the public health field can pursue either a Ph.D. or a DrPH, depending on their career aspirations and interests.

A Ph.D. program focuses on scientific research and applications, while a DrPH program is practice-oriented in nature. A Ph.D. in public health tends to lead to careers in academia. In contrast, a DrPH typically prepares graduates for jobs in research, practice, consulting, or leadership.

Characteristics of a Ph.D. in public health include:

• Theoretical, research-focused degree for scientists and academics
• Admission requirements prioritize academic experience over work experience
• 4-7 years, full-time program
• Dissertation required

Characteristics of a doctorate in public health include:

• Applied, professional degree for public health practitioners
• Admission requirements include several years of relevant work experience
• 3-5 years, full-time program

Students in DrPH or Ph.D. programs may select a concentration. For the Ph.D., common options include epidemiology or social and behavioral sciences. DrPH students may pursue concentrations in environmental health, health policy and management, or global health.

Popular Doctoral Program Courses

While completing a doctor of public health online, students can expect to complete core and elective courses. Core courses provide foundational knowledge to all students. Electives, which often double as concentration courses, allow for degree customization according to interests and goals.

Organizational Theory and Leadership

This common core course offers an advanced exploration of various organizational theories, leadership principles, and the evolution of healthcare organizations. Coursework addresses behavioral, power-influence, trait, and situational approaches to leadership. Students learn how to create positive organizational change through strategic and transformational leadership.

Introduction to Epidemiologic Methods

Commonly required for those students without a master’s in public health, this class introduces students to the methods and principles of epidemiology. Learners also discuss the various applications of epidemiology within the public health field. Topics covered include measures of occurrence, statistical testing, study design, and bias.

Health Policy Analysis

Students in this course learn how U.S. health policies are made at the legislative, regulatory, and judicial levels. Coursework examines how to identify and analyze policy options to address specific health problems. The course may also cover topics in health policy advocacy.

Public Health Equity

While course titles vary by school, many DrPH programs cover equity and disparity in public health. Coursework explores historical perspectives of health equity and the relationships between culture and health. Students gain an understanding of how health equity and disparity are measured. They also explore strategies and policies used to promote health equity.

The Doctoral Dissertation

The doctoral dissertation is a major research and writing project that serves as the culminating project for a terminal degree. While both Ph.D. and DrPH degrees require dissertations, the scope and goals of each project differ.

Ph.D. dissertations contribute new research, theories, and knowledge to the field. In contrast, DrPH dissertations expand upon existing knowledge and research and apply findings to current problems in the field.

For example, a Ph.D. student’s dissertation may explore the effects of COVID-19 on senior care facilities, thereby contributing new research and knowledge to the public health field. Alternatively, a DrPH student’s dissertation may explore ways to improve employee retention in senior care facilities.

Dissertations require roughly 1-2 years to complete. Key stages of the process include:

• Topic identification
• Prospectus and research proposal development
• Proposal presentation and approval
• Dissertation completion (research, data analysis, writing, etc.)
• Draft review by committee
• Oral defense

What Jobs Can You Get as a Doctor of Public Health?

Earning a doctorate in public health prepares students for the most advanced opportunities in the field. Graduates commonly work in community and public health agencies, universities, and in consulting.

While many public health leadership positions are obtainable with a master’s degree, a DrPH can enhance a candidate’s job competitiveness and salary expectations. The BLS reports that the top 10% of medical and health services managers earned a median annual salary of $195,630 as of May 2020. Median earnings and job descriptions for three potential public health careers are outlined below.

Biostatistician

Biostatisticians are specialized statisticians in the field of bioinformatics . They work in the healthcare field for pharmaceutical companies or government entities. These professionals help identify sources of disease outbreaks and design studies to test the efficacy of drugs. Common duties include interpreting data, using mathematical theories to solve problems, and analyzing data to improve business decisions.

• Requirements: Typically a master’s, at a minimum. DrPH holders earn the highest salaries.
• Job Outlook (2019-29): +33%
• Median Annual Salary: $93,290

Postsecondary Teacher

Postsecondary teachers educate students in colleges and universities. DrPH holders often find work as public health professors. Common duties for postsecondary faculty include developing instructional plans, helping students develop career skills, and staying informed about innovations in their field. University faculty may also conduct research.

• Requirements: At least a master’s, though terminal degrees are commonly required.
• Job Outlook (2019-29): +9%
• Median Annual Salary: $80,790

Medical and Health Services Manager

Medical and health services managers plan, direct, and coordinate health services. Common duties include improving efficiency and quality of services, developing goals and objectives, and preparing and monitoring budgets. DrPH holders may manage public health departments, community health agencies , or other medical facilities.

• Requirements: At least a bachelor’s or master’s degree. Terminal degrees can increase salaries.
• Job Outlook (2019-29): +32%
• Median Annual Salary: $104,280

How to Find the Right Public Health Program

Factors like cost, prestige, and competitiveness can impact your doctoral program selection. Make sure to choose a regionally accredited program to guarantee the value of your investment. Other considerations to keep in mind include:

Faculty Credentials

Doctoral students rely on faculty to teach courses and serve as advisors during the dissertation process. Look for program faculty you want to learn from by reviewing their credentials.

Program Length

Earning a DrPH is a significant time commitment. However, different programs maintain varying schedules and pacing options. Consider whether you want to study on a full- or part-time basis and how that will impact your degree completion timeline.

Do you want to study close to home? Are you willing to relocate?Even if you earn your doctor of public health online, some travel may be required for on-campus sessions.

Concentration Availability

Look for programs with concentrations that align with your professional goals. Alternatively, you may want to choose a degree with a general track, which provides more flexibility in elective selection.

Should You Get Your DrPH Online?

According to the National Center for Education Statistics , more than 30% of all post baccalaureate students took courses exclusively via distance learning in fall 2018. Prospective doctoral students often have careers, families, and other obligations that make relocating for school or taking on-campus courses difficult. For these learners, online degrees offer a flexible solution.

Earning your doctor of public health online allows you to learn virtually wherever and whenever you want. Some programs require limited on-campus attendance and/or set class meeting times. Before committing to an online program, make sure you can reliably access a quiet place to study and that your computer meets the school’s technology requirements.

Frequently Asked Questions

What does it take to get a drph.

DrPH programs require between 45 and 60 credits of coursework focused on practice and leadership. Students typically graduate in 3-5 years. Online programs may require some in-person sessions. DrPH students must complete a dissertation to graduate.

What is the difference between a DrPH and a Ph.D. in public health?

The DrPh and Ph.D. in public health are both terminal degrees. A DrPH is a professional program leading to advanced leadership careers in public health. A Ph.D. is a scientific degree leading to research and academic careers in the field.

Is a doctoral degree in public health worth it?

The answer to this question largely depends on your interests and goals. While many public health leadership positions can be obtained with a master’s, a doctoral degree can give you more leverage in the job market and increase your earning potential.

What can you do with a doctorate in public health?

DrPH holders serve in a variety of advanced leadership positions. After completing a doctor of public health online, graduates may find employment in public health agencies, government, healthcare facilities, higher education, or consulting.

Public Health Online Doctoral Programs in 2021

If you want to start your doctor of public health online in 2021, consider the list of schools below. You can find out more about each program by clicking the corresponding link.

Each program listed holds accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) and one of the following regional accrediting bodies:

• Middle States Commission on Higher Education (MSCHE)
• Higher Learning Commission (HLC)
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC)

East Carolina University

• Doctor of Public Health
• Accreditation: CEPH, SACSCOC
• Delivery Format: On-campus or online

Johns Hopkins University

• Accreditation: CEPH, MSCHE
• Delivery Format: On-campus or online with some on-campus requirements

University of Illinois at Chicago

• Doctor of Public Health Leadership
• Accreditation: CEPH, HLC

The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

• Executive Doctoral Program in Health Leadership

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Online MPH Options

Mph in epidemiology.

The MPH in Epidemiology (MPH-EPI) provides a curriculum that allows students to gain advanced skills in biostatistics and epidemiology as well as other core public health areas. Using a cohort-based model, students will complete this program on a part-time basis over the course of two years. About one third of the coursework is completed on campus and two thirds are completed online.

MPH Generalist

Students in the MPH Generalist (MPH-GEN) will complete coursework in a part-time, fully online program over two years. The program enables students to pursue a rigorous MPH degree while working and living anywhere in the world. It is designed to give students the knowledge, skills, and applied experience to play a leadership role in solving challenging and urgent public health problems, at home and on a global level.

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University of California Schools of Public Health

Want to drive public health solutions for some of the world’s toughest problems? We’re ready for you.

Through their expertise, research and government advisory roles, UC public health faculty and alumni are among the leading voices in the field. Many of our faculty, centers and institutes regularly conduct policy-shaping research.

Whether you want to focus on community health, environmental health, epidemiology, biostatistics or health policy and management, UC public health programs will equip you to lead responses to critical public health issues.

Critical Need for Public Health Expertise

Public health creates the conditions that enable individuals and communities to remain healthy and free of disease. Public health careers can involve scientific research, community engagement, raising awareness of health risks and advocating for improved safety conditions or healthy food.  

Identifying and responding to health inequities driven by socioeconomic, geographic, occupational and educational factors is central to public health research and impact. 

The COVID-19 pandemic has highlighted the need for greater reinvestment in public health workers. Additionally, climate change, social inequality, chronic diseases — all require public health to be an integral part of creating and driving solutions for our world.  

UC prepares our public health students to meet today’s most pressing needs — and to shape our global responses to them in the future.  

Leading California — and the Nation

Our public health schools and programs are among the top in the U.S., according to U.S. News & World Report .

UC Berkeley

#8 Graduate School of Public Health

#19 Department of Public Health Sciences (tie)

#31 Program in Public Health (tie)

#10 Graduate School of Public Health

*UC Davis offers degrees in departmental public health program vs. a School of Public Health; UCI recently received accreditation as a School of Public Health.

Degree Programs Offered Across the UC System for Public Health

*UC Davis offers degrees in departmental public health programs rather than a School of Public Health; UCI recently received accreditation as a School of Public Health. 

Our Schools of Public Health

Our Schools of Public Health offer a variety of public health degree tracks, including in biostatistics and environmental health sciences.

UC Berkeley Public Health

For more than 75 years, Berkeley Public Health has been changing the world through groundbreaking research, world-class education and community-engaged action — working with networks across the state and worldwide, including partnerships with UCSF. In the coming decade, Berkeley Public Health is going all in to tackle four of the most pressing public health problems of our time: climate change, pandemic outbreaks, chronic diseases and social inequality. Berkeley Public Health offers online degree programs.

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UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science (HWSPH)

The UC San Diego Herbert Wertheim School of Public Health and Human Longevity Science was established in 2019 and built upon a robust, decades old program in public health. The school has vibrant diversity among the students and faculty and has particular focuses in behavioral medicine, biostatistics and bioinformatics, epidemiology, global health, health policy, health equity, public mental health, and climate and environmental health — as well as several degree programs with incredible research training opportunities.

UCLA Fielding School of Public Health

The UCLA Fielding School of Public Health is home to one of the brightest and most diverse public health student bodies in the United States, with students hailing from 25 countries. Our students also have access to a wide range of local and global hands-on training opportunities that provide the skills needed to move public health evidence to action.

Systemwide Expertise Across California

As a system with six highly respected academic health centers , our public health graduates have many opportunities to collaborate with their UC peers. Our graduates collaborate across numerous fields, including data science, environmental science, health education, patient care and more. UC public health graduates can also draw from a rich alumni network—spread across the world—throughout their careers.

See how we’re joining forces to improve patient care within our six academic health centers

Using Research to Inform Patient Care

Our public health programs seek to make the greatest population health impact possible. To achieve this mission, UC public health faculty and students conduct research across bench science, applied research, policy analysis and community-based local projects here and internationally. Our public health institutes regularly publish comprehensive research that shapes today’s — and tomorrow’s — public health policy.

See how University of California Health is using innovative research to challenge the status quo

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The #1 School for Social Impact

Discover the power of your ideas: Drive solutions to the most pressing public health challenges of our era.

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Designed for Changemakers.

Berkeley Public Health has a legacy of tackling critical public health issues with innovative ideas and community impact. Our renowned 27-month Online Master of Public Health is designed to empower you to drive positive change in public health regardless of your location or career stage.

• 7 semester program designed for working professionals
• 4 unique concentrations in Health Policy & Management; Epidemiology and Biostatistics; Food, Nutrition and Population Health; and Interdisciplinary
• Practice-based graduate education taught by esteemed UC Berkeley faculty
• Professional assistance to help launch or grow your career
• Diverse community dedicated to health equity and social justice

Why the UC Berkeley Online MPH?

Access a world-class UC Berkeley education known for academic rigor and pioneering advancements in public health, exemplified by innovations like Community-Based Participatory Research (CBPR). CBPR, pioneered at Berkeley Public Health, empowers communities in research, addressing health disparities and fostering community engagement for health improvement.

We have a legacy of tackling critical public health issues with innovative ideas and community impact. Our expertise spans environmental health, influencing policies on air quality, water quality, toxic substances, and climate change on a global scale, as well as infectious disease research, where we played a pivotal role in understanding HIV/AIDS and shaping public health responses. Additionally, our contributions to nutrition and food policy, especially regarding childhood obesity and food marketing, have left a lasting mark on public health improvement.

At UC Berkeley School of Public Health, health equity and social justice are part of our DNA. For more than 75 years, we’ve been pushing boundaries and challenging the status quo. We believe that universities exist not only for the generation of knowledge and education of students, but for the betterment of our community and the world. In the next decade, we plan to harness our commitment to antiracism and community engagement to become the world’s leading school of public health for social impact.

Develop personally and professionally, gaining the knowledge, skills, and confidence to drive change in the public health landscape. Our graduates hold major positions in health departments, hospitals, national and international organizations, in local, state, and federal government, in voluntary health organizations, in the corporate sector, and in health care and health promotion organizations. Top employers of Berkeley Public Health Online alumni include: Genentech, UCSF, and Kaiser.

Access a flexible online format designed to accommodate the busy schedules of working professionals, allowing you to balance education with career and life. Despite being online, learners have access to the same tools, instructors, resources, and lessons used on-campus.

Student Outcomes

Average salary of graduates (2023) – $111,830

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• Hepatitis B Foundation
• La Clinica de La Raza
• National Center for Farmworker Health
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• Sutter Health

Visit the Online MPH program page for more information about concentrations, admissions, frequently asked questions, and more.

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Online and Onsite | Part-Time | 4 – 9 Years

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• Rose Molina, MD
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• Carrie Nieman MD, MPH
• Charles R. Rogers, PhD, MPH, MS, CHES®
• Emily E. Haroz, PhD
• Jennifer Tsui, Ph.D., M.P.H.
• Jessica Magidson, PhD
• Katherine Sanchez, PhD, LCSW
• Kelly Doran, MD, MHS
• Kiara Alvarez, PhD
• LaPrincess C. Brewer, MD, MPH
• Melissa Radey, PhD, MA, MSSW
• Sophia L. Johnson, PharmD, MPH, PhD
• Supriya Gupta Mohile, MD, MS
• Virginia McKay, PhD
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About the Doctor of Public Health Program

As the most advanced, professional qualification in public health, the DrPH prepares early- to mid-career domestic and international public health professionals to assume leadership roles in public health policy and practice positions as well as in health services delivery settings.

The Schoolwide DrPH program is a flexible, part-time program delivered online with the option of taking onsite courses.

• The Online Only option is for students who wish to take all of their courses online and not travel to Baltimore for onsite courses.
• The Online Plus option * (minimum onsite requirement of 4 credits) is for students who wish to take some face-to-face onsite courses.

Students are expected to remain in relevant public health employment throughout their studies.

The DrPH program is built around foundational competencies that focus on leadership, analytical skills, communication, policy, management, and program design and evaluation. Instruction is delivered through an integrated sequence of problem-based learning classes that address current public health challenges and provide students with opportunities to apply skills in a close to real-life setting.

*For international students (pending SEVP approval) :

• F-1 I-20 applications are possible for taking four or more credits of instruction during the summer or winter institute in Baltimore;
• F-1 I-20 applications require four or more credits of instruction in two consecutive weeks for each visit;
• F-1 I-20s cannot be issued for instruction during an 8-week term.

The DrPH allows professionals to continue improving health and saving lives while pursuing their studies wherever they are in the world.

Doctor of Public Health Program Highlights

countries represented in the program

faculty advising students

departments offering courses in the program

students in a cohort

What Can You Do With a DrPH?

Visit the  Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Sample Careers

• Tenure Track Faculty
• Environmental Health Engineer
• Public Health Flight Commander
• Emergency Preparedness Specialist
• Senior Bio-surveillance Specialist
• Senior Policy Advisor & Staff Director
• President & CEO, Medical System
• Federal Data Strategy Analyst
• Chief Data Scientist
• VP Organizational Excellence & Quality
• Nurse Manager
• Chief Impact & Equity Officer
• City Police Chief
• Senior Counsel for Elder Justice
• COO & Deputy Health Commissioner
• Lead, Population Health Informatics
• Director of Patient Safety
• Assistant VP Care Transformation, Medical System
• Director, Epidemiology Intelligence Unit, Ministry of Health
• Humanitarian Director
• Deputy Country Director

Where Can You Work With a DrPH?

Sample organizations.

• Seattle & King County Public Health
• Southern Nevada Health District
• Nebraska Dept. of HHS
• Texas Department of State Health Health Services
• Philadelphia Department of Public Health
• NYC Department of Mental Health & Mental Hygiene
• National Academy of Sciences
• American Academy of Pediatrics
• Children's National Hospital
• St. Jude's Children's Research Hospital
• Brigham & Women's Hospital
• Johns Hopkins Hospital
• MedStar Health
• Cedars-Sinai Medical Center
• Fred Hutchinson Cancer Research Center
• Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center
• Universities: Johns Hopkins, Columbia, Case Western  Reserve, Georgia State, Wisconsin, New Mexico
• Kaiser Permanente
• EPA, CDC, NIH, FDA, HHS
• Indian Health Service
• Cheyenne Regional Health System
• Pew Charitable Trusts
• United Way of Rhode Island
• Durham VA Health Care Center
• Army Research Laboratory
• Dover Air Force Base
• USAID, WHO, World Bank, UN
• Medicins Sans Frontiers
• Ministry of Health: Kuwait, Thailand
• International Planned Parenthood Federation

Curriculum for the Doctor of Public Health

Students in the DrPH Program complete a minimum of 30 credits of foundational course work taken by all DrPH students to meet the CEPH foundational DrPH competencies, which include a minimum of 6 credits of data analysis course work. Students also take an additional 27 credits of course work related to their concentration or track, and a minimum of 7 proposal and thesis credits. Overall, the DrPH requires a minimum total of 64 credits for graduation.

concentrations & tracks

min. credits of course work

min. credits for proposal & thesis

practicum & dissertation

Concentrations & Tracks

Environmental Health Concentration (2 tracks available)

• Environmental Health Track
• Health Security Track

Global Health: Policy & Evaluation Concentration

Health Equity & Social Justice Concentration

Health Policy & Management Concentration (4 tracks available)

• Healthcare Management & Leadership
• Health Policy
• Public Health Informatics
• Quality & Patient Safety

Implementation Science Concentration

Women's & Reproductive Health Concentration

Admissions Requirements

For the general admissions requirements see our How to Apply page. The specific program also requires:

Prior Graduate Degree

MPH or other health-related master's degree; students who have not completed coursework in Biostatistics and Epidemiology may need to take additional coursework concurrent with the 57 didactic credits required for the DrPH.

Prior Work Experience

Minimum 3 years of professional, full-time public health experience in the applicant's area of interest by the Dec. 1st application deadline.

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores are  not required and not reviewed  for this program. If you have taken a standardized test such as the GRE, GMAT, or MCAT and want to submit your scores, please note that they will not be used as a metric during the application review.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all required application components.

Student Sponsorship

This program currently  does not  qualify for F-1 or J-1 student sponsorship. Legal Permanent Residents and non-immigrants who are otherwise physically present in the U.S.  and  in a status that allows for full or part-time study, may pursue this program.

Mark J. Bittle, DrPH, MBA

Mark Bittle is the Chair of the schoolwide Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program and a senior scientist in the Department of Health Policy and Management. He currently serves as director for the School's Master of Health Administration and the Master of Applied Science in Population Health Management. His work focuses on the organizational and management factors that influence physician alignment and managing change in complex organizations.

Renee M. Johnson, PhD, MPH

Renee M. Johnson is Deputy Chair of the schoolwide Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program. She is also Associate Professor & Vice Chair for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) in Mental Health. She co-directs NIH-funded Drug Dependence Epidemiology Training Program and previously served on the MPH Executive Board. Her work addresses substance use, injury and violence, overdose prevention, and adolescent health.

Part-time DrPH students pay by the credit and finance their graduate studies through a variety of funding options ranging from paying out of pocket, to utilizing employer tuition remission benefits, financial aid , external scholarships, and military funding.

Bloomberg American Health Initiative DrPH Fellowships

The Bloomberg American Health Initiative offers 8-10 highly competitive fellowships for incoming DrPH students currently working with U.S. organizations on the front lines of one of the Bloomberg American Health Initiative’s five focus areas: addiction and overdose, environmental challenges, obesity and the food system, risks to adolescent health, and violence. A separate application process is required for consideration. Please note that only about 12% of fellowship applicants receive an award. It is important that applicants consider additional funding means prior to applying for the DrPH Program.

For further details regarding eligibility and the application process, please visit the Bloomberg American Health Initiative website.

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Katie Cruit, MS DrPH Program Manager

Madison Nuzzo, BS DrPH Administrative Coordinator 

Sheryl Flythe, BS Program Adviser

Janet Carn, M.Ed. Program Adviser

Ashley Conroy-Tabrizi, MAT Program Adviser

[email protected]

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A gift to our program will amplify student scholarships, support thesis research, and cultivate innovation.

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INFORMATION FOR

• Prospective Students
• Incoming Students
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Master of Public Health (MPH) Degree

How is the mph curriculum structured.

• 20 course units (two years)
• The MPH core curriculum
• The 2-part Professional Skills Seminar
• Departmental courses
• Electives and/or concentrations and tracks
• The applied practice experience
• Master's thesis or capstone course

What does the MPH Core Curriculum consist of?

The core curriculum for the MPH program consists of 5 courses and two Professional Skills Seminars. Our foundational classes in biostatistics, epidemiology, social and structural determinants of health inequities, and health policy and health care systems ground students with the breadth of skill sets and perspectives essential to careers in public health. "Major Health Threats" is an interdisciplinary course that uses a combination of lectures, case studies, and vignette approaches. Students learn to actively apply concepts, hone data interpretation skills, and frame research and health solution projects.

• EPH 505a - Biostatistics in Public Health (not required for BIS)
• EPH 507a - Social Justice and Health Equity
• EPH 508a - Foundations of Epidemiology and Public Health
• EPH 510a - Health Policy and Health Care Systems
• EPH 513b - Major Health Threats: Ethics and Practice -----------
• EPH 100a - Professional Skills Seminar
• EPH 101b - Professional Skills Seminar

Departments and Programs

Health care management program, health policy, social and behavioral sciences, concentrations and tracks.

The following concentrations and tracks are available for students to customize their elective courses in the MPH program. They are 3-5 courses each and are added once students have begun the MPH program. Concentrations offer the opportunity for students to direct their applied practice experiences, whereas tracks are exclusively course based.

Global Health Concentration

Here at YSPH, we believe that Global Health is Public Health. This means that it is not just a one department of study but rather an important theme that is woven throughout the program. Students in any department may also participate in the Global Health Concentration . YSPH GHC faculty is on the front lines of global health responses.

Maternal Child Health Promotion Track

The Maternal and Child Health (MCH) Promotion track is a cutting-edge promotion-education program that takes a multidisciplinary approach to implementing evidence-based practices to improve outcomes. The MCH Promotion Track faculty trains students on the importance and application of implementation science to maternal-child health promotion.

YSPH Public Health Modeling (PHM) faculty is on the cutting edge of developing and assessing public health through mathematical modeling. Students in any department may also pursue the modeling concentration .

U.S. Health and Justice Concentration

Vast, persistent, and avoidable health inequalities by race, geography, class, gender identity, and sexual orientation are well documented. YSPH USHJ faculty realize that addressing these inequalities is both a critical challenge and a critical objective for public health researchers and practitioners. This U.S. Health and Justice (USHJ) Concentration is for students who want to not only research and understand health inequities but to be agents of change for a new generation.

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