phd nursing public health

  • Health Communication
  • Healthcare Management
  • Global Health
  • Artificial Intelligence in Healthcare
  • Choose a Public Health Degree Based on Your Personality
  • Public Health vs. Medicine vs. Nursing
  • What is Online Learning
  • Master’s in Health Informatics vs. Health Information Management
  • MPH vs. MSPH vs. MHS
  • Online MPH programs with no GRE requirements
  • Accelerated Online MPH
  • Online Executive MPH
  • Online DrPH
  • Biostatistics
  • Community Health and Health Promotion
  • Environmental Health
  • MPH in Epidemiology vs. Biostatistics
  • Generalist Public Health
  • Health Equity
  • Health Science
  • Health & Human Services
  • Infectious Disease
  • Maternal & Child Health
  • Occupational Health
  • Social and Behavioral Health
  • What Can You Do With a Public Health Degree?
  • How to Be a Good Candidate for a Public Health Job
  • How to Become a Biostatistician
  • How to Become an Emergency Management Specialist
  • How to Become an Environmental Health Specialist
  • How to Become a Health Educator
  • Healthcare Administration Certifications
  • Healthcare Administrator Salary
  • Types of Epidemiologists and Salary
  • How to Become an Occupational Health and Safety Specialist
  • How to Become a Public Health Nurse
  • Nutritionist vs Dietitian
  • Registration Examination for Dietitians (CDR Exam)
  • Internships for MPH Students
  • Health Informatics Careers and Jobs
  • Health Informatics vs. Bioinformatics
  • Guide to CDC Jobs
  • Massachusetts
  • North Carolina

Home » Degrees » Doctorate » DRPH

Explore Doctor of Public Health Programs (PhD & DPH)

Pursuing higher positions in public health can prove to be beneficial for individuals with leadership characteristics. Those in public health that seek the most out of their degree should consider enrolling into Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Public Health or Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) in Public Health programs across the country.

The Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) and the PhD in Public Health are advanced terminal degrees for public health, meant for experienced public health professionals that already have their Masters in Public Health (MPH) or similar degree. Specific degree nomenclature varies based on university and specific public health school. Some offer DPH degrees, while other universities name the terminal degree PhD in Public Health, Doctorate in Public Health, or Doctoral Public Health.

These terminal degree programs in public health can prepare learners for careers in research, education, or even management within the public health sector. Graduate level public health specialists are in great need across the country to assist with nationwide epidemic research as well as the implementation of vital government programs.

phd nursing public health

George Washington University

School of public health.

Earn your DrPH online from the George Washington University. Our CEPH-accredited program combines interactive, online classes and an on-campus immersion to prepare you to become a thought leader. You will graduate poised to shape public health policy, programs, and initiatives in the U.S. and worldwide. No GRE required.

  • Complete the online DrPH program in as few as 36 months. 
  • The online DrPH program is CEPH accredited. 
  • No GRE required.

info SPONSORED

PhD in Public Health vs. Doctor of Public Health

A PhD in Public Health will be focused on developing the skills needed to become an advanced researcher. The understanding of research theories and methodologies is an important part of this degree. Even though a PhD in Public Health is more narrowly focused, it lends itself to careers in various health sectors, such as academia, governmental agencies, and pharmaceutical companies.

A DrPH is an advanced graduate-level degree that focuses on the professional and practical elements of the field, rather than the academic. It is designed for public health practitioners and is geared towards practice and fieldwork. It is multidisciplinary and will cover everything from communications and marketing to advocacy and economics. It was developed to train students and practitioners for careers in public health leadership. 

Both the DrPH and PhD have career options in academia available to them. These two degrees are suited for individuals who have received an MPH or another graduate-level degree and have worked in their field for a number of years. The DrPH is ideal for the public health practitioner looking to advance their career to positions needing additional education. The PhD may suit an individual earlier on in their career who is looking to embed themselves in a career of research.

What are the Typical Pre-Requisites of a DrPH/PhD Degree?

As mentioned above, the prerequisites for advanced degrees require a master’s degree and post-graduate work experience. For some programs, if an individual applying does not have their master’s in public health they will require master’s level classes in public health up to a certain amount of credit hours. A recent Graduate Record Exam (GRE) score is often required along with academic transcripts. An additional requirement for admittance into a Doctorate program is a personal statement or statement or purpose.

Concentration Options for a DrPH/PhD

The degree options for a DrPH or a PhD become more specialized within those concentrations. Those receiving their PhD in public health will have to pick a program by the department they wish to specialize and conduct research in. This could be Health Policy and Administration, Health Economics, Health Systems, etc. A DrPH will also specialize by department, but will often pick from the core public health concentrations (Epidemiology, Environmental Health, etc.) along with a few additional departments (i.e. International Health and Social and Behavioral Sciences).

Online Doctor of Public Health Options

Entering the right educational program is important to the success of a career. Students that are interested in obtaining their degree online should research their chosen school’s accreditation status prior to applying. Since this program is highly research-oriented, learners are expected to take part in a lot of independent learning in an online environment.

Online Doctorate programs will have the same requirements and courses as a traditional degree. Online programs allow for greater flexibility with work and family life but also require self-discipline and accountability. Some online programs will require site visits to the campus or alternate sites for orientations, leadership development, adviser meetings, etc. Classes will be taught online either through live streams or recorded video. Online discussion forums and group work are also the main parts of the online curriculum. A dissertation is still a requirement for online doctorate programs and it may be required that it is presented in person.

Typical Curriculum & Classes

In general, the DrPH degree curriculum will consist of core courses, research courses, and a culminating project such as a capstone course, dissertation, or thesis. The core courses, much like the MPH, will cover the main concentrations in Public Health (Epidemiology, Biostatistics, Environmental Health, Health Policy, etc.) and will also include statistics and data management. Each of these classes are taught with a focus on Leadership and Organization. Additional classes may include:

  • Marketing and Public Relations
  • Community and Cultural Understanding

These will guide the focus of the degree. A Dissertation or thesis is often required at the end of each semester, year or at the end of the program.

PhD in Public Health

The PhD in Public Health is much less straightforward and will vary significantly from program to program and within degrees. A PhD in Public Health is much more research-based and will cover topics ranging from disease and injury prevention to health informatics and communication. Many schools do not offer a PhD in Public Health per se, but in Health Policy, Bioethics, Environmental Health Sciences, Chronic Disease Epidemiology, etc. Each of these is rooted in public health but are much more focused in their scope. Because of this, classes and curriculum will be much more focused and centered around research.

Different Career Opportunities

After completing a DrPH or Ph.D. in Public Health, graduates may seek out positions in government agencies, healthcare facilities, or even community organizations. Professionals at this level have the capacity to become instructors of public health at universities, researchers for public health associations, and directors of nonprofit agencies.

Having a doctorate degree in this discipline gives learners the most education available for this field. With a Ph.D. in Public Health, professionals in the field may have access to careers working with government organizations in the planning, implementation, and training of important public health procedures. Organizations, such as  American Public Health Association ,  accept members that are in public health careers that desire to communicate their studies and policies on different platforms. Getting involved with a society such as this one can allow professionals to spread their work to educational and professional settings across the country.

Information updated as of April 2020

PhD in Public Health

Degree information, introduction.

Public health is a multidisciplinary field that houses disciplines such as environmental health, biostatistics, epidemiology, and healthcare management. Professionals interested in a doctorate in public health can earn a Ph.D, MD/Ph.D, Sc.D, or doctor of public health (DrPH). A DrPH program is more practice-based and prepares graduates for leadership roles in public health organizations. The other doctoral degree options are more academic in nature and prepare individuals for teaching or academic research positions.

While a public health doctoral program prepares graduates to operate at the top of their field, students interested in a more professionally focused public health degree should first consider a master of public health .

Employment Outlook

Featured online programs, doctorate in public health salary.

Though annual salaries differ by individual workplaces, professional experience and education level also impact how much public health professionals make in a given year. The following table includes data from PayScale that highlights salary growth for five public health professions over the course of a typical career.

Source: PayScale.com

Doctorate in Public Health Careers

Graduates with a doctorate of public health generally enter one of two fields: academia or research. There is a great deal of variety within those two fields. Below, we outline five professions that students pursue after becoming a public health doctor. These opportunities are particularly exciting because the BLS projects the number of jobs available in all five professions will grow at least as quickly as the national average over the next decade.

  • Medical and health services managers : Medical and health services managers are in charge of an entire facility, which could include a clinic, a hospital, or a nursing home. Though a doctorate is not required for this position, students with a doctorate will have an advantage in the hiring process.
  • Professors : Professors conduct research and teach classes at universities and colleges nationwide. Most professors need a doctorate to qualify for their position, making the profession a strong option for students with doctorates in public health.
  • Epidemiologists : Epidemiologists study the causes and prevention of human diseases. They often work in a laboratory setting or conduct research in the field. Though a doctorate is not required to become an epidemiologist, possessing a doctor of public health is an advantage for career advancement.
  • Medical researchers : Medical researchers spend their time in a laboratory conducting clinical trials and experiments. Research is a common career path for students with a doctorate in public, and having an advanced degree is valued in this field.
  • Environmental scientists : In the context of public health, environmental scientists work to protect human populations from environmental hazards. Though a doctorate is not required, it is a boon to any professional entering the environmental science field in terms of starting salary and advancement opportunities.

Source: BLS.gov

Public Health Professional Organizations

The public health field operates a variety of professional organizations that include epidemiology and laboratory-specific associations, and more general advocacy and policy groups. Students should identify their interests — whether they are clinical or non-clinical — and identify associations that further their professional goals. Many organizations offer conferences, publications, directories, job boards, and professional development opportunities. Some organizations also offer webinars and continuing education.

  • American Public Health Association : APHA is one of the best-known organizations in the field and provides advocacy, publication, and continuing education opportunities. The organization also offers a list of fellowships and internships that is useful to anyone looking to get started in the field.
  • Association of Public Health Laboratories : APHL furthers the cause of public health laboratories around the globe. The organization operates programs in food safety, environmental health, and global health, and also publishes a newsletter and a blog.
  • Council of State and Territorial Epidemiologists : CSTE advances epidemiology and public health policy by offering technical advice, peer consultations, and access to publications.

Accreditation

Accreditation for online doctorate in public health programs.

The best online doctorate in public health programs hold national accreditation from the Council on Education for Public Health . This organization vets and evaluates undergraduate and graduate public health programs. Schools must schedule an evaluation date with CEPH, and once accredited, they must periodically apply for the renewal of their accreditation to ensure that they continue to meet standards.

In addition to national accreditation from the CEPH, programs and schools can also be regionally accredited by one of six geographic regionally accrediting organizations in the United States. The regional accreditation process is similar to the national accreditation process, however each accrediting organization is arranged by geographic location. The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) certify all accreditation processes.

All students seeking an online doctorate in public health should ensure their chosen program is both regionally and nationally accredited. If a program is not accredited, it may not have scheduled an evaluation date with a third party, or may not meet standards set by the CEPH or CHEA. Students can ensure that their chosen program is accredited by either checking the program website or visiting the CEPH and CHEA websites.

Application Process

The doctorate in public health application process.

Most students applying to a doctor of public health online will face similar admission requirements. Prospective students should have a master’s degree in public health and a cumulative graduate GPA of at least 3.0. Applicants may also submit GRE scores, along with transcripts and letters of recommendation.

Additionally, students can maximize their chances for admission by having already completed doctoral coursework or by having professional experience in public health. Many programs also offer regular and priority admissions deadlines, and applicants can further increase their chances by meeting the priority date. Below are more detailed descriptions of common application requirements.

  • Transcripts: These are comprehensive lists of courses a student completed, along with the grades they earned. Students should have separate transcripts for undergraduate and graduate work. The greater a student’s academic success, the higher their chances of admission.
  • Resume/work experience: A resume is a listing of previous work experience. Though not all online public health doctoral programs require previous work experience (or even a resume), professional experience can enhance any application.
  • Test scores: The GRE is the most common standardized test required by online doctorate in public health programs; however, many programs also accept MCAT scores since they indicate aptitude in a related field.
  • Statement of purpose/essay: This essay outlines why a student wants to become a doctor of public health and how earning the degree helps their professional goals. Some of the strongest candidates write letters that explicitly detail how an individual program’s stated goals or vision aligns with the student’s.
  • Interview: Since doctoral programs often involve smaller cohorts and closer student/faculty interaction, many programs interview each applicant to ensure they are a good fit. Students succeed in the interview by studying a program beforehand, and by offering details on why they are a good fit.
  • Letters of recommendation: Former professors or supervisors write letters of recommendation for previous students or employees, and describe why programs should accept those students. Those with professional experience in public health should submit letters from their supervisors, as these often carry a lot of weight.

Earning an Online Doctorate in Public Health

An online doctorate in public health may represent a better option than a traditional on-campus program for many students. Online doctoral degrees can be earned from some of the top public health universities in the nation without students ever having to leave their homes. Additionally, many programs deliver coursework asynchronously, which means there are no scheduled class times and students complete assignments over the course of a defined period of time. Asynchronous learning allows students to work full time and still participate in their classes as a full-time or part-time student.

Many online doctorate in public health programs run on cohort models, where students complete the same prescribed set of coursework with the same group of peers. This model creates a support system and increased accountability for asynchronous learning, and can also create greater networking opportunities for students after they graduate.

Most online doctorate programs in public health include few or no on-campus requirements. Programs that include practicum or internship experiences often allow students to complete these requirements at a site in their own community. On-campus requirements usually consist of orientations at the beginning of the program, concluding experiences at the end of the program, or week-long residencies throughout the program.

Concentrations

Public health specializations.

Though most DrPH programs specialize in public health leadership, Ph.D programs are more diverse and offer specializations in areas such as health education, epidemiology, and biostatistics. Students interested in future leadership roles in public health organizations should pursue DrPH programs, while those wanting a career in academia or research should pursue a Ph.D. Below are five possible specializations in public health doctoral programs and a summary of what students can expect.

  • Leadership: Students enrolled in a leadership DrPH program prepare for senior leadership roles in various public health organizations. Coursework includes core public health areas like healthcare management, environmental health, and biostatistics. Leadership is a generalist track that provides a broad background in public health.
  • Executive: An executive DrPH specialization is similar to a leadership specialization; however, it includes foundational business courses to prepare graduates for leadership and management roles in healthcare organizations. Students also complete coursework in health policy and management.
  • Health education: Graduates who earn a Ph.D in health education teach other students to become health educators. A common health education doctorate curriculum combines health education coursework with teaching coursework. This track often requires applicants to have professional experience in health education.
  • Biostatistics: As a clinical field that prepares graduates to work in laboratory settings, a Ph.D in biostatistics leads to careers in research or academia. A biostatistics Ph.D program includes plenty of clinical trials and experiments, and students may be required to publish original research to graduate.
  • Epidemiology: A doctorate in epidemiology — a field that studies the causes and prevention of human disease — prepares graduates to work in academic or lab settings. Students spend plenty of time in the lab throughout the program, conduct clinical experiments, and eventually publish research in the field.

Take the next step toward your future with online learning.

Discover schools with the programs and courses you’re interested in, and start learning today.

Man wearing a blue shirt working at an office

  • Quick Links

Tools & Resources

  • Events Calendar
  • Strauss Health Sciences Library
  • Department A-Z Directory
  • Campus Directory
  • Faculty & Staff Resources
  • Supporter & Alumni Resources
  • Student Resources
  • Mental Health Resources
  • University Policies

CU Campuses

Cu anschutz medical campus.

  • CU Colorado Springs
  • School of Dental Medicine
  • Graduate School
  • School of Medicine

College of Nursing

  • Skaggs School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences
  • Colorado School of Public Health

Doctor of Nursing Practice Public Health Nursing

Advance community health with a Doctor of Nursing Practice in Public Health Nursing. In this program, you’ll learn to become a nurse leader who works to prevent disease and promote health for entire populations. You'll gain the science and leadership skills you need to advance public health. If you have a bachelor's in nursing and a master’s in public health, this program is the right fit for you.

Older man having blood pressure taken by male nurse provider

Hybrid online

Mostly online with some in-person requirements on the CU Anschutz Campus in Aurora, CO.

Avg. time to complete

6 semesters

Icon Black Starburst

Clinical placements set up for you

If you’re in Denver or Aurora, we arrange clinical placements for you. We work with some of the top clinics and hospitals in the metro area to provide high-quality, hands-on experiences.

Learn about the clinical experience »

Icon Gold Star

Expert faculty dedicated to your success

Many of our faculty are recognized locally and nationally for their excellence in nursing, education, and research. Our educators are passionate about helping students advance their knowledge and careers.

Meet the program director »

Doctor of Nursing Practice program in Colorado *

ICON CU Nursing Leadership

This program prepares you for leadership roles where you'll improve community health and well-being.

ICON_Chevron-28x28

Example job titles

  • Public health nurse practitioner
  • Community health program manager
  • Director of public health nursing

What you can do

  • Educate patients about health management and disease prevention
  • Implement public health awareness campaigns to keep the community healthy
  • Provide expertise to healthcare organizations or government agencies

Where you can work

  • Healthcare systems
  • Government agencies

What's the difference between a DNP and PhD degree?

The main difference between a Doctor of Nursing Practice (DNP) and a Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) degree is their focus. The DNP program focuses on applying the latest evidence in clinical practice. The PhD program emphasizes scientific research and pairs you with a faculty member who shares your interests. Both degrees offer various career paths in clinical or academic settings and teach strategic leadership skills.

Not sure which is right for you? Contact the assistant dean of the PhD program or the assistant dean of the DNP program to discuss your options.

Deadline(s)

Get started, check the requirements.

Understand the admissions requirements like how many letters of recommendation you need and what courses should be on your transcript.

Admissions requirements »

Start your application

Work on your application and submit it through NursingCAS.

Real-world experience

You’ll gain up to 630 hours of clinical training in this program. We set up placements for you if you’re in the Denver Metro area, where you’ll use your public health and nursing skills to help patients.

Advanced classes

In 20-21 credit hours, you’ll complete courses including innovative leadership and evaluating evidence in evidence-based practice.

Explore the DNP toolkit »

Skills and knowledge you'll gain

Dnp program outcomes.

  • Integrate nursing knowledge and ways of knowing in the development and evaluation of healthcare delivery strategies.
  • Evaluate person centered health care delivery strategies that meet evolving healthcare delivery system needs.
  • Collaborate across settings to advocate for improved and equitable population health outcomes.
  • Disseminate nursing scholarship to improve health and transform healthcare.
  • Lead the translation of quality and safety evidence to promote system effectiveness and individual performance.
  • Build interprofessional teams that enhance healthcare experiences and outcomes for patients, families, communities, and partnerships.
  • Lead within complex systems to effectively and proactively coordinate resources to provide safe, quality, and equitable care to diverse populations.
  • Lead teams to advocate for end user perspectives in the design, implementation, and evaluation of healthcare technologies (e.g., information, communication) and processes.
  • Cultivate the future identity and ideals of the nursing profession.
  • Create systems and policies that support organizational resilience, personal, and professional wellbecoming.

Scholarships and financial aid »

Detailed fee breakdown »

Smiling female headshot outdoors

Becca Miles, BSN, RN CU Nursing Alum DNP/MPH dual degree program

Read Becca's story »

Become the public health leader looked to first

Get your degree from the top nursing college in Colorado. Start your journey to today.

Disclosures

* According to 2024 U.S. News & World Report rankings . ** Estimated total tuition based on 2024-2025 costs. Tuition estimates do not include fees and other education-related costs. The in-state tuition rate is also available to residents of eligible western states that participate in the Western Graduate Regional Program (WRGP) .

  • Accreditation information .
  • Certification and licensure for online students residing outside of Colorado: Please see the Nursing Certification Disclaimer and review the State Authorization Reciprocity Agreements information.
  • Gainful employment and program statistics: For information about graduation rates, the median debt of students completing our programs, and other important information, please visit the University of Colorado Denver Office of Institutional Research and Effectiveness.

CU Anschutz

Education II North

13120 East 19th Avenue

3rd Floor - Room 3255

Aurora, CO 80045

303-724-1812

  • Information Sessions
  • Course Schedules
  • Academic Calendar
  • University Writing Center
  • Financial Aid
  • Scholarships
  • UCD-Access Portal
  • Career Opportunities
  • Payroll & Benefits
  • Intranet (Faculty/Staff)
  • Transcripts
  • Update Your Info
  • Giving to the College
  • Become a Preceptor
  • Visitor Info
  • Health Science Library
  • AMC Bookstore
  • Office Information Technology

Doctoral Programs

Earn your Ph.D. at the School of Public Health.

Ron Aubert speaks

Ready to apply?

Start your journey toward a public health education at Brown University.

Pursuing a Ph.D. at the Brown University School of Public Health is a student-centered training experience, involving active partnerships with faculty mentors and the execution of innovative research . Our doctoral candidates are committed to generating new knowledge and aspire to make significant contributions to teaching and leadership roles that prioritize the well-being of populations. 

Our doctoral programs

Behavioral & social health sciences, biostatistics, epidemiology, health services research, brown doctoral candidate receives coveted fellowship with the cdc.

After Joe Silva graduates from Brown’s School of Public Health, he will begin a two year role as an Epidemic Intelligence Service officer for the U.S. Government.

Degrees & Programs

In addition to our acclaimed degree programs, Harvard Chan School offers a wide range of courses for everyone from high school students to corporate CEOs. We aim to support lifelong learning across all dimensions of public health.

Degree Programs

Degree program finder, master’s degrees.

Explore our Master of Public Health, Master of Science, and Master of Health Care Management degrees.

Doctoral Degrees

Learn about our DrPH program and the public health PhD programs offered through the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).

Joint and Combined Degrees

Learn about programs that enable you to earn multiple graduate degrees from different Harvard schools.

Interdisciplinary Concentrations

Explore interdisciplinary concentrations that allow degree students to dive deep into areas of interest, from climate change to humanitarian studies to epidemiology of infectious disease.

Executive and Continuing Education

Non-degree programs, fellowships and special programs.

Harvard Chan School offers fellowships and training programs for public health leaders at every stage of their careers.

Undergraduate and High School Programs

These programs impart essential skills and provide powerful mentorship and networking opportunities to propel successful public health careers.

Skip to content

Our Culture

Diversity, equity, and inclusion.

Learn about our commitment to social justice and health equality and anti-racism.

Academic Programs

Admissions at a glance.

Learn more about Admissions at Columbia Nursing, including important dates and deadlines, and how to apply to all of our programs. 

Research Centers and Programs

Research areas of focus.

Explore the research areas of focus conducted by our faculty, postdocs, and students.

Patient Care

Primary care services.

The ColumbiaDoctors Primary Care Nurse Practitioner Group, combines evidence-based practice with a personalized approach to provide quality care.

Global Health

Global opportunities for students.

Global opportunities for clinical practicum and research may be available for MDE and doctoral students at Columbia Nursing.

Make a Gift

Doctor of philosophy, doctor of philosophy (phd), ignite your future with a columbia nursing phd.

The Columbia University School of Nursing PhD program is a full-time, research-intensive curriculum that prepares nurses for careers as nurse scientists who will conduct research across a broad range of populations and health conditions. Importantly, much of our research is focused on health disparity populations with the long-term goal of informing health policy and clinical practice across the lifespan.

Columbia Nursing provides three years (eight semesters) of funding for tuition, related fees, health insurance, and a stipend for full-time PhD students.

Program Design

Our PhD program provides students with an understanding of the philosophical and theoretical underpinnings of nursing science and a strong foundation in research methods (design, statistics, measurement, quantitative and qualitative methods) for clinical, translational and health services research. All students are mentored by research advisors with active programs of research as they move toward independent research and assume the roles of doctorally prepared nurse scientists.  

As a Columbia Nursing PhD student, you will learn to:

  • Design, conduct, and report multidisciplinary research studies that increase knowledge to improve the health and well-being of patients and families across the lifespan
  • Advance the state of the science in a substantive area of research through application of innovative and rigorous methods
  • Promote health and well-being for individuals and families in the context of their communities
  • Provide leadership in improving the health care delivery system at local, national, and international levels
  • Collaborate with other professionals to evaluate and develop policies for delivery of health service
  • Translate evidence accumulated through research into practice and policy at multiple levels

As part of Columbia University Irving Medical Center (CUIMC), Columbia Nursing enjoys a unique collaboration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Mailman School of Public Health, and the College of Dental Medicine. CUIMC provides myriad opportunities for interprofessional collaboration in research . 

The PhD curriculum builds on the foundation of nursing science by bringing together practice, policy, translational research, and leadership. The core courses provide the knowledge and skills necessary to conduct relevant and well-designed research studies. Electives strengthen an area of clinical interest or intensify understanding of a specific research or analytic method. 

Both post-master's and post-BSN students admitted to the program will complete a minimum of 57 credits. The curriculum plan is designed to make it possible to complete the program in three years for those students with clearly defined plans for their dissertation research.

PhD courses are offered in three major areas:

  • Theoretical foundations of nursing science
  • Analytical foundations of nursing science
  • Electives and application

Students must be registered as full-time for the duration of the program (typically three to four years). The minimum number of semester credits in required coursework is 37 (four semesters) for eligibility to progress to the qualifying exam. Six of the 37 credits required to be completed prior to the qualifying examination are elective courses tailored to the student’s dissertation topic and/or dissertation methods. The PhD program requires nine credits of elective courses. A minimum of 57 total credits is required for program completion. 

Concurrent with Coursework

  • Research Experience (participating in faculty research projects and/or a research practicum)
  • Research Faculty Training

Request a Sample Academic Program Plan

Qualifying Examination

The qualifying examination helped me to combine the content I learned in my courses and my research interests so I could further articulate my research question. Performing a scoping review on my topic of interest immersed me in the current literature and was crucial to the development of my dissertation. This experience prepared me to successfully work independently through the rest of my Ph.D.

 Kylie Dougherty, BSN, RN, M.Phil.

In addition to coursework, students must successfully complete a qualifying examination with written and oral components. The Master of Philosophy (MPhil) is awarded after successful completion of the qualifying examination and the student enters doctoral candidacy status.

Dissertation

Students are expected to successfully defend a dissertation reporting original research. Four dissertation credits are required each semester during the dissertation phase of study. 

Scholarship Expectations

My advisor and the Columbia Nursing faculty provided me exceptional guidance throughout the PhD program to extend my learning beyond the classroom with the goal of becoming an independent nurse scientist. I learned valuable skills and knowledge to successfully obtain a NIH-funded predoctoral training award, present research findings at local, regional, and national conferences, and publish manuscripts in peer-reviewed journals with good impact factors.

Joseph Belloir, MSN, RN, PMHNP-BC

  • Publication: At least one manuscript published in an appropriate peer-reviewed journal.
  • Grantsmanship: At least one grant application submitted to an appropriate funding agency or organization.
  • Presentation: At least one abstract submitted for presentation as a poster or oral presentation at an appropriate professional meeting.
  • Networking: Student will attend at least one regional or national research meeting.

Preparation for Postdoctoral Fellowship: Research Career Next Step 

The coursework and research mentoring at Columbia Nursing helped prepare me for the next steps in my education and career post-PhD. In addition to structured coursework and educational seminars, the school provided beneficial informal support and resources. Feedback sessions with both peers and faculty were very helpful in preparing me to present posters and presentations at research conferences. The school also provided funds for travel to conferences where I presented my research. The grant writing workshop and mock reviews of grant applications provided me with tools and feedback needed to successfully apply for additional funding for my research. Finally, interdisciplinary research collaborations with faculty provided me with opportunities to work with researchers from several disciplines to complete my dissertation.

Melissa Beauchemin, PhD '19, MS '10, RN

PhD Student Handbook

The Columbia Nursing PhD student handbook provides information to aid doctoral students in planning coursework and proceeding through all phases of the program.

Request a PhD Student Handbook

What is it like to be a PhD student at Columbia Nursing?

Required courses (excluding electives).

Building upon the foundations provided in the quantitative and qualitative research method courses, in this course students examine advanced methods and frameworks frequently used in studying health policy, health services research problems and comparative effectiveness research. In addition to a critical review of the methods, the course examines the relationship among science, policy and healthcare delivery, and identifies critical questions shaping the future policy research agenda.

Interdisciplinary research is an approach to advancing scientific knowledge in which researchers from different disciplines work at the borders of those disciplines in order to address complex questions and problems. Successful interdisciplinary efforts require mastery of specific competencies. This seminar will introduce students to competencies in interdisciplinary research through a combination of readings, case studies, and lectures in each necessary aspect, chosen from fields essential to successful interdisciplinary research. It is intended to assist learners to understand why and how different professional disciplines must work together to generate and disseminate knowledge. We will examine: different conceptualizations of interdisciplinary; barriers to and facilitators of interdisciplinary research; approaches, benefits, and limitations of collaboration and team science; methods for measuring interdisciplinary collaboration; the intersection of translational and interdisciplinary scientific strategies; and individual researchers' experiences with and evaluations of their own interdisciplinary scientific projects. Learners will develop a set of skills to be effective members and leaders of interdisciplinary research teams.

The student works with a faculty member or other scientist who is conducting a research project. The specific nature of the experience depends on the nature and stage of the research, but might include search and review of relevant literature, data collection, data analysis and/or grant preparation.

This course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are associated with dissertation research.

This foundational course will examine the philosophy of nursing knowledge including foundations of nursing theory, concept development, and its application to research. Students will explore approaches to the analysis and development of concepts and the application of nursing concepts and frameworks to clinical practice and research. Ideas, assumptions, events, people, and writings are examined for their influence, inter-relationships, and significance to nursing. Types of reasoning will be evaluated within the context of nursing and health. Major theories, frameworks, and concepts of nursing and health and their implication for research will be discussed. The focus of the course will be on development of critical thinking skills in analyzing key elements of philosophies, concepts, and conceptual frameworks.

In this foundational course students will study the links between theory and the psychosocial and biophysical measures used in nursing research.  Students will employ the principles of classical test theory and item response theory to evaluate the reliability and validity of measurement.  Application of computational techniques will be covered in the lab portion of the course.  Course topics include types and uses of measures, item/scale development and validation, survey methods, reporting for publication, and the relationships between measurement and research ethics, cultural competency, and health disparities.

This course provides a foundation for quantitative research methods and design. Research process topics examined include: appraisal of the quality of existing evidence; identification of gaps in the literature; formulation of researchable questions and testable hypotheses; types of research variables; sampling designs and power analyses; and the uses, strengths, and weaknesses of various experimental and quasi-experimental research designs.

This course provides an in-depth examination of qualitative study designs and methods through a combination of theoretical discussion and hands-on practical experience. Topics include paradigm distinctions, theoretical perspectives, designs and methods, critique of research reports, and ethical issues in qualitative research.

The course is intended for PhD students who are engaged in relevant scholarly activities that are not associated with the required course sequence. Such activities must accrue more than 20 hours/week.

This course is intended to provide a hands-on introduction to delivering data visualizations to serve as a critical lens through which individual and population level health can be examined. The proposed course will combine concepts and theory in data visualization and exploration and practice to enable the student to gain the necessary knowledge to use graphics and statistics to explore the data, find and construct a narrative, and share findings in ways colleagues and decision-makes can readily understand and act upon.

This course is designed to provide the tools for the doctorally prepared nurse to evaluate, translate and integrate published research results into clinical practice. During the course, students will learn how to conceptualize clinical practice problems and transform them into answerable clinical research questions, how to search for the best clinical evidence, and how to assess clinical evidence using basic epidemiological, biostatistical and scientific principles. The course will culminate in a systematic review or meta-analysis of a body of research relevant to advanced practice nursing.

Total Credits:

IMAGES

  1. You need to know about a PhD in public health

    phd nursing public health

  2. PhD After MPH: The Ultimate Career Advancement Guide

    phd nursing public health

  3. Phd Public Health Program

    phd nursing public health

  4. Community/Public Health Nursing

    phd nursing public health

  5. Community & Public Health Nursing: Evidence for Practice by DeMarco PhD

    phd nursing public health

  6. PhD in Nursing

    phd nursing public health

COMMENTS

  1. Explore Doctor of Public Health Programs (PhD & DPH)

    The Doctorate of Public Health (DrPH) and the PhD are advanced terminal degrees for public health. They prepare learners for careers in research, education, or even management within the public health sector. Check pre-requisites of a DrPH/PhD degree, concentration and career options!

  2. PhD in Nursing: Health Policy

    The Ph.D. program in nursing with a subspecialty in Health Policy prepares students to conduct policy related research and to provide organizational leadership in health care. ... The Model Curriculum for the Nursing PhD Health Policy ... and political issues of growing old in America. It examines social policy in the public and private sectors ...

  3. PhD in Public Health

    Degree Information Introduction Public health is a multidisciplinary field that houses disciplines such as environmental health, biostatistics, epidemiology, and healthcare management. Professionals interested in a doctorate in public health can earn a Ph.D, MD/Ph.D, Sc.D, or doctor of public health (DrPH). A DrPH program is more practice-based and prepares graduates for leadership roles in ...

  4. DNP Public Health Nursing

    Disseminate nursing scholarship to improve health and transform healthcare. Lead the translation of quality and safety evidence to promote system effectiveness and individual performance. Build interprofessional teams that enhance healthcare experiences and outcomes for patients, families, communities, and partnerships.

  5. Doctoral Programs

    Pursuing a Ph.D. at the Brown University School of Public Health is a student-centered training experience, involving active partnerships with faculty mentors and the execution of innovative research.Our doctoral candidates are committed to generating new knowledge and aspire to make significant contributions to teaching and leadership roles that prioritize the well-being of populations.

  6. Degrees & Programs

    Explore our Master of Public Health, Master of Science, and Master of Health Care Management degrees. Doctoral Degrees Learn about our DrPH program and the public health PhD programs offered through the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (GSAS).

  7. Nursing PhD program

    Columbia Nursing's PhD program is a research-intensive curriculum that prepares nurse scientists to conduct research on clinical outcomes and health policy. ... Columbia Nursing enjoys a unique collaboration with the College of Physicians and Surgeons, the Mailman School of Public Health, and the College of Dental Medicine. ...

  8. Population Health

    Program Admission Considerations (Master's-PhD): To be considered for this doctoral program track, you must have a current, active RN license, a bachelor's degree in nursing with a master's degree in a business or non-nursing health related field, or a Master of Science in Nursing or higher from an accredited school, and meet the general ...

  9. PhD in Nursing/MPH Dual Degree

    The 56-credit Thomas Jefferson University PhD in Nursing/MPH dual degree program provides a novel approach preparing nurse scientists at the highest level of education to generate new scientific knowledge, address healthcare and public health issues, and educate the next generation of nurses. The program is embedded in an educational framework ...

  10. Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) Online Program

    Choose from 12 online undergraduate programs in business, education, nursing, health sciences, and other in-demand areas. All Bachelor's Programs ... In the simplest terms, a DrPH is designed for public health professionals, while a PhD in Public Health is designed for researchers. If you want to work in the field, enacting programs and ...