Dissemination and Implementation Science PhD Concentration

Concentration Requirements

Coursework: Students complete concentration coursework with the other PhD requirements in their first two years of the program. Concentrators complete one introductory course in D&I and select at least two additional D&I doctoral courses from the options presented below. Students who have already completed introductory courses prior to joining the doctoral programs may take another of the D&I courses.

D&I Training Opportunities: Concentrators are encouraged to participate in the various D&I training opportunities offered across the university, such as the Dissemination & Implementation Science Introductory Workshop for Investigators, Dissemination & Implementation Seminars, and the Biweekly Methods and Metascience meetings hosted by the Center for Dissemination and Implementation, as well as the Washington University Network of Dissemination and Implementation Researchers (WUNDIR) that convenes local researchers with a common interest in D&I science. Additionally, the Institute of Clinical and Translational Sciences’ Dissemination and Implementation Research Core, affords students opportunities to both receive consultation and offer consultation and research support as Research Assistants. More information on D&I events and training opportunities can be found here: implementationresearch.wustl.edu.

Mentored D&I Dissertation Research: Concentrators identify faculty mentors whose scholarship involves dissemination and implementation science. Typically, these faculty will supervise the completion of an Area Statement & Qualifying Exam. After finishing D&I and other required doctoral coursework and milestones, students conduct dissertation research in D&I under the mentorship of faculty working in the area.

Process: Students interested in the concentration work with their faculty advisor, the D&I Lead Faculty, and their Program Director to ensure interest alignment. The student and faculty develop and execute research that culminates in a dissertation that contributes to the D&I literature. The successful defense of the D&I dissertation is recorded in the student’s final academic transcript.