PhD in Public Health Sciences

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Our doctoral program in public health sciences prepares students to think critically as scientists, succeed as independent researchers, and understand and address public health challenges for the nation and the world.

Public Health Sciences Doctoral Program Director, Doug Luke

The Brown School is a one-of-a-kind place to learn and grow as a doctoral student.

"Our program provides doctoral students with extraordinary research experiences and mentoring. From day one of the program, students are immersed in a rich, interdisciplinary environment of ideas, resources and opportunities for hands-on learning. The faculty is committed to each student’s success, and we truly appreciate being a part of their academic journey.”

—Doug Luke
Director, Doctoral Program in Public Health Sciences
Director, Center for Public Health Systems Science

Overview

PhD in Public Health Sciences

Curriculum

Faculty
Connections

Teaching &
Research Experience

Stipends &
Fellowships

Application
Information

The curriculum at the Brown School emphasizes substantive, theoretical and methodological preparation. The first year of study includes basic principles in research, statistics and measurement, as well as theoretical orientations and content fortifying the public health knowledge base. The second year offers a more individualized program of study. The curriculum plan is flexible and allows each student to focus on an area of specialization leading to the dissertation.

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Vital and groundbreaking research is being conducted at more than a dozen research centers, and you'll have access to the work and scholars forging the future of your field. Our faculty are top scholars and experts, and students receive the benefit of their mentorship and guidance. During your first year, you will start conducting public health research guided by one or more faculty mentors. You will also have formal faculty advisors who will assist you in navigating the doctoral program and help prepare you for a career in public health scholarship and leadership.

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The PhD curriculum includes three units of required teaching and research practica. These practica typically occur after the first semester in our program and round out the individualized curriculum plan. Teaching practica ensure students are well-trained in substantive content and pedagogy as they prepare for independent teaching at the graduate level. Research practica provide opportunities to engage in different aspects of the research process and increase a student's capacity for completing independent research. Additional opportunities for research development are available within specific research fellowship programs, faculty laboratories and research centers.

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We are dedicated to providing our doctoral students full tuition scholarships, four-year stipends and professional development accounts. Base stipends for students are $22,000 per year for four years. Receipt of this stipend is linked to a student's performance of mentored research in public health at the Brown School. Additional funding is possible through paid research and teaching fellowships, among other sources.

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All applicants must meet the admissions requirements of the Graduate School at Washington University as well as the requirements of the Brown School PhD Program. Application requirements include: