Best Online Doctorate in Public Health Programs
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When it comes to making a significant impact on the public health field, a doctorate in public health (DrPH) can be a game-changer. With opportunities to specialize in various areas, learning flexibility, and potential for higher earnings, an online doctorate in public health can be a worthwhile investment.
Let’s delve into the specifics of this degree, the benefits it offers, and how you can choose the best online program to suit your career goals .
Featured Online Public Health Programs
Learn about start dates, transferring credits, availability of financial aid, and more by contacting the universities below.
University of Illinois at Chicago
- Campus + Online
- 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
- 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
East Carolina University
- 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
How We Rank Schools
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We use datasets from trusted sources like the National Center for Education Statistics to inform the data for these schools and our methodologies. This ranking is from 2022 or 2023. To learn more, check out our full ranking methodologies .
Why Should You Get a Doctorate in Public Health Online?
Online learning has revolutionized higher education, opening doors for those who wish to continue their studies without disrupting their careers or personal lives. Pursuing an online doctorate in public health is no exception.
There are myriad reasons, both personal and professional, that make earning a DrPH online an attractive option .
Reasons to Get Your DrPH Degree Online
Maintain your career, earn your degree from anywhere, enjoy flexibility, reduced costs, benefits of earning a drph degree, enhanced career opportunities, practical application, diverse specializations, what to expect in an online drph program.
An online doctorate in public health program is designed to provide you with comprehensive knowledge and skills to become a leader in the field of public health. But what exactly can you expect when you enroll in a DrPH program?
In a DrPH program, you’ll delve into a curriculum that prepares you for leadership roles in public health , policy, and practice. The program is designed for early- to late-career professionals and comprises courses focusing on foundational competencies such as leadership, analytical skills, policy, management, and program design and evaluation.
The duration of a DrPH usually ranges from 3-7 years. This is often dependent on the program’s structure and whether you enroll part-time or full-time . DrPH programs typically require a minimum of 45 credits of coursework, plus an additional 3-15 credit hours of doctoral research and advanced fieldwork .
Looking for Other Healthcare Degrees? Explore Your Options
Doctorate in public health specialization options.
DrPH programs offer a wide variety of specializations , like epidemiology and health policy. You may also find programs that offer more niche specializations like maternal and child health or women’s and reproductive health.
Each specialization provides unique insights into the complexities of public health, equipping you with the expertise needed to address specific public health challenges. Let’s look at five of the more common specializations in more detail.
Public Health Specializations
Epidemiology.
This specialization focuses on the study of diseases within populations. It’s ideal if you’re interested in researching and preventing disease outbreaks.
Environmental Health
This field deals with the effects of environmental factors on health. It’s a great fit if you’re passionate about tackling environmental health issues.
Biostatistics
Biostatistics involves data analysis for health outcomes. If you have a knack for numbers and data, this could be the right choice for you.
Global Health
Global Health addresses health issues across different cultures and nations. If you’re interested in working on health problems on a global scale, consider this specialization.
Health Policy and Management
This specialization is for those interested in leadership and the management of health services. You’ll learn to make policy decisions and manage health services.
How Much Does an Online DrPH Cost?
The cost of an online doctorate degree in public health can vary depending on the number of credits and time taken to complete the degree. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), the average cost of tuition for online health-related programs at the doctoral level was $19,365 in 2020.
However, these costs can change and do not include books , materials, or potential tuition increases over time .
Average Annual Tuition Cost for Online Doctorate in Health-Related Programs
Public Institution $17,082
Private Institution (Nonprofit) $28,906
How to Choose an Online Doctorate in Public Health Program
Choosing the right online doctorate in public health program involves careful consideration of several factors. These include researching the program’s accreditation, evaluating the cost, understanding any in-person requirements, and considering the program format.
All these factors can significantly influence your learning experience and career trajectory.
Accreditation
Program format, frequently asked questions about online doctorate in public health programs, what can you do with a doctorate in public health.
A DrPH opens the door to a wide variety of career opportunities. You might choose to teach public health courses at a college or university , become a public health researcher, or work as an epidemiologist. You could also consider a career as a biostatistician, public health consultant, or global health professional.
Alternatively, you could take on leadership or administrative roles in various sectors, such as a public health director, health officer, or public health consultant.
How much money can you make with a doctorate in public health?
Earning a doctorate in public health can significantly enhance your earning potential. According to Payscale, professionals with a doctorate in public health earn an average annual salary of about $98,000 as of April 2024, which is about $25,000 more than those with an MPH.
However, salaries can vary widely based on the location and industry, as well as your experience. For example, public health directors working in Boston, Massachusetts, earned an annual salary of approximately $125,000 in 2023, while those working in Washington, D.C., earned approximately $99,000 , as reported by Payscale.
Is a doctorate in public health degree worth it?
A doctorate in public health is a significant investment in your public health career. For this reason, whether a doctorate in public health is worth it depends largely on your professional goals.
If you’re driven to tackle big issues on a national (or global) scale, like disease prevention, environmental health, or health policy, a doctorate could be highly beneficial.
There’s a high demand for public health professionals, and a doctorate can open doors to advanced career opportunities and increase your earning potential.
What’s the difference between a Ph.D. in public health and a DrPH?
A Ph.D. in public health prepares you for advanced research careers and academia, while a DrPH program typically focuses on policy and leadership, equipping you with skills to develop solutions to public health concerns and evaluate program effectiveness. When deciding between the two degree types, consider your career and personal goals.
What are the admission requirements for an online doctorate in public health program?
Admission requirements for an online doctorate in public health program typically include a master’s degree and some form of professional public health experience.
Other requirements may include submitting an application fee, a personal statement, official graduate transcripts, a résumé or CV, and letters of recommendation. An interview conducted by the Admission Review Committee may also be required.
Note: The insights on this page — excluding school descriptions — were reviewed by an independent third party compensated for their time by BestColleges. Page last reviewed April 25, 2024.
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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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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.
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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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Doctoral Degrees
Doctor of public health (drph) program.
A doctoral degree for those who want to translate knowledge into powerful results as the leader of a public health organization:
Doctor of Public Health
Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) programs
All PhD programs at Harvard University are administered by the Harvard Kenneth C. Griffin Graduate School of Arts and Sciences (Harvard Griffin GSAS), and applications are processed through the Harvard Griffin GSAS online application system .
The following three PhD programs are based at the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health, designed for students seeking specialized scientific and technical expertise to propel an academic or research career:
PhD in Biological Sciences in Public Health PhD in Biostatistics PhD in Population Health Sciences
Harvard PhD program in Health Policy The PhD in Health Policy is a collaborative program among six Harvard University schools, including the Harvard T.H. Chan School of Public Health.
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