Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health

Health Services Research and Implementation Science

The Doctor of Philosophy in Public Health program with a concentration in Health Services Research and Implementation Science (HSRIS) is designed to address the social determinants of health through the exercise of community engaged research in both traditional and non-traditional health service settings. 

The program provides an educational experience that is transdisciplinary, involving faculty representing different academic disciplines collectively engaged in creating new scientific approaches to addressing the most pressing health care needs of our time; translational, by linking the development of innovative and evidence-based programs, policies and practices designed to improve health care with their implementation and sustainment in real-word settings; and team-based, emphasizing the collaborative engagement of researchers and health care providers with the communities they serve. 

The mission of our program is to prepare students for research careers in public health and health services, teaching and public service in university, governmental and public policy settings. This program is distinguished by the application of the principles and practice of implementation science and community-engaged research to promoting health equity for all. Graduates will be prepared to play leading scientific roles in addressing the many challenges facing health care and public health in the United States and countries around the world. 

Degree requirements include 72 units of coursework, including 56 units of required courses in Health Services Research and Implementation Science content and methods, a HSRIS colloquium series, successful grantwriting for dissertation research, and scientific ethics; and 16 units of electives, including two 2-unit community-engaged research practicum rotations.