Program Overview

Doctor of Public Health Program

The online Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program at Fairfield University is designed to equip graduates with the skills to address complex public health challenges on both local and global scales.

Format and Location

The program is offered online, providing flexibility for working professionals. It is housed in the Egan School of Nursing and Health Studies.

Start Dates and Application Deadline

• The program starts in the Fall (September).
• The priority application deadline is January 15.

Program Duration and Schedule

• The program can be completed in 33-44 months.
• It is offered on a part-time schedule.

Credits and Cost

• The program requires 42-57 credits.
• The cost per credit is $1,245.

Program Overview

The DrPH program combines the flexibility of an online degree with the advantages of in-person learning through three distinct doctoral residencies held in Washington, D.C., and at Fairfield's campuses in Austin, Texas, and Fairfield, Conn. Students benefit from multiple learning environments, personalized professional development, and insight from interdisciplinary perspectives.

Career Outlook

The demand for public health professionals is projected to grow by 28% over the next decade. The DrPH program prepares students for various career paths, including public health faculty member, public health analyst, research scientist, public health director, policy director, and executive director of an agency.

Admission Information

Applicants must demonstrate at least 3 years of professional experience in public health or healthcare following completion of the MPH or a related graduate degree.

Program Structure

The program offers two plans of study: a 57-credit plan for students with a master's degree in a field other than public health and a 42-credit plan for students who have earned an MPH.

Coursework

Students in the 42-credit program complete courses in advanced research methods, leadership, strategic leadership, systems interventions, public health education, data visualization, and advanced implementation science, among others. Students in the 57-credit plan complete additional foundational courses in public health, epidemiology, and health policy.

Dissertation

The dissertation phase spans the final 12 months, during which students complete three courses to plan, execute, and defend their dissertation. The dissertation results in three publishable manuscripts.

Residencies

There are three required residencies, one each year, where all DrPH students come together. Residency locations rotate between Fairfield, CT, Austin, TX, and Washington, DC.

Financial Aid

Financial aid is available to students enrolled in the online DrPH program while enrolled on at least a half-time basis. Graduate assistantships are also available.

Accreditation

The Public Health Program at Fairfield University is accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH).

Program Concentration

The Fairfield DrPH program offers a generalist concentration, with coursework designed to address the 20 CEPH-required competencies across key domains.

Faculty and Stakeholders

The program boasts experienced faculty and a stakeholder council comprising public health professionals, faculty members, and students, ensuring the program remains relevant and effective in preparing graduates for the field.