Global Health, PhD

Program Overview

Arizona State University's Global Health PhD program provides an interdisciplinary understanding of global health challenges and solutions, emphasizing community-based research and social justice. The program equips graduates with research and analytical skills to address complex health issues in diverse settings, preparing them for careers in health departments, international organizations, and academia.

Program Outline

Degree Overview:

• Program Title: Global Health, PhD
• Institution: Arizona State University (ASU)
• Program Description: This program aims to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of global health challenges and their solutions.
It draws on social science research theories and methods to provide an interdisciplinary perspective on health issues. The program emphasizes community-based research on topics such as:
• Biocultural approaches to human coping
• Culture and health
• Nutritional anthropology
• Mathematical epidemiology
• Urban and environmental health
• Objectives:
• Train students to become effective researchers and practitioners in the field of global health.
• Equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to address global health challenges in diverse settings.
• Foster a commitment to social justice and equity in global health research and practice.
• Cultivate critical thinking and problem-solving skills to understand and analyze complex health issues.

Outline:

• Degree Requirements:
• Total Credit Hours: 84
• Required Core: 3 credit hours (ASB 510: Health: Social and Biocultural Theories)
• Electives: 39 credit hours
• Other Requirements:
• Research Methods: 18 credit hours (ASB 500, ASB 501, ASM 579, SSH 591, and two systematic methods courses)
• Research: 12 credit hours (ASB 792)
• Dissertation: 12 credit hours (ASB 799)
• Students can use up to 30 credit hours from a previously awarded master's degree towards this program.
• Required electives can be chosen from a list approved by the program chair.
• Students can substitute other courses for the listed requirements with the academic unit's approval.
• Program Structure:
• The program is divided into three components:
• Coursework:
Students take a combination of core, elective, and research methods courses.
• Research: Students conduct research under the supervision of faculty members.
• Dissertation: Students complete a dissertation based on their original research.

Assessment:

• Assessment Methods:
• Performance in coursework (exams, papers, presentations)
• Research progress and dissertation quality
• Oral and written comprehensive exams
• Assessment Criteria:
• Depth of knowledge and understanding of global health issues
• Ability to apply theoretical concepts to real-world problems
• Research skills and methodologies
• Communication and writing skills
• Critical thinking and problem-solving abilities

Teaching:

• Teaching Methods:
• Interactive lectures and seminars
• Individual and group research projects
• Fieldwork and internship opportunities
• Guest lectures by experts in the field
• Faculty:
• The program draws on expertise from over 80 faculty members from various disciplines, including anthropology, sociology, public health, and medicine.
• Unique Approaches:
• Emphasis on community-based research and engagement
• Interdisciplinary perspective on global health issues
• Focus on social justice and equity in health research and practice

Careers:

• Career Opportunities:
• Health departments
• Government agencies
• International organizations (WHO, CDC, World Bank)
• Non-governmental organizations
• Private sector
• Universities
• Research institutions
• Employment Potential:
• The program prepares graduates for a wide range of careers in global health, with high demand for skilled professionals in the field.

Other:

• Admission Requirements:
• Bachelor's or master's degree from a regionally accredited institution
• Minimum GPA of 3.0
• Official transcripts, personal statement, CV, letters of recommendation
• Application Deadlines:
• Fall: December 1st
• Contact Information:
• School of Human Evolution & Social Change
• shesc.grad@asu.edu
• 480-965-6215