Program Overview

Introduction to the PhD Program

The PhD program at the Mailman School of Public Health offers students the opportunity to work at the cutting edge of public health science and practice. With access to world-renowned experts and scientists, doctoral students collaborate closely with faculty mentors to develop their capacity to create knowledge in the field and make a vital contribution to improve population health.

Graduation Requirements

The PhD degree is conferred by the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences, as are all PhD degrees at Columbia University. Graduates of the PhD program complete a minimum of 60 credit hours that constitute the combined requirements for the MA and PhD degree. Students entering the PhD degree program with MA degrees from other universities may receive up to 30 credits of advanced standing.

PhD Program Details

• The PhD degree is for individuals interested in creating new and innovative knowledge, with research and/or teaching as their career goal.
• Both doctoral programs train candidates to create new knowledge and research and apply them to important public health issues and identify and implement potential solutions.
• Graduates of the DrPH degree complete a minimum of 30 credit hours beyond the course work for the MPH degree or equivalent professional degree in public health.

Research Areas

The PhD program offers research opportunities in various areas, including:

• Biostatistics
• Environmental Health Sciences
• Epidemiology
• Sociomedical Sciences

Degree Requirements

The PhD program requires students to complete a minimum of 60 credit hours, which includes:

• Course work for the MA degree
• Additional course work and research requirements for the PhD degree
• Students entering the PhD degree program with MA degrees from other universities may receive up to 30 credits of advanced standing.

Dual Degrees

The Mailman School of Public Health also offers dual degree programs, which allow students to pursue two degrees simultaneously.

Executive and Professional Education

The school offers executive and professional education programs, including:

• Executive Healthcare Management
• Online MS in Epidemiology
• Part-Time Hybrid MHA

Academic Calendar

The academic calendar for the PhD program is available through the Office of Education.

Policies and Procedures

The policies and procedures for the PhD program are outlined by the Office of Education and the Graduate School of Arts and Sciences.

Registration

Registration for the PhD program is handled through the Office of Education.

Office of Education

The Office of Education provides support and resources for PhD students, including academic advising and career counseling.

Applied Practice Experience (APEx)

The Applied Practice Experience (APEx) is a hands-on field experience that allows students to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world public health issues.