Program Overview

PhD in Health Research and Policy

The PhD program in Health Research and Policy in the Hankamer School of Business is designed to train researchers in cutting-edge data analysis skills. The individuals completing the program will primarily work in large health systems and provide detailed and rigorous analysis that will help managers make decisions to improve the quality and/or lower the cost of health services delivered.

Purpose

The purpose of the PhD program is to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct high-quality research in health services and policy. The program is unique among many health services and health policy-oriented doctoral programs as it is designed with the inclusion of a Master of Science (MS) in Economics degree to be completed prior to entering the dissertation phase of the program.

Distinctives

The PhD Program is distinct due to its strong emphasis on economic theory and empirical techniques to guide students' research. The Hankamer School of Business is also home to other health care-focused academic endeavors, including the Robbins Institute for Health Policy and Leadership, which supports the school's healthcare MBA program. Additionally, Baylor is a proud member of the Business School Alliance for Health Management (BAHM), a consortium of business-school healthcare programs at 17 leading universities.

Program Details

• The program is highly selective, and most or all students receive considerable financial support.
• Admission with an offer of financial support typically requires a strong academic record ideally with considerable training in Statistics, Mathematics, and Economics.
• Students with this background and a strong desire to acquire cutting-edge research skills and use them to improve healthcare delivery in the US and around the world are encouraged to apply.

Faculty

The faculty for the PhD in Health Research and Policy are renowned for their research and teaching expertise. They provide guidance and support to students throughout the program.

Admissions

Admission to the program requires a strong academic record, ideally with a background in Statistics, Mathematics, and Economics. Financial support is available to most or all students.

Program Structure

The program includes the completion of a Master of Science (MS) in Economics degree prior to entering the dissertation phase. This component of the PhD curriculum reflects the strong emphasis on economic theory and empirical techniques to guide students' research.

Research Areas

The program focuses on health services and policy research, with an emphasis on economic theory and empirical techniques. Students will have the opportunity to work with faculty on research projects and develop their own research skills.

Degree Requirements

The program requires the completion of a Master of Science (MS) in Economics degree and a dissertation. The specific degree requirements are outlined in the program's curriculum.

Career Opportunities

Graduates of the program will be equipped to work in large health systems, providing detailed and rigorous analysis to help managers make decisions to improve the quality and/or lower the cost of health services delivered. They will also be prepared for careers in research and academia.