Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between a PhD and a DrPH?
The PhD is a research-based program focused on preparing people to enter careers in research and academia. The DrPH is a practice-based degree with a focus on leadership and applied practice, policy, and research. The DrPH program is designed to prepare graduates for careers as senior-level administrators, applied researchers, policy makers and educators who will provide leadership to protect and improve the public’s health.
What is the format of this program?
Currently, all courses are face-to-face, with most core classes held in the evening. Weekend offerings and online learning opportunities are being considered for the future.
How long will it take me to earn my DrPH?
The program is designed to allow students who work full time while studying to earn their DrPH in three years, with a maximum of nine years allowed for completion.
What are the application requirements?
Applicants will need to have an MPH or equivalent degree from a regionally accredited institution and a minimum of three years of verifiable, applied public health experience. Applicants with five or more years of applied experience will be given preference.
TWO applications are required:
- Complete and submit a SOPHAS application and fee: https://sophas.org/
- Complete and submit a Georgia State University supplemental application (GSU/CAS Liaison) and $50 fee: https://gradapply.gsu.edu/apply/
Note: Both applications and all supporting documents must be in by the deadline. All applications must be SOPHAS “verified” and Georgia State “complete-ready for review.”
Can I apply without an MPH degree?
Professionals with master’s degrees in fields other than public health who have three or more years of applied public health are encouraged to apply if the DrPH training is aligned with their interests and career goals. Students accepted into the program without an MPH will be required to complete 9-19 hours of prerequisite courses in addition to the required DrPH coursework. For more details about prerequisite courses, click here.
What courses will I need to take?
The DrPH degree program requires a total of 54 credit hours, including an applied practice experience (3 hours) and integrative learning experience/dissertation (9 hours). For more details about required and elective courses, click here.
Can I continue to work full-time while I am in the DrPH program?
The DrPH program is designed for public health professionals who continue to work full-time while engaged in the program. As reflected below, there is considerable flexibility in the course load, sequencing and timing to allow for individual customization.
How flexible is the curriculum?
While the overall curriculum requirements are determined by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH), there is significant flexibility in course sequencing and timing to accommodate working professionals. In addition, there are a number of choices for course selection both in and outside of the School of Public Health for elective courses, a range of community and agency-based partners for practice-based experiences (applied practice experience), and flexibility regarding both the focus and format for the integrated learning experience/dissertation.
What are the tuition and fees?
For more information about graduate tuition and fees, click here.
Are DrPH students eligible for Graduate Research Assistantships?
There are currently no Graduate Research Assistantship positions available in the School of Public Health for DrPH students.
Is financial aid available?
The DrPH program currently has no funded positions. For information about student loans and other financial aid options, go to Georgia State University’s Financial Aid Office. We also recommend that you talk to your employer about whether they offer tuition assistance.