13 Best Part-Time DrPH Programs – 2024
Written By: Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Do you have a master’s degree in public health or a related field? Does staying in a public health role or transitioning to one interest you? Have you considered earning a doctorate but do not know where to begin and feel you cannot commit to full-time study? If so, a part-time DrPH program is an awesome option to help you achieve your goals without the obligation of going to school full-time.
Perhaps you thought of going to school part-time to earn your DrPH degree but wonder, “What are the best part-time DrPh programs?" As you continue reading, you will find the answer to that question as I share with you the 13 best part-time DrPH programs for 2024. With the information you glean from this article, you can decide if pursuing your degree through one of these programs is the right path for you.
What Exactly Is the Goal of a Part-Time DrPH Program?
The goal of part-time DrPH programs is to educate leaders in public health capable of promoting positive changes in the public health system. These programs prepare students with the knowledge and skills needed to provide high quality public health services, improve population health, address the health needs of underserved populations, and reduce per-capita healthcare costs. When you graduate with a Doctor of Public Health degree, you will be prepared for leadership positions in nonprofit organizations, pharmaceutical and health-related industries, and local, state, or federal government health agencies.
Who Accredits Part-Time DrPH Programs?
In your search for the best part-time DrPH programs, it is important to look for accredited programs. When a program is accredited, you can feel confident that the education and practical experiences you have will prepare you to transition to your new role in public health. The best programs are accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health.
| S.NO. | Accrediting Agency |
| 1 | Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH) |
When Do Part-Time DrPH Programs Start?
Part-time DrPH programs start at various times. Because many schools limit the number of doctoral students accepted in each cohort, most start their programs once yearly. However, you may find some schools that offer additional start dates throughout the year. Schools typically gauge the number of applicants and start dates they offer based on how many available faculty members they have, as well as program resources.
• The University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences begins classes for its part-time DrPH program in the fall semester of each year.
• At Drexel University, the DrPH program begins each fall semester.
• Claremont Graduate University offers two start dates each year, one in the spring semester and one in the fall semester.
• Georgia Southern University admits students to its DrPH program once yearly in the fall.
• The part-time DrPH program at New York University also begins in the fall annually.
• At Drexel University, the DrPH program begins each fall semester.
• Claremont Graduate University offers two start dates each year, one in the spring semester and one in the fall semester.
• Georgia Southern University admits students to its DrPH program once yearly in the fall.
• The part-time DrPH program at New York University also begins in the fall annually.
How Many Credits Are There in Part-Time DrPH Programs?
The curriculum for part-time DrPH programs is rigorous. Programs require students to complete anywhere between 40 and 100 credits. Although each school has a curriculum plan for its program, you may need more credits or fewer credits based on your previous degree and the number of credits you have that are eligible for transfer.
• The Doctor of Public Health Program at Johns Hopkins University requires you to complete 64 term credits. The curriculum features 57 term credits of coursework and seven term credits for your proposal and dissertation.
• At Boston University, you will complete a minimum of 48 credits. If you need prerequisites, additional coursework will be required.
• The part-time DrPH program offered at the University of Illinois Chicago requires you to complete at least 96 credit hours.
• Drexel University’s program features a 55.5-credit curriculum.
• If you pursue the Doctor of Public Health degree at New York University, you will complete 42 program credits.
• At Boston University, you will complete a minimum of 48 credits. If you need prerequisites, additional coursework will be required.
• The part-time DrPH program offered at the University of Illinois Chicago requires you to complete at least 96 credit hours.
• Drexel University’s program features a 55.5-credit curriculum.
• If you pursue the Doctor of Public Health degree at New York University, you will complete 42 program credits.
How Long Are Part-Time DrPH Programs?
Part-time DrPH programs require a considerable time commitment. Although you can complete the programs in as few as four years, many students take seven to ten years to earn their doctorate. The following are examples of the time it takes to complete some of the programs featured in this article.
• At Boston University, you can take up to seven years to earn the Doctor of Public Health degree as a part-time student.
• The DrPH part-time programs at the University of Illinois at Chicago take seven to nine years to complete, depending on the number of credits you attempt each semester.
• The program offered at Drexel University is designed to be completed in four years or 13 consecutive quarters.
• When you pursue the Doctor of Public Health degree program at New York University, you can anticipate graduating in seven years on the part-time track.
• The part-time DrPH programs at Johns Hopkins University can be completed in as few as four years or up to nine years.
• The DrPH part-time programs at the University of Illinois at Chicago take seven to nine years to complete, depending on the number of credits you attempt each semester.
• The program offered at Drexel University is designed to be completed in four years or 13 consecutive quarters.
• When you pursue the Doctor of Public Health degree program at New York University, you can anticipate graduating in seven years on the part-time track.
• The part-time DrPH programs at Johns Hopkins University can be completed in as few as four years or up to nine years.
How Much Do Part-Time DrPH Programs Cost?
One of the main concerns of prospective students considering earning a doctorate is cost. Part-time DrPH programs can cost as little as $25,000. Some programs cost $100,000 or more. The following are examples of the program costs at five of the nation’s top schools offering these specialized doctoral programs.
• Tuition for the part-time DrPH program at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis costs $570 per credit for in-state students and $1,500 for out-of-state and international students. The program requires you to complete 45 credits, which means you will pay between $25,650 and $67,500.
• At Claremont Graduate University, tuition for the Doctor of Public Health part-time program costs $2,020 per unit of credit. You must complete a total of 49 units but may transfer up to 13 credits with the approval of the Program Director. Therefore, based on whether you transfer the maximum units or complete the total required units, your tuition will cost $72,720 to $98,980.
• The University of Albany calculates tuition based on whether you live in New York or outside the state. In-state students pay $608.72 per credit, and out-of-state students pay $1,119.72 per credit. Students complete between 63 and 69 credits, which means tuition ranges from $38,349.35 to $77,260.68, depending on where you live and the credits you need.
• At the University of Arkansas Medical Center, tuition costs $460 per credit, regardless of where you live. The program features a 61-credit curriculum, making tuition come to a total of $28,060.
• Tuition at Georgia Southern University, state residents pay $377 per credit, and non-resident students pay $1,205 per credit. The program requires you to complete between 60 and 69 credits, which means you will pay between $22,620 and $83,145 based on whether you live in Georgia or out-of-state and how many credits you need to meet graduation requirements.
• At Claremont Graduate University, tuition for the Doctor of Public Health part-time program costs $2,020 per unit of credit. You must complete a total of 49 units but may transfer up to 13 credits with the approval of the Program Director. Therefore, based on whether you transfer the maximum units or complete the total required units, your tuition will cost $72,720 to $98,980.
• The University of Albany calculates tuition based on whether you live in New York or outside the state. In-state students pay $608.72 per credit, and out-of-state students pay $1,119.72 per credit. Students complete between 63 and 69 credits, which means tuition ranges from $38,349.35 to $77,260.68, depending on where you live and the credits you need.
• At the University of Arkansas Medical Center, tuition costs $460 per credit, regardless of where you live. The program features a 61-credit curriculum, making tuition come to a total of $28,060.
• Tuition at Georgia Southern University, state residents pay $377 per credit, and non-resident students pay $1,205 per credit. The program requires you to complete between 60 and 69 credits, which means you will pay between $22,620 and $83,145 based on whether you live in Georgia or out-of-state and how many credits you need to meet graduation requirements.
What Is the Minimum GPA Required to Get into Part-Time DrPH Programs?
The minimum grade point average required to get into part-time DrPH programs varies. While most programs require candidates to have at least a 3.0 on a 4.0 scale, some schools prefer applicants with higher averages. For example, although SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University accepts candidates with a 3.0 GPA, candidates with a 3.5 or higher are preferred. At Morgan State University, a 3.0 grade point average is preferred. However, candidates with an average between 2.5 and 2.99 may be considered for conditional admission.
What Are the Admission Requirements for Part-Time DrPH Programs?
Each school offering part-time DrPH programs determines the admission criteria candidates must meet. Most programs prefer candidates with a master’s degree in public health or a related field. In addition to completing a formal application for admission, you will be asked to provide supplemental information and documents, including your college or university transcripts, letters of recommendation, a personal statement, and a resume or curriculum vitae. Some schools require candidates to have at least one year of experience in a public health or related role.
• The part-time DrPH program at Indiana University-Purdue University Indianapolis is designed for mid- and senior-level professionals working full-time in the public health field. You must complete a SOPHAS application. Additionally, you must provide a Statement of Purpose and Objectives, a resume or curriculum vitae, official post-secondary transcripts from each school you attended, and three letters of recommendation.
• Admission criteria for the program offered at the University of Albany include the following. You must have a Master of Public Health degree or a master’s degree in social science, health, or another related field from an accredited college or university and have a college GPA of at least 3.0. You must provide official transcripts from every post-secondary school you attended, two or three letters of reference, one from academic faculty, a personal statement, a three- to five-page writing sample, and a curriculum vitae or professional resume. The DrPH Admissions Committee evaluates applicants for viability in the admission process, and applicants who pass an initial review of the completed application will be interviewed by the Committee. The interview is mandatory.
• At Georgia Southern University, candidates for the part-time DrPH program must complete a SOPHAS application and provide official transcripts from all post-secondary schools. You must possess a master’s or terminal degree from a regionally accredited institution. If you do not have a master’s degree in public health, you must complete public health prerequisites before being admitted. You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all upper-division graduate courses and show evidence of qualitative and analytic ability. Additionally, you must provide a Statement of Purpose, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and participate in an admissions interview.
• The part-time DrPH programs at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University are available to applicants with a Master of Public Health degree earned from a program accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). You must provide official transcripts from any college or university you attended and have a 3.5 or higher preferred GPA. Additionally, you must provide a personal statement and three letters of recommendation and participate in an on-site interview with a designated faculty member.
• At Morgan State University, admission to the Doctor of Public Health program requires a minimum bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. To be eligible, you must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for your previous baccalaureate degree coursework. You must have two years of work experience in public health or an allied health field. In addition to completing an application to the School of Graduate Studies, you must provide official post-secondary transcripts, three letters of professional recommendation, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, and complete an interview with the program's admissions committee.
• Admission criteria for the program offered at the University of Albany include the following. You must have a Master of Public Health degree or a master’s degree in social science, health, or another related field from an accredited college or university and have a college GPA of at least 3.0. You must provide official transcripts from every post-secondary school you attended, two or three letters of reference, one from academic faculty, a personal statement, a three- to five-page writing sample, and a curriculum vitae or professional resume. The DrPH Admissions Committee evaluates applicants for viability in the admission process, and applicants who pass an initial review of the completed application will be interviewed by the Committee. The interview is mandatory.
• At Georgia Southern University, candidates for the part-time DrPH program must complete a SOPHAS application and provide official transcripts from all post-secondary schools. You must possess a master’s or terminal degree from a regionally accredited institution. If you do not have a master’s degree in public health, you must complete public health prerequisites before being admitted. You must have a minimum cumulative GPA of 3.0 in all upper-division graduate courses and show evidence of qualitative and analytic ability. Additionally, you must provide a Statement of Purpose, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, three letters of recommendation, and participate in an admissions interview.
• The part-time DrPH programs at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University are available to applicants with a Master of Public Health degree earned from a program accredited by the Council on Education for Public Health (CEPH). You must provide official transcripts from any college or university you attended and have a 3.5 or higher preferred GPA. Additionally, you must provide a personal statement and three letters of recommendation and participate in an on-site interview with a designated faculty member.
• At Morgan State University, admission to the Doctor of Public Health program requires a minimum bachelor’s degree from a regionally accredited college or university. To be eligible, you must have a cumulative GPA of 3.0 or higher for your previous baccalaureate degree coursework. You must have two years of work experience in public health or an allied health field. In addition to completing an application to the School of Graduate Studies, you must provide official post-secondary transcripts, three letters of professional recommendation, a professional resume or curriculum vitae, and complete an interview with the program's admissions committee.
What Are the Best Part-Time DrPH Programs in The Nation?
(Based on our ranking methodology, the following are the 13 Best online and campus-based Part-Time DrPH Programs in the nation for the year 2024.)1. Johns Hopkins University - Baltimore, MD
Concentrations Offered:
Custom Track, Environmental Health (Environmental Health Track & Health Security Track), Global Health: Policy & Evaluation, Health Equity & Social Justice, Health Policy & Management (Healthcare Management & Leadership Track, Health Policy Track, Public Health Informatics Track, Quality & Patient Safety Track), Implementation Science, and Women's & Reproductive Health2. Boston University - Boston, MA
3. University of Illinois at Chicago - Chicago, IL
4. Drexel University - Philadelphia, PA
Concentrations Offered:
Health Management & Policy5. New York University - New York, NY
6. Indiana University–Purdue University Indianapolis - Indianapolis, IN
Concentrations Offered:
Global Health Leadership7. University at Albany - Albany, NY
8. University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences - Little Rock, AR
Concentrations Offered:
Public Health Leadership9. Georgia Southern University - Statesboro, GA
Concentrations Offered:
Biostatistics, Community Health Behavior & Education, Epidemiology, Health Policy, and Public Health Leadership10. SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University - Brooklyn, NY
Concentrations Offered:
Epidemiology, Community Health Sciences, and Environmental & Occupational Health11. Morgan State University - Baltimore, MD
12. Claremont Graduate University - Claremont, CA
13. East Carolina University - Greenville, NC
Concentrations Offered:
Environmental & Occupational Health and Health Policy, Administration, & LeadershipWhat Kind of Courses Will You Take in Part-Time DrPH Programs?
The curriculum for part-time DrPH programs includes content-rich courses. You will take foundational courses and concentration courses based on your chosen specialty. The following are examples of some of the classes offered at schools offering some of the nation's top programs.
• At the University of Arkansas for Medical Sciences, DrPH students take classes, including Public Health Program Planning and Evaluation, Applied Behavioral Research Methods, Health Systems Theory and Research, Community-Based Public Health Design, and Public Health Law and Ethics.
• Curriculum plans for the part-time DrPH programs at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University include foundational courses, concentration-specific courses, and elective courses. All students complete Qualitative Research Methods for Public Health Practice, Methods of Community Intervention and Research, and Program Evaluation: Theory, Practice, and Research. Depending on your chosen specialty, you may also take classes such as Environmental Health Policy and Management Systems, Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Advanced Applied Regression Analysis, Outbreak Investigation and Management, or Advanced Topics in Risk Assessment and Management.
• When you pursue your Doctor of Public Health degree at Morgan State University, you will complete 45 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Critical Issues for Ethical Public Health Practice, Design and Implementation of Public Health Research, Theory-Based Public Health Solutions, Application of Epidemiology Methods, and Qualitative Research in Public Health.
• At Claremont State University, students complete 49 credits from classes such as Community Based Translational Research to Promote Population Health, Health Equity in Research and Practice, Health Systems Engineering and Integration, Positive Organizational Psychology, and Transdisciplinary Changemakers: Justice-Centered Frameworks for Education.
• The curriculum for the Dr.PH program at East Carolina University features classes, including Emerging Issues in Environmental and Occupational Health, Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Advanced Industrial Hygiene Applications, Toxicology, and Health Policy Analysis.
• Curriculum plans for the part-time DrPH programs at SUNY Downstate Health Sciences University include foundational courses, concentration-specific courses, and elective courses. All students complete Qualitative Research Methods for Public Health Practice, Methods of Community Intervention and Research, and Program Evaluation: Theory, Practice, and Research. Depending on your chosen specialty, you may also take classes such as Environmental Health Policy and Management Systems, Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Advanced Applied Regression Analysis, Outbreak Investigation and Management, or Advanced Topics in Risk Assessment and Management.
• When you pursue your Doctor of Public Health degree at Morgan State University, you will complete 45 credits. The curriculum features classes, including Critical Issues for Ethical Public Health Practice, Design and Implementation of Public Health Research, Theory-Based Public Health Solutions, Application of Epidemiology Methods, and Qualitative Research in Public Health.
• At Claremont State University, students complete 49 credits from classes such as Community Based Translational Research to Promote Population Health, Health Equity in Research and Practice, Health Systems Engineering and Integration, Positive Organizational Psychology, and Transdisciplinary Changemakers: Justice-Centered Frameworks for Education.
• The curriculum for the Dr.PH program at East Carolina University features classes, including Emerging Issues in Environmental and Occupational Health, Environmental and Occupational Epidemiology, Advanced Industrial Hygiene Applications, Toxicology, and Health Policy Analysis.
What Kind of Practical Training Will You Undergo in Part-Time DrPH Programs?
Part-time DrPH programs include some aspect of practical training. Some programs require you to participate in a clinical practicum or residency, and others require completion of a Dissertation or Doctoral Project. Some schools may require all of these. The following are examples of how the practical training component is met at five of the nation’s best programs.
• At Boston University, you will complete a Public Health Practicum that gives you the opportunity to integrate classroom learning in a public health environment. You will also complete a public health practice dissertation and give oral presentations of both your dissertation proposal and final dissertation. Your dissertation will require you to solve complex, practice-based problems relevant to public health. You may use case studies, policy analyses, program and policy evaluations, legislative proposals, and historical program or policy analyses.
• The University of Illinois at Chicago requires students in its part-time DrPh program to complete a DrPH Portfolio and DrPh Dissertation Project. The Portfolio is an integrative written document of your applied practice and academic and professional experiences, which demonstrate your knowledge, understanding, and application of DrPH core competencies. The Dissertation Project is designed to allow you opportunities to learn to contribute to evidence-based public health practices. Your Dissertation may be in the form of a research study, intervention design involving system, environmental, or organizational change, or development and evaluation of a complex program policy. Students with no requisite experience upon matriculation must participate in a DrPh field experience.
• If you pursue your degree at Drexel University, you will complete a DrPH Practicum course. No matter what your previous level of experience is, you will engage in at least one practice experience in which you are responsible for completing a project that is meaningful to advance public health practice within an organization. You will also complete a DrPH Dissertation, which requires you to conduct an investigation that addresses a problem faced by a public health organization or discipline.
• At the University of Albany, students in the part-time DrPH program complete a DrPH Practicum, DrPH Teaching Practicum, and a Doctoral Project and Dissertation. The DrPH Practicum is a preceptor-supervised internship that involves 80 hours of fieldwork over the course of two to three semesters. The DrPH Teaching Practicum provides you with mentored teaching experience and is designed to help you meet the public health education competency requirement.
• The program offered at Morgan State University requires you to complete a Public Health Practicum and Doctoral Dissertation. The practicum requires a minimum nine-credit-hour internship where you will engage in community practice experiences and work with ongoing community projects. Your Doctoral Dissertation is designed to give you original, comprehensive research experience.
• The University of Illinois at Chicago requires students in its part-time DrPh program to complete a DrPH Portfolio and DrPh Dissertation Project. The Portfolio is an integrative written document of your applied practice and academic and professional experiences, which demonstrate your knowledge, understanding, and application of DrPH core competencies. The Dissertation Project is designed to allow you opportunities to learn to contribute to evidence-based public health practices. Your Dissertation may be in the form of a research study, intervention design involving system, environmental, or organizational change, or development and evaluation of a complex program policy. Students with no requisite experience upon matriculation must participate in a DrPh field experience.
• If you pursue your degree at Drexel University, you will complete a DrPH Practicum course. No matter what your previous level of experience is, you will engage in at least one practice experience in which you are responsible for completing a project that is meaningful to advance public health practice within an organization. You will also complete a DrPH Dissertation, which requires you to conduct an investigation that addresses a problem faced by a public health organization or discipline.
• At the University of Albany, students in the part-time DrPH program complete a DrPH Practicum, DrPH Teaching Practicum, and a Doctoral Project and Dissertation. The DrPH Practicum is a preceptor-supervised internship that involves 80 hours of fieldwork over the course of two to three semesters. The DrPH Teaching Practicum provides you with mentored teaching experience and is designed to help you meet the public health education competency requirement.
• The program offered at Morgan State University requires you to complete a Public Health Practicum and Doctoral Dissertation. The practicum requires a minimum nine-credit-hour internship where you will engage in community practice experiences and work with ongoing community projects. Your Doctoral Dissertation is designed to give you original, comprehensive research experience.
5 Most Important Skills and Abilities You Will Gain in A Part-Time DrPH Program
Part-time DrPH programs will teach you a variety of skills and abilities relevant to professional public health practice. Although the curriculum is rigorous, the knowledge and skills you gain will be instrumental in preparing you for success after graduation. Some of the most important skills and abilities you will develop in these programs include the following.
1. You will learn to apply biostatistics to public health:
Public health professionals use biostatistics to analyze trends and outcomes in various public health spheres. Your program will teach you the skills needed to apply biostatistics to analyze the occurrence of chronic diseases and monitor human development and environmental health.2. You will learn policy development and program planning skills:
Public health professionals are instrumental in creating programs and developing policies that promote better public health services and education programs. In part-time DrPh programs, you will learn appropriate measures for creating, presenting, and implementing new public health policies and program plans.3. You will gain skills that are essential to building community partnerships:
One of the most important factors in practicing effective public health is being able to build strong community partnerships. Part of your DrPH program will include a practicum through which you will have opportunities to learn from experienced preceptors in the field. You will learn what measures make them successful in building strong community partnerships and how to implement measures in your practice.4. You will develop financial management skills:
Depending on your specialization choice in public health, you may work to secure or manage your organization’s financial resources, participate in contingency planning, and secure or manage human resources. To be effective, you must have a clear understanding of finances and how to manage them. As a student in one of the country’s best part-time DrPH programs, you will learn how to implement financial management plans and interventions.5. You will learn ways to promote health equity:
Ensuring the availability of adequate healthcare services to communities means focusing on and promoting health equity. In your program, you will learn ways to eliminate preventable health disparities among diverse individuals and populations and learn measures to reduce structural and systemic barriers that perpetuate those inequalities.5 Main Advantages of Part-Time DrPH Programs
If you are considering earning a Doctor of Public Health degree, you may wonder how it can benefit you. The following are five main advantages to earning your degree through part-time DrPH programs.
1. You can become a leader or administrator in public health:
One of the greatest things about earning your degree through one of the best part-time DrPH programs is that, when you graduate, you will have the knowledge and skills needed to help you lead public health teams in promoting public health in a variety of settings.2. With a Doctor of Public Health degree, you can conduct groundbreaking research to promote public health issues:
If you enjoy research, part-time DrPH programs are an excellent option. The programs feature a large component of research-based projects. The experience you gain in your program will prepare you for opportunities to perform research later that can help promote public health issues designed to improve public health outcomes.3. You can use your degree to promote public health on a global scale:
Public health issues are not limited to one city, state, or country. Public health issues affect populations worldwide. With your doctorate in public health, you can become a global health professional and work to address worldwide health issues, such as large-scale epidemics, malaria, and HIV.4. You can influence the future of public health by working in public health education:
If you love public health and want to promote a positive future for the profession, what better way than to become a public health educator? You may choose to work at a college or university and teach public health programs. As a Doctor of Public Health, you could also be a program director.5. You can take an active role in developing new and important public health policies:
If making a change for the better is important to you, you can use your knowledge and experience as a Doctor of Public Health to develop public health policies and present your ideas to policymakers. The policies you create may be implemented on local, national, or international levels.2 Main Disadvantages of Part-Time DrPH Programs
No matter how great a degree program is, there are always disadvantages to consider. When you weigh the pros and cons, you can make an informed decision about whether the program is the right choice for you. The following are two main disadvantages of part-time DrPh programs.
1. The program is grueling!:
Earning a doctorate in public health takes a lot of hard work. You must be dedicated to long hours of study, research, and internships. If you are looking for a degree that you can breeze through, part-time DrPH programs may not be the best option.2. The programs can take several years to complete:
Part-time DrPH programs can take as few as four years to complete and up to ten years or longer, depending on the number of credits you attempt each semester. The time commitment is something to consider carefully before committing to a program.2 Major Challenges Part-Time DrPH Students and Graduates Face and How to Overcome
Pursuing any doctoral degree comes with challenges. If you do your research and know what to expect, you can plan for challenges and find ways to overcome them and succeed. The following are two major challenges students in part-time DrPH programs face and tips on how to overcome them.
CHALLENGE #1: Completing Your Public Health Dissertation
About the Challenge:
Composing and presenting a public health dissertation can be challenging, especially if this is your first time preparing a dissertation. You must find a dissertation topic and appropriate resources. The project is time-consuming, taking several semesters (or years) to complete.How to Overcome:
Although completing your dissertation can be difficult, you can overcome the challenge by preparing. Brainstorm public health dissertation topics that you find interesting, and choose a topic that you feel you can stay focused on. Look for public health issues with peer-reviewed literature to help you create a hypothesis and gather data and resources from credible websites, college databases, and peer-reviewed papers. Most importantly, do not delay. Realize the importance of your public health dissertation and begin working on it as soon as possible.CHALLENGE #2: The Program Is Time-Consuming
About the Challenge:
Earning a Doctor of Public Health usually takes no less than four years. Some programs take up to ten years. If you find it difficult to commit long hours to study, research, and preparing written work, this may not be the program for you.How to Overcome:
If you truly want to pursue one of the best part-time DrPH programs, you can learn ways to deal with the challenges that come from the time commitment. I suggest talking with an academic advisor or faculty mentor to discuss what is expected of you in the program. Then, if you have a family, talk to them about what being in the program means to you and what it could mean for your family when you graduate. If you have a spouse, children, or others you care for, it will take teamwork to get things done around the house and other personal responsibilities. However, if you remain dedicated and have a good support system, you can succeed!Where Do Graduates of Part-Time DrPH Programs Mostly Work?
After graduating from one of the best part-time DrPH programs, you can work in a variety of settings. Where you work will be determined by whether you have chosen a subspecialty and your desired role. The list below includes three of the top settings where program graduates work.
1. Government Agencies:
Many graduates of part-time DrPH programs work as consultants for local, state, or federal government agencies. In this role, you will work with agencies to detect disease outbreaks and other threats to public health and create agendas for educating the public to prevent the spread of diseases and illnesses.2. Hospitals:
As a Doctor of Public Health, you can work in a hospital and teach patients about their health conditions. You may also work with the administration to create, implement, and oversee programs that promote public health knowledge, bridging the gap between healthcare professionals and the communities they serve.3. Research:
You can also work in a research facility after graduating from one of the best part-time DrPH programs. You can use your public health knowledge and research skills to assess trends in diseases and conduct laboratory tests to gain perspective on the health of a population and to identify and help mitigate risks.5 Best Jobs for Graduates of Part-Time DrPH Programs
When you earn your degree through part-time DrPH programs, there are many job opportunities you can pursue. Whether you want to work in research, education, public policy, or as a public health administrator, the possibilities are endless. The following are five of the top jobs for graduates of these specialized public health programs.
1. Biostatistician:
Biostatisticians design research studies, decide what data needs to be collected and analyzed from medical experiments, interpret the results of data analysis, and collaborate with other professionals to disseminate research findings. The goal of the biostatistician’s research is to further medical knowledge and improve research efforts in public health.2. Epidemiologist:
An epidemiologist is a public health worker who investigates patterns and causes of diseases and injuries. As an epidemiologist, you will work to reduce the risk and occurrence of negative public health outcomes through community education, research, and health policy.3. Health Policy Analyst:
Health policy analysts work to help government institutions work with political action committees, propose new policies, set healthcare policies, and develop financially conscious plans to help ensure policy compliance. The role of a health policy analyst involves combining data analysis with an understanding of how healthcare systems work.4. Environmental Health Specialist:
The Environmental Health Specialist is responsible for enforcing health, safety, and environmental regulations. In this role, you may work to address sanitation regulations, food handling regulations, or regulations related to the proper handling of harmful pollutants, biological waste, and other contaminants and monitor water and air quality and their effects on public health.5. Chief Data Scientist:
As a Chief Data Scientist, you may oversee the scope of data-driven operations within your organization. You will develop data strategies to drive company growth. Some responsibilities of this job include deciding whether to refine new analytic solutions or invest resources into exploring new models to improve company performance, assessing whether projects are cost-effective, and assessing team performance to determine expertise and measures to promote the best possible outcomes.What Starting Salary Can New Graduates of This Program Expect?
Graduates of part-time DrPH programs earn a starting salary of approximately $64,030 per year. This income is equal to $30.78 per hour, $1,231 per week, or $5,340 per month.
| Hourly | $30.78 |
| Weekly | $1,231 |
| Monthly | $5,340 |
| Annual | $64,030 |
What Is the Average Salary for Part-Time DrPH Degree Holders?
After earning your degree through one of the best part-time DrPh programs and gaining work experience, your earning potential can increase significantly. In fact, the average annual income for program graduates is $108,580. This salary breaks down to $52.20 per hour, $2,088 per week, or $9,050 per month.
| Hourly | $52.20 |
| Weekly | $2,088 |
| Monthly | $9,050 |
| Annual | $108,580 |
Average Salary by State for Part-Time DrPH Degree Holders
The average salary for graduates of part-time DrPH programs varies from one state to another. States where there is a higher demand for the services of public health professionals or where the cost of living is higher typically pay more. For example, Mississippi, Montana, Alabama, and Iowa pay some of the lowest annual salaries for graduates, with pay in these states ranging from $80,020 to $89,730. The highest income earners are in California, Alaska, Colorado, Washington, and the District of Columbia, where annual salaries are between $115,300 and $141,770.
| State | Average Annual Salary |
| Alabama | $89,730 |
| Alaska | $115,300 |
| Arizona | $96,930 |
| Arkansas | $73,700 |
| California | $115,300 |
| Colorado | $123,060 |
| Connecticut | $95,850 |
| Delaware | $95,550 |
| District of Columbia | $141,770 |
| Florida | $101,750 |
| Georgia | $94,830 |
| Hawaii | $103,900 |
| Idaho | $85,610 |
| Illinois | $104,510 |
| Indiana | $90,550 |
| Iowa | $86,500 |
| Kansas | $95,820 |
| Kentucky | $97,050 |
| Louisiana | $104,620 |
| Maine | $94,820 |
| Maryland | $118,300 |
| Massachusetts | $111,320 |
| Michigan | $106,100 |
| Minnesota | $108,180 |
| Mississippi | $80,020 |
| Missouri | $88,650 |
| Montana | $86,400 |
| Nebraska | $107,880 |
| Nevada | $110,040 |
| New Hampshire | $98,040 |
| New Jersey | $129,770 |
| New Mexico | $100,310 |
| New York | $131,510 |
| North Carolina | $96,720 |
| North Dakota | $104,500 |
| Ohio | $95,930 |
| Oklahoma | $92,380 |
| Oregon | $106,790 |
| Pennsylvania | $111,910 |
| Rhode Island | $120,370 |
| South Carolina | $101,130 |
| South Dakota | $109,400 |
| Tennessee | $113,590 |
| Texas | $103,020 |
| Utah | $95,460 |
| Vermont | $98,230 |
| Virginia | $127,400 |
| Washington | $125,230 |
| West Virginia | $88,060 |
| Wisconsin | $105,580 |
| Wyoming | $85,240 |
10-Year Job Outlook for Graduates of Part-Time DrPH Programs
Graduates of part-time DrPH programs can expect a good employment outlook. The United States Bureau of Labor Statistics projects jobs in this field will increase by 11.74% between 2021 and 2031, which is faster than jobs in other fields.
| 2021-31 | |
| +11.74% | |
| (Source: U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics) | |
2 Main Reasons Behind the Demand for Graduates of Part-Time DrPH Programs
Public health professionals are essential members of the healthcare profession. The following are two of the main reasons behind the demand for graduates of part-time DrPH programs.
1. COVID-19 Pandemic:
The COVID-19 pandemic has led to a substantial increase in the demand for public health professionals. Graduates of part-time DrPH programs investigate infectious diseases and identify viable solutions to prevent their spread. The more we learn about coronavirus and the many variants, the more professionals we need who can study them and find ways of reducing risk and preventing the spread.2. Increased Awareness of the Importance of Preventive Health Measures:
Health is determined by several factors, including socioeconomic conditions, access to healthcare, demographic patterns, learning environments, and environmental changes. As society grows increasingly aware of how preventive health measures promote better long-term outcomes, there is a greater demand for healthcare professionals to provide education and resources about appropriate measures. Public health professionals are key to finding solutions to factors that impact public health, which increases individual, community, and public health overall.Is The Cost of a Part-Time DrPH Program Worth the Return On Investment (ROI)?
Determining whether the cost of part-time DrPH programs is worth the return on investment is as simple as comparing program costs to your earning potential. For instance, although the cost of these programs varies based on several factors, the average cost to earn a Doctor of Public Health degree is $45,000. New graduates of the programs earn approximately $64,000 annually. The average salary of graduates who have obtained work experience is $108,580. If you compare the average cost of the programs to even the beginning salary of most graduates, you can see a positive return on your investment in as few as the first two years. The more experience you gain, the greater your income potential, which means a higher return on your investment. For this reason, the cost of DrPH part-time programs is worth the return on investment.
Bonus! 5 Most Important Things the Best Part-Time DrPH Programs Look for When Accepting Applicants
Admission to part-time DrPH programs is quite competitive, which means you need to know what programs are looking for in candidates. Of course, reviewing admission criteria is important, but to be a strong candidate, you must work to exceed the minimum admission requirements. The following are five of the most important things these programs look for when reviewing candidates for admission.
1. Excellent Academic History
Part-time DrPH programs look for candidates who have a proven record of academic success. Although some schools accept applicants with at least a 3.0 college GPA, having a grade point average of 3.5 or higher can greatly increase your chances of admission.2. Genuine Interest in Public Health
It is one thing to say you are interested in public health and another thing altogether to prove your interest by being involved in public health roles and issues. Most part-time DrPH programs require candidates to have at least a year of experience working in public health or a related field. However, if the school you are interested in attending does not require experience, they still favor candidates who have it. Whether you get a job working in a public health role or find volunteer opportunities, the more you do to be involved, the more you become an appealing candidate for admission.3. Strong Quantitative Skills
Having good scores on the MCAT, GMAT, or GRE is an excellent way to demonstrate your understanding and application of quantitative skills. Although some schools waive the requirement for these standardized tests, I recommend considering taking at least one of them to help improve your chance of being a viable candidate.4. Research Experience
Although having research experience may not be a requirement for admission to part-time DrPH programs, having a research background that is solid, fundamentally strong, and aligned with your public health interest compliments your application. With research experience, you become a more competitive applicant and increase your chances of being admitted to a program.5. A Strong Personal Goals Statement
Part-time DrPH programs require not only a strong commitment to studies but also a clearly defined set of goals. When you apply to programs, you will be asked to prepare a Goals and Purpose Statement. Carefully consider why you want to earn a doctorate in public health and what you plan to do when you accomplish your degree. Then, be prepared to articulate your thoughts and goals to admissions teams through your personal statement.My Final Thoughts
The decision to pursue a doctorate degree is not one to be taken lightly. If you are a public health professional or want to transition your career to a public health role by earning a doctorate in public health, it is good to ask, “What are the best part-time DrPH programs?”
The 13 best part-time DrPH programs for 2024 featured in this article offer awesome learning opportunities to prepare you for advanced roles as a public health professional. If you believe earning a doctorate in public health is the path you wish to pursue, take the time to reach out to some schools and begin applying. Although admission can be competitive, if you work hard to meet the admission criteria and follow through, you can be well on your way to becoming a Doctor of Public Health!
Frequently Asked Questions Answered by Our Expert
1. What Is The Minimum GPA Required To Get Into Part-Time DrPH Programs?
On average, part-time DrPH programs require candidates to have a college grade point average of at least 3.0 on a 4.0 scale. However, this requirement may vary among schools, with many schools offering preferential admission to candidates with higher GPAs.2. Do I Need Any Work Experience To Get Into Part-Time DrPH Programs?
Most part-time DrPh programs require candidates to have at least one year of work experience in public health or a related field. Because the work experience requirement varies among schools, it is important to verify the admission criteria for each school where you plan to apply.3. On Average, How Long Is A Part-Time DrPH Program?
Part-time DrPH programs take an average of four to seven years to complete. However, you could take longer to graduate, depending on the number of credits you pursue each semester.4. On Average, How Much Does A Part-Time DrPH Program Cost?
Part-time DrPH programs can cost as little as $20,000 to more than $100,000. The average cost of some of the top programs is $45,000.5. What Is The Typical Cost-Per-Credit For Part-Time DrPH Programs?
The per-credit cost for part-time DrPH programs ranges from $375 to $2,000. However, the average per-credit cost is approximately $550.6. What Does The Typical Curriculum Of A Part-Time DrPH Program Include?
The curriculum for part-time DrPH programs is built upon a set of foundational competencies, including leadership, communication, analytics, ethics, policy, management, and program design and evaluation.7. What Can You Do With A Part-Time DrPH Degree?
There are endless opportunities for graduates of part-time DrPH programs. A few things you can do with a degree from these programs are to work for hospitals, major healthcare organizations, nonprofit organizations, government agencies, or in research.8. How Much Do New Graduates Of This Program Make Per Year?
New graduates of part-time DrPH programs earn approximately $64,030 per year.| $64,030 |
9. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Make Per Hour With Experience?
On average, graduates of part-time DrPH programs earn $52.20 per hour.| $52.20 |
10. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of This Program Per Month With Experience?
The average monthly salary for part-time DrPH program graduates is $9,050.| $9,050 |
11. On Average, How Much Can Graduates Of Part-Time DrPH Programs Make Per Year With Experience?
The average annual salary for graduates of part-time DrPH programs is $108,580.| $108,580 |
12. Is A Part-Time DrPH Program Hard To Complete?
Part-time DrPH programs can be challenging to complete. The programs feature rigorous curriculum plans, internships, research, and the completion of a dissertation.13. Is A Part-Time DrPH Degree Worth It?
If you are looking for a career that offers good income potential, long-term job security, and many options for jobs, part-time DrPH programs can prepare you for that, which makes them worth it!14. What Are The 3 Best Alternative Degree Options For Part-Time DrPH Programs?
There are many alternatives to pursuing your degree through part-time DrPH programs. A few of the best alternatives include Doctor of Nursing Practice, Doctor of Public Administration, and Doctor of Education.
Darby Faubion, RN, BSN, MBA
Darby Faubion is a nurse and Allied Health educator with over twenty years of experience. She has assisted in developing curriculum for nursing programs and has instructed students at both community college and university levels. Because of her love of nursing education, Darby became a test-taking strategist and NCLEX prep coach and assists nursing graduates across the United States who are preparing to take the National Council Licensure Examination (NCLEX).