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Explore an online doctorate in public health (DrPH)

Prepare for meaningful work in a rapidly growing field

Browse CEPH-accredited online DrPH programs

Why earn a doctor of public health online?

Prepare for a clinical career

Gain in-field clinical training that will give you the real-world expertise you need before you graduate.

Complete specialized work with specific populations

Learn the latest in the field of public health via a flexible, online format featuring a blend of live classes and engaging, asynchronous coursework.

Connect with like-minded peers

Find university, learner, and faculty networks that align with your values without worrying about location.

Browse CEPH-accredited online DrPH programs

What is a DrPH degree?

Public health workers protect and advance community health and safety as health educators, administrators, technicians, scientists, and analysts. A doctor of public health online reflects the highest level of academic achievement and qualifies an individual to perform expert-level work in this field.

Admission requirements for an online doctorate in public health

Admissions requirements for online DrPh programs vary by school. As with most accredited master of public health programs, online DrPH programs typically require you to have a from an accredited college or university. A majority of programs prefer a minimum grade point average of 3.0 on a 4.0 scale; however, this is not always a requirement.

Doctorate programs in public health seek applicants with master's or bachelor's degrees in the same field, such as an . Many also accept individuals with nursing, communication, statistics, and related backgrounds. Professionals who lack the appropriate educational background can make up for it with relevant work experience.

A statement of purpose with evidence of personal characteristics and goals that align with the public health profession are also usually preferred, if not required.

The best way to learn about the specific requirements for any given program is to request information from the universities you are interested in, or visit their admissions pages to learn more.

How to apply

to explore specific application instructions.

DrPH online curriculum

Online DrPH programs teach leadership practice and theory through core courses, in-person immersions, and practical experience. You will and how to develop, implement, and evaluate effective public health programs and policies. Upon graduation from one of the , you’ll be prepared to resolve complex public health issues at the systemic level.

As part of an online DrPH program, you will:

  • Elevate your public health leadership and management skills

  • Connect with prominent public health leaders around the world

  • Receive mentorship and personal support from practice-based faculty

  • Collaborate with diverse peers during live online evening classes

Advance your career with doctor of public health jobs

Those who complete an online doctorate in public health have come from and continue on into industries such as:

  • Healthcare

  • Engineering

  • Public policy

  • Epidemiology

  • Community health

  • Research

  • Business or nonprofit work

  • Education

Doctorate in public health salary

In a growing discipline like public health, a doctorate in public health salary remains competitive in the evolving market.

According to the U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics, an epidemiologist in state or local government can earn an average of above USD66,000 all the way to the highest-earning 10% of epidemiologists who earn type: embedded-entry-inline id: 6B9zXC6G8I5afdXOPUyaYL

Career outlook

Potentially available doctor of public health jobs include:

  • Health department director

  • Public health information officer

  • Health policy advisor

  • Public health consultant

  • Health officer

  • Epidemiologist

  • Public health program director

  • Community health manager/director

The U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics predicts the employment of epidemiologists from 2021 to 2031, much faster than the average for all occupations.type: embedded-entry-inline id: 6B9zXC6G8I5afdXOPUyaYL

Growing and changing populations call for an evolving generation of public health practitioners, thought leaders, and policy influencers.

Frequently asked questions

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  1. Epidemiologists. (2022). U.S. Bureau of Labor Statistics. Retrieved August 3, 2023.