University of Findlay

What you'll study

This doctoral programme combines advanced coursework, rigorous research training and dissertation work. Core study areas typically include research design and methodology, biostatistics, epidemiology, health systems and policy, advanced health promotion and behaviour change, programme evaluation, implementation science and ethical issues in health research.

• Research methods and statistics: qualitative and quantitative methods, mixed methods, advanced biostatistics and data analysis.
• Health systems and policy: health-care delivery models, health policy analysis, financing and regulatory frameworks.
• Population and public health: epidemiology, community needs assessment, prevention strategies and social determinants of health.
• Implementation and evaluation: programme design, implementation science, outcome measurement and cost‑effectiveness assessment.
• Professional and ethical issues: research ethics, leadership and interprofessional collaboration in health-care settings.
• Dissertation: independent, original research under faculty supervision culminating in a written thesis and oral defence; students are expected to contribute to peer‑reviewed literature.

Programme delivery emphasises close faculty mentorship, opportunities to collaborate with regional health providers and applied projects that translate research into practice. Coursework is followed by comprehensive examinations or portfolio assessment before doctoral candidacy is confirmed.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a relevant master's degree (for example, MS, MPH, MHA, MSN or equivalent) from an accredited institution, although exceptional applicants with substantial professional experience may be considered. Typical entry criteria include:

• Evidence of academic preparedness (transcripts showing graduate‑level work);
• A current curriculum vitae or résumé documenting professional and research experience;
• Statement of purpose outlining research interests and career goals; often including a preliminary research idea or areas of enquiry;
• Letters of recommendation (commonly two to three) from academic or professional referees able to comment on research potential;
• Interview with faculty or admissions panel as part of the assessment process.

Some applicants may be asked to provide GRE scores where required by the programme; applicants whose first language is not English may need to demonstrate English proficiency through recognised tests or institutional exemptions. Relevant professional licensure or clinical qualifications can strengthen an application, particularly for practice‑oriented research projects.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Health pursue a variety of careers across academia, health systems, public health agencies and the private sector. Typical roles include:

• University faculty and academic researchers, teaching health sciences and leading research programmes;
• Research scientists in public‑health institutes, think tanks and non‑governmental organisations;
• Senior leadership positions in hospitals, health systems and clinical service organisations focused on quality improvement and evidence‑based care;
• Policy analysts and advisors in local, state/provincial or national health departments and regulatory bodies;
• Directors of programme evaluation, implementation science leads and consultants for health interventions and community health initiatives.

Many graduates combine academic and applied roles, publishing research while directing practice‑focused projects that affect population health and service delivery.

Why study at University of Findlay

The University of Findlay offers a collegial, mentorship‑centred environment well suited to doctoral study in health. The programme emphasises applied research and close faculty supervision, which benefits students seeking translational projects connected to regional health providers and community partners. Small cohort sizes enable tailored guidance on methodological training and career development.

Findlay’s health professions colleges provide access to interprofessional collaboration, clinical placement opportunities and facilities that support both quantitative and qualitative research. The university’s focus on ethical leadership and service aligns with students aiming to influence practice and policy in healthcare settings.