University of San Diego

What you'll study

This PhD emphasises rigorous research, theoretical foundations of mental and social health, and applied skills for transforming services and systems. Core study areas typically include advanced quantitative and qualitative research methods, program evaluation, implementation science, epidemiology of mental health, health services organisation and policy, and ethics in research and practice.

• Research methods & statistics: longitudinal designs, multilevel modelling, structural equation modelling, mixed methods approaches and measurement development.
• Clinical and community interventions: evidence‑based treatments, community‑based participatory research, cultural competence and prevention strategies across the lifespan.
• Health services & policy: financing and organisation of mental health services, quality improvement, implementation and dissemination research.
• Practicum and fieldwork: supervised placements in community agencies, public health departments or allied health settings to develop translational and leadership skills.
• Dissertation: an independent, original research project that makes a contribution to the knowledge base of mental and social health services.

Programme structure usually combines coursework, comprehensive examinations, practicum experience, and the dissertation. Students work closely with a faculty advisor and a dissertation committee, and cohort sizes are intentionally small to support mentorship and collaborative scholarship.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example in psychology, public health, social work, nursing, counselling or a related allied health field) from an accredited institution. Strong candidates typically demonstrate:

• A record of academic achievement, including coursework in research methods or statistics.
• Relevant professional or research experience in mental health, social services or allied professions.
• A research interest that aligns with departmental faculty expertise and an identified potential mentor where possible.
• Supporting materials such as a CV, statement of purpose outlining research goals, letters of recommendation, and academic transcripts.

Standardised test requirements and language proficiency tests follow university policy and may vary; prospective applicants should consult the school’s graduate admissions guidance for current requirements. Selected applicants are often invited to an interview as part of the assessment process.

Career prospects

Graduates of this PhD are prepared for leadership roles across academic, clinical, public‑sector and non‑profit settings. Common career paths include:

• Academic researcher or faculty positions in universities and research institutes.
• Research scientist or evaluator roles in government agencies, public health departments and foundations.
• Clinical leadership and programme director positions in community mental health organisations, hospitals, and integrated care settings.
• Policy analyst or consultant roles focused on mental health systems, implementation and service transformation.
• Senior positions in non‑profit organisations and advocacy groups that design, implement and scale evidence‑based services.

Why study at University of San Diego

The University of San Diego offers an environment supportive of interdisciplinary scholarship with a commitment to social justice and community engagement. The programme benefits from close faculty mentoring, small cohort sizes and opportunities for applied research in a diverse urban region with a wide range of healthcare and social service providers.

Students gain access to research resources and practicum placements that allow them to translate findings into practice, and the university’s emphasis on ethical, culturally responsive approaches prepares graduates to address complex mental and social health challenges in varied professional contexts.