University of New Haven

What you'll study

The PhD programme combines advanced coursework in research methods with an independent, original dissertation project that addresses a substantive question in health services, health systems, or health policy. Core areas of study typically include epidemiology, biostatistics, health services research methods, health policy and economics, implementation science, quality improvement, and ethics in health research.

• Research methods and statistics: advanced quantitative methods, qualitative methods, mixed-methods design, longitudinal analysis and causal inference.
• Health systems and policy: organisation of health care, financing and payment models, comparative health systems and regulation.
• Health services research topics: access to care, health disparities, outcomes measurement, cost-effectiveness and value-based care.
• Implementation and quality improvement: translational research, programme evaluation, patient safety, and system-level interventions.
• Dissertation: independent research under faculty supervision that contributes new empirical or theoretical knowledge to the field.

The programme structure typically includes initial coursework to build methodological competence, comprehensive examinations to demonstrate readiness for independent research, and sustained dissertation work. Students engage in seminars, research practicum or teaching opportunities, and regular mentorship with a supervisory committee.

Entry requirements

Applicants are expected to hold a relevant master’s degree (for example, in public health, health sciences, health administration, nursing, or a related discipline) with a strong academic record. Significant professional experience in health care, public health or research can strengthen an application.

• Academic transcripts from previous degrees demonstrating preparation for doctoral study.
• A research statement or proposal outlining intended doctoral research interests and questions.
• Curriculum vitae showing academic, clinical or professional experience.
• Letters of recommendation from academic or professional referees who can speak to research potential.
• Applicants may be asked to participate in an interview; standardised tests (when required) and English language proficiency evidence must meet university requirements.

Admission is competitive and based on academic preparation, fit with faculty expertise, and the feasibility of the proposed research. Prospective students are encouraged to contact potential supervisors before applying to discuss research alignment.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Health Services are prepared for a range of careers that require advanced research skills and domain expertise. Typical career paths include:

• Academic roles: faculty positions in schools of public health, health sciences, nursing, or health administration, with responsibilities for teaching and research.
• Health services research: researcher or senior analyst roles in universities, independent research institutes, and think-tanks.
• Policy and government: analyst or director roles in local, state or federal health agencies developing and evaluating health policy.
• Healthcare leadership and improvement: roles in hospitals, health systems or payer organisations focused on quality improvement, outcomes measurement and implementation of evidence-based practice.
• Industry and consulting: scientific or strategy roles in pharmaceutical, medical device, health technology, and consulting firms focused on real-world evidence, health economics and outcomes research.

Why study at University of New Haven

The University of New Haven offers a doctoral environment with close faculty mentorship, access to applied research opportunities, and interdisciplinary collaboration across health-related departments. The institution emphasises translational research that informs practice and policy, and doctoral candidates benefit from small cohorts that allow personalised supervision and frequent scholarly feedback.

Students have opportunities to engage with regional health providers, community health organisations and research networks to develop projects with practical impact. The campus provides research resources and coursework designed to build rigorous methodological skills that are valued by academic and non-academic employers alike.