Public Health, PhD

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The PhD in Public Health prepares students to lead programs and conduct independent investigations addressing public health topics relevant to culturally diverse groups, with an emphasis on those in the state of Hawaiʻi and the Asia-Pacific region. The program emphasizes community-based and translational research. Community-based participatory research in health is a collaborative approach to research that equitably involves investigators and members of the community in the research process and recognizes the unique strengths that each brings. Translational research is the investigation of how to successfully transform scientific discoveries arising from laboratory, clinical, or population studies into community applications to reduce disease incidence, morbidity, and mortality. These approaches increase the likelihood that interventions will be embraced by the community and that the community members will gain knowledge, skills, and other benefits from the research.

Requirements

All PhD in Public Health students will complete required and elective course work in evidence-based public health, advanced health policy, cultural competence, community-based participatory research, and qualitative and quantitative research methods. They also complete a qualifying paper and exam, mentored teaching and research practica, a comprehensive exam, and a three-paper dissertation. PhD in Public Health students are expected to publish their work in peer-reviewed journals and present at national and international forums.

An MPH is not required for admission. However, non-MPH graduates must take courses in epidemiology, biostatistics, U.S. health care systems and policies, health promotion theory and methods, and program planning and management prior to applying or after admission. We encourage applications from candidates who have well-focused research interests and career goals. An academic writing sample and three letters of recommendation are required for application. A few teaching and research assistantships are available for degree candidates. Qualified students may also apply for East-West Center fellowships. Contact Dr. Kathryn L. Braun (Chair) for additional details at kbraun@hawaii.edu.