The primary mission of the Ph.D. in health services research is to develop leaders and problem solvers whose professional services will improve the health of the population not only in Eastern Virginia but also statewide, nationally, and internationally. Health services researchers examine health care quality and effectiveness, primary and managed care, new technologies, and other critical health services and related public health research practice topics. Health services researchers pursue careers in many settings, including academia, industry, professional organizations, research centers, health policy groups, clinical settings, and in federal, state, local, and international agencies.
Program Highlights
The goals of the program are to enable students to conduct and interpret health services research, to formulate and analyze public health policy, to lead programs and organizations that address the health care needs of populations and to work directly with community members to empower them to be a part of the policy formulation process.
Graduates from the program will develop the critical skills necessary to integrate knowledge and competencies applicable to public health and health services questions and problems.
Students will be able to design viable programs, manage resources, and measure the effectiveness of service delivery public health interventions to populations.
Students have the option of selecting the 3-article format to satisfy the dissertation requirement.
Students are matched with a research mentor upon entrance to the program.
Teach courses in health specialties, in fields such as dentistry, laboratory technology, medicine, pharmacy, public health, therapy, and veterinary medicine.
Medical and Health Services Managers
$111,680
Median Salary
Plan, direct, or coordinate medical and health services in hospitals, clinics, managed care organizations, public health agencies, or similar organizations.
Alumni Careers
Department of Health & Human Service
Office of Minority Health
George Washington University
Sentara Health Systems
Requirements
What are the requirements to apply for Health Services Research at ODU?
Students entering the Doctor of Philosophy program in Health Services Research should meet the minimum university admission requirements Graduate Admission.
Students are admitted to the Ph.D. program during the fall term only. Applications for admission are reviewed by the Ph.D. in Health Services Research Program admissions committee. Complete the application form and submit all required materials to the Office of Admissions, Old Dominion University. To qualify for admission, an applicant must meet the general University admission requirements at the graduate level as well as specific program requirements, including:
A completed master’s degree from a program that is accredited by a specialized accrediting agency; degrees such as M.D., J.D., and D.D.S. are also acceptable;
A minimum acceptable grade point average of 3.50 (on a 4.0 scale) overall for the master’s degree;
The Graduate Record Exam (GRE) is not required although strongly recommended.
For those whose native language is not English a TOEFL score of at least 550 (79 for internet-based test);
Official transcripts from all institutions of higher education attended;
A current curriculum vitae or resume;
Three letters of reference from sources capable of commenting on the applicant’s readiness and commitment for doctoral studies. At least two, and preferably all letters should be from academic sources; other letters must be from professional supervisors;
A 1500- word essay discussing the applicant’s academic and professional goals. This essay should discuss how the Ph.D. in Health Services Research program will contribute towards meeting these goals; and
An interview (Zoom or face-2-face) to discuss applicant's research focus and fit with the program faculty's expertise.
This course will introduce the student to the political, social, cultural and ethical issues involved in disease…
HLSC 776
Global Health
This course will introduce the student to the political, social, cultural and ethical issues involved in disease prevention and health promotion globally. Specific emphasis will be on incidence/prevalence, morbidity/mortality, and identified health problems in specific regions and countries. This course will also identify international health prerogatives aimed at improving health status through education and intervention.
Uses theory and research findings from areas such as Biology, Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Urban Studies, and…
HLSC 809
Multidisciplinary Approaches to Health Services Research
Uses theory and research findings from areas such as Biology, Psychology, Sociology, Economics, Urban Studies, and Health Services to achieve an understanding of health services issues and problems. Emphasizes methods of analysis and of developing alternatives related to multidisciplinary perspectives.
Designed as a 'hand-on' approach in effective grantsmanship, this course will guide the student from the identification…
HLSC 873
Planning Proposals and Developing Grants in Health Research
Designed as a 'hand-on' approach in effective grantsmanship, this course will guide the student from the identification of potential funding sources through proposal development. Highlights include program planning, nonprofit status, governmental/foundation corporate trends, local resources and grants administration.
We believe in providing students with transparent and accessible information about the cost of attendance.
Review the estimated tuition rates for the 2024-25 academic year (subject to change). Other fees are assessed for special services and certain academic programs. Non-resident rates are charged for anyone who is not a current Virginia resident, including international students.
Virginia Resident
Cost Per-Credit$620
Technology Delivered Courses Outside Virginia and/or the United States
Cost Per-Credit$642
Non-Resident
Cost Per-Credit$1,486
Ways to Fund Your Degree
There are a few ways for you to save on the cost of attending Old Dominion University, including scholarships, assistantships, and student loans. For more details about financial aid at Old Dominion, visit the Financial Aid Office page.
Are there other programs at ODU I may be interested in?
With over 120 undergraduate programs, 130 graduate programs at the master's, education specialist and doctoral levels plus a wealth of certificate and professional development programs, Old Dominion University has the program for you. Visit our academic program listing page to see other programs ODU has to offer.
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