Explore our PhD in Public Health Community Health specialization
Health education is critical to promoting healthy lifestyles. The Community Health specialization addresses how to assess and improve the well-being of communities and public health systems. Learn to analyze a community’s overall health by examining available health resources and the quality of living conditions. Explore how to develop programs that can lead to healthier environments and better health for individuals. Your study culminates in a community health assessment and the development of a public health program to address that community’s needs.
PROGRAM SAVINGS
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 30, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
TRACK I: Choose this track if you have a Master of Public Health (MPH) or an MS in Public Health.
TRACK II: Choose this track if you hold a bachelor’s degree or higher in an academic discipline other than the public health field.
Curriculum
Minimum Degree Requirements
83 quarter credits
Foundation courses (3 cr.)
Core courses (40 cr.)
Specialization courses (20 cr.)
Doctoral Seminars (5 cr.)
Dissertation (minimum 15 cr.)
Four PhD residencies
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code
Title
Credits
CAEX 6055
Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills
In this 6-week course, graduate students take the first step in developing their reading and writing skills for scholarly work. Students read a research article and summarize its parts, thus becoming more familiar with the language, structure, and style of the academic conversation. In addition to summary writing, topics include APA citation, scholarly voice, and revision. Students also maintain a journal of writing feedback they've received and apply that feedback to papers for their discipline-specific courses. After completion, students move on to CAEX 6065/6066 - Graduate Writing II: Intermediate Composition Skills.
This 6-week course primes graduate students not only to understand a scholarly text but to critically read and form an argument based on it. Topics covered include paraphrasing, APA citation, analysis, academic paragraphs, and revising and editing. Students participate in a robust writing community where they practice writing in discussion forums, keep a feedback journal, and apply their learning to papers for their discipline-specific courses. Through these activities, students should begin to see their place in the scholarly conversation. This course is complementary to CAEX 6055/6056 - Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills, and enhances the skills covered in CAEX 6050. Students in this course are expected to have a familiarity with the skills covered in CAEX 6055/6056 - Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills.
(0 cr.)
PHLT 8006/11
Foundations of Doctoral Success in Public Health
In this course, students will explore the field of public health and analyze foundational components of the discipline, including philosophies and values, from the viewpoint of what it means to become a scholar-practitioner in the field. They will also examine literature in public health including information on emerging issues and trends and technologies used. Students will learn about the public health doctoral programs and the resources that are available to improve scholarly voice, writing, and communication. In addition, students will examine the skills that are needed to complete a doctoral study program with regards to time management, self-discipline, and academic integrity.
-
(5 cr.)
DRWA 8000
Doctoral Writing Assessment
This course is part of Walden's commitment to help prepare students to meet the university's expectations for writing in courses at the doctoral level. In this course, students write a short academic essay that will be scored by a team of writing assessors. Based on the essay score, students will be guided toward any further recommended or required writing support needed to meet writing proficiency standards. This required course is free. Students will be enrolled automatically in it after they complete their first term of their doctoral program.
(0 cr.)
PHLT 8051
Advanced Issues in Global Public Health
This course provides an in-depth review and analysis of the leading global health problems, and the primary methods used to measure those problems. Students analyze the social and environmental determinants of global health problems, including urbanization, global industrialization, environmental pollution, and their role in health inequalities within and between populations. In addition, students evaluate population-based approaches to improving global public health, including culturally inclusive and sensitive primary health care, and policies that promote health literacy, health equity and positive social change. Emphasis is placed on strategies to advance inclusion, cultural humility and health equity in public health research, policies and programs. The course takes a cross-disciplinary, ecological approach, enabling students to examine the complex inter-relationships between economic, social and environmental factors, and health.
Prerequisites
PhD in Nursing
None
PhD in Public Health
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8402
Applied Leadership and Multicultural Perspectives in Public Health
In this course, students explore various definitions of public health leadership versus public health management. Students apply insights to current and future public health leadership roles, examine the strengths and limitations of the various theories and models of leadership, and consider which most resonates with their personal leadership philosophy. They reflect on the importance of cultural proficiency, apply a multicultural perspective for leadership in public health, consider negotiation and conflict resolution methods and reflect on the value of diversity in research. Students apply a systems thinking approach to public health leadership, and in doing so analyze their own personal leadership characteristics, values, and behaviors, assessing their own attitudes, beliefs, and implicit bias. They explore the importance of ethical decision making for effective public health leadership, engage in professional development planning, and apply public health leadership theory to design a system-level intervention.
Prerequisites
PhD in Nursing
None
PhD in Public Health
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8060
Dissertation Seminar I
Dissertation Seminar Course 1 on the Journey to the Community of Scholars gets students prepared for the dissertation process. Students are introduced to the Doctoral Degree Coach, helpful dissertation resources, time management strategies, and potential topics relevant to their field of study. Students also examine exemplar dissertations to better understand the journey they will be undertaking.
Prerequisites
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(1 cr.)
RSCH 8110H
Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8110 prerequisites by program
-
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8062
Dissertation Seminar II
Dissertation Seminar Course 2 on the Journey to the Communities of Scholars represents the preboarding phase of the journey. Students learn how to use the library, develop doctoral-level writing strategies, and write a literature review. Students also examine how social problems drive scientific inquiry.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8060
(1 cr.)
PHLT 8042
Public Health Ethics
This course will introduce students to the main values and principles that drive decision-making in public health research and practice. Through a case study approach, students will be exposed to different ethical theories and their application in real-life public health scenarios, such as resource allocation, individual autonomy versus the needs of the community, and protecting vulnerable populations. In addition, principles of research ethics will be discussed and students will be exposed to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) application process.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(3 cr.)
RSCH 8210H
Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
In this research course, students are provided with the opportunity to develop core knowledge and skills for designing and carrying out quantitative research at the doctoral level, including the application of statistical concepts and techniques. Students explore classical common statistical tests, the importance of the logic of inference, and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. Students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to derive statistics from quantitative data and interpret and present results.
Prerequisites
Doctor of Social Work
RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
RSCH 8110
RESI 8801C
PhD in Social Work
RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
All Other Programs
RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110
RESI 8401
-
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8270
Health Informatics and Surveillance
By addressing current trends and future applications in public health research, students develop advanced competency in health informatics and surveillance in this course. The key informatics issues of data standards and integration, vocabularies and data transmission protocols, natural language or text processing, health information technology, surveillance systems, and the application of geographical information systems to situation awareness are addressed. Through surveillance data analysis, students will use trend data to detect and interpret aberrations in person, place, and time trends. Other topics include information architecture, public health records, electronic medical records, electronic health records, health information exchange, and database design, as well as information storage, security, and privacy.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8110
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8064
Dissertation Seminar III
[Under development]
Prerequisites
PHLT 8062
RSCH 8110H
(1 cr.)
RSCH 8310
Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course are provided with the opportunity to develop basic knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry, how theory and theoretical and conceptual frameworks uniquely apply to qualitative research, data collection procedures and analysis strategy, and how the role of the researcher is expressed in the ethical and rigorous conduct of qualitative research. Students practice collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting data, and they develop a detailed research topic for conducting a qualitative study.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8310 prerequisites by program
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8046
Grant Writing and Review for Public Health Research
In this course, students investigate the multiple funding sources of public health research. Students analyze grant-writing strategies and the advantages and disadvantages of various financing options. Students will be responsible for writing a mock public health grant proposal to support a real-world research topic. In addition, students will be exposed to the grant approval review process and gain experience in grant review and evaluation.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8048
Research and Application of Public Health and Behavior Change Theories
This course presents a comprehensive look at public health and behavior change theoretical and conceptual models that apply to public health research and practice. Students review and assess predominant social and behavioral principles at the individual, interpersonal, and community levels. Students learn to integrate knowledge on different public health theoretical and conceptual frameworks, research approaches, methods, values and potential contributions from multiple professions and systems in addressing public health problems. Finally, students learn to apply theories to public health quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research and practice.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8064
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8450
Community Health Assessment
Students in this course cover community health assessment and its application to program planning. They learn to identify and prioritize problems, then assess and utilize community resources to address these problems. Topics include measuring selected determinants of community health status and health services use, classifying community assets, identifying data sources, and applying certain methods to maximize community participation. Students synthesize the results of a community health assessment to create a community diagnosis that serves as the basis for program planning and research design.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8066
Dissertation Seminar IV
[Under development]
Prerequisites
RSCH 8310H
PHLT 8064
(1 cr.)
Methods Elective
Choose 1 of 6 below
RSCH 8360
Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis. and have experience applying them. Students develop a more sophisticated understanding of the theoretical antecedents and practical applications of eight contemporary qualitative approaches. Students gain experience developing qualitative interview guides, collecting data, and managing the process from transcription through analysis. The unique challenges of confidentiality and ethical issues are explored as well as implications for social change. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a qualitative research plan using a topic relevant to their capstone.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8360 prerequisites by program
Note: This course was previously RSCH 8350.
(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8260
Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course build upon knowledge and skills acquired in the prerequisite quantitative reasoning course and are presented with opportunities to apply them. They are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for conducting quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding multivariate data analysis and applying more advanced statistical concepts, such as factorial ANOVA, mediation, moderation, logistic regression, ANCOVA, and MANOVA. Students explore existing datasets and apply suitable statistical tests to answer research questions with social change implications. In this course, they approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting the appropriate statistical tests for more complex research questions and social problems. Students use statistical software to perform analyses and interpret and present results. They will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by carrying out a quantitative research project.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8260 prerequisites by program
(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8460
Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis
Students build upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8210 - Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis for more specialized knowledge and skills to design mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. Students are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for designing mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. They gain an understanding of the types of mixed-methods designs and how to select the most appropriate approach for the research question(s). The emphases of this course are on integrating quantitative and qualitative elements into true mixed-methods studies, practice in data analysis, and integration of qualitative and quantitative data within a research write-up. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a mixed-methods research plan that incorporates qualitative and quantitative elements appropriately.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8460 prerequisites by program
Note: This course was previously RSCH 8450.
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8076
Fundamentals of Mapping and Geographic Information Systems for Public Health
This course enables students to acquire, manipulate and effectively display spatial data by introducing principles, methods, and techniques used in public health to help foster decision and policy-making based on the visualization of data. Students will further understand how public health researchers and practitioners can increase the impact of their work by using geographic information systems (GIS) to convey information and synthesize data from multiple sources. Using basic GIS concepts, such as coordinate systems, layering, buffering, joining, merging, and aggregating spatial data, conducting spatial queries, and appropriate visualization of spatial data, students will be able to visualize, analyze, and interpret data in an accessible and useful way.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8402
PHLT 8066
PHLT 8070
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8560
Advanced Analysis of Secondary Data
Through this course, students develop an advanced understanding of statistical and epidemiological methodology and the use of public health and biomedical secondary data sources. Students explore how to design research to make appropriate use of available secondary data sources. Students also evaluate the strengths and limitations of using secondary data.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8270
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8500
Advanced Biostatistics
Students in this course cover the advanced biostatistics methods needed to prepare for conducting future research, as well as for critically reviewing the statistical methods incorporated in public health literature. Students learn to use statistical methodologies such as covariance and repeated measures, longitudinal data analysis, life tables and survival analysis, multiple regression, logistic regression, Poisson regression, and the Cox proportional hazards regression model. In this course, students use SPSS statistical software for advanced data management, manipulation, analysis, and the use of graphical techniques.
Prerequisites
Community Health Specialization:
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8062
PHLT 8066
Environmental and Occupational Health & Epidemiology Specializations:
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8062
(5 cr.)
Specialization Elective
Choose 1 of 3 below
PHLT 8044
Advanced Program Evaluation
The course provides students interested in pursuing a public health doctoral-level degree with the advanced competencies necessary to evaluate public health programs. This course will emphasize public health practice and is designed to assist students in understanding how to plan, conduct, and report on a program evaluation. Students will learn the importance of abiding by the program evaluation standards and evaluator guiding principles. These are fundamental to ensure students complete evaluations with integrity and utility. Students will learn the importance of evaluation theory and the relationship between evaluation theory, program theory, and public health change theories.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8040
Advanced Public Health Policy and Advocacy
In this course, students examine the role of federal, state, and local government in the assurance of public health through health policy and law. Consideration is given to contemporary policy, law, and regulatory issues arising in public health practice, as well as to the economics and financing of public health programs. The advocacy, political, and creative process in the formulation, implementation, and modification of health policy are examined and discussed. Students also learn how to structure and write a health policy brief, which will provide students with experience integrating scientific information, legal, and regulatory approaches, ethical frameworks, and varied stakeholder interests in policy development and analysis.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8402
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8054
Lifestyle and Chronic Diseases
In this course, students explore how lifestyle and related risk factors influence chronic diseases, also called noncommunicable diseases. Topics include the role of diet, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and substance use (tobacco, alcohol, and drug use) on the epidemiology of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and asthma. Through development of an evidence-based intervention to improve a lifestyle behavior, students evaluate the use of theories of health behavior change, measurement techniques, screening approaches, and prevention of chronic diseases.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8068
Dissertation Seminar V
[Under development]
Prerequisites
RESI 8401
RESI 8402
PHLT 8066
(1 cr.)
PHLT 9005
Dissertation Prospectus
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The first stage of capstone development is the prospectus. The doctoral prospectus is a brief document that provides preliminary information about the capstone research. It serves as the tentative plan for developing the proposal and is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., feasibility, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a program-level designee. Program-level approval is required to progress to the proposal.
Prerequisites
All required coursework
Residencies 1, 2, and 3 (RESI 8401, and RESI 8402, and RESI 8403)
(5 cr.)
PHLT 9015
Dissertation Proposal
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The second stage of capstone development is the proposal. The doctoral proposal consists of the first few chapters or sections of the capstone and an APA-Style reference list. The proposal presents a detailed plan of the proposed research and describes a specific problem, the related literature, and the intended research methodology. The proposal is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., exhaustive review of literature, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a university research reviewer. Students complete an oral defense, and the Proposal Stage culminates with the research ethics review process. IRB approval is required to progress to the final study.
Prerequisites
Dissertation prospectus (PHLT 9005)
(5 cr.)
PHLT 9025
Dissertation Final Study
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The last stage of capstone development is the final study. After the IRB application has been approved, students conduct their research, collect and analyze data, report findings, and draw conclusions. With the guidance of the committee, students write the remaining chapters or sections of the capstone as well as the document abstract. The final study is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., accurate results, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a university research reviewer. Students complete the form and style review process and an oral defense. The final study stage culminates in the chief academic officer (CAO) designee review process and CAO approval is required for capstone completion.
$1,375 each (virtual)
$1,475 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional)
$5,500–$5,900
Estimated Range:
2.75-Year
8-Year
$60,555
$127,945*+
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 2.75-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
Curriculum
Minimum Degree Requirements
109 quarter credits
Foundation course (3 cr.)
Core courses (66 cr.)
Specialization courses (20 cr.)
Doctoral Seminars (5 cr.)
Dissertation (minimum 15 cr.)
Four PhD residencies
Walden students have up to 8 years to complete their doctoral program unless they petition for an extension.
In general, students are continuously registered in the dissertation/doctoral study course until they complete their capstone project and it is approved. This usually takes longer than the minimum required terms in the dissertation/doctoral study course shell.
This sequence represents the minimum time to completion. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 855-646-5286.
Courses
Course Code
Title
Credits
CAEX 6055
Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills
In this 6-week course, graduate students take the first step in developing their reading and writing skills for scholarly work. Students read a research article and summarize its parts, thus becoming more familiar with the language, structure, and style of the academic conversation. In addition to summary writing, topics include APA citation, scholarly voice, and revision. Students also maintain a journal of writing feedback they've received and apply that feedback to papers for their discipline-specific courses. After completion, students move on to CAEX 6065/6066 - Graduate Writing II: Intermediate Composition Skills.
This 6-week course primes graduate students not only to understand a scholarly text but to critically read and form an argument based on it. Topics covered include paraphrasing, APA citation, analysis, academic paragraphs, and revising and editing. Students participate in a robust writing community where they practice writing in discussion forums, keep a feedback journal, and apply their learning to papers for their discipline-specific courses. Through these activities, students should begin to see their place in the scholarly conversation. This course is complementary to CAEX 6055/6056 - Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills, and enhances the skills covered in CAEX 6050. Students in this course are expected to have a familiarity with the skills covered in CAEX 6055/6056 - Graduate Writing I: Basic Composition Skills.
(0 cr.)
PHLT 8006/11
Foundations of Doctoral Success in Public Health
In this course, students will explore the field of public health and analyze foundational components of the discipline, including philosophies and values, from the viewpoint of what it means to become a scholar-practitioner in the field. They will also examine literature in public health including information on emerging issues and trends and technologies used. Students will learn about the public health doctoral programs and the resources that are available to improve scholarly voice, writing, and communication. In addition, students will examine the skills that are needed to complete a doctoral study program with regards to time management, self-discipline, and academic integrity.
-
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8038
Health Behavior Theory
Students in this course are introduced to concepts necessary for promoting positive health-behavior change by examining the most commonly used theories and models in public health and health education and promotion. Coursework focuses on the identification and application of theories and models for promoting and designing effective health behavior programs and interventions. Students explore individual, interpersonal, and community theories and modules to determine the most appropriate application.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8032
SPSS Revealed
In this laboratory course, students can learn the skills needed to use the statistical computer package SPSS (Software Package for the Social Sciences) in public health practice and research. Topics include importation of data, management of various types of data, creation and exportation of tables and graphs, and computation of basic statistical tests using SPSS.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(1 cr.)
PHLT 8033
Interpretation and Application of Public Health Data
Students in this course learn about biostatistical methods and concepts used in public health practice and research. Emphasis is placed on interpretation and application of concepts rather than statistical formulas. Major topics include identification of levels of measurement, interpretation of narrative and graphical descriptive statistics, conceptualization of statistical inference and probability, and interpretation of commonly used statistical tests such as t tests, analysis of variance, correlation and regression, comparing proportions, contingency tables, and chi-square tests. Students are required to use the statistical computer package SPSS.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PUBH 8032
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8031
Public Health Administration and Leadership
In this course, students are provided with a foundational understanding of the administrative, managerial, and organizational practices of public health and healthcare delivery systems. Students examine theories of leadership as well as the professional attributes, skills, styles, and strategies required to advance public health goals. They engage in a variety of contextual and practical assignments focused on management theories, policy processes, systems thinking, strategic planning and partnerships, public health financing, human resource management, public health informatics, quality and performance improvement, leadership, and organizational behavior. Students also consider the impact of global trends on public health.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8128
Biological Foundations of Public Health
This course provides learners with a foundation in the basic science and critical thinking that informs the core areas of public health. Students explore the biological and physical underpinnings of the human body in health and disease states, and they investigate the microbiological, physical, behavioral, and environmental causes of common diseases from a public health perspective.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8035
Epidemiology: Decoding the Science of Public Health
Public health officials frequently use epidemiologic research to develop educational strategies and intervention programs to improve the overall health of communities. Using an epidemiological approach, students in this course examine the incidence, prevalence, and patterns of disease and injury in populations and learn how to apply these concepts to the control of public health problems. Students identify key sources of data for epidemiological purposes and address principles and limitations of public health screening programs. Students calculate basic epidemiological measures and draw appropriate inferences from epidemiological data and reports. Through this course, students gain a deeper understanding of the various research designs and methodologies professionals use in public health research.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8033
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8034
Environmental Health
A comprehensive overview of environmental factors that affect the health and safety of 21st century communities is provided in this course. Students examine associations and interrelationships among chemical, physical, and biological hazards in the environment and their impact on human health. Concepts cover food, water, air, waste, radiation, noise, pests, population growth, and climate change. Students analyze and discuss current local and global problems and solutions and consider new ways to address environmental issues.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8033
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8051
Advanced Issues in Global Public Health
This course provides an in-depth review and analysis of the leading global health problems, and the primary methods used to measure those problems. Students analyze the social and environmental determinants of global health problems, including urbanization, global industrialization, environmental pollution, and their role in health inequalities within and between populations. In addition, students evaluate population-based approaches to improving global public health, including culturally inclusive and sensitive primary health care, and policies that promote health literacy, health equity and positive social change. Emphasis is placed on strategies to advance inclusion, cultural humility and health equity in public health research, policies and programs. The course takes a cross-disciplinary, ecological approach, enabling students to examine the complex inter-relationships between economic, social and environmental factors, and health.
Prerequisites
PhD in Nursing
None
PhD in Public Health
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8402
Applied Leadership and Multicultural Perspectives in Public Health
In this course, students explore various definitions of public health leadership versus public health management. Students apply insights to current and future public health leadership roles, examine the strengths and limitations of the various theories and models of leadership, and consider which most resonates with their personal leadership philosophy. They reflect on the importance of cultural proficiency, apply a multicultural perspective for leadership in public health, consider negotiation and conflict resolution methods and reflect on the value of diversity in research. Students apply a systems thinking approach to public health leadership, and in doing so analyze their own personal leadership characteristics, values, and behaviors, assessing their own attitudes, beliefs, and implicit bias. They explore the importance of ethical decision making for effective public health leadership, engage in professional development planning, and apply public health leadership theory to design a system-level intervention.
Prerequisites
PhD in Nursing
None
PhD in Public Health
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8060
Dissertation Seminar I
Dissertation Seminar Course 1 on the Journey to the Community of Scholars gets students prepared for the dissertation process. Students are introduced to the Doctoral Degree Coach, helpful dissertation resources, time management strategies, and potential topics relevant to their field of study. Students also examine exemplar dissertations to better understand the journey they will be undertaking.
Prerequisites
Track I
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
Track II
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
PHLT 8038
PHLT 8032
PHLT 8033
PHLT 8031 or PHLT 8128
PHLT 8035
PHLT 8034
(1 cr.)
RSCH 8110H
Research Theory, Design, and Methods
In this research course, students are provided with core knowledge and skills for understanding, analyzing, and designing research at the graduate level. Students explore the philosophy of science, the role of theory, and research processes. Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed-methods research designs and data collection methods are introduced. The alignment of research components is emphasized. Students also explore ethical and social change implications of designing and conducting research. Students demonstrate their knowledge and skills by developing an annotated bibliography.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8110 prerequisites by program
-
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8062
Dissertation Seminar II
Dissertation Seminar Course 2 on the Journey to the Communities of Scholars represents the preboarding phase of the journey. Students learn how to use the library, develop doctoral-level writing strategies, and write a literature review. Students also examine how social problems drive scientific inquiry.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8060
(1 cr.)
PHLT 8042
Public Health Ethics
This course will introduce students to the main values and principles that drive decision-making in public health research and practice. Through a case study approach, students will be exposed to different ethical theories and their application in real-life public health scenarios, such as resource allocation, individual autonomy versus the needs of the community, and protecting vulnerable populations. In addition, principles of research ethics will be discussed and students will be exposed to the Institutional Review Board (IRB) application process.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8006 or PHLT 8011
(3 cr.)
RSCH 8210H
Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
In this research course, students are provided with the opportunity to develop core knowledge and skills for designing and carrying out quantitative research at the doctoral level, including the application of statistical concepts and techniques. Students explore classical common statistical tests, the importance of the logic of inference, and social change implications of conducting quantitative research and producing knowledge. Students approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting appropriate statistical tests for a research design. Students use statistical software to derive statistics from quantitative data and interpret and present results.
Prerequisites
Doctor of Social Work
RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
PhD in Counselor Education and Supervision
RSCH 8110
RESI 8801C
PhD in Social Work
RSCH 8110K or RSCH 8110W
All Other Programs
RSCH 8110 or RSCH 7110 or RSCH 6110
RESI 8401
-
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8270
Health Informatics and Surveillance
By addressing current trends and future applications in public health research, students develop advanced competency in health informatics and surveillance in this course. The key informatics issues of data standards and integration, vocabularies and data transmission protocols, natural language or text processing, health information technology, surveillance systems, and the application of geographical information systems to situation awareness are addressed. Through surveillance data analysis, students will use trend data to detect and interpret aberrations in person, place, and time trends. Other topics include information architecture, public health records, electronic medical records, electronic health records, health information exchange, and database design, as well as information storage, security, and privacy.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8110
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8064
Dissertation Seminar III
[Under development]
Prerequisites
PHLT 8062
RSCH 8110H
(1 cr.)
RSCH 8310
Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course are provided with the opportunity to develop basic knowledge and skills for conducting qualitative research at the doctoral level. Students explore the nature of qualitative inquiry, how theory and theoretical and conceptual frameworks uniquely apply to qualitative research, data collection procedures and analysis strategy, and how the role of the researcher is expressed in the ethical and rigorous conduct of qualitative research. Students practice collecting, organizing, analyzing, and presenting data, and they develop a detailed research topic for conducting a qualitative study.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8310 prerequisites by program
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8046
Grant Writing and Review for Public Health Research
In this course, students investigate the multiple funding sources of public health research. Students analyze grant-writing strategies and the advantages and disadvantages of various financing options. Students will be responsible for writing a mock public health grant proposal to support a real-world research topic. In addition, students will be exposed to the grant approval review process and gain experience in grant review and evaluation.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8048
Research and Application of Public Health and Behavior Change Theories
This course presents a comprehensive look at public health and behavior change theoretical and conceptual models that apply to public health research and practice. Students review and assess predominant social and behavioral principles at the individual, interpersonal, and community levels. Students learn to integrate knowledge on different public health theoretical and conceptual frameworks, research approaches, methods, values and potential contributions from multiple professions and systems in addressing public health problems. Finally, students learn to apply theories to public health quantitative, qualitative and mixed methods research and practice.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8064
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8450
Community Health Assessment
Students in this course cover community health assessment and its application to program planning. They learn to identify and prioritize problems, then assess and utilize community resources to address these problems. Topics include measuring selected determinants of community health status and health services use, classifying community assets, identifying data sources, and applying certain methods to maximize community participation. Students synthesize the results of a community health assessment to create a community diagnosis that serves as the basis for program planning and research design.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8066
Dissertation Seminar IV
[Under development]
Prerequisites
RSCH 8310H
PHLT 8064
(1 cr.)
Methods Elective
Choose 1 of 6 below
RSCH 8360
Advanced Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students build upon the knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis. and have experience applying them. Students develop a more sophisticated understanding of the theoretical antecedents and practical applications of eight contemporary qualitative approaches. Students gain experience developing qualitative interview guides, collecting data, and managing the process from transcription through analysis. The unique challenges of confidentiality and ethical issues are explored as well as implications for social change. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a qualitative research plan using a topic relevant to their capstone.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8360 prerequisites by program
Note: This course was previously RSCH 8350.
(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8260
Advanced Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
Students in this research course build upon knowledge and skills acquired in the prerequisite quantitative reasoning course and are presented with opportunities to apply them. They are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for conducting quantitative research at the doctoral level, including understanding multivariate data analysis and applying more advanced statistical concepts, such as factorial ANOVA, mediation, moderation, logistic regression, ANCOVA, and MANOVA. Students explore existing datasets and apply suitable statistical tests to answer research questions with social change implications. In this course, they approach statistics from a problem-solving perspective with emphasis on selecting the appropriate statistical tests for more complex research questions and social problems. Students use statistical software to perform analyses and interpret and present results. They will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by carrying out a quantitative research project.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8260 prerequisites by program
(5 cr.)
OR
RSCH 8460
Advanced Mixed-Methods Reasoning and Analysis
Students build upon knowledge and skills acquired in RSCH 8210 - Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis and RSCH 8310 - Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis for more specialized knowledge and skills to design mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. Students are provided with more specialized knowledge and skills for designing mixed-methods research at the doctoral level. They gain an understanding of the types of mixed-methods designs and how to select the most appropriate approach for the research question(s). The emphases of this course are on integrating quantitative and qualitative elements into true mixed-methods studies, practice in data analysis, and integration of qualitative and quantitative data within a research write-up. Students will apply and synthesize their knowledge and skills by developing a mixed-methods research plan that incorporates qualitative and quantitative elements appropriately.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8460 prerequisites by program
Note: This course was previously RSCH 8450.
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8076
Fundamentals of Mapping and Geographic Information Systems for Public Health
This course enables students to acquire, manipulate and effectively display spatial data by introducing principles, methods, and techniques used in public health to help foster decision and policy-making based on the visualization of data. Students will further understand how public health researchers and practitioners can increase the impact of their work by using geographic information systems (GIS) to convey information and synthesize data from multiple sources. Using basic GIS concepts, such as coordinate systems, layering, buffering, joining, merging, and aggregating spatial data, conducting spatial queries, and appropriate visualization of spatial data, students will be able to visualize, analyze, and interpret data in an accessible and useful way.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8402
PHLT 8066
PHLT 8070
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8560
Advanced Analysis of Secondary Data
Through this course, students develop an advanced understanding of statistical and epidemiological methodology and the use of public health and biomedical secondary data sources. Students explore how to design research to make appropriate use of available secondary data sources. Students also evaluate the strengths and limitations of using secondary data.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8270
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8500
Advanced Biostatistics
Students in this course cover the advanced biostatistics methods needed to prepare for conducting future research, as well as for critically reviewing the statistical methods incorporated in public health literature. Students learn to use statistical methodologies such as covariance and repeated measures, longitudinal data analysis, life tables and survival analysis, multiple regression, logistic regression, Poisson regression, and the Cox proportional hazards regression model. In this course, students use SPSS statistical software for advanced data management, manipulation, analysis, and the use of graphical techniques.
Prerequisites
Community Health Specialization:
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8062
PHLT 8066
Environmental and Occupational Health & Epidemiology Specializations:
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8062
(5 cr.)
Specialization Elective
Choose 1 of 3 below
PHLT 8044
Advanced Program Evaluation
The course provides students interested in pursuing a public health doctoral-level degree with the advanced competencies necessary to evaluate public health programs. This course will emphasize public health practice and is designed to assist students in understanding how to plan, conduct, and report on a program evaluation. Students will learn the importance of abiding by the program evaluation standards and evaluator guiding principles. These are fundamental to ensure students complete evaluations with integrity and utility. Students will learn the importance of evaluation theory and the relationship between evaluation theory, program theory, and public health change theories.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
RSCH 8310
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8040
Advanced Public Health Policy and Advocacy
In this course, students examine the role of federal, state, and local government in the assurance of public health through health policy and law. Consideration is given to contemporary policy, law, and regulatory issues arising in public health practice, as well as to the economics and financing of public health programs. The advocacy, political, and creative process in the formulation, implementation, and modification of health policy are examined and discussed. Students also learn how to structure and write a health policy brief, which will provide students with experience integrating scientific information, legal, and regulatory approaches, ethical frameworks, and varied stakeholder interests in policy development and analysis.
Prerequisites
PHLT 8402
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
OR
PHLT 8054
Lifestyle and Chronic Diseases
In this course, students explore how lifestyle and related risk factors influence chronic diseases, also called noncommunicable diseases. Topics include the role of diet, nutrition, physical activity, sleep, stress management, and substance use (tobacco, alcohol, and drug use) on the epidemiology of heart disease, diabetes, cancer, and asthma. Through development of an evidence-based intervention to improve a lifestyle behavior, students evaluate the use of theories of health behavior change, measurement techniques, screening approaches, and prevention of chronic diseases.
Prerequisites
RSCH 8210
PHLT 8066
(5 cr.)
PHLT 8068
Dissertation Seminar V
[Under development]
Prerequisites
RESI 8401
RESI 8402
PHLT 8066
(1 cr.)
PHLT 9005
Dissertation Prospectus
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The first stage of capstone development is the prospectus. The doctoral prospectus is a brief document that provides preliminary information about the capstone research. It serves as the tentative plan for developing the proposal and is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., feasibility, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a program-level designee. Program-level approval is required to progress to the proposal.
Prerequisites
All required coursework
Residencies 1, 2, and 3 (RESI 8401, and RESI 8402, and RESI 8403)
(5 cr.)
PHLT 9015
Dissertation Proposal
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The second stage of capstone development is the proposal. The doctoral proposal consists of the first few chapters or sections of the capstone and an APA-Style reference list. The proposal presents a detailed plan of the proposed research and describes a specific problem, the related literature, and the intended research methodology. The proposal is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., exhaustive review of literature, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a university research reviewer. Students complete an oral defense, and the Proposal Stage culminates with the research ethics review process. IRB approval is required to progress to the final study.
Prerequisites
Dissertation prospectus (PHLT 9005)
(5 cr.)
PHLT 9025
Dissertation Final Study
A doctoral capstone (e.g., dissertation, project study, etc.) is required in the final phase of a student's doctoral journey, after meeting the requirements for doctoral candidacy. During the capstone course sequence, students integrate their program of study into an in-depth exploration culminating in the completion of a doctoral research study. Students complete the study independently, with the guidance of a capstone committee, and following the process guidance in the Doctoral Degree Coach.The last stage of capstone development is the final study. After the IRB application has been approved, students conduct their research, collect and analyze data, report findings, and draw conclusions. With the guidance of the committee, students write the remaining chapters or sections of the capstone as well as the document abstract. The final study is evaluated to ensure doctoral-level work (e.g., accurate results, alignment, etc.) by the committee chair, second committee member, and a university research reviewer. Students complete the form and style review process and an oral defense. The final study stage culminates in the chief academic officer (CAO) designee review process and CAO approval is required for capstone completion.
$1,375 each (virtual)
$1,475 each (in-person: travel, lodging and other expenses are additional)
$5,500–$5,900
Estimated Range:
3.75-Year
8-Year
$73,920
$131,575*+
These are ranges of what a student can expect in terms of time and tuition cost to complete a degree. It does not include other fees, nor is it adjusted for tuition increases over time. Walden faculty has concluded that generally students who do not complete their program in eight years are unlikely to complete and only allow students to exceed that time frame when a student petitions for an extension and provides good reason for the delay and assurances that obstacles to completion can be overcome. Time is calculated using the time allowed for each semester or unit that the student completes. Students are encouraged to work continuously during the program so as not to extend the time needed to complete the degree as work can become stale and students lose focus. Students who earn two grades of “Unsatisfactory,” who repeatedly drop a course before a semester or unit has been completed, or are unable to complete in the eight year time frame, should expect that they may be dismissed from the program. Walden believes that it is in the best interest of a student who is unable to complete the degree in the stated ranges to strongly consider withdrawal or obtaining a lesser degree.
Time to completion and cost are not estimates of individual experience and will vary based on individual factors applicable to the student. Factors may be programmatic or academic such as tuition and fee increases and/or the student’s transfer credits accepted by Walden; program or specialization changes; unsuccessful course completion; credit load per term; writing, research and editing skills; use of external data for their doctoral study/dissertation; and/or individual progress in the program. Other factors may include personal issues such as the student’s employment obligations; care giving responsibilities or health issues; part-time vs. full-time enrollment; leaves of absence; and/or other personal circumstances.
Tuition and fees are subject to change. Books and materials are not included. Students may incur additional costs for remedial writing assistance, if necessary.
^This assumes students successfully complete their coursework on the first attempt.
† Based on a 3.75-year minimum completion requirement and an 8-year maximum timeframe as outlined in Walden academic policy.
*Tuition and fees will be higher if students petition to extend the 8-year maximum timeframe or choose to take more expensive elective courses.
+Tuition and time to complete may be reduced if transfer credits are accepted, or if you receive grants, scholarships or other tuition discounts. For a personalized estimate of the number of your transfer credits that Walden would accept, call an Enrollment Specialist at 844-642-0198.
FINANCIAL AID
Many Walden degree-seeking students—67%—receive some form of financial aid.* Create a customized plan that makes sense for you.
*Source: Walden University’s Office of Financial Aid. Data reports as of 2018.
Receive up to a $5,000 Grant if you reside in the U.S. and start this program on May 30, 2022. Contact one of our Enrollment Specialists to learn more.
Program Admission Considerations: Master of Public Health (MPH) or MS in Public Health for Track 1 or bachelor’s degree or higher for Track 2
General Admission Requirements: Completed online application and transcripts. Please note that the materials you are required to submit may vary depending on the academic program to which you apply. More information for international applicants.
Testimonials
I was offered support outside of ofifce hours when needed. I was heard and given opportunities to succeed. Walden became and still is a place I will always feel at home.
Maria del Carmen Goodwin PhD in Public Health Graduate
My interests, which have been largely instilled by my studies at Walden, range from healthcare and medicine to physics and mathematics and philosophy.
W. Sumner Davis PhD in Public Health Graduate
I hope to effect change in the public health community with the skills I have gained and research I have done through Walden University.