The Ph.D. of Public Health at California Pacific University is designed for professionals and scholars seeking advanced doctoral-level study in public health research, policy analysis, and population health leadership. The program emphasizes rigorous scholarly inquiry, critical analysis, and the development of original research that contributes to public health knowledge and practice.

Delivered fully online, the program supports independent doctoral study while maintaining academic oversight, faculty guidance, and clearly defined research expectations.

Doctoral Program Focus

The Ph.D. of Public Health program is structured to develop advanced competencies in:

• Population health theory and public health research
• Health policy analysis and systems-level evaluation
• Epidemiological and public health research methodologies
• Ethical and social dimensions of public health
• Scholarly writing and original research contribution

The program prepares students to engage deeply with complex public health challenges through research and academic leadership.

Learning Objectives

Upon completion of the Ph.D. of Public Health program, graduates are expected to demonstrate the ability to:

• Critically analyze public health theories, policies, and systems
• Design and conduct independent doctoral-level public health research
• Apply advanced research methodologies to population health issues
• Evaluate public health interventions and policies using evidence-based approaches
• Communicate research findings clearly using advanced scholarly standards

Curriculum Structure

The doctoral curriculum consists of structured coursework and research phases designed to support progressive development toward independent public health scholarship. Program components may include:

• Advanced public health theory and systems analysis
• Epidemiology and population-based research methods
• Health policy and program evaluation
• Research design and methodology
• Dissertation proposal development and research completion

Specific course requirements and research milestones are outlined in the program syllabus and doctoral guidelines.

Dissertation Requirement

The Ph.D. of Public Health requires completion of an original doctoral dissertation. The dissertation represents an independent research study that demonstrates the candidate’s ability to conduct rigorous scholarly inquiry and contribute meaningful knowledge to the field of public health.

Dissertation work is conducted under faculty supervision and follows established academic review and evaluation standards.

Online Learning Format

All coursework and research activities are delivered through CPU’s online learning environment. Doctoral study includes:

• Structured academic timelines
• Faculty review and research supervision
• Independent study with institutional oversight

Students are expected to engage in sustained research, analysis, and scholarly writing throughout the program.

Faculty & Doctoral Oversight

Faculty members with academic and professional expertise in public health and related disciplines provide:

• Evaluation of coursework and research submissions
• Guidance on dissertation development and research design
• Academic feedback aligned with doctoral-level standards

Faculty oversight ensures rigor, consistency, and scholarly integrity throughout the doctoral process.

Admission Requirements

Admission to the Ph.D. of Public Health program requires prior graduate-level academic preparation and demonstrated readiness for doctoral study. Applicants should be prepared for advanced research, critical analysis, and scholarly writing.

Enrollment in CPU programs includes a membership requirement as part of the University’s institutional structure. This requirement is disclosed transparently and explained prior to application.

→ Learn about membership & enrollment

Time Commitment & Expectations

Doctoral study requires a sustained and significant commitment of time and intellectual effort. Students should anticipate dedicating regular time to research, writing, and academic analysis throughout the program.

Independent learning, scholarly discipline, and critical inquiry are essential for success.

Next Steps

Prospective doctoral candidates are encouraged to review program expectations carefully and contact the University with questions regarding research requirements, dissertation processes, or enrollment pathways.