PhD in Health Management and Policy at University of Michigan, Ann Arbor

The PhD curriculum is structured to provide a comprehensive foundation in health management and policy research, culminating in original dissertation research. It typically involves:

• Core Coursework: Advanced courses in health management, health policy, health economics, econometrics, biostatistics, and research methods.
• Specialization: Students work with faculty advisors to select elective courses that align with their specific research interests, such as health economics, health services organization, health policy analysis, or health informatics.
• Qualifying Examinations: Comprehensive exams typically taken after completing core coursework to assess mastery of foundational knowledge.
• Preliminary Examination/Candidacy: A process where students demonstrate readiness to undertake independent dissertation research, often involving a dissertation proposal defense.
• Dissertation Research: Extensive original research culminating in a written dissertation that makes a significant contribution to the field.
• Dissertation Defense: An oral examination where the candidate presents and defends their dissertation to a committee of faculty.
• Professional Development: Opportunities for teaching, grant writing, conference presentations, and publishing research.

Applicants are evaluated on their academic background, research potential, and alignment with faculty interests. General requirements include:

• Bachelor's Degree: A strong academic record from an accredited institution. While a Master's degree is not strictly required, it is common and often preferred.
• Transcripts: Official transcripts from all post-secondary institutions attended.
• Letters of Recommendation: Three letters, preferably from faculty or research supervisors, who can speak to the applicant's academic abilities and research potential.
• Statement of Purpose: A detailed essay outlining academic background, research interests, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the PhD in Health Management and Policy at U-M.
• Personal Statement: An essay addressing how the applicant's background and life experiences, including cultural, geographical, financial, educational, or other disadvantaged backgrounds, have motivated the decision to pursue a graduate degree in public health.
• Resume/Curriculum Vitae (CV): Detailing academic history, work experience, research experience, publications, presentations, and any relevant skills.
• GRE Scores: Optional for Fall 2024 admissions (check current policy for future years).
• English Language Proficiency: For international applicants, official TOEFL or IELTS scores are required unless specific waiver criteria are met.

The application process is managed through the Rackham Graduate School. Key steps include:

• Online Application: Complete the Rackham Graduate School online application.
• Document Submission: Upload all required supporting documents, including transcripts, statements, and CV/resume, directly to the application portal.
• Letters of Recommendation: Recommenders submit their letters directly through the online system.
• Test Scores: Arrange for official GRE (if submitting) and TOEFL/IELTS (if required) scores to be sent directly to the University of Michigan.
• Application Review: Applications are reviewed by the HMP department's admissions committee, who assess academic qualifications, research potential, and fit with faculty research interests.
• Interviews: Highly competitive applicants may be invited for interviews with faculty, typically conducted virtually.
• Admission Decision: Admission decisions are usually communicated in late winter or early spring.

Application Fee: $75 (U.S. citizens/permanent residents); $90 (international applicants). Fee waivers are available for eligible applicants.