How to Earn a Ph.D. in Health Administration

The Ph.D. in Health Administration is an excellent choice for people who want to manage and improve our nation's healthcare system and services. Jobs are plentiful in government, public policy organizations, healthcare companies or hospitals and healthcare facilities. Some Ph.D. holders pursue university teaching or research careers. Enroll in a Health Administration Ph.D. program directly from undergraduate school or after working for a few years.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Challenging

Things You’ll Need:

• Transcripts
• GRE test scores
• Letters of recommendation
• Fellowship or loan

1. Review the Health Administration Ph.D. degree options at the GradSchools website. Use this site's tools to see available schools and concentrations. View information about schools by geographic area or by name. GradSchools also has information about online programs and schools outside the United States.
2. Learn about preparation for graduate school at GradPortal. The site has many resources to help you complete the PhD program admissions process properly. Register to meet a peer mentor, students already enrolled in your chosen Ph.D. degree field, who can answer questions about specific courses and programs.
3. Get the admissions package and information about financial aid from four or five schools. Review the materials and narrow your possibilities down to three schools.
4. Register at Educational Testing Service to take the Graduate Record Exam. Most universities require GRE exam scores as part of the application for admission to the Health Administration Ph.D. program. ETS has free GRE exam preparation materials and study guide downloads on their main website. Purchase a personal copy at major bookstores or check your local library.
5. Complete the application and the admissions process for the fall semester by early December of the current year. Most graduate program application deadlines fall between December and January. Expect that some schools will close for the holidays. Have your exam scores, letters of recommendation, transcripts and any other required documents sent to the selected schools as soon as you have selected your target schools.
6. Enroll and complete the required courses. Conduct necessary research, if applicable. Prepare and defend your dissertation. Estimate a minimum of 5 years for all courses and other requirements. Most Ph.D. candidates finish in 7 to 8 years.

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