New for Fall 2026: The Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Leadership in Social and Behavioral Sciences! Applications are open now.
The 2026 Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program offers a state-of-the-art, dynamic, practice-focused curriculum built to develop leaders capable of navigating today’s complex public health landscape. Featuring updated coursework, expanded applied learning, and strengthened leadership training, the program provides an innovative, impactful pathway for experienced professionals seeking to drive meaningful public health change. DrPH professionals in the field, academic DrPH faculty, policy and advocacy specialists, and current students helped to shape the new curriculum to ensure up-to-date training that will prepare the visionary leaders we need at this critical moment. Visionary public health professionals are invited to join a program designed to develop the leaders of the future.
This applied practice leadership program is designed for professionals with three or more years of experience in this field. Coursework combines case studies, discussions, thought-provoking lessons, and integrated opportunities to engage in real-world challenges. Students in this program will develop strong networks among the cohort while also participating in self-paced study over the course of each semester. The ideal student is committed to making a significant impact on the health and well-being of communities by reducing health inequities, promoting justice, advocating for effective policies and programs, and leading transformative change.
The DrPH in Leadership in Social and Behavioral Sciences develops leaders grounded in evidence-based methods who appreciate a pragmatic approach to addressing public health problems. The program features a very hands-on approach to competencies, achieved through case studies, simulations and applied practice in existing work environments or through field experiences. DrPH students work closely with faculty and preceptors in applied experiences. The program comprises foundational and advanced training in leadership, equity, evaluation, advocacy, community engagement, and health communication, and is grounded in a strong understanding of the application of social and behavioral theories in evidence-informed programs to improve population and individual-level health.
This is an advanced professional degree program equips public health practitioners with the skills and knowledge necessary to become effective leaders and advocates for health equity.
- A Master of Public Health degree (MPH) from a CEPH-accredited institution of higher learning.
- Applicants with an MPH degree that is not from a CEPH-accredited school or program will be considered but may be required to complete some or all of the prerequisite coursework and will be required to pass a challenge exam for SPHL 6020 – Foundations in Public Health.
- A few outstanding applicants without an MPH degree will be considered but will need to successfully complete the Public Health Certificate. The Public Health Certificate is the 5 courses shown below as Prerequisite Coursework. Applicants admitted through this pathway will automatically matriculate into the DrPH program if they successfully complete the Public Health Certificate with a grade of B or better in all 5 prerequisite courses.
- Academic achievement - typically a GPA above 3.0 on a 4.0 scale in undergraduate and graduate coursework. Typically successful applicants have a 3.5 GPA on a 4.0 grade point scale.
- At least 3 years of work experience in public health
- Non-English speakers: Demonstration of proficiency in English to be able to study and communicate in English. TOEFL and IELTS are accepted.
- Official Transcripts from all institutions attended (degrees earned abroad require a WES, ECE, or TEC (formerly known as SpanTran) evaluation)
Program Director: Gretchen Clum, PhD
Phone: 504.988.5388
Email: sphtmadmissions@tulane.edu
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