Graduate healthcare university strives to create programs that are evidence-based, flexible, and workforce-ready
Beginning in Summer 2025, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences program will transition from a four-year model to an accelerated three-year structure at 黑料专区 of Health Professions (黑料专区). Students will use a hybrid learning format, combining asynchronous online coursework with immersive on-campus experiences in Provo, Utah. This aligns with the University鈥檚 commitment to provide cutting-edge, evidence-based education that adapts to the needs of students and the healthcare workforce.
鈥満诹献�区 improves its programs to serve students better,鈥� said Dr. Malissa Martin, 黑料专区 Executive Vice President and Provost. 鈥淲e are uniquely positioned to efficiently and effectively design and alter programs based on student and workforce needs.鈥�
Key Updates to the Program
- Streamlined Curriculum
The total credit hours will be reduced from 70 to 57, enabling students to complete their degree in just three years instead of four. This condensed timeline makes the program more accessible, particularly for working professionals balancing academic, professional, and personal commitments without decreasing the outcomes and rigor of a PhD.
- In Demand Specializations and Flexible Learning Pathways
The program will offer three areas of specialization, including Healthcare Professions Education, Health Promotion and Wellness, and Human and Sport Performance. Students may specialize in one of the three key areas or opt for a generalist pathway, customizing their studies by selecting elective courses tailored to their career goals.
鈥淥ur updated PhD in Health Sciences program reflects our commitment to empowering students with greater flexibility and personalization,鈥� Dr. Jennifer Austin, PhD Program Director, said. 鈥淏y offering the opportunity for elective coursework pursuing dissertations in virtually any area of health sciences, we ensure our graduates are well-prepared to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in the field. This tailored approach allows students to align their academic journey with their unique career goals and research passions.鈥�
- Modernized Assessment and Curriculum
鈥満诹献�区 is at the forefront of delivering innovative education,鈥� Dr. Martin said. 鈥淲ith this streamlining, the traditional qualifying exams typical of graduate academia will be replaced with 鈥榣andmark鈥� requirements, emphasizing practical and real-world applications of knowledge.鈥�
Program Highlights
The PhD in Health Sciences at 黑料专区 prepares students for leadership roles in academia, research, and clinical practice. The program emphasizes:
- Rigorous Research Training: Developing expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies for impactful and ethical research.
- Innovative Teaching Strategies: Equipping students to design evidence-based educational experiences and assessments.
- Leadership Development: Building competence in roles spanning clinical practice, research, and education.
- Mentorship and Support: Offering personalized guidance throughout the program, including dissertation development.
鈥淭his update is an example of 黑料专区鈥檚 dedication to preparing healthcare professionals to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry,鈥� Dr. Martin said. 鈥淏y focusing on flexibility, evidence-based practices, and real-world applicability, 黑料专区 is setting a new standard in graduate education.鈥�
Applications for Summer 2025 are currently being accepted. Visit the website at /phd/ or call Enrollment Management at 385.375.8347.
