Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences, PhD at Tulane University

Programme overview

A PhD training researchers to advance social, behavioral and population sciences through research, theory development and application, and teaching. It integrates theory and research in a focused area of global importance. Graduates evaluate social and behavioral theories, design independent research on social and structural causes of health inequities, and develop grant proposals.

Faculty: Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine | Department: Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences | Duration: 49 post-baccalaureate credits (at least 30 at Tulane SPHTM; up to 18 from an MPH or equivalent master's); length in years not stated | Study mode: full-time | Location: New Orleans, LA, United States

What you will study

Foundational courses in public health, biostatistics, epidemiology, data management and qualitative methods, a doctoral core in intermediate biostatistics, health services research methods, pedagogy and grant writing, and department courses on social determinants of health and qualitative methods II. Students serve as teaching assistants for two courses, pass a comprehensive exam, defend a prospectus and complete a dissertation.

Career pathways

Faculty positions at universities, medical schools and other higher-education institutions, or research organisations worldwide.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine (on-campus PhD): personal statement covering research interests, preparation, and fit with the department and two to three faculty; CV/resume; official transcripts sent to SOPHAS; minimum of 3 letters of recommendation. International applicants may need TOEFL, IELTS or Duolingo scores. Fall 2027 deadline: December 1, 2026; complete applications are considered for funding without a separate application.

Requirements published at faculty level.

Tuition is charged per credit, so the total depends on the modules you register for each year. Current fees are listed in the official fee schedule.

Duration: 49 post-baccalaureate credits (at least 30 at Tulane SPHTM; up to 18 from an MPH or equivalent maste

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