Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health and Medical Administrative Services

A PhD in Health and Medical Administrative Services trains students to conduct advanced research and lead in healthcare management, preparing them for academic, research, and leadership roles in health organizations.

4 to 7 years
Length
Doctorate
Level
After a master's degree
Entry level
40
Schools
00
Exit level
Doctorate
Length
4 to 7 years
Work-study
Uncommon
Selectivity
Highly selective
Direct careers
6 métiers
Where to study
40 établissements

About

This doctorate degree is designed for students aiming to reach the highest level of expertise in health and medical administration. It suits those interested in research, policy development, or senior management within healthcare systems. The PhD allows graduates to become experts who contribute to improving healthcare delivery through research, teaching, or leadership roles.

  • The program focuses on advanced knowledge of healthcare systems and administrative services.
  • It is intended for students with a strong background in health sciences, administration, or related fields.
  • Graduates often pursue careers in academic research, policy making, or healthcare leadership.
  • The degree emphasizes developing skills in critical analysis and scientific investigation.
  • The program is flexible to accommodate students from diverse professional experiences within healthcare.

What you study

The PhD program spans several years, combining coursework, research, and dissertation work. It starts with advanced seminars and classes to deepen theoretical knowledge, then shifts towards independent research projects. Practical application through case studies and collaboration with healthcare organizations is common.

  • Early years focus on research methods and health policy analysis.
  • Students take courses in health economics, organizational behavior, and medical ethics.
  • The middle phase involves developing a research proposal and beginning data collection.
  • Later years are dedicated to dissertation research and writing under faculty supervision.
  • Practical experience may include collaborations with hospitals or health agencies.
  • The program encourages publishing research and presenting at conferences.

How to get in

Admission to this PhD requires a strong academic background and relevant experience. Candidates usually hold a master's degree in health administration, public health, or a related field. The selection process is competitive and includes evaluation of academic records, research proposals, and interviews.

  • Applicants must have completed a master's degree or equivalent.
  • Submission of a research proposal aligned with faculty expertise is often required.
  • Strong letters of recommendation and a CV highlighting relevant experience are important.
  • Some programs may require standardized test scores like the GRE.
  • Interest and experience in healthcare management or research are valued.
  • Admission procedures vary by university but generally involve a formal application and interview.

Day to day

A typical year in this PhD program involves a mix of coursework, research activities, and academic responsibilities. Students work closely with advisors and participate in seminars. While full-time study is common, some students balance research with professional roles.

  • Coursework and seminars occupy the first years, with regular meetings and presentations.
  • Research phases include data collection, analysis, and writing, often requiring self-discipline.
  • Students may engage in teaching assistantships or academic conferences.
  • Internships or collaborations with healthcare institutions provide practical insight.
  • The program generally does not include formal alternance but encourages applied research.
  • Time management and independent work are essential for success.

Careers this degree leads to

Graduates with this PhD can access roles in academia, research institutions, healthcare organizations, and government agencies. The degree prepares them for leadership positions where they influence healthcare policy and administration.

  • Common careers include university professor and health services researcher.
  • Positions in healthcare administration and policy development are frequent.
  • Consulting roles in healthcare management are also possible.
  • The degree supports advancement into executive roles within hospitals or health agencies.
  • Employment prospects depend on research output and networking.
  • The integration into the workforce is generally smooth for motivated graduates.

Continuing your studies

After completing the PhD, graduates may continue with postdoctoral research or seek further specialization. Some may transition into interdisciplinary areas or administrative leadership training. Others may pursue additional qualifications in healthcare policy or management.

  • Postdoctoral positions offer opportunities to deepen research expertise.
  • Further training in healthcare leadership or public policy is possible.
  • Some graduates may shift focus to related fields like epidemiology or biostatistics.
  • Reorientation into consulting or healthcare innovation sectors is an option.

Where to study this degree (40)

Chargement de la carte…
Walden University
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Walden University
University
📍Minneapolis, 🇺🇸 United States
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Eastern Virginia Medical School
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Eastern Virginia Medical School
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📍Norfolk, 🇺🇸 United States
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Medical University of South Carolina
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Medical University of South Carolina
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📍Charleston, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
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University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
University
📍Chapel Hill, 🇺🇸 United States
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Johns Hopkins University
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Johns Hopkins University
University
📍Baltimore, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
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University of Alabama at Birmingham
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📍Birmingham, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Phoenix-Arizona
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University of Phoenix-Arizona
college
📍Phoenix, 🇺🇸 United States
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Capella University
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Capella University
University
📍Minneapolis, 🇺🇸 United States
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Franklin University
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Franklin University
University
📍Columbus, 🇺🇸 United States
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George Washington University
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George Washington University
University
📍Washington, 🇺🇸 United States
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A.T. Still University
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A.T. Still University
University
📍Kirksville, 🇺🇸 United States
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Central Michigan University
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Central Michigan University
University
📍Mount Pleasant, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
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University of Minnesota-Twin Cities
college
📍Minneapolis, 🇺🇸 United States
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California Intercontinental University
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California Intercontinental University
college
📍Sioux Falls, 🇺🇸 United States
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New York Medical College
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New York Medical College
School
📍Valhalla, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Mississippi
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University of Mississippi
University
📍Oxford, 🇺🇸 United States
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Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
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Lake Erie College of Osteopathic Medicine
School
📍Erie, 🇺🇸 United States
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Keiser University
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Keiser University
University
📍Fort Lauderdale, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Northcentral University
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Northcentral University
University
📍San Diego, 🇺🇸 United States
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Loma Linda University
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Loma Linda University
University
📍Loma Linda, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Boston University
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Boston University
University
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Students—
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Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
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Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences
School
📍Boston, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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University of Pennsylvania
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University of Pennsylvania
University
📍Philadelphia, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Institution
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Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
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00
Indiana Wesleyan University-National & Global
college
📍Marion, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
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Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
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00
Pennsylvania State University-Main Campus
college
📍University Park, 🇺🇸 United States
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Texas A & M University-College Station
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Texas A & M University-College Station
college
📍College Station, 🇺🇸 United States
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Rutgers University-New Brunswick
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Rutgers University-New Brunswick
college
📍New Brunswick, 🇺🇸 United States
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University of Florida
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University of Florida
University
📍Gainesville, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Institution
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University of the Southwest
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University of the Southwest
University
📍Hobbs, 🇺🇸 United States
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Institution
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Tulane University
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Tulane University
University
📍New Orleans, 🇺🇸 United States
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Students—
Institution
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University of Nevada, Las Vegas
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University of Nevada, Las Vegas
University
📍Las Vegas, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Institution
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University of Kansas
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University of Kansas
University
📍Lawrence, 🇺🇸 United States
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Founded—
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American InterContinental University
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American InterContinental University
University
📍Chandler, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
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Grand Canyon University
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Grand Canyon University
University
📍Phoenix, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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Virginia Commonwealth University
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Virginia Commonwealth University
University
📍Richmond, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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College of Saint Mary
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College of Saint Mary
School
📍Omaha, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeSchool
Founded—
Students—
Institution
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Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences
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Oklahoma State University Center for Health Sciences
college
📍Tulsa, 🇺🇸 United States
Typecollege
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The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
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The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
University
📍Houston, 🇺🇸 United States
TypeUniversity
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Students—
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University of California-Berkeley
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University of California-Berkeley
college
📍Berkeley, 🇺🇸 United States
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Mississippi State University
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Mississippi State University
University
📍Starkville, 🇺🇸 United States
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Liste des 40 établissements

Frequently asked questions

What prior education is needed to apply for this PhD?

Applicants generally need a master's degree in health administration, public health, or a related field. Relevant research or professional experience strengthens the application.

How long does the PhD program usually last?

The program typically takes between four and seven years, depending on the research progress and individual circumstances.

Is there practical experience included in the program?

While the program is mainly research-focused, students often collaborate with healthcare organizations and may participate in internships or applied projects.

Can I work while doing this PhD?

Many students balance part-time work or teaching assistantships with their studies, but the program requires significant independent research time.

What careers can I pursue after this PhD?

Graduates often become university professors, researchers, healthcare administrators, or policy analysts in various health sectors.

Is this PhD suitable for those without a healthcare background?

The program is designed for those with relevant academic or professional experience in health or related fields; a strong foundation is important.

Are there opportunities for international research collaborations?

Yes, many programs encourage participation in conferences and research partnerships, which can include international collaborations.

Does the program include teaching responsibilities?

Some students may have teaching assistant roles, which help develop academic skills and complement their research training.