phd clinical research online

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Program Details

As one of the only universities in the world with an accredited, all-online PhD in Clinical Research, University of Jamestown helps you advance in the field of your choice—without having to pause your career. In this program, you will master the skills necessary to conduct clinical trials, analyze research, and ensure the safety and efficacy of products, medication and information provided to the global society.

Earning your terminal degree in a broadly applicable program like Clinical Research means you can apply your knowledge to a range of disciplines, including government, higher education, healthcare, private industry, and beyond. You will not only learn how to critically analyze the literature and interpret evidence, but to design your own rigorous and ethical research projects—all while creating a repeatable and sophisticated methodology appropriate for dissemination at the national level.

Our Mission

Our mission is to provide students with rigorous academic preparation which produces independent investigators who can conceptualize research inquiry that positively impacts the University, community and global society. Students will gain the expertise needed to perform ethical data collection and analysis across a variety of disciplines and modalities.

Requirements

All cohorts for the Ph.D. matriculate in the fall of an academic calendar year. Students will then complete 2 full years (fall, spring, summer) and one partial year (fall, spring) to complete their PhD requirements, including thesis proposal and defense.

Required Core Courses

Thesis Credits

(12 credit hours total + 1 credit hour optional extension as needed)

Leadership Track Courses

Topics in Higher Education Track Courses

Health Services Research Track Courses

Admission and Costs

Application Information

Between September 7 and July 31 of a calendar year, applicants can use the Allied Health Common Application System (AHCAS) to submit their application to the University of Jamestown Ph.D. in Clinical Research program. The requirements for admission are:

• Undergraduate and graduate transcripts
• Selection of elective focus area
• Recommendations (optional)

Program Costs

48 Credits Total

*estimated costs based on student surveys

Plan of Study

Second Year

Students who successfully complete a PhD in Clinical Research at the University of Jamestown will:

• Demonstrate profound knowledge of the disciplines inherent to performing ethically based and rigorous clinical research.
• Disseminate dissertation research that will achieve acceptance for dissemination at local and national level conferences and through peer reviewed journals.
• Apply local and federal guidelines that ensure safety and efficacy of products, medication and information provided to the global society.
• Appraise evidence in their respective fields.
• Define the value of data provided in evidence publications and presentations based on their extensive knowledge of research methodology and data analysis.
• Explain the importance of racial, ethnic, gender, age, socioeconomic and educational diversity in data collection, analysis, and research to produce results that are generalizable to the global community.
• Participate in their professional associations as evidenced by active membership and participation in local or national conferences or other forms of dissemination prior to graduation.
• Evaluate technology available for data collection and analysis, including survey instruments and statistical software.

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About the PhD in Clinical Investigation Program

The program is targeted toward internal physician postdoctoral fellows in clinical departments of the School of Medicine. It involves one year of full-time academic classroom work, followed by at least two years of mentored training in clinical research. The combination of a year of instruction and a year of clinicals allows students the scientific grounding for subsequent original research. This research effort is jointly mentored by faculty from the program and a mentor from the student’s SOM department. After fulfilling all requirements, a Doctor of Philosophy degree in Clinical Investigation is awarded by the Johns Hopkins Bloomberg School of Public Health.

Curriculum for the PhD in Clinical Investigation

Browse an overview of this program's requirements in the JHU  Academic Catalogue  and explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School  Course Directory .

Prerequisites for the PhD Degree

• Satisfactory completion of 90 credit hours of course work, including one year of full-time in-residency course work
• Five additional courses to be taken in the second or third years
• Continuous registration for the Research Forum and registration for Thesis Research each term
• Completion of a Comprehensive Exam at the end of the didactic year
• Satisfaction of all university requirements for the PhD, including completion of a Preliminary Oral Examination, Thesis Preparation, and Thesis Defense

Admissions Requirements

For general admissions requirements, please visit the How to Apply page. For our PhD specific application requirements, please see our How to Apply page.

This specific program also requires:

Prior Graduate Degree

Advanced medical degree: e.g., MD, MBBS, PhD

Prior Work Experience

Work with human subjects in clinical investigation

Standardized Test Scores

Standardized test scores  are required  for this program. This program accepts the following standardized test scores: USMLE and GRE or MCAT.  Applications will be reviewed holistically based on all application components.

GTPCI is one of 60 national recipients of an NIH-sponsored CTSA KL2 Award to support institutional career development programs for physicians and dentists, encouraging them to become independent, patient-oriented clinical investigators. This Multi- disciplinary Clinical Research Career Development Program funds clinical research training for a broad group of physicians, dentists, and other scientists who have a doctorate in a health-related field, including pharmacy, nursing, epidemiology, and behavioral sciences. The Johns Hopkins KL2 program will provide career development support for junior faculty physicians or dentists from within Johns Hopkins Medical Institutions.

Information regarding the cost of tuition and fees can be found on the Bloomberg School's Tuition and Fees page.

Need-Based Relocation Grants Students who  are admitted to PhD programs at JHU  starting in Fall 2023 or beyond can apply to receive a $1500 need-based grant to offset the costs of relocating to be able to attend JHU.   These grants provide funding to a portion of incoming students who, without this money, may otherwise not be able to afford to relocate to JHU for their PhD program. This is not a merit-based grant. Applications will be evaluated solely based on financial need.  View more information about the need-based relocation grants for PhD students .

Questions about the program? We're happy to help.

Director Khalil Ghanem, MD, PhD

Academic Program Manager Cristina A. DeNardo, MEd 410-502-9734 [email protected]

Online PhD in Clinical Research: Scope and Job Opportunities 

Blog Summary 

Introduction .

Embarking on a journey toward an online PhD in Clinical Research opens doors to possibilities. Clinical Research, the systematic investigation of treatments and therapies, is pivotal in advancing healthcare. Pursuing a PhD in this field signifies a commitment to deepening understanding and contributing to medical progress. The convenience and flexibility of online education make it an ideal avenue for aspiring researchers, allowing them to balance academic pursuits with other commitments. 

Moreover, online platforms offer specialized courses tailored to the nuances of Clinical Research, providing students with comprehensive knowledge and practical skills. In this digital age, harnessing the power of online learning is vital to unlocking the vast potential of Clinical Research studies. 

Exploring Online PhD in Clinical Research 

In today’s fast-paced world, pursuing higher education has become more accessible than ever, thanks to the advent of online learning platforms. An Online PhD in Clinical Research program allows students to increase their understanding and expertise in this vital field from the comfort of their homes. 

What is an Online PhD in Clinical Research? 

An online PhD in Clinical Research is a doctoral program designed to equip students with the abilities and information to do independent Research in clinical settings. It delves deep into the methodologies, ethical considerations, and data analysis techniques relevant to clinical Research.

Demand for skilled professionals 

The demand for skilled professionals in Clinical Research is on the rise, driven by elements including:

• The increase in chronic illness prevalence.
• Improvements in medical technology.
• The growing emphasis on evidence-based medicine.

As a result, graduates with expertise in Clinical Research are highly sought after in the job market. 

According to Indeed, clinical research professionals in the US earn approximately USD 106,000 annually. An overwhelming 83% of Clinical Research Scientists in the United States deem their salaries sufficient to meet the cost of living in their respective areas. 

Online Clinical Research Programs 

In today’s digital age, pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research has become more accessible through online programs. These programs offer flexibility, allowing students to balance their studies with other commitments. However, it’s crucial to ensure that the online program you choose is accredited and credible. 

Accreditation and Credibility of Online Programs 

When considering an online PhD in Clinical Research, it’s essential to verify the program’s accreditation status. Accreditation ensures that the program meets quality standards set by accrediting bodies, providing a rigorous and reputable education. Look for programs accredited by recognized agencies such as the Accreditation Council for Clinical Research and Education (ACCRE).

Credibility is another crucial factor to consider. Research the reputation of the institution offering the online program. Look for reviews, testimonials from current or former students, and success stories of graduates. A reputable institution will have a track record of producing competent professionals in Clinical Research. 

Comparison of Different Online PhD Programs in Clinical Research 

With the proliferation of online education, numerous options for pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research are available. It’s essential to compare different programs to find the one that best fits your needs and goals. 

Consider factors such as program curriculum, faculty expertise, research opportunities, and support services offered to online students. Look for programs that provide specialized tracks or concentrations aligned with your interests and career aspirations. 

Additionally, compare tuition costs, financial aid options, and any additional fees associated with the program. Remember that the cheapest option may not always be the best, as quality and support services vary among programs. 

Part-time PhD in Clinical Research 

For many working professionals, pursuing a PhD in Clinical Research full-time may not be feasible due to work and personal commitments. In such cases, a part-time PhD program offers a flexible alternative, allowing students to advance their education while balancing other responsibilities. 

Advantages of Pursuing a Part-time PhD in Clinical Research 

One of the primary advantages of a part-time PhD program is flexibility. Students can continue working full-time or part-time jobs while pursuing their doctoral studies . This flexibility allows individuals to maintain financial stability and gain practical experience in the field while earning their degree. 

Additionally, a part-time schedule may alleviate some of the financial burdens of full-time enrollment. Many part-time programs offer the option to pay tuition on a per-credit basis, allowing students to spread the cost of their education over a more extended period. 

Balancing Work, Life, and Studies 

Balancing work, life, and studies can be challenging, but with careful planning and time management, it’s possible to succeed in a part-time PhD program. Set realistic goals and prioritize tasks to manage your time effectively. Utilize calendars, to-do lists, and scheduling apps to maintain organization, academic rigour, and professional commitments. 

Tips for Success in a Part-time Doctoral Program 

Here are some tips for succeeding in a part-time PhD program: 

• Create a Schedule : Establish a consistent study schedule that fits your existing commitments. 
• Set Realistic Goals : Break down larger tasks into smaller, manageable goals to stay motivated and focused. 
• Stay Connected : Stay in touch with your advisor, professors, and fellow students to stay informed and engaged in your studies. 
• Take Care of Yourself : Prioritize self-care and maintain a healthy work-life balance to prevent burnout. 

Conclusion 

Online PhD in Clinical Research offers a gateway to a fulfilling and impactful career in the medical field. With the convenience and flexibility of online education, aspiring researchers can acquire comprehensive knowledge and practical skills while balancing other commitments. Accredited online programs provide credibility and ensure a rigorous education that meets industry standards. Additionally, part-time options offer flexibility for working professionals to advance their education without compromising work or personal life. By comparing different online programs and adopting effective time management strategies, students can excel in their doctoral studies and unlock a world of opportunities in Clinical Research.

Pursuing an Online PhD in Clinical Research offers flexibility, accessibility, and cost-effectiveness compared to traditional programs. 

Graduates with a PhD in Clinical Research can pursue diverse career paths in academia, clinical trial management, regulatory affairs, consulting, and other healthcare roles. 

Accreditation ensures program quality, while credibility reflects the institution’s reputation, both vital when considering an online PhD in Clinical Research. 

Success in a part-time PhD program requires establishing a consistent study schedule, setting realistic goals, staying connected, and prioritizing self-care. 

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• Best Online Health Science Ph.D. And D.H.S. Programs

Best Online Health Science Ph.D. And D.H.S. Programs Of 2024

Published: Mar 13, 2024, 11:37am

The U.S. healthcare system can be difficult to navigate, often requiring patients to advocate for themselves in times of need. Health science is a healthcare discipline in which professionals seek to improve clinical care, education and administration, prioritizing quality care and making it easier for everyone to navigate our complicated systems.

If you’re interested in a flexible health science degree at the doctoral level, you can earn an online health science Ph.D. or an online Doctor of Health Science (D.H.Sc.). These terminal degrees prepare graduates to work in high-level administrative, managerial and research roles in the healthcare industry.

Read on to learn everything you need to know about health science doctoral degrees, including tuition, accreditation and our ranking of the 10 best doctoral programs in the field.

Why You Can Trust Forbes Advisor Education

Forbes Advisor’s education editors are committed to producing unbiased rankings and informative articles covering online colleges, tech bootcamps and career paths. Our ranking methodologies use data from the National Center for Education Statistics , education providers, and reputable educational and professional organizations. An advisory board of educators and other subject matter experts reviews and verifies our content to bring you trustworthy, up-to-date information. Advertisers do not influence our rankings or editorial content.

• 6,290 accredited, nonprofit colleges and universities analyzed nationwide
• 52 reputable tech bootcamp providers evaluated for our rankings
• All content is fact-checked and updated on an annual basis
• Rankings undergo five rounds of fact-checking
• Only 7.12% of all colleges, universities and bootcamp providers we consider are awarded

Our Methodology

We ranked 11 accredited, nonprofit colleges offering health science Ph.D. and D.H.S. programs online in the U.S. using 15 data points in the categories of credibility, affordability, student outcomes and student experience. We pulled data for these categories from reliable resources such as the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System ; private, third-party data sources; and individual school and program websites.

Data is accurate as of June 2023. Note that because online doctorates are relatively uncommon, fewer schools meet our ranking standards at the doctoral level.

We scored schools based on the following metrics:

Student Outcomes:

• Overall graduation rate
• Median earnings 10 years after graduation

Affordability:

• In-state graduate student tuition
• In-state graduate student fees
• Alternative tuition plans offered
• Median federal student loan debt
• Percentage of students in federal student loan deferment

Student Experience:

• Student-to-faculty ratio
• Socioeconomic diversity
• Availability of online coursework
• Total number of graduate assistants
• More than 50% of graduate students enrolled in at least some distance education

Credibility:

• Fully accredited
• Programmatic accreditation status
• Nonprofit status

We chose the 10 best schools to display based on those receiving a curved final score of 61% or higher.

Find our full list of methodologies here .

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Degree Finder

Best d.h.sc. and ph.d. in health science online degrees, should you enroll in an online health science doctoral program, accreditation for online health science ph.d. and d.h.sc. programs, how to find the right online doctorate in health science for you, frequently asked questions (faqs) about online health science ph.d. and d.h.sc. programs, mcphs university, touro university worldwide, pacific university, rush university, liberty university, university of the pacific, university of south dakota, faulkner university, university of bridgeport, purdue university global, featured online schools.

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Graduate Tuition

$1,110/credit

Percentage of Grad Students Enrolled in Distance Education

Overall Graduation Rate

MCPHS University , headquartered in Boston, Massachusetts, features an online Doctor of Health Sciences with concentrations in health systems administration, educational leadership and global health. This 54-credit degree prepares students for professional roles in education and leadership.

After completing core coursework in innovative healthcare technology, patient-centered care and population health, students engage with a three-part capstone experience spanning nine credits. Each online learner pays a $525 tech fee in their first semester.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn on your schedule
• School Type: Private
• Application Fee: N/A
• Degree Credit Requirements: 54 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare research methods, innovative healthcare technology
• Concentrations Available: Health systems administration, educational leadership, global health
• In-Person Requirements: No

$700/credit

At Los Alamitos, California-based Touro University Worldwide (TUW), students can pursue an online Doctor of Health Science with a tech-centric curriculum. The 48-credit program uses asynchronous delivery for maximum flexibility, along with accelerated courses, allowing learners to graduate more quickly.

TUW’s D.H.Sc. program suits professionals looking to pursue leadership roles in health-related contexts. Graduates go on to become health administrators, nutritionists, physical therapists and mental health specialists. This program does not provide certification or licensure, however; it instead develops the managerial skills for administrative positions in health settings.

• Application Fee: $25
• Degree Credit Requirements: 48 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Accelerated, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Epidemiology, health informatics
• Concentrations Available: N/A

$7,731/semester

The Doctor of Healthcare Science at Pacific University , based in Forest Grove, Oregon, serves advanced healthcare workers looking to take the next step in their professional journey. Most coursework is delivered asynchronously, with some set class times for certain real-time lectures.

Though there is no dissertation requirement, each student completes a scholarly project and presents their findings virtually. To qualify for the D.H.Sc. program, each candidate must work in a healthcare position in education, community health or direct patient care.

• Our Flexibility Rating: Learn around your 9-to-5
• Application Fee: Free
• Degree Credit Requirements: 36 credits
• Program Enrollment Options: Part-time, full-time
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare operations management, human resource management in healthcare

$1,046/credit

RUSH University , located in Chicago, Illinois, offers an online Ph.D. in health sciences that delivers an interdisciplinary approach through classroom learning, professional development opportunities and research experience. Graduates can qualify for positions improving the quality of care for various healthcare providers.

Throughout the program, students receive mentorship from health sciences professionals. Along with an optional independent study course worth up to 12 credits, each student completes a dissertation research class and a comprehensive exam to conclude the program.

• Application Fee: $50
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leadership theory, composition for effective professional writing

$650/credit

Based in Lynchburg, Virginia, Liberty University features an online Ph.D. in health sciences that takes just three years to complete. Learners can choose from concentrations in exercise and sport science and trauma-informed care, or they can design an individualized pathway.

Liberty delivers coursework asynchronously, allowing students to complete assignments on their own schedules. The program culminates in a dissertation course in which each student researches an original topic of their choosing.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 60 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Healthcare delivery systems, risk management in health sciences
• Concentrations Available: General, exercise and sport science, trauma-informed care

$1,000/credit

The online Doctor of Health Science from the University of the Pacific in Stockton, California, features asynchronous coursework, which is ideal for working professionals and learners with busy schedules. This program suits healthcare professionals currently working in academic and clinical environments who are looking to advance to administrative positions.

Students can choose from healthcare leadership and educational leadership pathways. Though this program does not include a dissertation or thesis, each learner completes nine credits across three doctoral project courses, which may be submitted for presentation or publication.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 27 to 36 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Foundations of behavioral science, healthcare leadership
• Concentrations Available: Clinical leadership, educational leadership

$470/credit

The University of South Dakota (USD), located in Vermillion, features a 75-credit online Ph.D. in health sciences with a teaching focus. The teaching core includes nine to 15 credits of prescribed and elective courses, including a three-credit practicum where students apply their knowledge under supervision in real-world settings.

The remainder of the curriculum focuses on research, leadership and health services delivery. Though USD delivers coursework remotely for this program, students must attend in-person residencies, an orientation and a dissertation bootcamp, in addition to completing their practicum.

• School Type: Public
• Application Fee: $35
• Degree Credit Requirements: 75 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Leadership in healthcare, managing health services resources
• In-Person Requirements: Yes, for field experiences

$780/credit

At Montgomery, Alabama’s Faulkner University , students can pursue an accelerated online Ph.D. in health sciences and graduate in just 18 months. The program uses five-week courses and rolling admissions to meet this timeline. After completing 30 credits in one year, students complete a 15-credit dissertation process over a six-month period.

Coursework explores topics such as clinical statistics, instructional methods for health professionals, health promotion and quantitative research methods. Each online student pays a $75 distance learning fee per semester.

• Application Fee: $75
• Degree Credit Requirements: 30 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Evidence-based practice, qualitative research methods

The online Doctor of Health Sciences from the University of Bridgeport (UB), headquartered in Connecticut, takes a big-picture view of public health concerns in underserved communities. Learners can choose from clinician, nutrition and education concentrations to align their studies with their prospective professional roles.

The program culminates with a dissertation project. After receiving topic approval, each student works with an advisor to approach their dissertation as a systemic review, a meta-analysis, a literature review or original research.

• Degree Credit Requirements: 57 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Global health issues, healthcare informatics
• Concentrations Available: Clinician, nutrition, education

Headquartered in Indiana, Purdue University Global delivers an online Doctor of Health Science that allows students to earn “microcredentials” throughout the curriculum. These microcredentials cluster similar classes to develop familiarity and expertise in specific topics, such as health science, health informatics and global health.

After completing the program’s required coursework, each learner engages in an applied project in which they identify a real-world issue in administration, healthcare delivery or higher education and research potential solutions. Purdue Global charges all online learners a flat, per-credit tuition rate, regardless of their state residency status.

• Application Fee: $60
• Degree Credit Requirements: 88 credits
• Notable Major-Specific Courses: Advanced health policy, advanced health leadership
• Concentrations available: N/A

Online college can provide several benefits over in-person learning, such as increased flexibility and affordability.

However, since online programs tend to involve less structure than their in-person counterparts, learners must be organized and carefully manage their time. Synchronous coursework mirrors the in-person learning experience with set class times, while asynchronous delivery allows students to watch recorded lectures and complete assignments on their own time.

Online doctoral degrees may still have on-campus requirements, such as intensives, orientations or dissertation defenses. Ensure you can commit to visiting campus as needed.

College accreditation indicates that an institution or a degree program has received approval from a third-party accrediting organization. These accreditors evaluate schools and programs for factors such as curricular offerings, student outcomes and faculty expertise. Accreditation occurs at the institutional and programmatic levels.

The U.S. Department of Education and the Council for Higher Education Accreditation (CHEA) recognize the following organizations to provide institutional accreditation:

• Higher Learning Commission
• WASC Senior College and University Commission
• Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities
• Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges
• Middle States Commission on Higher Education
• New England Commission of Higher Education

Attending an accredited school is required if you want to pursue federal student aid or qualify for certain professional certifications. To check on the accreditation status of any prospective school, use CHEA’s directory tool.

Programmatic accreditation does not exist for health science programs at the doctoral level.

Here’s how to narrow down your options as you consider online health science doctoral programs:

Consider Your Future Goals

Your professional goals should help determine your program choice and whether you earn a Ph.D. or a D.H.Sc.

For example, some health science graduates aim to work in positions that require extensive research experience, such as college-level educator roles. Ph.D. programs are more research-oriented, so if you plan to teach after earning your doctorate in health science, consider prioritizing Ph.D.s in health science.

On the other hand, if you want to apply your doctorate in a public health role , the more practice-based D.H.Sc. might be more suitable.

Understand Your Expenses and Financing Options

Higher education requires a significant financial investment. Among the schools on this list, total tuition ranges from about $23,000 on the low end to more than $61,000, averaging roughly $41,160 for a full doctorate in health science.

To help fund your doctoral studies, submit the FAFSA ® to ensure your eligibility for federal student aid. You can also look for private loans, scholarships from third-party organizations, and fellowships or assistantships from your prospective institution.

Scholarships are provided by schools and independent organizations based on factors such as identity, merit and need. These forms of aid do not require repayment. In assistantships and fellowships, students work professionally with their schools to offset tuition costs.

Can you get a Ph.D. in science online?

American schools generally do not offer Ph.D. programs in science on campus or online. There are other science-related doctoral programs, however, which may feature online delivery.

Are online Ph.D. programs legitimate?

As long as they come from accredited institutions, online Ph.D. programs hold the same level of prestige and legitimacy as their on-campus counterparts.

How long does it take to get a Ph.D. in health sciences?

A health science Ph.D. typically takes four to seven years to complete.

Can I finish a Ph.D. in two years?

Most Ph.D. programs take longer than two years. Some schools, like Faulkner University, use accelerated delivery for students to complete their Ph.D.s in around 18 months. Other doctoral programs, like Doctor of Health Science degrees, generally take less time than Ph.D. programs.

Matt Whittle has experience writing and editing accessible education-related content in health, technology, nursing and business subjects. His work has been featured on Sleep.org, Psychology.org and NurseJournal.org.