Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs) 2025

Badge for FASTEST ONLINE DOCTORATE IN PUBLIC HEALTH
By Dr. James Barham
Published:
Updated:

Looking for a career boost in the healthcare sector? We rank the fastest online PhD in public health doctorate degrees for busy working professionals.

Key Takeaways

  • Earning a PhD in public health through an online doctoral program is ideal for those who want to qualify as experts in their chosen concentration of the field.

  • Public health online doctoral programs usually take five to six years to complete, but the time to complete one of the fastest online doctoral programs can be significantly reduced.

  • To find the best schools offering accelerated online doctorate programs in public health, check the accreditation of each institution.

Top 10 Fastest Online PhD Programs in Public Health in 2025

  1. Johns Hopkins University
    +17
  2. University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill
    –1
  3. University of Florida
    +12
  4. Arizona State University
    –1
  5. Tulane University
    +11
  6. University of Illinois Chicago
    –4
  7. University of Mississippi
    –1
  8. University of South Florida
    –4
  9. University of Alabama at Birmingham
  10. East Carolina University
    +9

2025 Ranking Update

Our Influence Ranking Engine™ leverages machine learning to track the real-world influence of colleges and universities over time. Below you’ll see which schools gained or lost ground for the 2025 school year.

In 2025, the ranking of the top ten fastest online PhD programs in public health shuffled significantly. Johns Hopkins University claimed the top position as a result of the university incorporating more interactive and advanced technologies such as virtual simulations and real-time data analysis tools. These improvements allow students to engage with global public health issues more dynamically. Additionally, Johns Hopkins has strengthened its partnerships with international health organizations and research institutes, offering students more opportunities for global collaboration and fieldwork, even in an online format. New courses focused on health equity, pandemic response, and health policy are also designed to address current and future public health challenges.

Featured Programs

Fastest Accelerated Online Public Health Doctorates

We have compiled twenty of the fastest public health doctorate programs in this list. This list is a combination of accelerated programs in online, on-campus, and hybrid formats.

  1. #1

    Johns Hopkins University

    Baltimore , MD
    #11 50 Best Private Colleges and Universities for Undergrads 2025 #11 50 Best Private Grad Schools 2025 #11 50 Best Research Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2024 #14 Best Universities in the US Ranked for Prospective Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $60K

    Acceptance

    7%

    Graduation

    94%

    Student body

    40K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1545/34

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Johns Hopkins University

    Cost of Degree: $65,956
    Expenses: $22,725
    Starting Salary: $92,316
    Salary after 4 years: $96,332
    Cost Recoup Time: 15 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Johns Hopkins University known for?

    Johns Hopkins University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Located in Baltimore, Maryland, Johns Hopkins University is the first US university based on the European research institution model. It offers more than 400 programs in various fields.

    Johns Hopkins offers its hybrid PhD in Health Policy and Management from the school’s Bloomberg School of Public Health. The program is perfect for those currently employed in a range of healthcare organizations.

    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Johns Hopkins University

    The best part of John Hopkins University is the community. While the atmosphere is very challenging, the people are always willing to help.

    John Hopkins University is great for students who:

    Are independent and self-motivated and already know how to apply themselves.

    John Hopkins University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are not comfortable studying in a school where Greek life is a huge part of student life on campus.

    Compare school
  2. #2

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Chapel Hill , NC
    #9 Top Schools that Offer Free Master's Degrees Online #9 Best Value Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025 #12 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025 #13 50 Best Public Colleges and Universities Ranked for Students in 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    17%

    Graduation

    91%

    Student body

    34K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    Cost of Degree: $12,527
    Expenses: $17,120
    Starting Salary: $95,558
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill known for?

    University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is the flagship school of the UNC System. Considered a public ivy, UNC provides an academic experience that is similar to that of an Ivy League University. It offers 74 bachelor’s, 104 master’s, 65 doctorate, and seven professional degree programs.

    UNC offers an online executive doctoral program in health leadership for mid-level public health professionals. This terminal degree consists of classes like population perspectives, managing the healthcare workforce, and more. Internships and practicum are not required in the program.

    • Required Credits: 45
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill

    The hybrid learning at UNC combined Blackboard-powered asynchronous classes with campus visits. Each year, online students are required to visit at least three times to allow them to collaborate with peers and network with industry experts.

    The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill is great for students who:

    Love to meet new and different types of people. Since UNC is such a large school, it’s easy to find different communities in a diverse campus.

    The University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill might not be a good fit for students who:

    Prefer to study in a smaller university where close-knit ties are easily achieved.

    Compare school
  3. #3

    University of Florida

    Gainesville , FL
    #2 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #2 Online Colleges with the Most Generous Financial Aid in 2025 #3 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 15 Best Online Colleges for Veterans to Start Their Careers
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    23%

    Graduation

    90%

    Student body

    63K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1395/30

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Florida

    Cost of Degree: $12,737
    Expenses: $16,220
    Starting Salary: $91,252
    Cost Recoup Time: 9 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Florida known for?

    University of Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Florida in Gainesville has more than 16 colleges offering undergraduate and graduate programs.

    UF offers a PhD in Public Health with a concentration in Environment Health degree, which focuses on independent scientific investigation and leads to leadership roles in relevant sectors.

    • Required Credits: 90
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: On Campus

    What we love about the University of Florida

    The tuition and fees at the University of Florida are the lowest among public universities that are members of the prestigious American Association of Universities.

    The University of Florida is great for students who:

    Want to continue to graduate or professional schools because the academics at UF are among the best in the state.

    The University of Florida might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot keep up with the high academic standards of the school.

    Compare school
  4. #4

    Arizona State University

    Tempe , AZ
    #3 Top 20 Best Military Friendly Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #3 Top 15 Best Online Colleges for Transfer Students in 2025 #12 America's 15 Most Technologically Advanced Colleges #23 Most Affordable Colleges and Universities in the U.S. 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $12K

    Acceptance

    90%

    Graduation

    67%

    Student body

    85K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Arizona State University

    Cost of Degree: $13,389
    Expenses: $21,219
    Starting Salary: $77,085
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Arizona State University known for?

    Arizona State University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Arizona State University, located in metropolitan Phoenix, has one of the largest public universities enrollments. ASU has five campuses and four regional learning centers throughout Arizona, offering 350 programs in its 17 colleges and across 170 cross-discipline institutes.

    The ASU Online Doctor of Behavioral Health with a clinical concentration is designed to train students in implementing cost-effective and evidence-informed interventions. Students are allowed to personalize their training with electives, self-motivated research, and an applied capstone project.

    • Required Credits: 84
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Arizona State University

    Arizona State University is globally recognized as one of the country’s most innovative schools where faculty and students work with NASA to develop and lead innovations in space exploration.

    Arizona State University is best for students who:

    Are looking for bigger class sizes, bigger campuses, more school activities, many options, and can cover tuition or get enough financial aid.

    Arizona State University might not be ideal for students who:

    Are not ready for a rigorous academic experience.

    Compare school
  5. Doctor in a lab
  6. #5

    Tulane University

    New Orleans , LA
    #1 Best Research Universities in Louisiana 2024 #1 Best Colleges in Louisiana 2025 #1 Best Private Colleges in Louisiana 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Louisiana 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $63K

    Acceptance

    11%

    Graduation

    87%

    Student body

    15K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1440/32

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Tulane University

    Cost of Degree: $66,046
    Expenses: $21,908
    Starting Salary: $89,214
    Salary after 4 years: $93,096
    Cost Recoup Time: 16 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Tulane University known for?

    Tulane University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Tulane University is officially known as the Tulane University of Louisiana, located in New Orleans. By completing any of the school’s over 75 majors and minors, students are exposed to academic foundations in a foreign language, writing, scientific inquiry, and cultural knowledge.

    Tulane University offers a PhD degree in the Environmental Health Sciences. This program prepares students to employ community and laboratory approaches in addressing adverse environmental health impacts.

    • Required Credits: 48
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Duration: On-Campus

    What we love about Tulane University

    Tulane University is a very selective institution that’s home to the Amistad Research Center, which specializes in African American and ethnic minorities’ history.

    Tulane University is great for students who are:

    Laid back, studios, fun, and quirky. Tulane is not full of stressed-out kids competing with one other.

    Tulane University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are looking for affordable schools. Tulane is a private university, and it is really very expensive.

    Compare school
  7. #6

    University of Illinois Chicago

    Chicago , IL
    #2 Best Public Colleges in Illinois 2024 #2 Cheapest Colleges in Illinois Ranked for Students in 2025 #5 Best Colleges in Illinois 2025 #5 Best Research Universities in Illinois 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $15K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    37K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1225/27

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Illinois Chicago

    Cost of Degree: $17,268
    Expenses: $22,026
    Starting Salary: $85,141
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Illinois Chicago known for?

    University of Illinois Chicago’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Illinois Chicago is a public research university in Chicago, Illinois, and the second campus that was established under the University of Illinois System. The school features 16 academic colleges that offer hundreds of undergraduate and graduate courses.

    The UIC online doctor of public health in leadership emphasizes research-based training designed to prepare students for careers as police analysts, city health commissioners, and chief medical officers. Candidates with regionally accredited master’s degrees can transfer up to 32 hours toward program completion.

    • Required Credits: 64
    • Completion Time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online<

    What we love about the University of Illinois Chicago

    The University of Illinois Chicago is one of Chicago’s few schools promoting social mobility.

    The University of Illinois Chicago is great for students who:

    Are wanting to go to grad school in pharmacy, dentistry, or any medical fields.

    The University of Illinois Chicago might not be a good fit for students who:

    Can’t practice good study habits. UIC education entails lots of work and reading.

    Compare school
    8. Happy woman in a blue scarf

  9. #7

    University of Mississippi

    University , MS
    #1 Best Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #1 Best Public Colleges in Mississippi 2024 #1 Best Grad Schools in Mississippi 2024 #1 Most Affordable Colleges in Mississippi 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    97%

    Graduation

    68%

    Student body

    24K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1125/25

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Mississippi

    Cost of Degree: $9,412
    Expenses: $19,540
    Starting Salary: $78,613
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Mississippi known for?

    University of Mississippi’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Mississippi is a public research university located adjacent to Oxford Mississippi and has a medical center in Jackson. “Ole Miss” is Mississippi’s oldest public university. Having received the R1: Doctoral Universities-Highest Research Activity by the Carnegie Classification, Ole Miss has a long history of producing leaders in academics, public service, and business.

    The University of Mississippi’s Medical Center’s School of Health Related Professions offers a complete hybrid Doctor of Health Administration. This PhD program in health policy has very limited admission and only accepts 10-15 students a year.

    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the University of Mississippi

    The school is very serious with its mission of educating and inspiring a diverse and vibrant community on campus where students are able to socially, intellectually, and culturally thrive through transformative experiences in school and beyond.

    The University of Mississippi is great for students who:

    Are involved, social, outgoing, focused, and interested in Greek life.

    The University of Mississippi might not be a good fit for students who:

    Can’t keep up with the tough academic demands of the school. Ole Miss is considered the Harvard of the South. It may be easy to get accepted, but staying in is the real challenge.

    Compare school
  10. #8

    University of South Florida

    Tampa , FL
    #21 Most Affordable Graduate Schools Ranked for 2025 #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Florida 2025 #3 Best Public Colleges in Florida 2025 #4 Best Colleges in Florida 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $6K

    Acceptance

    44%

    Graduation

    74%

    Student body

    59K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1235/26

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of South Florida

    Cost of Degree: $10,428
    Expenses: $19,215
    Starting Salary: $67,363
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of South Florida known for?

    University of South Florida’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of South Florida is a public research university offering 180 undergraduate, graduate, specialist, and doctoral programs, including the Doctor of Medicine.

    USF operates an accelerated online Ph.D. in public health with a concentration in advanced practice leadership. This program will help students develop the evidence-supported skills and knowledge to work in practical settings like international agencies and health departments.

    • Required Credits: 43
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about the USF

    The University of South Florida offers a distinguished faculty, superb academics, world-class interdisciplinary research, and a diverse student body.

    USF is ideal for students who:

    Are open to trying new things, because USF offers a wealth of academic and extra-curricular activities

    USF might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot balance their time to study and time to relax. The academic programs are very challenging, and the tempting leisure activities are even more challenging.

    Compare school
  11. #9

    University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Birmingham , AL
    #3 Most Affordable Colleges in Alabama 2025 #3 Best Grad Schools in Alabama 2025 #3 Alabama's Best Colleges and Universities Ranked for Undergrads in 2025 #3 Best Research Universities in Alabama 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Acceptance

    87%

    Graduation

    64%

    Student body

    26K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1305/26

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at University of Alabama at Birmingham

    Cost of Degree: $8,424
    Expenses: $20,547
    Starting Salary: $67,224
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is University of Alabama at Birmingham known for?

    University of Alabama at Birmingham’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham, internationally renowned as a research institution, is composed of one college, nine schools, and the graduate school. Together, these divisions offer 56 bachelor’s degree programs, 59 master’s degree programs, and 40 doctoral programs.

    The Executive Doctor of Science in Healthcare Leadership at UAB is a blended program designed to solidify the management skills of students. This practice-oriented academic program is designed for experienced healthcare executives who presently hold or who are preparing to secure senior leadership positions.

    • Required Credits: 37
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about the University of Alabama at Birmingham

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham is a globally recognized research university with an innovative academic medical center.

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham is great for students who:

    Are interested in sciences like biology or chemistry, or are looking for a lifelong friendship.

    The University of Alabama at Birmingham might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot practice a “work hard, play hard” attitude. Students must know how to keep a positive attitude about everything.

    Compare school
  12. #10

    East Carolina University

    Greenville , NC
    #4 Most Affordable Colleges in North Carolina 2024 #5 Best Public Colleges in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Grad Schools in North Carolina 2025 #6 Best Research Universities in North Carolina 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $7K

    Acceptance

    92%

    Graduation

    65%

    Student body

    31K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at East Carolina University

    Cost of Degree: $7,658
    Expenses: $16,970
    Starting Salary: $63,613
    Cost Recoup Time: 11 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is East Carolina University known for?

    East Carolina University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    East Carolina University is a public research university in Greenville, North Carolina, and the fourth-largest university in the state. It offers 77 master’s programs, 15 doctoral programs, 50 graduate certificates, and 6 first-professional programs.

    The Doctor of Public Health with Health Policy Administration and Leadership (HPAL) concentration at East Carolina University is practice and evidence-based. It focuses on underserved, rural, and varied cultural communities.

    • Required Credits: 50-70, depending on the student’s academic background
    • Completion Time: 3-4 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about East Carolina University

    ECU features study abroad programs focusing on service to underprivileged areas like Nicaragua or Guatemala.

    East Carolina University is great for students who:

    Want to study in an affordable and beautiful school with down-to-earth people.

    East Carolina University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Do not commit to studying hard and cannot balance social and academic life.

    Compare school
  13. Male student in a blue hoodie holding notebooks
  14. #11

    Central Michigan University

    Mount Pleasant , MI
    #8 Most Affordable Colleges in Michigan 2025 #9 Best Public Colleges in Michigan 2024 #10 Best Research Universities in Michigan 2025 #10 Best Grad Schools in Michigan 2024
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Acceptance

    79%

    Graduation

    62%

    Student body

    18K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1100/24

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Central Michigan University

    Cost of Degree: $16,293
    Expenses: $16,868
    Starting Salary: $64,168
    Cost Recoup Time: 13 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Central Michigan University known for?

    Central Michigan University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Central Michigan University, located in Mount Pleasant, is classified as an R2 Doctoral University, indiciating its “high-research activity”. CMU offers more than 300 academic programs across seven colleges.

    CMU’s Doctor of Health Administration hybrid degree provides students with core courses in topics on organizational theory, analysis, research methods, and leadership. Applicants should have a master’s degree in any related field with letters of recommendation plus professional healthcare experience, for admission.

    • Required Credits: 63
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Central Michigan University

    CMU is noted for its quality education at an affordable tuition fee. This is a perfect choice for international students who plan on studying in the US.

    Central Michigan University is great for students who:

    Are interested in volunteering and undergraduate research. Students who want to feel like donating some of their time can just go online to the volunteer website and sign up for upcoming events.

    Central Michigan University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are looking for a college town with a lot of activity. Mount Pleasant is small town.

    Compare school
  15. #12

    Regent University

    Virginia Beach , VA
    #13 Best CCCU Colleges and Universities 2024 #2 Best Christian Colleges in Virginia 2025 #5 Best Private Colleges in Virginia 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Virginia 2025
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $20K

    Acceptance

    32%

    Graduation

    55%

    Student body

    14K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1140/22

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Regent University

    Cost of Degree: $17,828
    Expenses: $12,146
    Starting Salary: $47,140
    Salary after 4 years: $49,191
    Cost Recoup Time: 12 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Regent University known for?

    Regent University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Located in Virginia Beach, Virginia, Regent University is a private Christian university that offers traditional on-campus programs and distance education. This top military-friendly school offers more than 150 unique areas of study.

    Regent University offers an online Doctor of Strategic Leadership degree via its School of Business and Leadership. Students will concentrate on leadership, communication, team building, and organizational structure in public health care from a Christian perspective.

    • Required Credits: 51
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online with residency

    What we love about Regent University

    Regent University offers study abroad and mission programs in places such as Ukraine, Russia, Paris, and Uganda.

    Regent University is great for students who:

    Are looking for a school where they can get involved because the school highly respects students’ input.

    Regent University may not be ideal for students who:

    Are not Christians because most of the programs are based on a Christian’s perspective.

    Compare school
  16. #13

    Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

    Boston , MA
    #13 15 Most Affordable Online Public Health Doctorates (PhDs)

    Tuition + fees

    $37K

    Acceptance

    88%

    Graduation

    61%

    Student body

    8K

    Median SAT/ACT

    1230/28

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences

    Cost of Degree: $26,070
    Expenses: $28,872
    Starting Salary: $110,097
    Salary after 4 years: $114,887
    Cost Recoup Time: 10 years
    Paid back at 15% of annual salary
    What is Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences known for?

    Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    The Boston-based Massachusetts College of Pharmacy and Health Sciences offers conventional and accelerated degree programs, primarily focusing on professional education in the health sciences and pharmacy.

    The online Doctor of Health Science degree at MCPHS is designed for current health professionals and may be taken part-time. The health systems administration focus provides concentration coursework in Health Policy and Reform, and Transformative Leadership.

    • Required Credits: 54
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about MCPHS

    MCPHS has deep-rooted relationships with prestigious research and medical institutions in Boston’s Longwood Medical area to allow students to gain the most effective clinical and non-clinical experiences.

    MCPHS is great for students who:

    See themselves working in the health care field and are serious about knowledge and education.

    MCPHS might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are unwilling to put in the work in the school’s tough academic rigors.

    Compare school
  18. #14

    Franklin University

    Columbus , OH
    #4 Top 10 Best Online Bachelor's of Web Design Degree Programs 2025 #4 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Psychology Programs #5 10 Fastest Accelerated Online Bachelor's of Computer Science #5 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Tennessee
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $10K

    Graduation

    49%

    Student body

    11K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Franklin University

    Cost of Degree: $12,060
    Starting Salary: $55,617
    Salary after 4 years: $58,037
    What is Franklin University known for?

    Franklin University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Franklin University is a private university in Columbus, Ohio. Although most of its students take their courses online, the university’s campus also provides on-site programs. The school offers more than 30 bachelor’s programs and five graduate programs.

    Franklin University offers an online Doctorate in Healthcare Administration with a four-tier curriculum structure. Students will take core courses in research that involve qualitative and quantitative research methods, statistics, and design.

    • Required Credits: 58
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Franklin University

    The academic work at Franklin University is specifically structured for adult learners and working adults.

    Franklin University is best for students who:

    Want a wide variety of online degree options.

    Franklin University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Lack of commitment to distance learning.

    Compare school
  19. #15

    A.T. Still University

    Kirksville , MO
    #9 Best Online Doctorate of Physical Therapy Programs (PhDs) #9 Best Online Master's in Kinesiology Degree Programs #11 Best Online Master’s in Health Science 2025 #13 Best Online Doctorate in Organizational Leadership Degree Programs

    Student body

    4K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at A.T. Still University

    Cost of Degree: $39,675
    Starting Salary: $220,710
    Salary after 4 years: $230,313
    What is A.T. Still University known for?

    A.T. Still University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    A.T. Still University is a private medical school based in Kirksville, Missouri, with a second campus in Arizona, and a third in Santa Maria, California. ATSU currently has 30 graduate and post-professional programs in its schools and colleges. All ATSU programs are post-baccalaureate and focused on health sciences.

    ATSU offers a doctor of education in health professions delivered online. This program is designed for practicing clinicians, healthcare educators, and directors who plan on pursuing their passion to teach.

    • Required Credits: 55
    • Completion Time: 2 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about A.T. Still University

    A.T. Still University’s smaller class sizes help foster a well-rounded education.

    A.T. Still University is great for students who:

    Are wanting a degree in health science. The atmosphere on campus is that of collaboration across all professions and working together for a better patient care.

    A.T. Still University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Want a bigger school with a bigger student population. ATSU is a very small community.

    Compare school
    20. Doctor in a lab
  20. #16

    Capella University

    Minneapolis , MN
    #8 15 Best Self-paced Online Colleges Ranked for 2025 #6 Most Affordable Colleges in Minnesota 2024 #5 Fastest Accelerated Online Doctorate of Cybersecurity #6 Top 10 Best Online PhD of Information Technology Programs (Doctorates)
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $14K

    Student body

    68K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Capella University

    Cost of Degree: $15,066
    Starting Salary: $75,052
    Salary after 4 years: $78,317
    What is Capella University known for?

    Capella University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Most Influential Alumni

    Capella University in Minneapolis, Minnesota offers at least 1,900 online courses and 52 degree programs.

    Capella University’s School of Nursing and Health Sciences offers a Doctor of Health Administration (DHA) with a health policy and advocacy concentration. This program is for healthcare leaders who want to improve patient care through effective administration and focuses on ethics, collaboration, communication, and problem-solving.

    • Required Credits: 78
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Capella University

    With Capella Tuition Cap, students won’t pay more than $48,000 in tuition costs, regardless of the degree.

    Capella University is great for students who:

    Are looking for a school that will still allow them to work full time while earning their degrees.

    Capella University might not be ideal for students who:

    Can only commit a little time and effort to their online program.

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  22. #17

    Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Springs , CO
    #6 Best Private Colleges in Colorado 2025 #9 Best Research Universities in Colorado 2024 #10 Most Affordable Colleges in Colorado 2025 #4 Best Online Bachelor's in Cybersecurity in Colorado
    Other Rankings

    Tuition + fees

    $13K

    Graduation

    20%

    Student body

    50K

    Career Outlook for Public Health degree at Colorado Technical University

    Cost of Degree: $14,764
    Starting Salary: $53,032
    Salary after 4 years: $55,340
    What is Colorado Technical University known for?

    Colorado Technical University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Colorado Technical University is a private university with its main campus headquartered in Colorado Springs. The school offers more than 80 undergraduate and graduate degree programs and concentrations.

    CTU’s blended Doctorate in Healthcare Management and Leadership program is an online PhD degree focusing on research and writing and leadership and change management. This program also includes a Doctoral Symposium in Denver which students are required to attend.

    • Required Credits: 100
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Hybrid

    What we love about Colorado Technical University

    Colorado Tech utilizes Intellipath, a computerized adaptive program, to deliver personalized instruction.

    Colorado Technical University is great for students who:

    Are looking for a school with amazing online technology and a good choice of professors.

    Colorado Technical University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Cannot commit to full-time distance learning since the demands of the programs at CTU are very tough.

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  23. #18

    Trident University International

    #10 10 Best Accelerated Online PhD Programs Ranked for Students in 2025
    What is Trident University International known for?

    Trident University International’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    Trident University International is a private for-profit online university based in Cypress, California, and part of the larger American Intercontinental University. The school offers 8 degrees in 42 concentrations.

    The online PhD in Health Sciences at Trident University is designed to prepare professionals from health and sciences-related fields to fill the roles of educators, leaders, executives, researchers, scholars, and consultants so they can help improve society as competent and caring professionals.

    • Required Credits: 56
    • Completion Time: 2-3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about Trident University

    Trident university ranks number 847 out of the 1,660 Hardest Colleges to Get Into In America. This means that the academic quality and rigor of the school are very tough.

    Trident University is great for students who:

    Are after a school where the faculty and staff are very interested in every student’s success.

    Trident University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are not committed to online education, considering the school is one tough school to get into.

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  24. #19

    California InterContinental University

    Irvine , CA

    Tuition + fees

    $9K

    Student body

    <1K

    What is California InterContinental University known for?

    California InterContinental University’s faculty and alumni have been influential in:

    California Intercontinental University is a private for-profit online university based in Irvine, California. The University offers 31 degree programs in a wide range of disciplines through bachelor’s, master’s, doctorate, and post-graduate certificate programs.

    CIU offers a Doctor of Business Administration in Healthcare Management and Leadership with a research and leadership focus designed to help students perform applied research and transform mature learners into leaders.

    • Required Credits: 60
    • Completion Time: 3 years
    • Format: Online

    What we love about California Intercontinental University

    Admission requirements at CIU’s doctorate program are very simple: a master’s degree, a CV or resumé, and relevant work experience.

    California Intercontinental University is great for students who:

    Want a research-based school with a real-life business strategy.

    California International University might not be a good fit for students who:

    Are not self-motivated and don’t have the discipline to go through an online program.

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Career Outlook for Students with Public Health Degree

Go to Degree Finder tool

Public Health

Degree Level: Doctorate

  • Location: The U.S. (Private Schools)
  • Avg. Cost of Degree*: $11,518
  • Avg. Expenses*: $19,653
  • Avg. Starting Salary*: $92,069
  • Avg. Cost Recoup Time**: 9 years
  • Job Growth: 23.29%
  • Number of Jobs: 972,400
  • * denotes ‘annually’
  • ** denotes ‘at 15% of annual salary’

Career Salaries

CareerJob GrowthAvg. Salary
Physicists7.11%$155,680
Medical and Health Services Managers28.54%$110,680
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary18.75%$105,650
Medical Scientists, Except Epidemiologists11.46%$100,890
Physics Teachers, Postsecondary3.95%$98,020

Top Industries

IndustryAvg. Salary
Physicists$155,680
Medical and Health Services Managers$110,680
Health Specialties Teachers, Postsecondary$105,650
Data from The Bureau of Labor Statistics, The Department of Education College Scorecard, The Department of Education NCES, and The Council for Community and Economic Research.
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What is an accelerated online doctorate program in public health?

A PhD in public health is a doctorate degree designed to help students become more knowledgeable and well-versed in public health issues not only on a local but also on a global scale. This doctorate degree also teaches students to develop programs and tools that can help improve public health.

A doctorate degree is typically awarded following at least five to six years of intense schooling and work beyond a master’s degree. By earning a PhD, graduates will qualify as experts within their chosen field which can lead to amazing career opportunities and the ability to make a difference in global and public health.

The huge time commitment required of traditional doctorate degree programs in public health can be daunting. These degree programs can even take eight years or more if pursued on a part-time basis. This is a huge commitment!

The good news is that the fastest online doctoral program can be completed in as little as 3 years! The featured programs in public health outlined below are shorter yet made more comprehensive and intense than traditional doctorate degree programs.

Accelerated online doctoral degree programs are designed for students who want to take a shorter route toward a PhD or doctorate degree.

These accelerated public health degree programs are accomplished by completing the same amount of work in a shorter time frame. They enable students to waive two to three years of schooling to be ready for the job market more quickly.

Each of the accelerated online doctoral programs that we feature below can be completed in four years or less.

Bottom Line: Completing an accelerated online doctoral degree program in public health provides the same learning outcome as taking classes via a traditional on-campus PhD program. But completing this program can provide an early return on investment.

Doctor researching at a desk
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Types of Online PhD Programs in Public Health

The Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) and the Doctorate of Public Health are the highest degrees for this field. Although both programs are generally similar and best serve public health professionals, the PhD degree is more research-intensive, while the doctorate is geared toward future practitioners and developers or researchers in public health programs. Both degrees prepare students for health sciences careers in the academe.

Accelerated online education programs may be best suited for those who are already engaged in other personal and time-consuming matters, like having a full-time job.

Concentrations in Online PhD Programs

As PhD students in public health, students get to choose which area of concentration to focus on, such as:

  • Epidemiology of chronic diseases
  • Biostatistics
  • Epidemiology of microbial diseases
  • Public health policy and management
  • Environmental health sciences.
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Online Degree Programs in Public Health PhD

Like any other online degree program, an online PhD in public health consists of either online coursework or regular class meetings via video that can both be completed on one’s own time. Some schools, however, will require their students to come to campus a few times each year for face-to-face sessions or present their dissertations. There are also those that require in-person practicum hours at a local institution.

Online PhD programs in public health usually run between 5 and 6 years, but thru online accelerated options, this duration can be significantly minimized.

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MPH-PhD Dual Public Health Degree

The Master of Public Health – Doctor of Philosophy (MPH-PhD) dual degree program allows students to have a better learning experience by developing competencies in both public health and their chosen doctorate field of study. Unlike the MPH-MD dual degree that prepares doctoral students to become medical doctors with public health knowledge, an MPH-PhD dual degree prepares them for careers in research and academia as health educators with a public health focus.

Students with a bachelor’s degree can apply directly into this program, which results in both a master’s degree and a doctorate degree.

What is unique about online PhD programs in public health is that students can earn it in almost any field. But when combining it with an MPH, the field of study is usually related to public health such as general global health, nutrition, biostatistics, epidemiology, among others.

Bottom Line: Earning an MPH-PhD dual public health degree is a great way for busy working professionals to accomplish their career goals as quickly as possible.

Man studying public health
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