The DrPH with a concentration in Preparedness Leadership is offered by the Department of Health Policy and Organization.
Emergencies demand public health leaders who can navigate complex response systems and lead teams with confidence. The executive-style Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Preparedness Leadership is designed for experienced professionals seeking to advance their knowledge in public health preparedness, crisis management, and strategic leadership.
This degree program combines the flexibility of online learning with immersive on-campus experiences. Students engage in rigorous coursework, hands-on case studies, and applied research that addresses real-world challenges in public health emergency preparedness. Through their doctoral project, students generate evidence-based insights that inform policy, strengthen systems, and enhance community resilience.
The curriculum plan is tailored for working professionals, allowing students to complete coursework within two years and earn their DrPH in Preparedness Leadership in as little as three to four years. Each fall and spring semester during the first two years, participants attend a three-day on-campus session featuring intensive instruction from top-ranked faculty, field-based simulations, and networking with peers and experts in the field. All other required coursework is delivered online.
Further details about the program may be obtained by contacting Dr. Elayne Wilson at elaynewilson@uab.edu or Program Coordinator, Misty Altiparmak, at maltima@uab.edu.
Curriculum
To earn the DrPH in Preparedness Leadership, students must complete a total of 58 credit hours following a structured, non-elective curriculum. This includes 9 hours of foundational DrPH core, 24 hours of Preparedness Leadership concentration courses, 3 hours of scientific integrity, and 4 hours of doctoral seminar. Other requirements for the degree include a comprehensive written and oral examination (HPO 797, 3 hours), DrPH practicum (HPO 793, 6 hours), dissertation protocol development (HPO 798, 3 hours), and at least two semesters of dissertation research (HPO 799, 6 hours).
Download Curriculum Planning Sheet (pdf)
Program Structure*
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Year 1
- Complete 23 credit hours of doctoral-level synchronous and asynchronous online coursework in three semesters
- Travel to Birmingham for two (2) three-day visits for engaging face-to-face instruction
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Year 2
- Complete 26 credit hours of doctoral-level synchronous and asynchronous online coursework in three semesters. This includes a practicum and a comprehensive written and oral examination.
- Travel to Birmingham for two (2) three-day visits for engaging face-to-face instruction
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Year 3
- Complete 3 credit hours of dissertation development
- Conduct 6 credit hours of dissertation research
- Defend dissertation
*Curriculum information is subject to change. Due to the overlapping-cohorts format, the order of courses depends upon the year in which the student enters the Program.
Admission
Applications must be submitted through the SOPHAS system. Required application materials include a statement of purpose, curriculum vitae or resume, official academic transcripts, GRE scores and two letters of recommendation.
Applicants to the DrPH program in Preparedness Leadership should hold either an MPH or a Master’s degree in a health-related field. Applicants are expected to have a minimum of three to five years of public health, healthcare, or public service experience in a relevant field. Admissions decisions will be based upon prior academic performance, professional experience, a written statement of purpose, two letters of recommendation, and GRE Scores. GRE scores should be no more than five years old. Please contact the Program Coordinator to learn more about admissions requirements or request a GRE waiver.
This is an online program which requires two on-campus visits each year. Therefore, this program does not qualify for F1/J1 visa status.Tuition and Fees
UAB’s tuition and fees are priced competitively. Students pay the same tuition price whether they reside in or outside of the state of Alabama for online courses. For general UAB tuition and fees, visit the UAB Cost & Aid website online courses section. In addition, there will be a professional development fee of $750 that is charged each fall semester.