Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)

Population, Family and Reproductive Health (PFRH) is an interdisciplinary department where work is grounded in a multilevel life course framework. This framework enables us to understand how public health issues result from the complex interplay of biological, behavioral, societal, and other factors across a person’s life and across generations.  

Important note for current admissions cycle: The Department is currently seeking applicants to the PFRH PhD program who are interested in the following areas: 

• Child and Adolescent Health: The PFRH department is focused on advancing the scientific basis, public health determinants, programmatic strategies, and policy considerations that influence child and adolescent well-being. Our faculty research the interacting influences of family, community, school, environment, and policy across the life course. PhD students working in this area have the opportunity to contribute to projects that promote resilience, reduce disparities, and support healthy futures for young people around the world. Learn more about the Child and Adolescent Health area of interest including faculty working in this area. 
   
• Women’s, Sexual and Reproductive Health: The PFRH department is dedicated to advancing sexual and reproductive health across the life course from adolescence to adulthood. PFRH faculty conduct innovative research on issues such as contraception and abortion access, gender-based violence, and the impact of gender norms on health outcomes. PhD students engage in work that addresses the social and structural determinants of health and that influences policy and practice through rigorous inquiry, strategic partnerships, and dedicated advocacy. Learn more about the Women’s, Sexual and Reproductive Health area of interest including faculty working in this area.

Applicants to the PFRH PhD program are able to indicate whether they are interested in being considered for PFRH master's programs (MSPH or MHS), if they are not accepted for the PhD program. Prospective students who feel they are not well-aligned with current areas of recruitment for the PhD program are welcome to apply directly to a master’s program.  

The emphasis of the PhD program is to integrate coursework in life course, population health, and core PFRH areas of interest with the application of a range of research methods. Doctoral program requirements include a core set of courses that cover developmental, demographic and social science frameworks that represent common conceptual foundations for the work of PFRH faculty. Students also complete coursework in biostatistics, epidemiology, and data collection, analysis, and interpretation. Upon completion of required courses and preliminary exams, students engage in dissertation work. Students complete one or more research apprenticeships and serve as teaching assistants for PFRH courses. 

Visit the Graduate Employment Outcomes Dashboard to learn about Bloomberg School graduates' employment status, sector, and salaries.

Learn more about roles PRFH graduates have accepted and the organizations and institutions where they are making a difference. 

Browse an overview of the requirements for this PhD program in the JHU Academic Catalogue, explore all course offerings in the Bloomberg School Course Directory. 

Current students can view the student handbook (login required; under "resources for all students").