The Online Doctor of Public Health from the George Washington University

The 48-credit online DrPH program teaches leadership practice and theory through core courses, an in-person immersion, and practice experience. You will learn how to develop, implement and evaluate effective public health programs and policies, and you will graduate ready to resolve complex public health issues at the systematic level. 

As part of the online DrPH program, you will: 

• Elevate your public health leadership and management skills

• Connect with prominent public health leaders in D.C. and around the world

• Receive mentorship and personal support from practice-based faculty

• Collaborate with diverse peers during live online evening classes

• Core courses (35 credits)

• Practice experience and dissertation (13 credits)

• In-person immersion* (2 credits)

The estimated tuition for the online Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program as of the 2023-24 academic year is $90,720. A $300 deposit is required upon enrollment. Please note the cost of tuition does not include out-of-pocket expenses such as books, additional course materials, immersions, or other fees. While immersion fees include a majority of associated expenses, students are still responsible for travel costs, as well as some food and miscellaneous charges throughout the immersion experience. Students can expect a moderate tuition increase each year.

Applying for Federal Student Aid

• Apply for financial aid while applying for admission

• Complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA ), using the George Washington University’s code, 001444.

• If you start/continue/return in Fall 2024, Spring 2025, or Summer 2025, you will need to complete the 2024-2025 academic year FAFSA.

• If you start/continue/return in Fall 2025, Spring 2026, or Summer 2026, you will need to complete the 2025-2026 academic year FAFSA.

• If you start/continue/return in Fall 2026, Spring 2027, or Summer 2027, you will need to complete the 2026-2027 academic year FAFSA.

Please see the Online Public Health Financial Aid Checklist  for steps to apply for Federal Student Aid.

The Milken Institute School of Public Health seeks motivated candidates with a clear vision of their academic and professional goals. You must have a master's degree, and at least four years of professional public health experience to apply to this program.

Applicants who have completed an MPH degree from a Council of Education for Public Health (CEPH) accredited program are strongly preferred for admission to the DrPH Program. Applicants with a master's degree in another field should explain their relevant training, research experience, work experience and educational background comparable to the MPH. DrPH applicants admitted without an MPH may be required to take additional coursework at the graduate level that does not apply toward the minimum 48 credits required for the DrPH program. No GRE scores required.

Admission to this program is highly selective. Successful applicants have competitive academic credentials and four years or more of relevant health-related professional work experience post-graduate degree.

Application deadlines

Application requirements

To complete your online application, you will need to submit the following materials: 

• Application fee

• Personal statement

• Official transcripts

• Résumé or CV

• Letters of recommendation

• English language proficiency

The FAQs serve as a resource for students to gain answers to questions that are most commonly asked surrounding tuition, billing, financial aid, and military benefits. Many of the provided answers will guide you to the school website, Department of Education, and the Department of Veterans Affairs for more detailed information. The FAQs also provide contact information for the the school's bursar, registrar, financial aid office, and VA certifying official.