About PhD Program,
Discover a world of possibilities for an exciting and challenging career in public health. Begin your journey today by applying to the Arnold School!
The Arnold School was one of the first accredited schools of public health in the nation and remains the only one in South Carolina. Professionals in public health come from varying educational backgrounds and can specialize in an array of fields. Learn how you can become a part of the Arnold School of Public Health community and work to protect the health of the public locally, nationally and globally.
Prospective graduate students apply to the Arnold School of Public Health using different application methods depending on the graduate degree program. Before you apply, review the application process and requirements carefully. Our Office of Graduate Student Services is here to help you with any questions you have along the way.
PhD Program Degree Eligibility with GPA,
The applicant’s strength in relevant coursework is evaluated along with other credentials. However, those offered admission to the Arnold School typically have academic records that are above 3.00/4.00 GPA.
The number of hours for a master’s degree varies from 36 hours to 69 hours, depending upon the degree/department you chose. On a full-time basis, the MPH, MSPH, and M.S. are typically completed in one-and-a-half to two years. Full- and part-time students are expected to complete all program requirements within six years.
International applicants do not have a separate deadline date; however, early applications are encouraged. All application materials should be submitted by the deadline date.
PhD Funding Coverage,
There are a number of ways to fund your education. Our graduate students receive funding through scholarships, fellowships, internships, graduate assistantships, and more.
Public health scholarship and fellowship information is distributed via student email listservs and also posted within the MySPH (My Source for Public Health) Opportunity Manager. Since the Arnold School of Public Health is a member of the Association of Schools & Programs of Public Health (ASPPH), graduate students are eligible for fellowships offered through ASPPH. The University of South Carolina Graduate School also has a listing of available fellowships and awards. For a list of scholarships offered by department please visit the Financial Aid and Scholarships Departmental Scholarships website.
Application Requirement,
Minimum requirements to apply include:
A completed application (SOPHAS, CSDCAS, PTCAS, HAMPCAS, ATCAS, or the USC Graduate School)
A four year baccalaureate degree or its equivalent (for a doctoral degree, an earned master’s degree is typically required)
Official transcripts from all schools or colleges previously attended
Grade point average of 3.00/4.00 or higher
Required test scores
Two to three letters of recommendation (depending on program)
Resume or CV
Statement of purpose and objectives describing applicant’s academic and research interest, relevant work experiences, academic/professional goals and objectives
For international applicants, a satisfactory score on the Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) or the International English Language Testing System (IELTS) Academic Course Type 2 exam. Non-US institution transcripts must be verified by World Education Services (WES) or equivalent evaluation service.
For more detailed information by program, visit the Apply section.
Application Deadline,
Jan 15, 2025
Application Fee,
A non-refundable Application Fee, of $80 is to all degree-seeking students
