Frequently Asked Questions

What Kind of Program Is It?

Walden University's Ph.D. in Health Services program with a specialization in Leadership is an online program designed to prepare health management professionals to be effective leaders and organizers. The program addresses the structure of healthcare delivery systems, theories of leadership, healthcare resource management, and policy implementation. The curriculum covers management of healthcare delivery systems, ethical and legal issues, and finance functions in healthcare management. The specialization courses focus on leadership skills for diverse populations, team building and collaboration, the role of leaders in organizational change, and the power of language in a leadership context.

What Are the Prerequisites?

The program is designed for current healthcare professionals. Experience with healthcare leadership, policy implementation, administration, corporate training, or teaching can be helpful. Most of Walden University's doctoral programs require a master's degree or higher and three years of related academic or professional experience. Applicants may need to complete additional requirements for some programs.

What Are the Program Requirements?

Degree program curriculum and credits are subject to change, and you should contact Walden University for the most current information before enrolling in a program. The Walden University Ph.D. in Health Services program incorporates online study as well as four residency periods (equal to a minimum of 16 units), and it culminates in a dissertation. The required courses are listed below.

Required Courses

• Foundations of Graduate Study in Health Services
• Research Theory, Design, and Methods
• Quantitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Qualitative Reasoning and Analysis
• Advanced Research
• Writing a Quality Prospectus
• U.S. Healthcare Delivery System
• Organizational Development and Leadership
• Health Economics
• Health Policy
• Healthcare Financial Management
• Health Law and Ethics
• Leadership, Professionalism, and Ethics in Public Health Practice
• Administration and Leadership of Public Health Programs
• Leadership and Organizational Change
• The Language of Leadership
• Electives (two courses)
• Dissertation

What Could I Do After I Graduate?

Career Opportunities:

Graduates of Walden University's Ph.D. in Health Services program with a specialization in Leadership have the opportunity to prepare for careers in healthcare management, systems planning, or public health initiatives. Healthcare leadership specialists often work with non-profit and government institutions and assess the efficacy of healthcare proposals. Graduates may wish to pursue careers in teaching, mediation, research, or healthcare policy.

Positions that you may seek include:

• Professor
• Corporate training and development
• Healthcare executive
• Healthcare systems advisor or analyst
• Health administration management