UNIVERSITY OF SOUTHERN CALIFORNIA · UNITED STATES
PhD in Health Economics
PhD · Taught in en
At a glance
60 mo
Duration
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IELTS
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Tuition / yr
en
Language
PhD
Level
- Fully funded for up to five yearsFunding guaranteed
- Teaching and research assistantships or fellowshipsFunding sources
- Internship opportunitiesPractical experience
- Collaboration with Schaeffer CenterResearch hub
- Strong alumni networkCareer support
- Multidisciplinary trainingProgram scope
The PhD in Health Economics at the University of Southern California (USC) offers a rigorous academic program designed to train students to become leading researchers and policy advisors in the field of health economics. Located on USC's University Park Campus in Los Angeles, this interdisciplinary program equips students with advanced knowledge in microeconomics, econometrics, and specialized areas like cost-effectiveness analysis, public finance, and epidemiology. Students will work closely with world-renowned faculty, gaining practical research experience essential for launching successful careers. The program is a collaboration between the USC Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and the USC Price School of Public Policy, leveraging the expertise of both schools and the research capabilities of the Leonard D. Schaeffer Center for Health Policy & Economics. This affiliation provides unique opportunities for students to engage in impactful research projects and collaborate with distinguished faculty from across USC. The program is designed to prepare graduates for impactful roles in academia, government, and the private sector, addressing critical challenges in healthcare through innovative research and policy solutions.
Curriculum
The PhD program provides comprehensive training in economic theory and quantitative methods, with a specialization in health economics. Students develop expertise in core economic principles and learn to apply them to complex health-related issues. The curriculum is designed to build a strong foundation for conducting independent research.
- Year 1-2
- Advanced Microeconomic Theory
- Advanced Econometrics
- Health Economics Seminars
- Cost-Effectiveness Analysis
- Public Finance
- Epidemiology Fundamentals
- Year 3-5
- Dissertation Research
- Advanced Topics in Health Economics
- Research Methods
Careers
Graduates of the PhD in Health Economics program are highly sought after in various sectors. The program's rigorous training and research opportunities prepare students for influential roles in shaping health policy and advancing healthcare innovation.
- Academia (Professor, Researcher)
- Government (Policy Analyst, Health Economist)
- Industry (Pharmaceutical Companies, Consulting Firms)
- Think Tanks and Research Institutes
Frequently asked questions
- Is the PhD in Health Economics program fully funded?
- Yes, all PhD students in Health Economics at USC are fully funded for up to five years. This typically includes tuition remission, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance.
- What is the duration of the PhD program?
- The program is designed to be completed in five years. The first two years focus on coursework and seminars, while the subsequent years are dedicated to dissertation research.
- What are the career prospects after completing this program?
- Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, government (e.g., Policy Analyst, Health Economist), industry (e.g., Pharmaceutical Companies, Consulting Firms), and think tanks.
- What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Health Economics?
- The application deadline for Fall admission is typically in early June. The application portal usually opens in the fall of the preceding year.
- What supporting documents are required for the application?
- Required documents generally include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a curriculum vitae or resume. GRE scores may be required or can be submitted if available.
- Are there any specific scholarships available for this program?
- While the program is fully funded, there are a few additional funding opportunities. These include the Gold Family Graduate Fellowship for dissertation research, the USC Del Amo Foundation Research Award, and the Hovel Summer Travel Award for dissertation research.
Entry requirements
Bachelor's or Master's DegreeA strong academic record demonstrating preparedness for graduate-level study in economics or a related field.
The application deadline for Fall admission is typically in early June. Specific GRE requirements or waivers are not detailed on the provided program page, but applicants are encouraged to check the official admissions portal for the most up-to-date information.
Fees
Tuition (international)All PhD students in Health Economics are fully funded.
Tuition (home)All PhD students in Health Economics are fully funded.
LivingStipends are provided to cover living expenses.
Full funding typically includes tuition remission, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance for up to five years.
How to apply
1. Visit the Application PortalAccess the USC graduate admissions application portal (liaisoncas.com/applicant-ux/#/login).
2. Complete the Online ApplicationFill out all required sections of the application form, providing accurate personal and academic information.
3. Submit Supporting DocumentsUpload all necessary documents, which typically include transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a curriculum vitae or resume. Specific requirements may vary.
4. Pay Application FeeSubmit the required application fee. Fee waivers may be available under certain circumstances.
5. Await DecisionApplications are reviewed by the admissions committee. Decisions are typically communicated within a few months after the application deadline.
Scholarships
Heather Anne Barnes Endowed ScholarshipFinancial assistance
Gold Family Graduate Fellowship$5,000
USC Del Amo Foundation Research AwardUp to $5,000
Hovel Summer Travel AwardUp to $5,000
Accreditation
The program is offered by the USC Mann School of Pharmacy and Pharmaceutical Sciences and the USC Price School of Public Policy, both integral parts of the University of Southern California.
Frequently asked questions
Is the PhD in Health Economics program fully funded?
+
Yes, all PhD students in Health Economics at USC are fully funded for up to five years. This typically includes tuition remission, a stipend for living expenses, and health insurance.
What is the duration of the PhD program?
+
The program is designed to be completed in five years. The first two years focus on coursework and seminars, while the subsequent years are dedicated to dissertation research.
What are the career prospects after completing this program?
+
Graduates are prepared for roles in academia, government (e.g., Policy Analyst, Health Economist), industry (e.g., Pharmaceutical Companies, Consulting Firms), and think tanks.
What are the application deadlines for the PhD in Health Economics?
+
The application deadline for Fall admission is typically in early June. The application portal usually opens in the fall of the preceding year.
What supporting documents are required for the application?
+
Required documents generally include academic transcripts, letters of recommendation, a statement of purpose, and a curriculum vitae or resume. GRE scores may be required or can be submitted if available.
Are there any specific scholarships available for this program?
+
While the program is fully funded, there are a few additional funding opportunities. These include the Gold Family Graduate Fellowship for dissertation research, the USC Del Amo Foundation Research Award, and the Hovel Summer Travel Award for dissertation research.