The Health Services Research (HSR) doctoral program at Brown University’s Department of Health Services, Policy & Practice offers comprehensive training in research methods designed to advance knowledge of critical issues in population health improvement. This prestigious program focuses on the organizational characteristics of healthcare delivery systems, the providers and economic forces that shape consumer and provider behavior, and the policy environment in which these complex relationships operate.
The competency-based curriculum provides students with a robust analytical foundation and comprehensive health services research orientation, preparing graduates to become leaders in academia, industry, and policy-making organizations.
Students can select from three distinct emphasis areas to tailor their doctoral experience:
Pharmacoepidemiology and Pharmaceutical Health Services Research Explore the intersection of drug utilization, safety, and effectiveness within healthcare systems, examining how pharmaceutical interventions impact population health outcomes.
Health Economics Develop expertise in economic evaluation methods, cost-effectiveness analysis, and the economic factors that drive healthcare decision-making at individual, organizational, and policy levels.
Comparative Effectiveness Research and Evidence-based Medicine Master the methodologies for comparing treatment alternatives and translating research evidence into clinical and policy practice.
World-Class Faculty Leadership Learn from faculty members who are recognized leaders in health economics, evidence synthesis, aging research, and health policy. These experts bring cutting-edge research experience and extensive networks in academia, government, and industry.
Exceptional Learning Environment Benefit from an outstanding student-to-faculty ratio that ensures personalized attention, mentorship, and collaborative research opportunities throughout your doctoral journey.
Immediate Research Engagement Begin conducting meaningful research from your very first semester, gaining hands-on experience that complements theoretical learning and builds your professional portfolio.
Teaching Excellence Opportunities Develop pedagogical skills through teaching opportunities, including access to an optional teaching certificate program that enhances your academic credentials and career prospects.
Grant Writing Mastery Receive comprehensive training in grant writing, with many students successfully obtaining federally-funded dissertation grants to support their research. The program has seen over five competitive dissertation grants awarded in the past two years alone.
Guaranteed Financial Security Enjoy complete financial support with guaranteed funding for up to five years, including summer support, allowing you to focus entirely on your studies and research.
Applied Research Partnerships Engage in applied research projects with external partners, gaining real-world experience and building professional networks that extend beyond academia.
Brown University’s commitment to educational excellence is demonstrated through its comprehensive financial support package. All admitted PhD students receive:
The doctoral program combines rigorous coursework with extensive research training. Students complete required courses that build foundational knowledge in health services research methodologies, statistical analysis, and policy evaluation. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for diverse career paths.
Major requirements include comprehensive examinations, dissertation proposal defense, and completion of an original research dissertation that contributes new knowledge to the field. Throughout the program, students work closely with faculty advisors and dissertation committees to ensure academic success and professional development.
Graduates of Brown’s HSR PhD program pursue successful careers across multiple sectors:
Academic Positions Faculty roles at leading universities and research institutions, where graduates conduct independent research and train the next generation of health services researchers.
Industry Leadership Senior research and policy positions in pharmaceutical companies, healthcare organizations, consulting firms, and health technology companies.
Government and Policy Roles Positions with federal agencies, state health departments, and international health organizations where graduates influence health policy development and implementation.
Research Institute Leadership Roles at think tanks, research foundations, and policy institutes where graduates conduct high-impact research that shapes healthcare practice and policy.
Application Deadline: December 1
Prospective students are encouraged to attend virtual information sessions to learn more about the program and connect with faculty and current students. These “HSR Hour” sessions provide opportunities to ask questions about curriculum, research opportunities, funding, and career outcomes. CLICK HERE TO REGISTER
David Meyers
Vice Chair & PhD Program Director, Associate Professor
Email: david_meyers@brown.edu
Alyssa Bilinski
Peterson Family Assistant Professor of Health Policy, Assistant Professor of Health Services, Policy and Practice and Biostatistics, HSR PhD Admissions Director
Email: Alyssa_Bilinski@Brown.edu
Emmanuelle Belanger
Associate Professor, HSR PhD Admissions Director
Email: Emmanuelle_Belanger@brown.edu
The program prioritizes work-life balance and maintains a supportive, collaborative environment. Faculty and staff are committed to fostering strong student-faculty relationships, recognizing these connections as pivotal to student success. The program’s friendly atmosphere encourages intellectual growth while maintaining personal well-being.
Recent program news highlights the diverse interests and achievements of students, including those who successfully balance demanding academic requirements with creative pursuits, demonstrating the program’s commitment to developing well-rounded scholars and practitioners.
If you’re interested in advancing your career in health policy research and joining a community of scholars dedicated to improving population health outcomes, Brown University’s Health Services Research PhD program offers an unparalleled opportunity. With guaranteed funding, world-class faculty mentorship, and excellent career placement records, this program provides the foundation for leadership in health services research.
To learn more about application requirements, attend an information session, or connect with program faculty, visit the program website or contact the admissions directors directly. The application deadline is December 1, and early engagement with the program through information sessions is highly encouraged.
Brown University School of Public Health is located in Providence, Rhode Island, and offers a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing public health research and practice.
Applications are open until December 1! More info on the website: CLICK HERE
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