On the heels of graduating the first online DrPH class, WSPH is developing new DrPH courses. There is strong student interest in professional doctoral degrees in public health.
THE CELIA SCOTT WEATHERHEAD SCHOOL OF PUBLIC HEALTH AND TROPICAL MEDICINE has seen immense change over its 113-year history—because it is perpetually improving. Never content to rest on its laurels, the school continually looks ahead to strengthen programs, better serve students, and respond to the evolving field of public health. In addition to launching the new Master of Science in Health Security, the school has introduced other significant updates this year.
A Second Online DrPH
This fall, the school welcomed the inaugural class of the online Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) in Leadership for International Health and Sustainable Development (IHSD). Designed for mid-level global health professionals, the program aims to drive meaningful change in international health policy and practice. “This school has always been known for its leadership in international health,” said Dean Thomas LaVeist. “This new degree program will provide doctoral-level training for practice-based careers in one of the most vital public health fields today.”
Housed in the IHSD Department, the program builds on Tulane’s deep expertise in global health and capacity strengthening. “We saw a growing need to train top-level managers who can apply research skills to shaping global policies and leading innovative projects in low- and middle-income countries,” said IHSD Chair Dr. David Hotchkiss.
Program Director Dr. Mai Do added that class schedules accommodate professionals across time zones and that diverse cohorts enrich learning with multiple cultural perspectives.
An Update to the First DrPH
Since 2022, the school’s online DrPH in Leadership, Advocacy, and Equity has drawn strong interest. Originally a schoolwide degree, it is now housed in the Department of Social, Behavioral, and Population Sciences (SBPS), reflecting its strong alignment with the department’s focus on health equity.
As “equity” has become a politically charged term, some students expressed concern that the program’s title might affect job prospects. After careful consideration, leaders renamed it the DrPH in Leadership in Social and Behavioral Sciences.
“This change reflects a strategic decision, not a shift in our values,” said Dr. Gretchen Clum, associate dean for academic programs. SBPS Chair Dr. Akilah Dulin emphasized that “our commitment to health equity and advocacy is unwavering.” The program graduated its first class of 30 this May. Its cohort model fosters collaboration and professional support, with new groups beginning twice a year.
Areas of Specialization
To help students stand out in a competitive job market, the school introduced new Areas of Specialization this fall. These secondary concentrations allow students to deepen expertise in high-demand fields while fulfilling elective credits—no extra coursework required.
Current offerings include Maternal and Child Health, Public Health Nutrition, and Infectious Disease Epidemiology, with additional options planned for future semesters.
