Health Policy

The George Washington University offers a comprehensive graduate program in Health Policy designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the evolving healthcare landscape. This program provides in-depth knowledge of health policy analysis, healthcare systems, and public health principles, equipping graduates with the skills necessary to influence policy development and implementation at local, national, and international levels. Students will explore a broad range of topics including health economics, health law and ethics, health services research, and the social determinants of health. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, ensuring that students gain valuable insights into policymaking processes, stakeholder engagement, and the evaluation of health policies. Through a combination of coursework, case studies, and experiential learning opportunities, students develop critical thinking and analytical skills essential for addressing complex health challenges. The program also offers opportunities for specialization in areas such as global health policy, health care management, and health equity. Collaborative projects with health organizations and government agencies provide real-world experience, fostering professional networks and career development. Graduates of the program are well-prepared to pursue careers in governmental agencies, non-profit organizations, healthcare consulting firms, and international health agencies. The George Washington University’s location in Washington, D.C., provides unique access to policymakers and industry leaders, enriching the learning environment and expanding professional opportunities. The program’s faculty comprises experienced experts and researchers dedicated to advancing health policy knowledge and practice. Students are encouraged to engage in research, attend conferences, and participate in policy debates to stay current with emerging trends and innovations in the field. Whether aiming to influence health legislation, improve healthcare delivery, or develop innovative health solutions, students will find this program to be a rigorous and inspiring pathway to making a meaningful impact on public health policy.

Graduation Requirements

1. Graduate credit requirement: 48 graduate credits are required.
2. Course requirements: successful completion of the foundational and research methods courses. The program-specific specialty field courses and the professional leadership credits are required.
3. Comprehensive exam: Once the course of study is completed, students are required to pass the comprehensive exam to be officially admitted to the candidacy phase.
4. Dissertation: PUBH 8422 Advanced Health Care and Public Health Research Design plus 6-9 dissertation research credits are required. Once the proposal has been successfully defended and dissertation research credits have been met, the oral defense may be scheduled.
5. Grade point requirement: A 3.0 (B average) overall grade-point average is required.
6. Time limit requirement: The degree must be completed within seven (7) years.
7. No transfer credits are accepted.

• The SOPHAS online application form
• Official transcripts from all academic institutions from which you earned credit
• Official and current GRE test scores (GW Institution Code: 5268)
• Two letters of recommendation (Note: A third letter is required of doctoral applicants)
• Applicants who hold a master’s degree are exempt from the GRE requirement (faculty have the option of requesting a GRE). However, international applicants are not eligible for this waiver. International applicants should review the Milken Institute School of Public Health Language Proficiency and International Testing Requirement.
• Applicants to graduate certificate programs with at least four years of relevant work experience may be eligible for a waiver of the standardized exam requirement.
• Statement of purpose
• Official TOEFL or IELTS score

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The George Washington University offers comprehensive financing options for students enrolled in their Health Policy degree programs. Prospective students can explore a variety of federal and institutional financial aid opportunities to support their studies. federal student loans, including Direct Subsidized and Unsubsidized Loans, are available to eligible students to help cover tuition and related expenses. Additionally, graduate students may qualify for Federal Work-Study programs, which provide part-time employment opportunities on-campus to offset costs. GW University also offers merit-based scholarships and fellowships for outstanding applicants, which can significantly reduce financial burdens. Many students access private scholarships and external funding sources through partnerships and community organizations to further assist with educational expenses.

The university provides detailed financial planning resources and counseling services to help students understand their options and manage their budgets effectively. Payment plans are also available, allowing students to spread tuition payments over several installments during the academic year. For international students, specific scholarship programs and guidance are offered to facilitate financing their education. Loan counseling sessions are available to ensure students understand loan terms and repayment obligations. The university's Office of Financial Aid and Student Records provides personalized assistance to help students navigate application processes and maximize their financial aid packages. Overall, GW University is committed to making its health policy programs accessible through a variety of financing options tailored to meet diverse student needs, ensuring that qualified individuals can pursue their educational and career goals without undue financial hardship.

The George Washington University offers a comprehensive program in Health Policy designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the complex and evolving healthcare landscape. The program emphasizes the development of critical thinking, analytical skills, and a deep understanding of health systems, policy analysis, and reform strategies. Students gain insight into the social, economic, and political factors that influence healthcare delivery and policy-making processes. The curriculum includes core courses in health policy analysis, health economics, law and ethics, and management, complemented by electives tailored to special interests such as global health, healthcare technology, and public health preparedness. The program fosters interdisciplinary learning, integrating perspectives from public health, law, economics, and political science.

Students benefit from access to GW’s extensive network of healthcare professionals, policymakers, and researchers, providing practical internship opportunities and exposure to real-world challenges. The program encourages research and scholarly activity, with options to engage in thesis work, policy analysis projects, and collaborations with government agencies and healthcare organizations. The faculty comprises experienced scholars and practitioners dedicated to advancing health equity, innovation, and effective policy development. Graduates of the program are well-equipped to work in federal, state, and local government agencies, healthcare organizations, non-profit sectors, and private industry, influencing health policy at various levels. The program is designed to be flexible, offering part-time and online options, accommodating working professionals who seek to deepen their understanding of health policy and advance their careers in this vital field.