CPH Health Informatics PhD Admissions

How to Apply

Apply using our graduate application portal.

To apply for the Health Informatics PhD program, you must have a bachelor’s degree. Though a master’s degree specifically in health informatics or computer science is not required, preference is given to applicants who have backgrounds in the health sciences and informatics, including data science, epidemiology, health communication, human computer interaction, informatics, medicine, nursing or a public health discipline.

Prerequisite courses

You will need to have completed graduate coursework in data analysis, epidemiology, research methods and statistics. Coursework in behavioral, natural and social sciences will also improve your chance of admission.

Program Requirements

Letters of Recommendation

Submit three letters of recommendation from evaluators, preferably university or college faculty who can give insight into your academic abilities and speak to your capacity for doctoral-level research and study.

Statement of Goals

Write a 500- to 1,000-word statement of purpose articulating your background, academic and professional goals, and how your interests relate to the PhD program. Express which professors you are interested in working with, and why.

Aligning your interests with the work of faculty members plays a significant role in admissions decisions. Learn more about our faculty research interests.

Writing Sample

Submit a paper or excerpt that explores an academic topic in some depth, e.g., a thesis chapter, senior or master's level research paper, or conference paper.

Résumé

A current résumé or CV must be submitted with your application.

Transcripts

Submit official transcripts from all the undergraduate and graduate institutions you’ve attended. Please mail all of your official transcripts to the following address.

SOPHAS Transcript Processing Center
PO Box 9111
Watertown, MA 02471

Laptop Requirement

Laptops are integrated into the curriculum at the College of Public Health to improve opportunities for active learning and provide greater access to specialized software and required tools in and out of the classroom. Incoming students are required to have a laptop that meets certain minimum hardware specifications. Review full laptop requirements.

Additional Requirements for International Students

For applicants whose native language is not English, the TOEFL is required with a minimum score of 79 on the iBT. These scores should be sent officially to SOPHAS using the SOPHAS-specific TOEFL code 5688.

A WES Evaluation is required for applicants who completed their degree outside of the United States. This can be requested and submitted through SOPHAS.

Transfer students: Relevant graduate courses taken at other accredited universities may be considered for transfer credit. Students may transfer a maximum of six credits.

Application Deadline

Fall Priority: Dec. 15

This deadline enables students to be nominated for fellowships. Applications must be submitted AND complete (i.e., all required materials must be received and verified by SOPHAS) by Dec. 15 to be considered.