The US health science sector is projected to grow exponentially, with millions of jobs needing to be filled in the next decade, from front desk staff to hospital management. Plus, there’s no denying that the healthcare industry is constantly evolving. Management teams need to be agile when adapting.
With rising demand for qualified leaders who understand the complexities of running a clinic or hospital, a Doctor of Health Science degree is designed to equip graduates with the expertise needed to meet that need.
A Doctor of Health Science (DHSc) is a terminal degree created to help you establish a high-level career in healthcare. In short, it’s the ticket to entering competitively, with the experience you need to succeed.
Doctor of Health Science Degree: In Short
With the evolution of technology and ever-expanding medical advancements, the healthcare industry desperately needs people who understand it. Folks entering the field need the proper education to navigate it effectively. To work in even entry-level positions in the healthcare field, there’s significant baseline knowledge needed, including technology, navigating and understanding public policy as it relates to healthcare, and health insurance.
Then, to work in high-level positions in the healthcare field, the base knowledge requirement increases significantly.
So if you’re still wondering, “But what is a Doctor of Health Science degree?” These days, it’s starting to feel like the bare minimum to enter leadership in this complex field.
A Doctor of Health Science degree equips graduates with the tools to navigate the complexities of the healthcare industry. Students learn to lead teams, evaluate research for relevance, and think systematically, even globally. This degree prepares graduates to apply evidence-based solutions within a clinical organization at a level that makes a significant difference in patients’ daily lives.
While students initially focus on theoretical knowledge and practices, they’re also taught to apply that knowledge practically to improve patient care, streamline operations, and support medical innovation. You’ll be poised to help drive healthcare’s evolution as a leader who knows how to adapt and implement strategies that actually work.
Earn your Doctorate in Health Sciences online!
Professional doctorate vs. research doctorate
Within academia, there are several types of doctorates, and notable differences between professional and research doctorates, which can easily be confused. Below, we’ll explore how they vary.
Professional doctorate
A professional doctorate emphasizes research designed to solve real-world problems. Students are given the most up-to-date, relevant, peer-reviewed research, as well as access to what research is in development and relevant to jobs in health science. In the latter half of a professional doctorate program, students are then expected to apply this knowledge in clinical, administrative, and organizational settings. This type of degree is perfect for those who want to work in leadership or educational roles, but don’t want to step into a research-only workplace after graduation.
A doctoral project primed for publication is usually required to earn this degree. This is particularly useful if you are a healthcare professional who wants to make improvements that can be implemented quickly. It’s helpful in advancing your administrative expertise.
Research doctorate
A research doctorate, colloquially known as a PhD, requires extensive research. The goal of many PhD programs is to contribute to the scientific community with a discovery or piece of knowledge. The programs are often centered around research, studies, dissertations, and academic publications.
Requirements for a Doctorate of Health Science
First, you need a master’s degree before pursuing a Doctor of Health Science, typically in a related field, to ensure you’ll have the same baseline knowledge as the rest of your academic cohort.
As the DHSc is a terminal degree designed to expand the knowledge and experience of established professionals in health science fields, most students pursuing a Doctor of Health Science degree come directly from the healthcare field. Many have backgrounds in healthcare administration, nursing, public health, allied health, and clinical practice, among others.
If you’re in the healthcare field and hoping to advance your career, perhaps to management positions, a Doctor of Health Science could be a great move for you. The curriculum will expand your knowledge in the field you’re already familiar with.
Most DHSc programs require 2-3 years of related professional experience to consider your application. The experience requirement allows the program to set the precedent of students with a baseline knowledge of the healthcare industry as this background is significant when applying concepts you’ve already experienced in the program to real-world, higher-level situations and problem-solving. It’s also relevant for in-class discussions and initiatives you’ll craft throughout the program.
Jobs in health science and other career outcomes
A Doctor in Health Science is instrumental in accessing high-level career opportunities. Due to its status as a terminal degree—you’ll be a doctor, after all—you’re considered an expert in your field; poised to successfully lead a world-changing healthcare team.
Graduates often move into roles such as:
- Senior-level healthcare administration
- Clinical director or program director positions
- University or college faculty
- Healthcare policy advisor
- Research or clinical outcomes specialist
- Public health program administrator
- Healthcare consultant
- Executive roles in hospitals, clinics, nonprofits, and government agencies
With a DHSc, you’re eligible to hold senior-level positions in hospitals and educational institutions. The DHSc can help you move into leadership positions quickly because it demonstrates your mastery of high-level decision-making, including applied research, organizational strategy, and communication.
Pursuing a doctorate is a choice many people make to accelerate their careers. It shows employers that you have the skills necessary to successfully lead in the complex field of healthcare.
Elevate your career opportunities at University of Bridgeport
University of Bridgeport can support you in your Doctor of Health Science with expert faculty, helpful advisors, and a welcoming community. Designed for working professionals, UB’s curriculum offers the flexibility and structure you need to pursue your education without pausing your career.
Learn more about the Doctor of Health Science degree at University of Bridgeport.