Public Health Policy, Online Doctorate (EdD)

August Start

• August Start — Full Time (2 Yrs)
• August Start — Part Time (3 Yrs)

January Start

• January Start — Full Time (2 Yrs)
• January Start — Part Time (3 Yrs)

• Higher education
• Public health education or program specialists
• Operations management or executive directors of public health non-profits
• Health system leaders in population health initiatives
• Health policy advisor
• Public Health Consultants

1. Display leadership skills as an effective communicator, collaborator, educator, and change agent.
2. Demonstrate professional skills to develop and sustain systematic change in health care, academic,
   and community settings.
3. Navigate emerging information technology in health care, academic, and community settings.
4. Serve as an active and effective interdisciplinary team member in health care, academic, and
   community settings.

• 2025-26 Doctor of Education Handbook

A DrPH (Doctor of Public Health) is a professional degree that focuses on leadership, practice and applied research in public health, making it ideal for those seeking high-level roles in public health organizations. A PhD in Public Health emphasizes original research and academic theory, preparing graduates for careers in research or university-level teaching. While the EdD in Public Health Policy also targets leadership, it focuses more on educational and policy change within public health systems.​

Yes, non-nurses are eligible to apply to the online doctorate in public health. The EdD in Public Health Policy is designed for professionals from diverse backgrounds, including public health, medicine, social work, environmental science and other related fields. The key requirements typically include a master's degree in a relevant field (like a Master of Public Health), professional experience in public health, and a strong interest in leadership or policy. Nursing experience is not required unless the program is specifically tailored for nurse leaders.

Nebraska Methodist College allows transfer of up to 12 credits into its EdD in Public Health Policy program, subject to faculty evaluation. To be eligible, courses must have been taken at an accredited institution, earned a grade of B- or better, and align with the program's outcomes. Most coursework must have been completed within 10 years; however, certain subjects, such as biostatistics, healthcare policy, and practicum courses, must be completed within 5 years of matriculation. Transfer credits are officially evaluated after admission and do not affect GPA unless taken post-matriculation with permission.

Nebraska Methodist College accepts international students for its doctorate in public health online program but requires proof of English proficiency from all applicants whose first language is not English or who have educational records from outside the U.S., regardless of citizenship. Applicants can demonstrate proficiency through U.S.-based education (such as earning a high school diploma or degree from an accredited U.S. institution) or by meeting minimum scores on standardized English tests. Accepted exams include the TOEFL iBT (with a minimum total score of 80 and a minimum speaking score of 26) and the IELTS (with a minimum overall score of 7.0 and a minimum sub-score of 7.0). Official transcripts or test score reports are required, and all scores must be from within two years of the test date.​​ 

​No. A background in public health or healthcare is not strictly required for admission to the EdD in Public Health Policy. A master's degree with a minimum GPA of 3.0 is required, preferably in a field related to healthcare. If your master’s degree is in a non-healthcare field, you can still apply; however, your experience, background and how well your skills align with public health policy and leadership will be essential factors in the admissions evaluation.​​​