Health Outcomes Research, Ph.D.

Saint Louis University’s Doctor of Philosophy in Health Outcomes Research prepares researchers with expertise in health outcomes research, health services research and health data science, equipping them to meet the evolving demands of the health care industry. SLU graduates gain the skills to lead data-driven improvements in health care quality, access, and efficiency.

Health outcomes research is a rapidly growing, interdisciplinary field that evaluates the effectiveness, value and impact of health care treatments, interventions and policies. This research generates evidence to improve patient care and inform health care decision-making by analyzing clinical, functional, quality-of-life and economic outcomes. 

The Ph.D. in health outcomes research program at Saint Louis University is designed to develop highly skilled researchers equipped to address complex challenges in health care. With a focus on evidence-based decision-making, data-driven health care improvements, and patient-centered research, the program prepares graduates for careers in academia, industry, government and health care organizations.

Students build a strong foundation in:

• Research Methodology: Designing and conducting rigorous studies to evaluate health care interventions, treatments, and policies.
• Data Management: Organizing, cleaning, and maintaining complex health care datasets to ensure accuracy and usability.
• Statistical Analysis: Applying advanced statistical techniques to derive meaningful insights from health care data.
• Big Data: Leveraging machine learning, predictive modeling, and big data analytics to inform health care decision-making.
• Scientific Writing and Presentation: Effectively communicating research findings through peer-reviewed publications, conference presentations, and policy briefs.

In addition to structured coursework, students engage in collaborative, hands-on research alongside expert faculty, clinicians, and peers. Under the guidance of dedicated mentors, they contribute to high-impact studies that advance health care quality, access, and efficiency. By integrating health outcomes research, health services research, and data science, SLU’s program ensures graduates are prepared to lead transformative research in the evolving health care landscape.

Curriculum Overview

The program requires a total of 48 credits for completion: 36 credits of coursework and 12 dissertation credits. Additionally, students must pass a written comprehensive exam, an oral examination/proposal of the dissertation and a public presentation and defense of the dissertation.

Fieldwork and Research Opportunities

The department partners with clinical faculty in the SLU School of Medicine and conducts research in numerous clinical areas, including diabetes, oncology, pediatrics, otolaryngology, infectious disease and health care quality. Additionally, our faculty have expertise in health data science, research methodology, biostatistics, epidemiology, survey design and outcomes measurement. Students can work with their primary mentor, our faculty and clinical faculty on both short- and long-term research projects.

Careers

Graduates of the Ph.D. in health outcomes research program at Saint Louis University are well-equipped for diverse career opportunities in academia, health care and industry. They are prepared to work as researchers, scientists, and health policy experts in:

• Universities and academic institutions – Leading research initiatives and educating the next generation of health care professionals.
• Medical centers and hospital systems – Conducting clinical and outcomes research to improve patient care and operational efficiency.
• Government and non-government health agencies – Shaping public health policies and implementing evidence-based health care solutions.
• Health insurance and managed care organizations – Analyzing health care data to enhance coverage models and patient outcomes.
• Pharmaceutical and health care technology companies – Driving innovation in drug development, medical devices, and digital health solutions.

Admission Requirements

Applicants should have a master’s degree from an accredited college or university in social science, biomedical science, public health, or related discipline. Successful candidates will have maintained a minimum 3.5 GPA in graduate coursework and scored at least at the 50th percentile for GRE verbal and quantitative reasoning. Students must also demonstrate evidence of interest in an area of research and identify a willing and suitable faculty mentor.  

Application Requirements

Begin your application for this program at www.slu.edu/apply.php.

• Application form and fee
• Transcripts from most recent degree(s)
• Professional statement
• Résumé or curriculum vitae
• One letter of recommendation
• GRE required

Requirements for International Students

Along with the general admission requirements above, the following must be provided by prospective international students:

• Demonstration of English Language Proficiency.
• Proof of financial support that must include:
  • A letter of financial support from the person(s) or sponsoring agency funding the time at Saint Louis University.
  • A letter from the sponsor's bank verifying that the funds are available and will be so for the duration of study at the University.
• Academic records, in English translation, for postsecondary studies outside the United States. These must include the courses taken and/or lectures attended, practical laboratory work, the maximum and minimum grades attainable, the grades earned or the results of all end-of-term examinations, and any honors or degrees received. WES and ECE transcripts are accepted.

Application Deadline

Applications to the program are considered on a rolling basis.

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Tuition 

Additional charges may apply. Other resources are listed below:

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Information on Tuition and Fees

Miscellaneous Fees

Information on Summer Tuition

Scholarships and Financial Aid

For priority consideration for graduate assistantship, apply by Feb. 1.

For more information, visit the Office of Student Financial Services.

Accreditation 

Saint Louis University is accredited by the Higher Learning Commission (HLC) and has been continuously accredited since 1916.

• Graduates will be able to effectively review, summarize and synthesize literature related to clinical aspects of health outcomes.
• Graduates will be able to apply appropriate data management strategies related to clinical aspects of health outcomes.
• Graduates will be able to critically evaluate clinical aspects and health care-specific methodological designs.
• Graduates will be able to demonstrate a thorough and ethical approach to conducting academic research.
• Graduates will be able to effectively communicate study results related to clinical aspects of health outcomes.