New DrPH highlights leadership in global health careers

Tulane University’s Celia Scott Weatherhead School of Public Health and Tropical Medicine is launching a groundbreaking online Doctor of Public Health (DrPH) program in Leadership for International Health and Sustainable Development. Set to begin in Fall 2025, this program is designed for mid-level global health professionals seeking to elevate their careers and drive impactful change in international health policy and practice.

“This school has always been known for its leadership in international health,” said Dr. Thomas LaVeist, dean of the school. “This new degree program will provide doctoral-level training for practice-based careers in one of the most vital public health fields today.”

— Dr. Thomas LaVeist, Dean

The program, housed in the Department of International Health and Sustainable Development (IHSD), builds on Tulane’s extensive expertise in global health and capacity strengthening. Designed for professionals who work full-time, the program equips students with advanced analytical skills, data-driven decision-making capabilities, and leadership competencies to influence global health policies and programs. In a world where the public health landscape is constantly evolving, such skills and competencies are critical for governments and organizations to ensure that policies and programs are evidence based and cost effective.

“We realized that there was a growing need to train top-level managers who can apply research skills to shaping global policies and leading innovative projects in low- and middle-income countries,” said IHSD Chair Dr. David Hotchkiss. “We are excited to welcome our first cohort of students this fall.”

Students will learn from world-renowned faculty with decades of experience in global health and development across Africa, Asia, Latin America, and beyond. The curriculum incorporates real-world case studies, fostering a highly interactive and practical learning environment.

“Class schedules are designed to accommodate working professionals across time zones, ensuring a dynamic and inclusive learning experience,” said Dr. Mai Do, vice chair of IHSD and program director. “With students from diverse backgrounds engaging in discussions, this program offers unparalleled exposure to multiple cultural perspectives, enriching the learning experience.”

As the first school of public health in the United States, Tulane has been at the forefront of public health education for over a century. This new online DrPH joins the school’s growing portfolio of rigorous online offerings, including the DrPH in Leadership, Equity, and Advocacy.

Applications are now open, and the program will enroll one cohort per year beginning in August. More information is available at https://sph.tulane.edu/ihsd/drph.