PhD in Global Health

The Department of Global Health recruits students who wish to pursue a long-term career in global health, whether in academic institutions, ministries of health, non-governmental organizations, or the private sector. All indicators of future success, including past work, service, and research experience; the level of enthusiasm and detail in letters of recommendation; previous academic records; the applicant's written statement of purpose; and an ability to discuss research or practice work and future goals, are considered. 

Application Requirements  

  • Applicants must satisfy the UW Graduate School minimum admissions requirements.  
  • Applicants must submit the following:   
    • Resume or CV: share work and service experience   
    • Recommendations: three recommendations are required, ideally from individuals familiar with the applicant’s work, academic, and leadership potential  
    • Personal Statement: opportunity to share personal information that demonstrates commitment to the field of global health  
    • Statement of Purpose: discuss research/practice work, future goals, and alignment with the Implementation Science or Metrics areas of emphasis
    • GRE scores are not required and will not be considered

Highly competitive applicants will: 

  • Have prior Master-level training or have significant experience working in the global health field, ideally in a low-resource setting
  • Have graduated with high academic standing. A minimum cumulative grade point average of 3.3 in previous undergraduate and graduate degree is expected; competitive applicants will have an average GPA of 3.7
  • Have strong research interest and experience
  • Have a desire to pursue a long-term career in global health 

International Applicant Information 

Per U.S. immigration law, admitted international students must demonstrate sufficient financial resources for the first year of study. International applicants should review how the University of Washington Financial Ability Requirement can be met.  

Application Instructions  

Applicants must apply online through the UW Graduate School application system. 

  • Create an Account or Log In
    • New Users: If you don’t have an account, click on the “Create Account” button. You’ll need to provide your first and last name, date of birth, and email address to create a password.
    • Returning Users: If you already have an account, enter your login credentials (email and password) to access your application.
  • Start a New Application
    • Once logged in, select the option to start a new application by choosing “University of Washington - Graduate School” and then click “Create Application.” 
  • Complete All Required Sections 
    • Special note on English proficiency requirements: English language proficiency (ELP) is required for graduate study at the University of Washington. Therefore, every applicant whose native language is not English must demonstrate English language proficiency. Each applicant indicates on the graduate application whether or not they are a native speaker of English. Please reference Policy 3.2, Graduate School English Language Proficiency.  
  • Select Your Program
    • Select “Graduate” as your application type, then find the program using the filters. To apply to the Implementation Science area of emphasis, select "Global Health Metrics and Implementation Science (PhD)" from the dropdown menu. To apply to the Metrics area of emphasis, select “Health Metrics Sciences (PhD)” from the dropdown menu. 
  • Review and Edit Your Application
    • Verify and review your application carefully before clicking “Submit Application.” 
  • Submit Your Application
    • When all application sections are complete, pay the $90 application fee and submit your application. Eligible applicants may apply for a fee waiver. Note that applicants who would attend UW on an F or J visa are not eligible for a fee waiver. 
    • For questions and inquiries, please refer to the Frequently Asked Questions or contact ghphd@uw.edu.