Criteria considered in addition to the standard university admissions criteria include professional and volunteer experience, evidence of the ability to write and conduct research at the doctoral level, and GRE scores.
Graduate courses in statistics, economics, health systems and public health, health policy, and health informatics are recommended as preparation for the curriculum in the PhD in health services research program.
Students applying to the PhD program must hold a master’s degree or equivalent.
Students with MDs, JDs, or prior PhDs may also apply.
Contact a Faculty Member Before Applying
The PhD in Health Services Research is a competitive program, and all applicants should speak with a faculty member before applying. To reach a faculty member, visit the HAP directory, email hap@gmu.edu, or call (703) 993-1929.
A minimum GPA of 3.25 is preferred. Preferred applicants should have a background in information technology or health care; however, the background is not required to be admitted and succeed in the program. Students planning to change their careers are encouraged to contact an informatics advisor to discuss the program and its requirements. For these students it is also particularly important to describe in the goals statement how they envision themselves in the informatics field.
Additional Information for International Students
The Classification of Instructional Programs (CIP) code for the MS in Health Informatics is 51.2706, listed as Medical Informatics. It is considered a Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) field. International students who wish to apply to Curricular Practical Training or Optional Practical Training (CPT/OPT) opportunities when graduating from the program should contact George Mason's Office of International Programs and Services.
Criteria considered in addition to the standard university admissions criteria include professional and volunteer experience and evidence of the ability to write and conduct research at the graduate level. The GRE is not required; however, it is strongly recommended for applicants with a GPA lower than 3.0.
Work experience in the healthcare industry is preferred, but not required for admission. The GRE or GMAT is not required for admission to the program.
If you are currently a graduate student enrolled in a degree program within the College of Health and Human Services, fill out a one-page application form to add a certificate as a secondary program of study. Please review Mason’s requirements for graduate certificates and then contact the Department Manager at hap@gmu.edu or 703-993-1929 to obtain a copy of the application form.
If you are currently a graduate student enrolled in a degree program within the College of Health and Human Services, fill out a one-page application form to add a certificate as a secondary program of study. Please review Mason’s requirements for graduate certificates and then contact the Department Manager at hap@gmu.edu or 703-993-1929 to obtain a copy of the application form.