PhD in Mental Health - Psychiatric Epidemiology in Baltimore United States | Johns Hopkins University

The PhD is a research-focused doctoral program. During the initial two years, candidates complete foundational coursework in Mental Health, Biostatistics, and Epidemiology, along with research ethics training and regular departmental seminars. Requirements include passing a written comprehensive exam (typically in January of year two), a preliminary examination, delivering two presentations, and completing a final dissertation with its defense. We strongly advise all doctoral candidates to engage with at least one research group within our key research areas throughout their studies: Substance Use Epidemiology, Global Mental Health, Mental Health and Aging, Mental Health Services and Policy, Research Methods, Prevention Science, Psychiatric and Behavioral Genetic Epidemiology, Psychiatric Epidemiology, and Autism and Developmental Disorders.
Mental and behavioral health conditions represent a major public health challenge, ranking among the top contributors to global disability. Researchers in our Psychiatric Epidemiology Program employ epidemiological and biostatistical methods to examine the patterns, causes, and impacts of these disorders across populations and time. Their work aims to develop better prevention and treatment approaches while promoting mental wellness. Faculty lead numerous longitudinal studies examining mental health across the lifespan, from prenatal development through old age, with a focus on developmental trajectories.