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The Ph.D. in health services research aims to cultivate leaders and innovators dedicated to enhancing community health across Eastern Virginia, the state, the nation, and globally. Health services researchers analyze healthcare quality, efficiency, primary and managed care systems, emerging technologies, and other vital aspects of healthcare delivery and public health practice. These professionals build careers in diverse environments such as academic institutions, corporations, professional associations, research facilities, policy organizations, clinical settings, and government agencies at all levels. The program equips students to perform and evaluate health services research, shape and assess public health policies, direct initiatives that meet population healthcare needs, and engage communities in policy development. Graduates will gain essential abilities to synthesize knowledge and apply it to public health challenges, design effective programs, allocate resources efficiently, and evaluate the impact of healthcare interventions. The dissertation can be completed through a three-article format, and students are paired with a research advisor upon enrollment.