Graduate healthcare university strives to create programs that are evidence-based, flexible, and workforce-ready
Beginning in Summer 2025, the Doctor of Philosophy (PhD) in Health Sciences program will transition from a four-year model to an accelerated three-year structure at Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU). Students will use a hybrid learning format, combining asynchronous online coursework with immersive on-campus experiences in Provo, Utah. This aligns with the University’s commitment to provide cutting-edge, evidence-based education that adapts to the needs of students and the healthcare workforce.
“RMU improves its programs to serve students better,” said Dr. Malissa Martin, RMU Executive Vice President and Provost. “We are uniquely positioned to efficiently and effectively design and alter programs based on student and workforce needs.”
Key Updates to the Program
- Streamlined Curriculum
- The total credit hours will be reduced from 70 to 57, enabling students to complete their degree in just three years instead of four. This condensed timeline makes the program more accessible, particularly for working professionals balancing academic, professional and personal commitments without decreasing the outcomes and rigor of a PhD.
- In Demand Specializations and Flexible Learning Pathways
- The program will offer three areas of specialization, including Healthcare Professions Education, Health Promotion and Wellness, and Human and Sport Performance. Students may specialize in one of the three key areas or opt for a generalist pathway, customizing their studies by selecting elective courses tailored to their career goals.
- “Our updated PhD in Health Sciences program reflects our commitment to empowering students with greater flexibility and personalization,” Dr. Jennifer Austin, PhD Program Director, said. “By offering the opportunity for elective coursework pursuing dissertations in virtually any area of health sciences, we ensure our graduates are well-prepared to address the evolving challenges and opportunities in the field. This tailored approach allows students to align their academic journey with their unique career goals and research passions.
- Modernized Assessment and Curriculum
- “RMU is at the forefront of delivering innovative education,” Dr. Martin said. “With this streamlining, the traditional qualifying exams typical of graduate academia will be replaced with ‘landmark’ requirements, emphasizing practical and real-world applications of knowledge.”
Program Highlights
The PhD in Health Sciences at RMU prepares students for leadership roles in academia, research and clinical practice. The program emphasizes:
- Rigorous Research Training: Developing expertise in both quantitative and qualitative methodologies for impactful and ethical research.
- Innovative Teaching Strategies: Equipping students to design evidence-based educational experiences and assessments.
- Leadership Development: Building competence in roles spanning clinical practice, research, and education.
- Mentorship and Support: Offering personalized guidance throughout the program, including dissertation development.
“This update is an example of RMU’s dedication to preparing healthcare professionals to meet the ever-evolving demands of the industry,” Dr. Martin said. “By focusing on flexibility, evidence-based practices, and real-world applicability, RMU is setting a new standard in graduate education.”
Applications for Summer 2025 are currently being accepted. Visit the website at https://rm.edu/phd/ or call Enrollment Management at 385.375.8347.
About Rocky Mountain University
Rocky Mountain University of Health Professions (RMU) is an exclusive graduate healthcare education institution accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities. Founded in 1998 and located in Provo, Utah, RMU offers high-quality and evidence-based master’s and doctoral degree programs in various healthcare specialties with a diverse student body and faculty. Programs are offered through a blend of flexible online, hybrid and on-campus residential programs within a vibrant campus nestled in the beautiful mountains of Provo, Utah. Learn more at rm.edu.
