Ph.D. and Dr.P.H. students in Mailman School doctoral programs may take no more than two elective courses for pass/fail, with the prior approval of the department. Individual departments may place further restrictions on pass/fail rules. This policy is independent of department policies regarding the number of GSAS courses Ph.D. students may take for R credit.

The Dr.P.H. degree calls for completion of an approved program of study totaling no fewer than 30 doctoral points of credit beyond the M.P.H. level, with individual programs reviewed by departments. At a minimum, the candidate is required to spend the equivalent of two terms of full-time coursework (30 points) in residence. Doctoral students must then follow the below outlined continous registration policy. The Dr.P.H. degree is awarded upon completion of doctoral coursework after the master’s degree, passing of qualifying examinations, and preparation and defense of an original scholarly investigation.

The completion of doctoral study can be expected to take at least three full-time academic years and, in most cases, extends beyond that. There is a University time limit of seven years from the date of first registration as a doctoral student until completion of all requirements.