Doctoral milestones are a set of target activities that PhD students work toward during their four to five years of training. Starting with the most basic levels of achievement in each category, students gain experience and skills in research, teaching, and professional development to prepare for their next steps after completing their PhD.

These next steps may include a postdoctoral fellowship, an academic position as an assistant professor, or an entry-level position in a research or corporate setting. Students who graduate from the USF College of Public Health doctoral program are better prepared for these opportunities because they have built a well-developed portfolio of doctoral milestones. Our program helps students develop these skills from their very first day.

Examples of Doctoral Milestones:

• Research Skills: Grant writing, manuscript preparation, authorship of published manuscripts, presentations at professional conferences, and experience participating in research studies.

• Teaching Skills: Teaching assistantships, Instructor of Record experience, and extensive teaching preparation and skill-building programs.

• Professional Development: Preparation of materials for post-graduate positions, such as professional CVs, teaching and research statements, research presentation materials, cover letters, and interview skills.

College of Public Health PhD students are supported by fellowships, which may include tuition waivers and health insurance, research assistantships, and graduate teaching assistantships. Students apply for these opportunities and are appointed accordingly.

Additional opportunities are available for graduate students seeking funding for their education. These options can typically be classified into three areas:

1. National Scholarships, Fellowships, and Grants: These funds are awarded by national, regional, or private agencies to individual graduate students.

2. College, Department, or Program Scholarships and Fellowships: Students are encouraged to review their respective college websites, as well as the USF Foundation Scholarships page.

3. USF Office of Graduate Studies Scholarships and Fellowships: The USF Office of Graduate Studies offers fellowship opportunities for new and continuing students. Some fellowships are available only through nominations by a student's major or department, while others are available through direct submission by students who meet the eligibility requirements outlined below.

For more information about these and other funding opportunities, please visit the Office of Graduate Studies.

On average, the doctoral program requires four to five years for completion following a master's or other advanced degree.

The College of Public Health PhD program is delivered primarily on campus. Students are required to be in or regularly commute to Tampa for the duration of their program.