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DOCTORATE

Doctor of Philosophy in Health Sciences · PhD

Limited-Residency | 6 Tracks | 4 Years
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FAQ

Students select their concentration track during the application process.
Our program is designed to take 12 semesters, or 4 years. Most students complete their dissertation within 4 to 5 years of beginning the program. You have a maximum of 8 years from the beginning of your enrollment in the PhD program to finish your dissertation.

Over your 4 years in the program you’ll travel to our campus in Provo, Utah around twice a year. These 3-5 day visits are fantastic opportunities to gain intensive training, practice your skills, and make professional connections.

Your dissertation must relate to your concentration topic. Your CTD (concentration track director) will help you hone in on your topic and find committee members to mentor you throughout the process of completing your dissertation.
We encourage you to start developing your topic very early in the program. It’s absolutely best to choose a topic by your 5th semester, when you complete the Literature Review Analysis and Synthesis course to set the basis for your research.
The Concentration Track Director and Program Director work with students to help find a committee chair. We have a database with over 200 potential mentors who are experts in many areas. If we don’t already have a connection with an expert in your specialty, we will help you seek one out. We require students to have at least one RMU-related committee member, and highly suggest that students choose committee members with whom they share geographical proximity.

Yes. During semesters 10, 11, and 12, students will pay additional fees designed to support the efforts of their dissertation chair and committee members.

During your 8th semester, you will take two qualifying exams: one for core curriculum and one for your specialty. During this semester you will take a course that prepares you for the core exam. Once you pass your core exam, your CTD will administer a concentration area exam geared toward that specific content area.

We support your studies with an array of research equipment you can employ to conduct your research and dissertation. Our on-campus equipment includes:

  • Doppler Ultrasound Technology
  • Wireless Surface Electromyography
  • Wearable Kinematic Technology
  • Portable Metabolic Analyzer
  • Weight training equipment
  • Aerobic exercise equipment


As our students are spread across the country, many also access research equipment closer to their homebase.

Technology Requirements

No, your computer does not need to be brand new – just reliable and with an operating system and specifications as listed above. If you intend to purchase a new computer, make sure you give yourself plenty of time to become familiar with it prior to beginning courses.

You are welcome to use a desktop computer at home. However, if you are in a program that includes onsite classes, you must have a laptop to bring with you.

Because software aside from apps available via an internet browser will be used, a Chromebook is not sufficient. Chromebook can be incompatible with some required software.

Sorry, no. A hybrid/convertible laptop will be fine, but a tablet (including iPad) is not sufficient. Tablets can be incompatible with some required software.

Our “Welcome to RMU!” student resource course includes specific information about multiple resources available to incoming students. In addition, at 6 weeks before the start of your program (PA students at 8-10 weeks), you will be enrolled in our required New Student Orientation course, “RMU101”. Participation in this course will give you practice with our systems and experience online.

The most critical thing is a strong, stable internet connection. This is VITAL for all students. If your current internet signal is poor or you only have access to public WiFi, you should secure a more reliable option such as a different internet provider, a higher-level internet service contract, or a dedicated mobile hotspot. To participate in online meetings, you need a microphone and webcam. Most laptops have these built-in. If you choose to use a desktop computer at home, you will need to obtain a headset or external microphone in order to be heard.  The Microsoft LifeChat LX-3000 Headset is a recommended affordable choice.