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The courses in the Executive Doctor of Science (DSc) in Healthcare Leadership curriculum prepare executives to lead more effectively and proactively address current and future challenges. Our highly successful and unique blended course format – a mixture of online and on campus learning – means you will enjoy both lively face-to-face sessions with your instructors and classmates and the convenience of distance learning that allows you to continue your responsibilities at home and in the office.

The program is paced so you can complete your doctoral degree in only three years. There are two years of coursework and one year of dissertation research. The program includes three four and a half day, on-campus sessions each year.

For a sample three-year course list, download the following PDF document.

Courses

  • Year One
    • Complete 24 credit hours of doctoral-level coursework in three semesters.
    • Travel to Birmingham for three four and a half day visits for face-to-face instruction.”
    • Stay connected with faculty and classmates through distance learning technology.
  • Year Two
    • Complete additional 24 credit hours of coursework in three semesters.
    • Travel to Birmingham for three four and a half day visits for face-to-face instruction.”
    • Continue applying course content and refined analytical skills during the distance-learning component of each course.
    • Engage with faculty and classmates via online discussions.
  • Year Three
    • Complete a comprehensive examination prior to initiating 18 credit hours of dissertation and non-dissertation research.
    • Research an issue of interest to you and/or your organization as you write your applied dissertation.
    • Immerse yourself in your research with three visits to UAB, up to one week each.
    • Work closely with your Dissertation Chair and Committee during campus visits for progress review.
    • Stay on track to finish your degree in three years by defending your dissertation proposal in the first semester, completing your data analysis in the second semester and completing your discussion sections and final defense in the third semester.