About the opportunity
The Master of Science in Global Health (MS-GH) at Duke University is an interdisciplinary program offered jointly by the Duke Graduate School and the Duke Global Health Institute (DGHI). Designed to address complex global health challenges, the program leverages faculty expertise from medicine, engineering, public policy, law, business, and the social sciences. Students engage in a 38-credit curriculum that includes core coursework in research methods, ethics, and health systems, alongside a required 10-week applied field research project. The program emphasizes hands-on learning, one-on-one faculty mentoring, and professional development to prepare graduates for leadership roles in NGOs, academia, and the private sector. The MS-GH is officially STEM-designated, providing international students with potential work authorization benefits in the United States.
Funding and benefits
- Merit-based scholarships ranging from 10-75% of program tuition
- Paid graduate teaching and research assistant positions
- Guaranteed funding for field research, including travel and research expenses
- Guaranteed funding for professional development
- Tuition-free fourth semester for students in good academic standing
- Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship for returned Peace Corps volunteers (50% tuition scholarship plus research/service funding)
- Access to competitive Foreign Language and Area Studies (FLAS) fellowships
Who can apply?
- Open to both international and U.S. students
- Must demonstrate preparation in quantitative methods, research, and/or academic writing
- Returned Peace Corps volunteers are eligible for the Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship
- International applicants must provide official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores
Required documents
- Statement of purpose
- Three academic letters of recommendation
- Transcript(s) from each post-secondary institution attended
- Evidence of preparation in quantitative methods, research, and/or academic writing
- Official TOEFL, IELTS, or Duolingo scores (international applicants only)
- Official GRE or MCAT scores (optional for Fall 2027 cycle)
When to apply
- Priority application deadline: January 8, 2027
- Guaranteed review deadline: February 26, 2027
- Space-available review period: February 27, 2027, through June 1, 2027
How to apply
- Submit application through the Duke Graduate School portal
- Notify DGHI coordinator if applying for the Paul D. Coverdell Fellowship
- Notify DGHI coordinator before submitting if interested in FLAS fellowships
- Request application fee waivers if eligible (separate processes for non-US citizens and US citizens/permanent residents)
Additional information
- The program requires at least three full-time terms of study.
- Field research typically occurs between the first and second years of the program.
- An Accelerated MS-GH program is available for select Duke undergraduates to earn both bachelor's and master's degrees in five years.
- The program is STEM-designated, which may allow international students to qualify for an extension of work authorization in the U.S.
Our Take on This Opportunity
This section reflects Open Opportunities’ own analysis of the opportunity from an applicant’s perspective.
You may be a strong fit if…
- Students with a background in quantitative methods, research, or academic writing.
- Individuals interested in an interdisciplinary approach to global health involving medicine, policy, and social sciences.
- International students looking for a STEM-designated program that may offer work authorization benefits in the U.S.
What should you think carefully about?
- The program requires at least three full-time terms of study on-site in Durham.
- You must be prepared to undertake a 10-week applied field research project between the first and second years.
- While funding is extensive, you should confirm your eligibility for specific fellowships like the Coverdell or FLAS before applying.
How could this fit your current goals and plans?
This program is designed for those seeking leadership roles in global health. The combination of rigorous coursework and mandatory field research provides a clear pathway for students to gain hands-on experience and build a professional network in NGOs, academia, or the private sector.
Our take
This is an excellent choice for aspiring global health leaders who value hands-on research and interdisciplinary training; it is less suitable for those unable to commit to the full-time, on-site requirements.
Ready to apply?
Review the opportunity on the official website before applying.
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