12-18 months PhD in Health Sciences - Faulkner University

[michaeladsmith2]

Everyone,

I really appreciate your input and feedback. Very good conversation and well written response. Yes, the VUL DHA is geared towards exactly what the degree says, “Healthcare Administration.” And VUL is not alone. There are several DHA programs from other schools that specifically target MBAs or other business related professionals who want to transition or work directly in Hospital or healthcare C-Suite leadership. And of course if you google “Jobs for DHA holders,” you’ll get 100+ jobs where a person can work across a host of industries and healthcare systems e.g., WHO, CDC, United Nations, NGOs, Local , State or Federal governments, County Health Departments, etc.

My reason for reaching out to Faulkner was two-fold. 1. The program (based on my DHA transferable credits) would be less than 1 year, or very close to maybe 12-15 months, since Dr. Thompson has already made it possible to transfer 3 courses. And 2, a PhD gives you more leverage in academic teaching and research opportunities.

The DHA (across many schools) is still a relatively new degree that has yet to be fully tested. While it is recognized, the marketplace is still testing the quality of a DHA in several areas of competency and applications in the real world.

Finally, my last reason is that I have limited experience in healthcare management (only serving as a healthcare chaplain), though I have over 30 years of leadership experience across other sectors. I’m finding it difficult to secure teaching positions with a DHA. I’ve received a ton of job offers for management and a couple VP offers for hospital administration. But my personal goals are that I really don’t want to work for someone else and work a 9-5. I desire flexibility and freedom at this stage in my life.