SWOSU CENTER FOR COMMUNITY HEALTH INNOVATION (CCHI)

Sims Scholars: Pharmacy

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The focus of the DCH program is to create an advanced innovative entrepreneurial scholar-practitioner through interdisciplinary academic experiential learning enabling students to acquire the knowledge, competency, and skills necessary to qualify for and succeed in key executive, administrative, and consultant roles in industry, non-profits, government, higher education, and entrepreneurial enterprises.

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DCH Course Guide

DCH Program Learning Objectives

DCH Course Sequence

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“We envision a future where our graduates drive significant improvements in population health outcomes, reduce health disparities, and create sustainable, innovative healthcare solutions that address the quadruple aim of healthcare: better outcomes, lower costs, improved patient experience, and improved clinician experience.”

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Why Choose the DCH Program?

🌟 Designed for Working Professionals Like You

Flexible Learning Format

• One course every 8 weeks - Focus deeply on each subject
• 100% online delivery - Study from anywhere while maintaining your career
• 3-year completion - Efficient path to doctoral expertise

Real-World Application

• Field Research Project/Dissertation - Solve actual community health challenges
• Hands-on learning - Apply concepts immediately in your community
• Local impact focus - Work on issues affecting your own area
• Portfolio development - Build evidence of your growing expertise

48 Credit Hours | 3 Academic Years | 15 Eight-Week Terms

Note: 21 hours (7 core courses), 9 hours (3 area of specialization courses), 6 hours (Research Methods), 12+ hours (Field Project/Dissertation Phase)

AREAS OF SPECIALIZATION

• Health Systems Leadership & Entrepreneurship: Perfect for aspiring healthcare executives, consultants, and innovation leaders. Ideal for: Healthcare administrators, business leaders, consultants, and entrepreneurs wanting to drive innovation in health systems

• Rural Health Management: Designed for professionals addressing unique challenges in rural and underserved communities. Ideal for: Rural healthcare professionals, public health workers, social workers, and community leaders working in small towns and underserved areas

• Quality Improvement in Healthcare: For professionals focused on improving health outcomes through systematic quality enhancement. Ideal for: Quality directors, patient safety officers, healthcare administrators, and professionals focused on improving health outcomes and reducing healthcare costs

  CLICK HERE TO REVIEW THE STUDENT COURSE GUIDE

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Transform Your Passion Into Expertise. Lead Change in Your Community.

Ready to make a real difference in community health? Our Doctor of Community Health (DCH) program is designed for professionals from all backgrounds who want to tackle complex health challenges with innovative, evidence-based solutions. Whether you're a healthcare professional, educator, social worker, or community leader, this 100% online doctoral program will equip you with the advanced knowledge and practical skills to lead transformative change.

No Healthcare Background Required | 100% Online | Fall 2026 First Cohort

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What Makes Our Program Unique?

🎯 Focus on Innovation and Entrepreneurship

Scholar-Practitioner Model

• Combine advanced theory with practical application
• Develop entrepreneurial thinking for sustainable solutions
• Create innovative approaches to persistent health challenges

Interdisciplinary Learning

• Learn alongside professionals from diverse backgrounds
• Understand health challenges from multiple perspectives
• Build collaborative leadership skills

Community-Centered Approach

• All learning connects to real community health needs
• Work directly with local organizations and stakeholders
• Measure actual impact of your interventions

Who Should Apply?

We Welcome Diverse Backgrounds and Perspectives

✅ Healthcare Professionals Doctors, nurses, pharmacists, therapists, public health workers

✅ Educators and School Leaders Teachers, principals, superintendents, school health coordinators

✅ Social Workers and Human Services Community social workers, program managers, case managers

✅ Government and Policy Leaders City managers, health department staff, policy analysts

✅ Business and Nonprofit Leaders Executive directors, program managers, HR professionals

✅ Community Advocates Anyone passionate about improving community health outcomes

"Your diverse background brings valuable perspectives to community health challenges. We'll give you the tools to maximize your impact." Tami Moser, Ph.D., DBH

Sample Career Pathways