Doctor of
Health Science.
The definitive qualification for experienced leaders. Transition from operating a health system to architecting its future.
See Your Future in Leadership
Discover how the DHS program empowers professionals across the healthcare spectrum.
A New Archetype of Leader
We don't just teach theory. We cultivate Practitioner-Scholars who use their current work environment as a living laboratory to solve "wicked problems".
Solve Complex Challenges
Move beyond incremental improvements. Tackle system-level policy, operational medicine, and space health challenges that require rigorous evidence.
Mentored by Experts
Engage in our unique "Transformational Tutorial" mentorship model. You are guided by faculty who hold doctoral degrees and decades of high-level experience.
Online & Integrated
Study 100% online without leaving your role. The flexible delivery is a strategic feature, allowing you to apply new knowledge in real-time to your organization.
Programme Specifications
- Qualification
- Doctor of Health Science (DHS)
- Level
- MQF/EQF Level 8 (Highest)
- Duration
- FT 48-months / PT 60-months
- Total Hours/ECTS
- 4500 Hours / 180 ECTS
- Delivery
- 100% Online (Asynchronous)
- Language
- English
- Entry Requirements
-
• Master's Degree (Level 7) or Equivalent
• 5+ Years Work Experience (Mid-to-Senior Level)
• English Proficiency (IELTS 6.0-7.0)
Tuition Investment
*Payment plans available. Contact education@ihri.edu.eu
Intakes
February, April, June, September & December
IHRI is proud to confirm that our Doctor of Health Science programme is fully accredited by the Malta Further and Higher Education Authority (MFHEA) (Licence No. 2025-004). This ensures alignment with the European Qualifications Framework (EQF) at Level 8, guaranteeing the highest standard of academic rigour and global recognition.
Assessment Governance & Exit Awards
Our doctoral examination process is rigorous, transparent, and designed to recognise substantial research achievement.
The MPhil "Exit Award" Safety Net
We recognise that the doctoral journey is demanding. IHRI regulations include provisions for an Embedded Qualification. Candidates who complete substantial research but do not fully satisfy the specific criteria for the Doctoral Award (Category A) may be awarded the Master of Philosophy (MPhil) degree under Category C assessment.
View Official Examination Regulations
CATEGORY A: Award
- A(i): Award with no corrections.
- A(ii): Award subject to minor corrections. The thesis meets the criteria for the degree but some minor corrections are necessary.
CATEGORY B: Refer for Re-examination
- B(i): Thesis is satisfactory in substance but defective in presentation/content; no further oral exam required.
- B(ii): Thesis is satisfactory in substance but defective in presentation/content; requires further oral examination.
- B(iii): Thesis is unsatisfactory in substance and defective in presentation/content; requires further research and oral examination.
For B(i) and B(ii), revisions typically required within six months.
CATEGORY C: Reject (MPhil Award Route)
- C(i): Reject but award the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil). The candidate must resubmit with a new title page indicating it is a master's thesis.
- C(ii): Reject but award the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil) subject to minor corrections. Revisions normally required within four weeks.
- C(iii): Reject but invite the candidate to revise and resubmit specifically for the degree of Master of Philosophy (MPhil). Revisions normally required within six months (one resubmission permitted).
How to Undertake This Doctorate
Select the track that aligns with your career and funding model.
Independent Candidate
SELF-FUNDED | OWN RESEARCH
You are applying as an individual leader. You will define your own research topic and fund your studies personally.
- Flexible pacing aligned to your schedule.
- Full ownership of research direction.
- Access to global faculty mentorship.
Corporate Fellow
EMPLOYER SPONSORED | INTERNAL R&D
You are sponsored by your organization. Your dissertation serves as internal R&D to solve a structural problem for your company.
- Employer-funded tuition.
- Topic aligned to company strategy.
- Faculty act as "Consultants" via research.