Message from the
Program Director

Thank you so much for your interest in the PhD in Rural Health Sciences at Mercer University School of Medicine.

We are excited to share the brand-new, redesigned format of our program, which was revamped specifically with working professionals in mind. This updated structure offers a work-friendly schedule without sacrificing rigor or connection.

At Mercer, our School of Medicine was founded in 1982 with a clear mission: to meet the health needs of rural Georgia. While we began by training primary care physicians, we have since expanded into graduate programs to deepen our impact across rural communities.

The Rural Health Sciences PhD equips graduates for research careers focused on improving health outcomes in rural areas. With about 20% of Americans living in rural regions, our multidisciplinary approach addresses the complex social, economic, and health challenges these communities face.

Since the program revision in fall 2026, the PhD in Rural Health Sciences has shifted to a blended-learning format designed for working professionals. Most classes are held online on weekday evenings, with occasional in-person Saturday morning sessions when needed. This model supports student growth while balancing professional and personal responsibilities.

What sets our program apart is our small class sizes, hands-on learning opportunities, and faculty with diverse expertise. We encourage critical and creative thinking, value the scientific method, and foster an open marketplace of ideas which will prepare our students to make a meaningful difference in rural health.

We invite you to explore our curriculum and admissions pages to learn more. Please reach out with any questions. We are here to support you every step of the way.