

The Master of Science in Health and Health Care Research at the University of Michigan offers a comprehensive academic environment where students investigate how health systems operate, how patient outcomes can be improved, and how research driven evaluation informs policy and clinical decision making. The program emphasizes scientific inquiry while helping learners understand the relationships between population health, care delivery models, and evidence based practice. Through exposure to quantitative and qualitative research methods, students develop a strong foundation in study design, data interpretation, and analytical reasoning, enabling them to examine real health challenges with clarity and academic depth. This structure supports individuals preparing for roles that require advanced research capability and a nuanced understanding of modern health systems.
Students engage with interdisciplinary perspectives that draw from public health, clinical science, social sciences, and health policy, allowing them to explore how multiple factors shape health outcomes across communities. Faculty mentorship strengthens their ability to conduct rigorous research, evaluate intervention effectiveness, and apply findings to support improved care strategies. As learners participate in seminars, independent studies, and collaborative projects, they deepen their understanding of health equity and gain practical experience with research tools that support long term system improvement. By the end of the program, students build strong analytical skills and develop the confidence to apply evidence based evaluation to challenges in health care delivery, patient experience, and population wellbeing.
Semester 1 - Foundations in Health Research
• Introduction to Health Care Research
• Biostatistics for Health Sciences
• Epidemiologic Methods
• Study Design and Data Collection
Semester 2 - Applied Analysis and Health Systems
• Health Policy and System Evaluation
• Quantitative Research Methods
• Social Determinants of Health
• Research Seminar in Population Health
Semester 3 - Advanced Methods and Practice
• Qualitative Research Techniques
• Health Services Evaluation
• Data Interpretation in Clinical Research
• Independent Research Development
Semester 4 - Capstone Research and Professional Preparation
• Master’s Research Project
• Advanced Statistical Applications
• Health Program Assessment
• Academic and Professional Portfolio Preparation
Graduates of this program are equipped for roles that require advanced research competence, analytical precision, and a deep understanding of the structures that shape health outcomes. Many pursue positions within public health agencies, health research institutes, hospital research departments, and nonprofit health organizations, contributing to projects involving care quality evaluation, population health improvement, intervention assessment, or health equity analysis. Others work in policy settings where evidence based insights guide program development, legislative planning, and system reform. Graduates may also support data driven initiatives in private health systems, clinical research networks, or global health organizations, where their methodological training helps identify trends, measure program effectiveness, and design targeted health interventions. For individuals seeking academic advancement, the program offers strong preparation for doctoral studies in health sciences, health policy, epidemiology, or related research fields.
Students choose this program because it combines rigorous methodological training with research oriented health inquiry, offering an academic structure that supports both professional advancement and intellectual growth. The curriculum encourages students to build analytical health insight through hands on research engagement and exposure to real world challenges that shape patient and community outcomes. Faculty provide close mentorship, helping learners refine their capacity to interpret complex data, evaluate care processes, and apply evidence based reasoning to health system improvement. The program’s interdisciplinary nature allows students to connect scientific, social, and clinical perspectives, giving them a holistic understanding of health care environments. By completing the degree, learners develop a strong research identity grounded in health focused expertise, preparing them to contribute meaningfully to modern health challenges in both professional and academic settings.
For further information, please contact the admissions office at:
Phone: 734-764-8129
Email: rackadmis@umich.edu
Address: Graduate Admissions Office, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI 48109, USA