Through research and courses, Sanford faculty provide an in-depth understanding of economic, sociological, and political forces that shape health care systems in the U.S. and other countries. Health policy directly affects who receives health care and how, and Sanford provides decision-making tools for students and policy makers.
Academic Overview
Our faculty have produced research and scholarship contribute to the knowledge base for evidence-driven policy around health. They have worked with community partners around North Carolina on health-related issues; designed a community-based program for caregivers of veterans; and provided a variety of evidence-based policy insights during the global pandemic. For example, Kate Bundorf's research focuses on health policy and the economics of healthcare systems.
- The Public Policy Studies major is a perennial top major at Duke University.
- Health policy certificate available.
- Master of International Development Policy (MIDP) (Global Health and Development area of focus available)
- Master of Public Policy (MPP) (Health Policy Concentration available) - View concentration requirements
- MPP/MD (dual degree option)
PhD in Public Policy
Sample elective courses:
- Climate Change Economics and Policy
- International Environmental Policy
- Collective Action
- Sustainable Development
- Environment & Development
- Energy & Development Global Environmental Health
- Center for the Study of Aging and Human Development
- Duke Global Health Institute
- Duke Law School
- Duke School of Medicine
- Duke School of Nursing
- Fuqua School of Business
- Margolis Center for Health Policy
- Nicholas School of the Environment
- Social Science Research Institute
- Trinity College of Arts and Sciences
Sample Stories & Research
Faculty Spotlight
Jonathan Zhang, an applied economist and health economist. His research expertise lies in health economics, with a focus on the behavior of healthcare providers and the implications of public policies on health outcomes, particularly for vulnerable populations. His work delves into crucial issues such as mental health and substance use, examining questions like whether specific providers are more effective in improving mental health or the impacts of physicians in the opioid crisis. or the impacts of providing income support to those with mental disabilities.
Research spotlight
A USC and Duke University study finds that a persistent “know-do gap,” where clinicians know guidelines but practice differently, is the primary driver of antibiotic overprescribing in India’s private sector. Researchers hope the study will help them find ways to reduce the inappropriate use of antibiotics and fight the global health threat of antibiotic resistance.
Human-Centered Design & Health
Kanishka Desai, MPP’26 took a Human-Centered Design course that changed her perspective and "fundamentally reshaped my paradigm for solving complex societal challenges and policy matters." The course turned her into a student policy consultant for the Durham Farmers' Market, where she developed creative policies supporting local agriculture and food access.
Bipartisan Healthcare Conversation
U.S. Senator Maggie Hassan (D-NH) and former U.S. Senator Richard Burr (R-NC) discussed the potential for bipartisan legislation focused on health care policy. Professor Kate Bundorf, who researches the economics of health care systems, said after the event, “The senators made a compelling case for the benefits of bipartisanship in developing health policy, especially when talking about the durability of bipartisan solutions in addressing the healthcare needs of Americans."
What can you do with a focus on health policy?
Danielle Turnipseed PPS'97
Alumni Story
Danielle Turnipseed is the Association of American Medical Colleges (AAMC) Chief Public Policy Officer where she leads public policy initiatives that influence nationwide medical education, research, and patient care. She has a deep understanding of healthcare compliance and is dedicated to creating meaningful change in healthcare.
Key Partnerships
Duke Aging Center
The Duke Aging Center is a multi-disciplinary hub for promoting healthy aging across the lifespan and managing social and medical complexities in late life.
Duke Global Health Institute
The Duke Global Health Institute brings together knowledge and resources from across the university to address the most critical global health issues of our time.
Margolis Center for Health Policy
The Margolis Center for Health Policy aims to improve health, health equity, and the value of health care through practical, innovative, and evidence-based policy solutions.
Let's Connect
Interested in pursuing a degree with a focus on Health policy? Great! The admissions page for each program has detailed guidelines, including our contact info. Please reach out!