Health services research is a multidisciplinary field of study. Health services researchers examine how social factors, government policies, financing systems, organizational structures, and personal behaviors affect access to needed care, the quality of care provided, and the cost of care delivery. The focus of research is broad and includes individuals, families, providers, healthcare organizations, communities, and populations. The field of health services research is ultimately interested in both health, understood as health status and well-being, as well as health care, understood as the effective delivery of healthcare services.<br> <br>The doctoral program in health services research, policy, and administration is primarily for students interested in academic careers or senior research positions in government or the private sector. The core curriculum is a multidisciplinary examination of the social, political, and economic forces that affect the organization, financing, and delivery of health care services. The emphasis is on theory, modeling, and quantitative methods. Coursework is complemented by the student's involvement with faculty on health services research projects, through weekly academic research seminars, doctoral colloquia, and conference presentations. <br><br>Students come from a variety of educational backgrounds, including decision sciences, economics, political science, sociology, business, engineering, and public affairs. Strong quantitative skills are essential.