phd public health uk

London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine

Doctorate of public health (drph), the drph programme leads to a doctoral-level qualification and is intended for leaders and future leaders in public health..

The programme aims to equip its graduates with the experience to deal with the particular challenges of understanding and adapting scientific knowledge in order to achieve public health gains, as well as the analytical and practical skills required by managers and leaders in public health. The DrPH therefore has a dual focus on developing both expertise to conduct and evaluate research and skills crucial for leadership roles in public health policy and practice.

Entry criteria for the DrPH are the same as for the PhD except that evidence of relevant experience in areas of public health policy as well as in management or leadership is required. The rigour and volume of the work are doctoral level, and are appropriate to the personal development of senior public health professionals. Opportunities for undertaking the DrPH programme are available in all LSHTM's Faculties.

Key components

• A taught component comprising two compulsory modules
• Research Study I: an Organisational and/or Policy Analysis (OPA) project
• Research Study II: a research project leading to the production of a thesis

DrPH programme FAQs DrPH programme specification

"Interacting with the teachers, most of whom are leaders in the field, has been extremely inspiring and useful in terms of my own research."

Taught component

The taught component consists of two compulsory modules. In “Understanding Leadership, Management and Organisations” students explore a range of issues and theories relating to management, leadership and organisations and consider the application of these theories both to public health organisations and their own management practice. “Evidence Based Public Health Policy” focuses on key skills required for improving and shaping policy and practice, involving accessing, understanding, developing, disseminating and facilitating the use of the evidence base for better public health outcomes. The modules are delivered between late September and December and we are currently trialling online delivery. We use a variety of teaching methods including lectures, seminars and small group work. Students are expected to learn through both directed and self-directed study. Modules are assessed through individual written assignments.

Students are not formally assessed on any other modules but should take modules from the Doctoral Transferable Skills Programme and may choose to study some MSc modules to cover particular skills relevant to their research. This enables students to tailor the programme to their individual backgrounds and needs.

• View module specification for Evidence-based Public Health Policy and Practice
• View module specification for Understanding Leadership, Management & Organisations  

Research Study I: Organisational or Policy Analysis (OPA) project

The OPA project involves research that provides DrPH students with the opportunity to observe and analyse the workings of a public health organisation in its policy environment and to gain a better understanding of how to develop effective public health organisations, influence public policy and deliver public health goals. The project usually involves 3-6 months fieldwork within a host organisation of the student’s choice, during which time the student may be formally employed by the organisation or may be present as an independent researcher.

The objectives of the project that contribute to the overreaching purpose will vary depending on the topic and chosen methodology. It is expected, however, that all OPA reports will cover the following generic objectives:

• To outline the context and key influences on policy (if applicable) in relation to the specific public health issue and organisation chosen for the project;
• To assess the extent to which organisational factors or external relationships constrain or enhance the organisation’s ability to deliver its mandate;
• To develop clear, actionable policy or practical recommendations to increase the effectiveness of the organisation in influencing or delivering its public health goals;
• To gain experience in applying policy science or organisational management theories to the critical analysis of a real world organisational case study.

The host organisation can be any public, non-profit or private institution that is engaged in public health practice or has a public health mandate. OPA projects can be undertaken inside or outside (recommended) the student’s normal place of work.

Students are expected to use an appropriate methodological approach. Data collection methods may include: observations, interviews, focus groups, surveys and documentary analysis. Appropriate approach to data analysis should be used, drawing upon recognised theoretical and analytical frameworks from the relevant fields, for example: management, organisational theory, policy analysis, political science or sociology.

The OPA project is assessed on the basis of a written report not exceeding 15,000 words examined internally by two independent assessors. The report is intended to provide practical advice to the host organisation or policy community in the form of a constructive critique, identifying areas for development or improvement and containing actionable recommendations. At the same time, the report must be soundly informed by literature, theory and robust data collection and analysis.

Progression to the OPA project component is subject to successful completion of the two compulsory core modules. The OPA project report is normally submitted for assessment before commencing the thesis element of the programme.

Research Study II: Thesis project

As for a PhD, the purpose of the DrPH thesis project is to enable students to develop as competent independent researchers and conduct original research. By the end of their studies students should be able to plan effectively and undertake independent research and will have developed key transferable skills. As with a PhD, the thesis topic can be from any public health-related discipline or subject area agreed with the student’s supervisor and the research must be original and make a distinct contribution to the knowledge of the chosen subject.

Research plans are assessed at a formal DrPH Review (equivalent to the “upgrading” for MPhil/PhD students). Whilst the DrPH research thesis must meet doctoral level standards, due to the time allocated for this component (typically about 18 months), the DrPH thesis is necessarily shorter in length and more limited in scope than a PhD thesis.

The DrPH thesis has a 60,000 word limit, excluding references and appendices. 

Programme duration

The period of study for full-time DrPH students is a minimum of three years and a maximum of four years (or four and eight years respectively under part-time study mode). Students are normally required to spend time at LSHTM during the preparation for their OPA project,  preparing and presenting their research project plans to a DrPH Review Committee, or at other key points during the course of the Programme, as agreed with their Supervisors or the Programme Directors. Over the course of their degree DrPH students are normally expected to spend at least 9 months full-time in London.

As the timetable of compulsory modules is fixed, all DrPH students need to commence the programme at the start of the UK academic year in September. The programme aims to be flexible to meet students’ needs while at the same time adhering to excellence in learning and research.

Part-time study

LSHTM requires students who apply for part-time study to be available to study for at least two days per week (not including weekends). Where applicable, a letter from your employer is required to confirm that at least two days per week will be permitted for work on your degree. Please note that in Term 1 part-time DrPH students should allow a minimum of 2.5 days a week for each module they are studying.

Note that the two compulsory modules are taught in the first term. Part-time students have the option of taking one module in their first year and the other module at the beginning of their second year. However, because students are not permitted to start the main phase of their OPA research until both modules have been completed, this can introduce a delay into the overall progression of the degree (students are able to carry out preparatory activities for their OPA and/or research thesis elements between modules but are not able to begin data collection). Consequently many part-time students elect to take both core modules together, effectively increasing their workload temporarily to a full-time mode, followed by a period of a few months without any formal tuition, allowing them to re-balance their other commitments.

Fees 2024/25	Home		EU/Overseas
MPhil / PhD	£6,740	£3,370	£21,140	£10,570
MPhil/PhD - lab-based	£6,740	£3,370	£25,710	£12,855
DrPH	£6,740	£3,370	£21,140	£10,570
Writing Up Fee	£1,300	£650	£1,300	£650

*Mobile users, scroll right to view fees

• Doctoral scholarships and funding opportunities

Academic requirements

A student must normally satisfy the London School of Hygiene & Tropical Medicine general entrance requirements as follows:

The normal  minimum  entrance qualification for registration at the School on a Doctoral programme is evidence of an aptitude for research and at least one of the following:

• a master’s degree in a subject appropriate to the course of study to be followed  (recommended)
• a qualification appropriate to the course of study to be followed, in medicine, dentistry or veterinary studies
• an upper second-class honours degree from a UK university, or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard, in a relevant subject.

Applicants for the DrPH study are also required to have a minimum of two years' appropriate experience .

English language requirements

If English is not your first language, you will need to meet these requirements:  Band B

Please see our  English Language Requirements FAQs  for information

We have a limited number of places on the DrPH programme (20/year). To ensure equity, all applications will be reviewed by a cross-Faculty panel of senior academics. They will consider your work experience, your academic potential, and your research proposal, OPA proposal and personal statement.

DrPH candidates, like students on other doctoral programmes, work closely with academic members of staff who act as their supervisors. It is not essential to have identified a supervisor before applying, but applicants can only be accepted once a suitable supervisory team has been identified and approved. If you apply for a place without already having identified named supervisors then LSHTM will try to match you up with suitable members of academic staff. If we are unable to identify potential supervisors, we will not be able to offer you a place.

See Identifying a supervisor for details of how to find and approach potential supervisors

The research proposal

All applicants should include with their application a short proposal for their thesis research, Research Study II, (maximum 1,500 words including footnotes and references). This is an important way of indicating the extent to which you already understand the background to your proposed research, and the range of methods that may be employed.

This should include:

• Research / topic area
• Specific research question(s)
• Study design
• Data collection methods and analysis
• Approximate research costs and planned funding source

Please be aware that the research proposal submitted with your application does not have to be the final research project: you will have the opportunity to refine your project through discussions with your supervisor after you start. The main purpose of the proposal is to demonstrate that you have the necessary critical thinking skills, an understanding of the relevant research area and an appreciation of the demands of a research degree.

The organisational and/or policy analysis outline (OPA, Research Study I)

Applicants also need to submit a short outline plan (approx. 500 words) for their OPA project (topic for the OPA, methodological approach and type of organisation to target). While many students have a clear idea about where they intend to carry out their OPA project, it is not mandatory to identify a specific host organisation before starting the degree programme at LSHTM. It is appreciated that this information will be preliminary and that proposals may change once applicants have started their studies and have had the opportunity to discuss their OPA plans with their supervisor and DrPH teaching staff. 

Think about how your Research Degree will be funded

You will need to consider how the Research Degree will be funded – tuition fees, living expenses and project costs. The School website contains some further information on potential  sources of funding . Some candidates apply for a place via studentships advertised by the School. Others manage to secure funding from elsewhere prior to applying, and some submit funding applications at the same time as applying for the research degree.

Application for study

Please apply using our online application form.

Please also read  LSHTM's Admissions policies  prior to submitting your application.

Paper application forms are available upon request and will normally incur an administration fee of £50. You must send a copy of the personal details and photograph page of your passport with all paper applications.  Your application will not be considered until you have provided the above documents. 

Application deadline

For September 2024 entry , the final closing date deadline for DrPH application submission is:

• 31 January 2024 at 23:59 UK time  for ALL students, including those who require a student visa and those who do not. 

Deadline for responding to your offer

Applicants are required to respond to their Offer of Admission within 28 days of receipt, or their place will be released and the offer automatically declined.

Admissions status

Register interest for 2025/26

Programme director

General enquiries Email DrPH Administrator

Talk to students or alumni C ontact ambassadors

More information

FAQs Open days Request a prospectus

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Public Health

• Entry year 2024 or 2025
• Duration Part time 4 - 7 years

The PhD in Public Health meets the needs of those wishing to gain a deep and critical insight into public health theory, research and practice and to develop or enhance research skills whilst fulfilling their existing responsibilities. The programme is offered part-time and combines innovative distance learning with face-to-face teaching at an annual autumn Academy held in Lancaster.

The programme is suitable for both UK-based and international students involved in the delivery of public health services, working in policy development relating to public health in government departments and NGOs, being responsible for educational programmes in colleges and universities or working in public health research and development.

This part-time, flexible doctorate runs over a minimum of four and a maximum of seven years. The programme begins with a compulsory five-day Induction Academy in Lancaster. Each of the subsequent academic years start with a compulsory three-day autumn Academy, while the rest of the course is delivered via e-learning. Attendance at the annual academies is compulsory until students have been confirmed on the PhD programme.

Years 1 and 2 consist of taught modules delivered online. In Year 1 students take a specialist module that covers the theory and practice of public health followed by a module on research philosophy and a module on research design. Year 2 modules may include: Systematic Reviews, Data Analysis, Research Design and Practical Research Ethics.

From Year 3 onwards, students undertake an independent research study , which concludes with the submission of a thesis that makes an original contribution to knowledge. The research project will be supervised from the University but undertaken in students’ own location or workplace. Supervision meetings take place online. During the annual autumn Academy students meet with supervisors face to face.

Your department

• Division of Health Research Faculty of Health and Medicine
• Telephone +44 (0)1524 592032

Public Health Research at Lancaster University

Professor Mark Limmer - Head of the Division of Health Research - introduces one of the Division's research themes: Social and Economic Inequalities in Health.

Entry requirements

Academic requirements.

2:1 Hons degree (UK or equivalent) in a relevant subject.

We may also consider non-standard applicants, please contact us for information.

If you have studied outside of the UK, we would advise you to check our list of international qualifications before submitting your application.

Additional Requirements

As part of your application you will also need to provide a 500 word research proposal. Guidance for writing a research proposal can be found on our writing a research proposal webpage.

English Language Requirements

We may ask you to provide a recognised English language qualification, dependent upon your nationality and where you have studied previously.

We normally require an IELTS (Academic) Test with an overall score of at least 6.5, and a minimum of 6.0 in each element of the test. We also consider other English language qualifications .

Contact: Admissions Team +44 (0) 1524 592032 or email [email protected]

Course structure

You will study a range of modules as part of your course, some examples of which are listed below.

Information contained on the website with respect to modules is correct at the time of publication, but changes may be necessary, for example as a result of student feedback, Professional Statutory and Regulatory Bodies' (PSRB) requirements, staff changes, and new research. Not all optional modules are available every year.

core modules accordion

The aim of this module is to provide students with an advanced introduction to the methods commonly used in health research. Students will gain knowledge and understanding of:

• How to use Moodle for distance learning and engage with peers and staff online
• Using the library as a distance learning student
• How to search the literature
• Using End Note
• How to synthesise evidence
• Standards of academic writing
• The nature of plagiarism and how to reference source material correctly
• Theoretical perspectives in health research
• The practical process of conducting research
• How to formulate appropriate questions and hypotheses
• How to choose appropriate methodology
• Quantitative and qualitative research methods
• Research ethics
• Disseminating and implementing research into practice
• Programme-specific research.

e-learning distance module

Spring Term (weeks 1-10, January-March)

Credits: 30

Mode of assessment : 5000 word essay

This module explores the philosophical underpinnings of research. It begins with an introduction to epistemology, i.e. the philosophical basis of knowledge and its development. It then considers the influence of different epistemological bases on research methodology and explores the role of theory and theoretical frameworks in the research process. It also examines the nature of the knowledge that underpins evidence-based policy and practice and introduces the fundamental principles of ethics.

Deadline: April

Autumn Term (weeks 1-10, October-December)

Mode of assessment : 3000 word essay (75%) and a poster (25%)

This module provides an overview of public health practice, focusing on the competencies and areas of knowledge within which professionals working in public health operate. The module focusses on the social determinants of health and pathways to social inequalities in health. It discusses different health promotion approaches and theories underpinning behaviour change. It also covers health protection activities and how disease outbreaks and environmental threats to health are managed. Finally, it explores key feature of different types of health systems and how policies can affect the health of the public.

Deadline: January

Sunmer Term (weeks 1-10, April-June)

Mode of assessment : 5000 word assignment consisting of two 2500 word components

This module introduces a range of methods used in health research. The focus is on justifying research design choices rather than practical skills in data analysis. The starting point is the development of meaningful and feasible research questions. The module then introduces a range of quantitative research designs and quantitative approaches to data collection. Next, the module looks at qualitative research designs and their relation to different epistemological positions, as well as how to integrate quantitative and qualitative methods into mixed methods research. The module also explores issues such as sampling and quality across different research designs.

Deadline: July

Spring term (weeks 1-10, January-March)

Mode of assessment : two pieces of written work (Qualitative data analysis, 2500 words; Quantitative data analysis, 2500 words)

This module is an introduction to the theory and practice of qualitative and quantitative data analysis. The module consists of two distinct parts: qualitative data analysis and quantitative data analysis. Within quantitative data analysis, there will be an option to take an introductory or an advanced unit.

The introductory quantitative unit covers data management and descriptive analyses and introduces students to inferential testing in general and statistical tests for comparisons between groups specifically. The advanced quantitative unit covers linear regression as well as regression methods for categorical dependent variables and longitudinal data before exploring quasi-experimental methods for policy evaluation and finally providing an opportunity to discuss more specific regression methods such count data models or duration analysis.

The qualitative unit focusses on the technique of thematic analysis, a highly flexible approach and useful foundation for researchers new to qualitative data analysis. The unit takes students through the stages of a qualitative data analysis: sorting and organising qualitative data, interrogating qualitative data, interpreting the data and finally writing accounts of qualitative data.

Summer Term (weeks 1-10, April-June)

Mode of assessment : A written assignment that includes: a) a 4000 word research proposal and b) a completed REAMS (Research Ethics Application Management System) application form and supporting documents.

This module completes the taught phase of Blended Learning PhD programmes. It enables students to put everything they have learned so far together and produce a research proposal that will provide the basis for the research phase of the programme.

The first part of the module – research design – starts by discussing the components of a research proposal according to different epistemologies and research methods. It then takes students through the process of developing their own proposal, starting with the topic and epistemological framework, through to the study design and data collection methods and finally the practical details.

The second part of the module – practical research ethics – teaches students how to think about their research proposal from an ethical perspective. It covers ethical guidelines and teaches students how to identify the purpose of a guideline, to enable them to translate their proposal into an ethical review application. Finally, students will prepare a practice research ethics application using the REAMS application review system.

Autumn term (weeks 1-10, October-December)

Mode of assessment : 5000 word assignment

This module provides an introduction to the principles and components of systematic reviewing. It takes students through the key steps of a systematic review. The starting point of the module is the construction of an appropriate review question. Next, the module discusses the (iterative) process of creating a search strategy that successfully identifies all relevant literature. The module then moves on to selecting appropriate methodological quality criteria, enabling students to develop their skills in critically appraising studies. After discussing how to prepare a data extraction form the module introduces a key component of a systematic review: synthesising the evidence. Finally, the module will teach students how to put everything together in a systematic review protocol.

Fees and funding

Home Fee £4,350

International Fee £11,340

General fees and funding information

Additional fees and funding information accordion

There may be extra costs related to your course for items such as books, stationery, printing, photocopying, binding and general subsistence on trips and visits. Following graduation, you may need to pay a subscription to a professional body for some chosen careers.

Specific additional costs for studying at Lancaster are listed below.

College fees

Lancaster is proud to be one of only a handful of UK universities to have a collegiate system. Every student belongs to a college, and all students pay a small College Membership Fee which supports the running of college events and activities. Students on some distance-learning courses are not liable to pay a college fee.

For students starting in 2024, the fee is £40 for undergraduates and research students and £15 for students on one-year courses. Fees for students starting in 2025 have not yet been set.

Computer equipment and internet access

To support your studies, you will also require access to a computer, along with reliable internet access. You will be able to access a range of software and services from a Windows, Mac, Chromebook or Linux device. For certain degree programmes, you may need a specific device, or we may provide you with a laptop and appropriate software - details of which will be available on relevant programme pages. A dedicated IT support helpdesk is available in the event of any problems.

The University provides limited financial support to assist students who do not have the required IT equipment or broadband support in place.

For most taught postgraduate applications there is a non-refundable application fee of £40. We cannot consider applications until this fee has been paid, as advised on our online secure payment system. There is no application fee for postgraduate research applications.

For some of our courses you will need to pay a deposit to accept your offer and secure your place. We will let you know in your offer letter if a deposit is required and you will be given a deadline date when this is due to be paid.

The fee that you pay will depend on whether you are considered to be a home or international student. Read more about how we assign your fee status .

If you are studying on a programme of more than one year’s duration, tuition fees are reviewed annually and are not fixed for the duration of your studies. Read more about fees in subsequent years .

Scholarships and bursaries

You may be eligible for the following funding opportunities, depending on your fee status and course. You will be automatically considered for our main scholarships and bursaries when you apply, so there's nothing extra that you need to do.

Unfortunately no scholarships and bursaries match your selection, but there are more listed on scholarships and bursaries page.

If you're considering postgraduate research you should look at our funded PhD opportunities .

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We also have other, more specialised scholarships and bursaries - such as those for students from specific countries.

Browse Lancaster University's scholarships and bursaries .

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Take an innovative approach to distance learning combining interactive lectures, webinars and online collaboration, group work and self-directed study.

Work with world-leading academics to make an original contribution to your area of professional practice.

Benefit from an international peer group that could include health practitioners, policy-makers, and researchers and educators in health care.

Studying by blended learning

The PhD in Public Health is offered part-time via blended learning . Teaching and research activities are carried out through a combination of face-to-face and online interaction, allowing you to undertake the majority of study from your own location whilst fulfilling your existing responsibilities. You will benefit from being part of a UK and internationally-based peer group working across a range of sectors.

Face-to-face interactions take place at an annual residential autumn Academy while taught modules are delivered via distance learning using our virtual learning environment and include discussion forums, collaborative digital spaces and video conferencing. All students have access to a hub space that facilitates interaction with their cohort and with students on related programmes, creating a virtual information space that’s also sociable. An academic tutor will support you during the taught phase. In the research phase two supervisors provide you with support for each step of your PhD.

The Division of Health Research

The Division of Health Research have been offering blended learning postgraduate programmes since 2010. We have many successful graduates and currently around 200 continuing students on a range of programmes who have benefited in progressing their careers from the high quality postgraduate education we provide.

Our Research in Public Health

Our public health research illuminates the social determinants of inequalities in health to produce and exchange evidence to reduce these inequalities.

Our Health Information, Computation and Statistics Research

Our statistical and computational analysis contributes to, and informs, many areas of our health-related research.

Centre for Health Inequalities Research

Our research aims to contribute to greater health equity for communities locally, nationally and internationally.

Centre for Disability Research

We are a network of teaching and research staff that promotes and conducts high-quality, interdisciplinary research and research-led teaching on disability and disablism.

Important Information

The information on this site relates primarily to 2025/2026 entry to the University and every effort has been taken to ensure the information is correct at the time of publication.

The University will use all reasonable effort to deliver the courses as described, but the University reserves the right to make changes to advertised courses. In exceptional circumstances that are beyond the University’s reasonable control (Force Majeure Events), we may need to amend the programmes and provision advertised. In this event, the University will take reasonable steps to minimise the disruption to your studies. If a course is withdrawn or if there are any fundamental changes to your course, we will give you reasonable notice and you will be entitled to request that you are considered for an alternative course or withdraw your application. You are advised to revisit our website for up-to-date course information before you submit your application.

More information on limits to the University’s liability can be found in our legal information .

Our Students’ Charter

We believe in the importance of a strong and productive partnership between our students and staff. In order to ensure your time at Lancaster is a positive experience we have worked with the Students’ Union to articulate this relationship and the standards to which the University and its students aspire. View our Charter and other policies .

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Your college will be your home away from home.

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Career support for our students through university and beyond.

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Our campus and the surrounding area is a great place to call home.

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Build your global community on campus and around the world.

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Services to help you fulfil your potential at Lancaster.

• Postgraduate Research

Public Health PhD

• Part time available: yes

Studying in:

• institute-of-population-health
• Faculty of Health and Life Sciences

Research across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences spans ‘from Cell to Society’, with the work of the Department of Public Health and Policy firmly at the Societal end of the spectrum. We provide a service to the public health profession and local practitioners by supporting specialist training in the NHS and acting as academic supervisors and tutors for trainees, and engaging with local communities.

Why study with us?

My research is enthusiastically stimulated and supported by my supervisors. There are great opportunities to present your research to an engaged department, committed to tackling health inequalities. Callum Rutherford - Public Health PhD student

years the University of Liverpool has been at the forefront of public health.

of our research is 'world leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*) in the latest Research Excellence Framework (2021)

Departmental publications are in the top 1% of highly cited papers worldwide.

Teaching and service work is the social model of health and how that can be applied to address inequalities in health and in health care.

Public health in Liverpool has a long and influential history, including the appointment of England’s first Medical Officer of Health, Dr. William Henry Duncan, in 1847. Dr. Duncan was followed by a number of eminent medical officers who, reflecting their strong links with the University, were also professors here. The Department of Public Health and Policy has grown steadily from these roots, and is now home to a multidisciplinary team drawn from a range of subjects including medical and health sciences, epidemiology, statistics, sociology, psychology, anthropology, community development, policy analysis, history and civic design. They are actively involved in research, education, and health service work related to promoting the health of the public. 

Research across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences spans ‘from Cell to Society’, with the work of the Department of Public Health and Policy firmly at the Societal end of the spectrum

We provide a service to the public health profession and local practitioners by supporting specialist training in the NHS and acting as academic supervisors and tutors for trainees, and engaging with local communities and stakeholders is a core activity in the department. 

Research across the Faculty of Health and Life Sciences spans ‘from Cell to Society’: with the work of the Department of Public Health and Policy firmly at the Societal end of the spectrum.

The department's research focuses on services and systems for health and well-being operating at the community and population levels. It covers healthy members of the public as well as patients, seeking to understand how to improve the systems that society needs to put in place to promote, sustain and protect health, prevent disease and care for the sick.

More information .

Our research interests

We particularly welcome research proposals that match those of our researchers.

Our three major research areas are Policy Research on Social Determinants and Health, Child Health, Energy, Air Pollution and Health , Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Food Policy , Public Health Simulation Modelling.

Research themes

The Department's research aims are:

• To increase understanding of the pathways leading from society to good/ill-health and from ill-health to social and economic consequences, especially concerning the generation of inequalities in health and in access to health services
• To assess the impact of interventions at the community and population levels to reduce the burden of disease and identified inequalities in health and in health services in order to promote health and wellbeing.

 Research strengths include: a focus on intervention research to tackle social determinants of health and health inequalities; engagement with the policy and practice communities to ensure policy-relevance; and incorporation of the experiences of people in their day-to-day lives.

The student will have access to a range of methodological expertise, including qualitative analysis, advanced statistical analysis, innovative population simulation techniques and field epidemiology. Furthermore, the student will benefit from the strong link with local, national and international stakeholders, policymakers and academics through the Departmental collaborations in the UK and abroad. (See individual staff pages for details).

Research groups

Policy Research on Social Determinants and Health Energy, Air Pollution and Health

Non-Communicable Disease Prevention and Food Policy

Study options and fees

The fees below reflect one year of study during the 2024/25 academic year

PhD	Duration	UK students	International Students
Full time	2-4 years	£4,786
Part time	4-6 years	£2,393

The fees stated in the table above exclude potential research support fees also known as ‘bench fees’. You will be notified of any fee which may apply in your offer letter.

* Please note that if you are undertaking a PhD within the Faculty of Science and Engineering the fee you pay, Band A or Band B, will reflect the nature of your research project. Some research projects incur a higher fee than others e.g. if you are required to undertake laboratory work. You will be informed of the fee for your programme in your offer letter.

^ Self-funded, full-time international students studying a PhD programme classified as Band A will receive a £2,000 reduction in their fees for the first year only.

Entry requirements

You'll need a 2:1 or first class or equivalent first degree in a relevant discipline, such as anthropology, medicine, psychology or sociology, but we are open to consider cases on an individual basis for outstanding prospective students. This breadth reflects our commitment to multidisciplinary approaches when investigating complex public health questions.

English language requirements

IELTS Academic requirement - SELT and non-SELT	Overall score of 7.0 with no less than 6.0 in each component
TOEFL iBT requirement	Minimum 100 overall with L 21 R 21 W 21 and S 23
C1 Advanced CAE requirement	Overall 185 with no less than 176 in any paper
PTE Academic requirement	69 with minimum scores of 61 in each component
Trinity College London, Integrated Skills in English (ISE II)	Please confirm with the department
Cambridge IGCSE as a First Language	Grade C
Cambridge IGCSE as a Second Language	Grade B
Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Proficiency)	Overall 185 with 176 in components
Cambridge English Level 3 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced)	Overall 185 with 176 in components
Cambridge English Level 2 Certificate in ESOL International (Advanced)	Overall 185 with 176 in components

Additional requirements

Your research can be in any area that matches our research interests and expertise, outlined above. CRB and other checks may be necessary for some project types and every proposal will need to receive ethical approval.

You'll also need coherent writing skills, along with the stamina, self-motivation and organization to complete a demanding research project.

How to apply

Research degree applications can be made online.  You'll also need to ensure that you have funding to cover all fees.

Applications are  open all year round .

More about applying for research degrees

Apply online

Before you apply, we recommend that you identify a supervisor and develop a research proposal

Find a supervisor

Need help finding a supervisor contact us.

• IPH PGR Administrator
• Email: [email protected]
• Phone: +44 (0)151 794 8293

Related studentships: self-funded and funded PhD projects

Related doctoral training partnerships.

Doctoral Training Partnerships support future researchers with funding and a rewarding learning environment where you can collaborate with leading researchers.

• ESRC - NW Social Science DTP

Find a scholarship

We offer a range of scholarships to help you meet the costs of studying a research degree.

See scholarships

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Are you a UK or International Student?

Contribute to improvements at all levels in public health policy, key course details.

Start Date	Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2024 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2025	£ 4,786

Start Date	Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2024 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2025	£ 2,393

Start Date	Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2024 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2025	£ 20,950

Start Date	Tuition Fees - Year 1
Oct 2024 or Jan, Apr or Jul 2025	£ 10,500

Course Overview

Start dates: 1st October, 1st January, 1st April, 1st July.

By providing an evidence base through empirical investigation, audit, and evaluation, our research actively contributes to improvements at all levels in public health policy and practice.

A PhD in Public Health gives you the opportunity to pursue your particular personal or professional research interests in this wide-ranging area.

Over the course of your studies, you will develop and enhance transferable skills such as problem-solving, project management, and critical thinking that are valued in any professional setting.

Recent research projects carried out by our students include the impact of a structured education package on nurses’ knowledge and practice in Hepatitis B and Hepatitis C in Saudi Arabia, and health visitors understanding of the principle ‘influencing policies affecting health’.

As a student at our School of Health and Social Care, you will benefit from a dynamic and supportive research environment with many opportunities to make connections across disciplines and develop links with organisations and policymakers both in the UK and abroad. As such, you can be confident that your research will inform and be informed by the wider health and social care environment.

According to the most recent Research Excellence Framework in 2014-2021, over 75% of the research carried out at the school was of international or world-leading quality.

Recent research funding and collaboration partners include:

• Welsh Government
• Public Health Wales
• European Union
• Amgen Europe
• Ministry of Defence
• GlaxoSmithKline Biologicals
• British Medical Association
• National Institute for Social Care and Health Research
• Astrazeneca
• The Wellcome Trust.

You will be joining a university that was named ‘University of the Year’ and ‘Postgraduate’ runner up in the What Uni Student Choice Awards 2019.

Entry Requirements

Qualifications MPhil:  Applicants for MPhil must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University). See -  Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019  and  Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019 .

PhD : Applicants for PhD must normally hold an undergraduate degree at 2.1 level and a master’s degree. Alternatively, applicants with a UK first class honours degree (or Non-UK equivalent as defined by Swansea University) not holding a master’s degree, will be considered on an individual basis. See -  Country-specific Information for European Applicants 2019  and  Country-specific Information for International Applicants 2019 . 

English Language IELTS 6.5 Overall (with no individual component below 6.5) or Swansea University recognised equivalent.  Full details of our English Language policy, including certificate time validity, can be found here.

As well as academic qualifications, Admissions decisions may be based on other factors, including (but not limited to): the standard of the research synopsis/proposal, performance at interview, intensity of competition for limited places, and relevant professional experience.

Reference Requirement

As standard, two references are required before we can progress applications to the College/School research programme Admissions Tutor for consideration.

Applications received without two references attached are placed on hold, pending receipt of the outstanding reference(s). Please note that any protracted delay in receiving the outstanding reference(s) may result in the need to defer your application to a later potential start point/entry month, than what you initially listed as your preferred start option.

You may wish to consider contacting your referee(s) to assist in the process of obtaining the outstanding reference(s) or alternatively, hold submission of application until references are sourced. Please note that it is not the responsibility of the University Admissions Office to obtain missing reference(s) after our initial email is sent to your nominated referee(s), requesting a reference(s) on your behalf.

The reference can take the form of a letter on official headed paper, or via the University’s standard reference form. Click this link to download the university reference form .

Alternatively, referees can email a reference from their employment email account, please note that references received via private email accounts, (i.e. Hotmail, Yahoo, Gmail) cannot be accepted.

References can be submitted to [email protected] .

How you are Supervised

Research degrees typically last from three years (full-time study) to six years (part-time) for a PhD, or two years (full-time) to four years (part-time) for an MPhil.  Key features include:

• An environment in which you can develop and enhance transferable skills such as problem solving, independent thinking, project management, and critical thinking.
• The support of two academic supervisors throughout your studies.
• The availability of structured training, interdisciplinary seminars, dedicated research facilities and software from both the school and University.
• Support from a dynamic community of research staff and students each pursuing their own lines of research.
• Assessment by means of a thesis of up to 100,000 words which must demonstrate the student’s capacity to pursue original research and should represent a distinct and significant contribution to the subject. This is then followed by an oral examination of the thesis (viva).

Find out more about some of the academic staff supervising theses in these areas:

Professor Joy Merrell

Find out about our Nursing Research Group.

Welsh Provision

Tuition fees, ph.d. 3 year full time.

Start Date	UK	International
October 2024	£ 4,786	£ 20,950
January 2025	£ 4,786	£ 20,950
April 2025	£ 4,786	£ 20,950
July 2025	£ 4,786	£ 20,950

Ph.D. 6 Year Part Time

Start Date	UK	International
October 2024	£ 2,393	£ 10,500
January 2025	£ 2,393	£ 10,500
April 2025	£ 2,393	£ 10,500
July 2025	£ 2,393	£ 10,500

M.Phil 2 Year Full Time

M.phil 4 year part time.

Tuition fees for years of study after your first year are subject to an increase of 3%.

You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study. To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page .

International students and part-time study: It may be possible for some students to study part-time under the Student Visa route. However, this is dependent on factors relating to the course and your individual situation. It may also be possible to study with us if you are already in the UK under a different visa category (e.g. Tier 1 or 2, PBS Dependant, ILR etc.). Please visit the University information on Visas and Immigration for further guidance and support.

Current students: You can find further information of your fee costs on our tuition fees page .

Funding and Scholarships

You may be eligible for funding to help support your study.

Government funding is now available for Welsh, English and EU students starting eligible postgraduate research programmes at Swansea University. To find out more, please visit our postgraduate loans page.

To find out about scholarships, bursaries and other funding opportunities that are available please visit the University's scholarships and bursaries page.

Academi Hywel Teifi at Swansea University and the Coleg Cymraeg Cenedlaethol offer a number of generous scholarships and bursaries for students who wish to study through the medium of Welsh or bilingually. For further information about the opportunities available to you, visit the Academi Hywel Teifi Scholarships and Bursaries page.

Additional Costs

Access to your own digital device/the appropriate IT kit will be essential during your time studying at Swansea University. Access to wifi in your accommodation will also be essential to allow you to fully engage with your programme. See our dedicated webpages for further guidance on suitable devices to purchase, and for a full guide on getting your device set up .

You may face additional costs while at university, including (but not limited to):

• Travel to and from campus
• Printing, photocopying, binding, stationery and equipment costs (e.g. USB sticks)
• Purchase of books or texts
• Gowns for graduation ceremonies

How to Apply

Details of the application process for research degrees are available  here , and you can apply online and track your application status at  www.swansea.ac.uk/applyonline .  As part of your application you should include a research proposal outlining your proposed topic of study.  Guidance on writing a research proposal is also  available .

You can expect to be interviewed following your application to discuss your topic of research and to demonstrate the necessary level of commitment to your studies and training.

It is advisable that you contact us at [email protected]   before submitting your application. This will ensure we can identify appropriate supervisors, and work with you to refine your proposal. 

If you're an international student, find out more about applying for this course at our  international student web pages 

Suggested Application Timings

In order to allow sufficient time for consideration of your application by an academic, for potential offer conditions to be met and travel / relocation, we recommend that applications are made before the dates outlined below. Please note that applications can still be submitted outside of the suggested dates below but there is the potential that your application/potential offer may need to be moved to the next appropriate intake window.

October Enrolment

UK Applicants – 15th August

EU/International applicants – 15th July

January Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th November

EU/International applicants – 15th October

April Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th February

EU/International applicants – 15th January

July Enrolment

UK applicants – 15th May

EU/International applicants – 15th April

EU students - visa and immigration information is available and will be regularly updated on our information for EU students page.

PhD Programme Specification

Award Level (Nomenclature)	PhD in Public Health
Programme Title	Public Health
Director of Postgraduate Research	Mr Ioan Humphreys
Awarding Body	Swansea University
College/School	School of Health and Social Care
Subject Area	Public Health, Policy and Social Sciences
Frequency of Intake	October, January, April, July
Location	Singleton Campus
Mode of Study	Full/Part time
Duration/Candidature	3/6 years
FHEQ Level	8
External Reference Points	QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 8
Regulations	Doctor of Philosophy (PhD)
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation	N/A
	N/A
	English

This Programme Specification refers to the current academic year and provides indicative content for information. The University will seek to deliver each course in accordance with the descriptions set out in the relevant course web pages at the time of application. However, there may be situations in which it is desirable or necessary for the University to make changes in course provision , either before or after enrolment.

Programme Summary 

This PhD in Public Health at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 100,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The PhD is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva voce). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. There may also be opportunities to develop your teaching skills through undergraduate tutorials, demonstrations and seminars.

Programme Aims

This PhD programme will provide doctoral researchers with:

• The opportunity to conduct high quality postgraduate research in a world leading research environment.
• Key skills needed to undertake advanced academic and non-academic research including qualitative and quantitative data analysis.
• Advanced critical thinking, intellectual curiosity and independent judgement.

Programme Structure

The programme comprises three key elements:

• Entry and confirmation of candidature
• Main body of research
• Thesis and viva voce

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 3 years duration full time (6 years duration part time). Doctoral researchers may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Doctoral researchers for the PhD in Public Health are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 100,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination (viva voce).

Doctoral Researcher Supervision and Support

Doctoral researchers will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the doctoral research journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the  doctoral researcher to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre). 

Programme Learning Outcomes

Upon successful completion of this programme,  doctoral researchers should be able to:

Knowledge & Understanding

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge which is at the forefront of research through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship. 
• Disseminate new knowledge gained through original research or other advanced scholarship via high quality peer reviewed publications within the discipline.
• Apply research skills and subject theory to the practice of research.
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised. 

Attitudes and values

• Conceptualise, design and implement a project aimed at the generation of new knowledge or applications within Public Health.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Public Health, often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience.
• Apply sound ethical principles to research, with due regard for the integrity of persons and in accordance with professional codes of conduct.
• Demonstrate self-awareness of individual and cultural diversity, and the reciprocal impact in social interaction between self and others when conducting research involving people.

Research Skills

• Respond appropriately to unforeseen problems in project design by making suitable amendments.
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media and events, including conference presentations, seminars and workshops.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and advanced academic enquiry.
• Develop the networks and foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement  advanced research skills to a substantial degree of independence.
• Locate information and apply it to research practice.

Skills and Competencies

• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and largely autonomous initiative in complex and unpredictable situations, in professional or equivalent environments.

Progression Monitoring

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the Doctoral researcher is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the doctoral researcher’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the doctoral researcher’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system.  

Learning Development  

The University offers training and development for Doctoral Researchers and supervisors ( https://www.swansea.ac.uk/research/undertake-research-with-us/postgraduate-research/training-and-skills-development-programme/ ).

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable doctoral researchers to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

There is a training framework including for example areas of Managing Information and Data, Presentation and Public Engagement, Leadership and working with others, Safety Integrity and Ethics, Impact and Commercialisation and Teaching and Demonstrating. There is also range of support in areas such as training needs, literature searching, conducting research, writing up research, teaching, applying for grants and awards, communicating research and future careers.

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the School of Health and Social Care and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the  doctoral researcher in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the School of Health and Social Care is developing a research culture that aligns with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students.

Research Environment

Swansea University’s research environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself. 

In the School of Health and Social Care we are strongly focused on the translation of our research into real-life benefits for users, carers and professionals across the range of health and social care services. In doing so our staffs has long established links with a range of international networks and similar university departments in Europe and around the world, and are committed to building productive relationships with front-line policymakers and practitioners. Some senior researchers have also been embedded within the NHS to ensure healthcare and service provision is developed and informed by high quality robust research.                                                                                                               

Alongside this we play an integral role in the Welsh Government’s research infrastructure, through the Centre for Ageing & Dementia Research, Wales School for Social Care Research and the Welsh Health Economic Support Service, increasing the volume of research taking place within Wales. While some of our PhD programmes form part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales, a pan-Wales collaboration to train top-level social scientists. Our funding also comes from a wide range of prestigious funders such as the Research Councils, European research programmes, Government, Ministry of Defence, professional bodies, private sector and charitable organisations, with the school securing £7.37m of funding across the last three years.

Supporting our staff and students in their research is a range of facilities including our Health and Wellbeing Academy, which provides healthcare services to the local community, a range of clinical and audiology suites and state-of-the-art research facilities. These include a high density EEG suite, a fully-fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, and over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Career Opportunities

Having a PhD demonstrates that graduates can work effectively in a team, formulate, explore and communicate complex ideas and manage advanced tasks. Jobs in academia (eg postdoctoral research, lecturing), education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. Examples include administrators, counsellors, marketing specialists, and researchers.

The Postgraduate Research Office Skills Development Team offer support and a training framework for example in creating a researcher profile based upon publications and setting up your own business. The Swansea Employability Academy assists students in future career opportunities, improving CVs, job applications and interview skills.

MPhil Programme Specification

Award Level (Nomenclature)	MPhil in Public Health
Programme Title	Public Health
Director of Postgraduate Research	Mr Ioan Humphreys
Awarding Body	Swansea University
College/School	School of Health and Social Care
Subject Area	Public Health, Policy and Social Sciences
Frequency of Intake	October, January, April, July
Location	Singleton Campus
Mode of Study	Full/Part time
Duration/Candidature	2/4 years
FHEQ Level	7
External Reference Points	QAA Qualification Descriptors for FHEQ Level 7
Regulations	Master of Philosophy
Professional, Statutory or Regulatory Body Accreditation	N/A
	N/A
	English

Programme Summary

This MPhil in Public Health at Swansea will enable you to undertake a substantial project led by your own interests. It is a highly respected qualification which can present a career in academia or a wider scope for employment in fields such as education, government or the private sector. A thesis of 60,000 words will be submitted for assessment demonstrating original research with a substantive contribution to the subject area. The Masters is examined following an oral examination of the thesis (a viva voce examination or viva). You will acquire research skills for high-level work and skills and training programmes are available on campus for further support. There will be an opportunity to deliver presentations to research students and staff at departmental seminars and conferences. 

This Masters programme will provide students with:

• Thesis and viva voce examination

The programme comprises of the undertaking of an original research project of 2 years duration full time (4 years duration part time). Students may pursue the programme either full time or part time by pursuing research at the University at an external place of employment or with/at a University approved partner.

Students for the Masters in Public Health are examined in two parts.

The first part is a thesis which is an original body of work representing the methods and results of the research project. The maximum word limit is 60,000 for the main text. The word limit does not include appendices (if any), essential footnotes, introductory parts and statements or the bibliography and index.

The second part is an oral examination ( viva voce ).

Supervision and Support 

Students will be supervised by a supervisory team. Where appropriate, staff from Colleges/Schools other than the ‘home’ College/School (other Colleges/Schools) within the University will contribute to cognate research areas. There may also be supervisors from an industrial partner.

The Primary/First Supervisor will normally be the main contact throughout the student journey and will have overall responsibility for academic supervision. The academic input of the Secondary Supervisor will vary from case to case. The principal role of the Secondary Supervisor is often as a first port of call if the Primary/First Supervisor becomes unavailable. The supervisory team may also include a supervisor from industry or a specific area of professional practice to support the research. External supervisors may also be drawn from other Universities.

The primary supervisor will provide pastoral support. If necessary the primary supervisor will refer the student to other sources of support (e.g. Wellbeing, Disability, Money Advice, IT, Library, Students’ Union, Academic Services, Student Support Services, Careers Centre).

Upon successful completion of this programme, doctoral researchers should be able to:

• Demonstrate the systematic acquisition and understanding of a substantial body of knowledge through the development of a written thesis.
• Create, interpret, analyse and develop new knowledge through original research or other advanced scholarship.  
• Apply process and standards of a range of the methodologies through which research is conducted and knowledge acquired and revised.
• Make informed judgements on complex issues in the field of Public Health often in the absence of complete data and defend those judgements to an appropriate audience. 
• Communicate complex research findings clearly, effectively and in an engaging manner to both specialist (including the academic community), and non-specialist audiences using a variety of appropriate media.
• Correctly select, interpret and apply relevant techniques for research and academic enquiry.
• Develop the foundations for on-going research and development within the discipline.
• Implement independent research skills.
• Display the qualities and transferable skills necessary for employment, including the exercise of personal responsibility and initiative in complex situations.

Progress will be monitored in accordance with Swansea University regulations. During the course of the programme, the student is expected to meet regularly with their supervisors, and at most meetings it is likely that the student’s progress will be monitored in an informal manner in addition to attendance checks. Details of the meetings should ideally be recorded on the on-line system. A minimum of four formal supervision meetings is required each year, two of which will be reported to the Postgraduate Progression and Awards Board. During these supervisory meetings the student’s progress is discussed and formally recorded on the on-line system. 

Swansea University’s Postgraduate Research Training Framework is structured into sections, to enable students to navigate and determine appropriate courses aligned to both their interest and their candidature stage. 

A range of research seminars and skills development sessions are provided within the School of Health and Social Care and across the University. These are scheduled to keep the student in touch with a broader range of material than their own research topic, to stimulate ideas in discussion with others, and to give them opportunities to such as defending their own thesis orally, and to identify potential criticisms. Additionally, the School of Health and Social Care is developing a research culture that will align with the University vision and will link with key initiatives delivered under the auspices of the University’s Academies, for example embedding the HEA fellowship for postgraduate research students

Research Environment  

Swansea University’s Research Environment combines innovation and excellent facilities to provide a home for multidisciplinary research to flourish. Our research environment encompasses all aspects of the research lifecycle, with internal grants and support for external funding and enabling impact/effect that research has beyond academia. 

Swansea University is very proud of our reputation for excellent research, and for the calibre, dedication, professionalism, collaboration and engagement of our research community. We understand that integrity must be an essential characteristic of all aspects of research, and that as a University entrusted with undertaking research we must clearly and consistently demonstrate that the confidence placed in our research community is rightly deserved. The University therefore ensures that everyone engaged in research is trained to the very highest standards of research integrity and conducts themselves and their research in a way that respects the dignity, rights, and welfare of participants, and minimises risks to participants, researchers, third parties, and the University itself.

School of Health and Social Care 

In the School of Health and Social Care we are strongly focused on the translation of our research into real-life benefits for users, carers and professionals across the range of health and social care services. In doing so our staff have long established links with a range of international networks and similar university departments in Europe and around the world, and are committed to building productive relationships with front-line policymakers and practitioners. Some senior researchers have also been embedded within the NHS to ensure healthcare and service provision is developed and informed by high quality robust research.                                                                                                         

Alongside this we play an integral role in the Welsh Government’s research infrastructure, through the Centre for Ageing & Dementia Research, Wales School for Social Care Research and the Welsh Health Economic Support Service, increasing the volume of research taking place within Wales. While some of our PhD programmes form part of the ESRC Doctoral Training Centre for Wales, a pan-Wales collaboration to train top-level social scientists. Our funding also comes from a wide range of prestigious funders such as the Research Councils, European research programmes, Government, Ministry of Defence, professional bodies, private sector and charitable organisations, with the school securing £7.37m of funding across the last three years.

Supporting our staff and students in their research is a range of facilities including  our Health and Wellbeing Academy, which provides healthcare services to the local community, a range of clinical and audiology suites and state-of-the-art research facilities. These include a high density EEG suite, a fully-fitted sleep laboratory, a social observation suite, eye-tracking, psychophysiological, tDCS and conditioning labs, a lifespan lab and baby room, and over 20 all-purpose research rooms.

Having a Master of Philosophy degree shows that you can communicate your ideas and manage tasks. Jobs in academia, education, government, management, the public or private sector are possible. 

Alternatively, use our A–Z index

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PhD/MPhil Public Health / Programme details

Year of entry: 2024

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Programme description

Our PhD/MPhil Public Health Research programme enables you to undertake a  research project  that will provide you will high quality training in all three pillars of public health and preventative medicine including health protection, health improvement including health information and health/wellbeing services. Our PhDs/MPhils may involve a range of research methods, including evidence synthesis, analysis of routine data, population-based studies and qualitative research.

To see examples of the types of studies that are carried out, please visit the websites of the Epidemiology and Public Health Group  

http://research.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/epidemiology/  

and the Division of Population Health, Health Services Research & Primary Care

https://www.research.manchester.ac.uk/portal/en/facultiesandschools/division-of-population-health-health-services-research--primary-care(19db7129-c98b-4029-a819-8c5ffe20e845).html

Special features

Training and development

All of our postgraduate researchers attend the Doctoral Academy Training Programme delivered by the Researcher Development team . The programme provides key transferable skills and equips our postgraduate researchers with the tools to progress beyond their research degree into influential positions within academia, industry and consultancy. The emphasis is on enhancing skills critical to developing early-stage researchers and professionals, whether they relate to effective communication, disseminating research findings and project management skills.

Teaching and learning

Applicants are specifically matched with a Primary Supervisor and individual project based on their research interests and background.

International applicants interested in this research area can also consider our PhD programme with integrated teaching certificate .

This unique programme will enable you to gain a Postgraduate Certificate in Teaching and Learning, whilst also carrying out independent research on your chosen project.

Scholarships and bursaries

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PhD in Public Health and Primary Care

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The Department of Public Health & Primary Care encompasses a broad range of themes (e.g. from Genetic Epidemiology to Behaviour and Health, from Health Services Research to Non-communicable Disease Epidemiology etc) and methods (e.g. quantitative methods, qualitative research, systematic reviews, functional genomics etc). PhD projects are typically available at each of the Units within the Department. Interdisciplinary research is also encouraged, whether within the Department or with other local or international collaborators.

The aim of the PhD course is to provide a sound foundation in study design and conduct, data acquisition and handling, quality issues, statistics, discussion of research ethics, issues of intellectual property, multidisciplinary team working, access to a variety of research settings and dissemination of findings. In addition to standard applications, there are opportunities for PhD training on specific projects throughout the year. The PhD can be undertaken by full-time or part-time study.

Students studying for the MPhil who wish to continue to a PhD, are required to achieve a high standard across modules and the dissertation and will be required to satisfy their potential supervisor, Head of Department and the Faculty Degree Committee that they have the skills and ability to achieve the higher degree.

The Postgraduate Virtual Open Day usually takes place at the end of October. It’s a great opportunity to ask questions to admissions staff and academics, explore the Colleges virtually, and to find out more about courses, the application process and funding opportunities. Visit the  Postgraduate Open Day  page for more details.

See further the  Postgraduate Admissions Events  pages for other events relating to Postgraduate study, including study fairs, visits and international events.

Key Information

3-4 years full-time, 4-7 years part-time, study mode : research, doctor of philosophy, department of public health and primary care, course - related enquiries, application - related enquiries, course on department website, dates and deadlines:, lent 2024 (closed).

Some courses can close early. See the Deadlines page for guidance on when to apply.

Easter 2024 (Closed)

Michaelmas 2024 (closed), easter 2025, funding deadlines.

These deadlines apply to applications for courses starting in Michaelmas 2024, Lent 2025 and Easter 2025.

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Institute for Global Health MPhil/PhD

London, Bloomsbury

Our MPhil/PhD programme offers students from a range of backgrounds the opportunity to explore topics within a broad global health agenda. The programme equips you for the diversity and demands of a career in global health.

UK tuition fees (2024/25)

Overseas tuition fees (2024/25), programme starts, applications accepted.

Prospective students should apply at least four months before their intended start date. If you require a visa we recommend allowing for more time.

• Entry requirements

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor’s degree and a Master's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard is required. Applicants who do not hold a Master's degree but who have extensive relevant work experience should contact IGH Research Degrees: [email protected].

The English language level for this programme is: Level 2

UCL Pre-Master's and Pre-sessional English courses are for international students who are aiming to study for a postgraduate degree at UCL. The courses will develop your academic English and academic skills required to succeed at postgraduate level.

Further information can be found on our English language requirements page.

Equivalent qualifications

Country-specific information, including details of when UCL representatives are visiting your part of the world, can be obtained from the International Students website .

International applicants can find out the equivalent qualification for their country by selecting from the list below. Please note that the equivalency will correspond to the broad UK degree classification stated on this page (e.g. upper second-class). Where a specific overall percentage is required in the UK qualification, the international equivalency will be higher than that stated below. Please contact Graduate Admissions should you require further advice.

About this degree

The UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) provides unique, cross-disciplinary training in global health for students from a wide range of academic and professional backgrounds. Drawing on UCL's strength as a multi-faculty university, it brings together disciplines such as anthropology, economics, geography, law, philosophy, politics and epidemiology to analyse complex health issues and identify solutions. Our programmes allow you to explore your interests in global health, broadening your horizons for your future career and giving you knowledge and a range of skills that are useful in the job market. Institute staff are experienced in many types of global health work, including research, programme management, policy advice and advocacy, and work closely across these areas in many different countries and global health institutions.

Who this course is for

The UCL doctoral school values candidates with a desire to challenge the status quo openly and freely but rigorously; an openness to pushing frontiers of disciplinary knowledge within and beyond conventional disciplines; a desire to make impact with the fruits of research; to work with integrity; to be sensitive to diversity; and to engage with society beyond academia.

What this course will give you

The research degree programme at the UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) aims to provide excellent and challenging training for exceptional students so that they may successfully pursue careers in research, medicine, and other domains of global health.

MPhil/PhD research in IGH is varied and may have an international dimension, including field work carried out abroad, setting up a study within the UK, or using data from existing studies working with the respective IGH-based Principal Investigator.

Please note that you must identify a supervisor before applying and include a research proposal in your application. Visit our department webpage for information about how to apply and contact potential supervisors.

The foundation of your career

The Institute offers a unique environment for cross-disciplinary study as well as the opportunity to engage with peers and staff with professional experience in many different domains of global health, including research, programme management, policy and advocacy. This exposure and the innovative and multi-faceted approach taken during the PhD programme will enable you to tackle complex problems which will in turn foster skills and contacts useful for your future career.

Employability

PhD students enter a range of careers, from academia (postdoctoral studies) to research or policy in governmental and non-governmental organisations.

As a student within the Institute, you will benefit from close proximity to the extensive international networks developed by IGH staff.

Teaching and learning

A PhD at the UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) will provide you with excellent training related to a number of disciplines related to global health. Through the Doctoral School, you will have access to an outstanding research and transferable skills development programme, with training provided to support your personal, professional and career development.  You will have the opportunity to become involved in teaching, leading to an application to become an Associate Fellow of the Higher Education Academy. You will be in an environment which encourages sharing research ideas with fellow students and colleagues through seminars and symposia, as well as student events such as the 3-Minute Thesis and poster competitions. You will be expected to attend and present your research at national and international conferences providing you with opportunities to develop networks with peers and research leaders in academia, medicine, and industry.  

The UCL Doctoral School Skills Development Programme provides a broad range of free training for PhD students across UCL. For further information see the Doctoral Skills Development Programme page .

You are initially registered for an MPhil, upgrading to a PhD typically towards the end of the first year of your studies (full-time), subject to satisfactory academic progress. For a successful upgrade to PhD, you must prepare a written report, give an oral presentation, and pass an oral examination. You can read further details of the upgrade process.  The final assessment of your PhD is based on written thesis which is examined by independent experts in the field during a viva exam. Examiners may ask you to make corrections to your thesis, which will be published in the UCL library once approved.

You should expect an absolute minimum of one meeting with your supervisors per month and you are expected to attend regular group meetings and departmental seminars. Core working hours are 10 am to 4 pm and a working week for full-time students is normally a minimum of 36.5 hours. Contact hours and hours of self-study are agreed between you and your supervisors at the beginning of your research degree and should be reviewed on a regular basis. With agreement of your supervisors, contact time can be on-site or remote working depending on the nature and stage of the project. Full-time Research students can take 27 days of annual leave, plus eight days of Bank holidays and six UCL closure days. For part-time students, annual leave is pro rata.

Research areas and structure

• Climate change, migration, conflict and health
• Clinical research
• Disease modelling and evaluation
• Infectious diseases including HIV, tuberculosis and hepatitis
• Molecular epidemiology and translational research
• Population sexual health
• Gender and global health
• Economics of global health and development
• Methodology of global health trials
• HIV epidemiology
• Non-communicable diseases
• Maternal, new-born, child and adolescent health

Research environment

The MPhil/PhD programme we offer at the UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) is relevant to a variety of disciplines in global health. Our programme aims to provide you with interesting, challenging and excellent training so that you may successfully pursue a career in research, medicine, health services, laboratory science, policy, or public health.

IGH is a world-leading centre of research and teaching excellence in global health. Our unique approach combines interdisciplinary work in the real world with community engagement to develop and implement practical solutions to global health problems. Our strategy sets out to use research, teaching and enterprise to address the broad determinants of health and the major causes of deaths and ill-health. Our priorities and Centres therefore focus on a broad range of areas in which we are particularly strong.  At the same time, our work is diverse enough to tackle issues affecting the most disadvantaged in society and the poorest settings, as well as major challenges affecting everyone, such as climate change. The strategy builds on our areas of methodological strength in global health in subjects such as maternal, newborn, child and adolescent health, as well as sexual health and HIV clinical and population health research.

MPhil/PhD research at the UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) is varied and may have an international dimension, including fieldwork carried out abroad, setting up a study within the UK, or using data from existing studies working with an IGH-based Principal Investigator. The programme lasts three years if taken full-time. With help from your supervisors, you will finalise your research proposal during the first year, informed by current literature and practice. This may also require the collection of preliminary data, pilot questionnaires and so on.

You will investigate a relatively narrow topic but may be examined on a broad field of study.  Should you need to spend periods of time collecting data from overseas, which will directly contribute to your thesis, study leave plans must be approved in advance. 

You are expected to undertake 10 days of generic skills training each year over your period of study, which is logged and audited electronically. This will include, for example, courses on research design and statistics, ethical and legal issues, presentation skills, thesis production and career planning. 

You are initially registered for an MPhil, upgrading to a PhD, subject to satisfactory academic progress. For a successful upgrade to PhD, you must prepare a written report, give an oral presentation and pass an oral examination.

MPhil/PhD research at the UCL Institute for Global Health (IGH) is varied and may have an international dimension, including fieldwork carried out abroad, setting up a study within the UK, or using data from existing studies working with an IGH-based Principal Investigator. The programme lasts five years if taken part-time. With help from your supervisors, you will finalise your research proposal during the first year, informed by current literature and practice. This may also require the collection of preliminary data, pilot questionnaires and so on.

Accessibility

Details of the accessibility of UCL buildings can be obtained from AccessAble accessable.co.uk . Further information can also be obtained from the UCL Student Support and Wellbeing team .

Fees and funding

Fees for this course.

Fee description	Full-time	Part-time
Tuition fees (2024/25)	£6,035	£3,015
Tuition fees (2024/25)	£31,100	£15,550

The tuition fees shown are for the year indicated above. Fees for subsequent years may increase or otherwise vary. Where the programme is offered on a flexible/modular basis, fees are charged pro-rata to the appropriate full-time Master's fee taken in an academic session. Further information on fee status, fee increases and the fee schedule can be viewed on the UCL Students website: ucl.ac.uk/students/fees .

Additional costs

There are no additional costs for this programme.

For more information on additional costs for prospective students please go to our estimated cost of essential expenditure at Accommodation and living costs .

Funding your studies

UCL offers a range of financial awards aimed at assisting both prospective and current students with their studies. At the Institute we offer very limited funding opportunities, and many of our students secure funding from governments, research councils, and other agencies, or are otherwise self-funded.

For a comprehensive list of the funding opportunities available at UCL, including funding relevant to your nationality, please visit the Scholarships and Funding website .

Institute for Global Health Postgraduate Bursary

Deadline: 28 June 2024 Value: £2,000 towards tuition fees (pro-rata if part-time) (Duration of study) Criteria Based on financial need Eligibility: UK, EU, Overseas

Research degrees typically start on the 1st of October but may also start on the 1st of February or 1st of May. Prospective students should apply at least 4 months before their intended start date, but if you require a visa we recommend allowing for more time.

Please note that you must identify and contact a supervisor before applying and include a research proposal in your application. Find out more about the application process.

Please note that you may submit applications for a maximum of two graduate programmes (or one application for the Law LLM) in any application cycle.

Choose your programme

Please read the Application Guidance before proceeding with your application.

Year of entry: 2024-2025

Got questions get in touch.

Institute for Global Health

[email protected]

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Public Health, Epidemiology and Health Services Research MPhil, PhD, MD

Explore translational research with our Public Health, Epidemiology and Health Services Research MPhil, PhD and MD.

You are currently viewing course information for entry year:

Start date(s):

• September 2024
• January 2025

Postgraduate research supervision is available in:

• applied epidemiology
• decision-making organisation of care
• life-course
• development and ageing
• public health improvement 

Our research

We have four research themes underpinned by four discipline groups. You'll work within these themes and groups. You'll have a team of supervisors, including clinicians or policymakers. They will be from a range of health and social care settings. Current research interests, projects and publications are available from our staff profiles.

Our research themes include:

The applied epidemiology theme contributes to the understanding of chronic non-communicable disease across the life course. Research areas include:

• maternal and perinatal health
• childhood cancer
• life course epidemiology

Decision making and organisation of care brings together social and behavioural science, and clinical expertise to conduct applied health research. Research areas include:

• implementation/improvement science
• shared decision making/patient-centred care
• experience of health, illness and healthcare.

Life-course, development and ageing explores healthy ageing. From development in childhood and consequences of disability to health and wellbeing of the oldest old. Research areas include:

• ageing and health
• transitions in health and disability
• understanding child disability
• improving quality of life
• technologies and the environment
• cognitive impairment and dementia.

The public health improvement theme conducts applied health research. It has a focus on the development, evaluation and translation of health interventions. Research areas include:

• understanding and tackling health inequalities
• understanding and changing health-related behaviours
• evaluation of public health policy
• public health nutrition
• prevention of alcohol misuse

Important information

We've highlighted important information about your course. Please take note of any deadlines.

Please rest assured we make all reasonable efforts to provide you with the programmes, services and facilities described. However, it may be necessary to make changes due to significant disruption, for example in response to Covid-19.

View our  Academic experience page , which gives information about your Newcastle University study experience for the academic year 2024-25.

See our  terms and conditions and student complaints information , which gives details of circumstances that may lead to changes to programmes, modules or University services.

Related courses

Qualifications explained.

Find out about the different qualification options for this course.

An MPhil is available in all subject areas. You receive research training and undertake original research leading to the completion of a 40,000 - 50,000 word thesis.

Find out about different types of postgraduate qualifications

A PhD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It involves original research that should make a significant contribution to the knowledge of a specific subject. To complete the PhD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. A PhD usually takes three years full time.

An MD is a doctorate or doctoral award. It combines your research findings with clinical practice. To complete the MD you will produce a substantial piece of work (80,000 – 100,000 words) in the form of a supervised thesis. For professionally qualified doctors, an MD (Doctor of Medicine) is awarded. 

How you'll learn

Attendance on campus is flexible. You'll decide this with your supervisors, depending on your research project. You'll undertake 40 hours of work per week with an annual holiday entitlement of 35 days. This includes statutory and bank holidays.

You'll receive formal, high-quality subject-specific and generic skills training with modules including:

• quantitative and qualitative methods
• health and health care policy
• health economics
• health care quality

We have a thriving postgraduate community. We have friendly and supportive relations between students and staff. Your formal supervision takes place once a month. You'll also present your studies to your research theme and to the wider institute.

Depending on your modules, you'll be assessed through a combination of:

We offer a wide range of projects for the master's thesis. These will be provided by our academics. You can also propose your own topic.

Our mission is to help you:

• stay healthy, positive and feeling well
• overcome any challenges you may face during your degree – academic or personal
• get the most out of your postgraduate research experience
• carry out admin and activities essential to progressing through your degree
• understand postgraduate research processes, standards and rules

We can offer you tailored wellbeing support, courses and activities.

You can also access a broad range of workshops covering:

• research and professional skills
• careers support
• health and safety
• public engagement
• academic development

Find out more about our postgraduate research student support

Your development

We'll provide you with a comprehensive research training programme. This includes training in professional skills and research techniques. We'll also support your personal development. We have a thriving postgraduate research culture and great support for international students.

Faculty of Medical Sciences (FMS) researcher development programme 

Each faculty offers a researcher development programme for its postgraduate research students. We have designed your programme to help you:

• perform better as a researcher
• boost your career prospects
• broaden your impact
• Through workshops and activities, it will build your transferable skills and increase your confidence.

You’ll cover:

• techniques for effective research
• methods for better collaborative working
• essential professional standards and requirements
• Your programme is flexible. You can adapt it to meet your changing needs as you progress through your doctorate.

Find out more about the FMS researcher development programme

Doctoral training and partnerships

There are opportunities to undertake your PhD at Newcastle within a:

• Centre for Doctoral Training (CDT)
• Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP)

Being part of a CDT or DTP has many benefits:

• they combine research expertise and training of a number of leading universities, academic schools and academics.
• you’ll study alongside a cohort of other PhD students
• they’re often interdisciplinary
• your PhD may be funded

If there are currently opportunities available in your subject area you’ll find them when you search for funding in the fees and funding section on this course.

The following centres/partnerships below may have PhD opportunities available in your subject area in the future:

• Discovery Medicine North - MRC DiMeN Doctoral Training Partnership
• Newcastle Liverpool Durham BBSRC Doctoral Training Partnership

Your future

Our careers service.

Our award-winning Careers Service is one of the largest and best in the country, and we have strong links with employers. We provide an extensive range of opportunities to all students through our ncl+ initiative.

Visit our Careers Service website

Quality and ranking

All professional accreditations are reviewed regularly by their professional body

From 1 January 2021 there is an update to the way professional qualifications are recognised by countries outside of the UK

Check the government’s website for more information .

You'll have access to variety of learning and study spaces in:

• the Baddiley-Clark Building
• the Medical School

You will have access to video conference facilities and a dedicated audio-visual room. This is for analysing both audio and video information.

You have access to an extensive range of specialist software.

We also host the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) Research Design Service North East .

Fees and funding

Tuition fees for 2024 entry (per year).

We are unable to give an exact fee, this is why the fee is shown as a range. This fee range takes into account your research topic and resource requirements.

Your research topic is unique so it will have unique resource requirements. Resources could include specialist equipment, such as laboratory/workshop access, or technical staff.

If your research involves accessing specialist resources then you're likely to pay a higher fee. You'll discuss the exact nature of your research project with your supervisor(s). You'll find out the fee in your offer letter.

Home fees for research degree students

For 2024-25 entry, we have aligned our standard Home research fees with those set by UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee was confirmed in Spring 2024 by UKRI.

For 2025-26 entry, we will be aligning our standard  Home research fees  with those set by  UK Research and Innovation (UKRI) . The standard fee will be confirmed in Spring 2025 by UKRI.

As a general principle, you should expect the tuition fee to increase in each subsequent academic year of your course, subject to government regulations on fee increases and in line with inflation.

Depending on your residency history, if you’re a student from the EU, other EEA or a Swiss national, with settled or pre-settled status under the EU Settlement Scheme, you’ll normally pay the ‘Home’ tuition fee rate and may be eligible for Student Finance England support.

EU students without settled or pre-settled status will normally be charged fees at the ‘International’ rate and will not be eligible for Student Finance England support.

If you are unsure of your fee status, check out the latest guidance here .

Scholarships

We support our EU and international students by providing a generous range of Vice-Chancellor's automatic and merit-based scholarships. See  our   searchable postgraduate funding page  for more information.  

What you're paying for

Tuition fees include the costs of:

• matriculation
• registration
• tuition (or supervision)
• library access
• examination
• re-examination

Find out more about:

• living costs
• tuition fees

If you are an international student or a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland and you need a visa to study in the UK, you may have to pay a deposit.

You can check this in the How to apply section .

If you're applying for funding, always check the funding application deadline. This deadline may be earlier than the application deadline for your course.

For some funding schemes, you need to have received an offer of a place on a course before you can apply for the funding.

Search for funding

Find funding available for your course

Entry requirements

The entrance requirements below apply to 2024 entry.

Qualifications from outside the UK

English language requirements, admissions policy.

This policy applies to all undergraduate and postgraduate admissions at Newcastle University. It is intended to provide information about our admissions policies and procedures to applicants and potential applicants, to their advisors and family members, and to staff of the University.

Download our admissions policy (PDF: 201KB) Other policies related to admissions

Credit transfer and Recognition of Prior Learning

Recognition of Prior Learning (RPL) can allow you to convert existing relevant university-level knowledge, skills and experience into credits towards a qualification. Find out more about the RPL policy which may apply to this course

• How to apply

Using the application portal

The application portal has instructions to guide you through your application. It will tell you what documents you need and how to upload them.

You can choose to start your application, save your details and come back to complete it later.

If you’re ready, you can select Apply Online and you’ll be taken directly to the application portal.

Alternatively you can find out more about applying on our applications and offers pages .

Open days and events

Find out about how you can visit Newcastle in person and virtually

Overseas events

We regularly travel overseas to meet with students interested in studying at Newcastle University.

Visit our events calendar for the latest events

• Get in touch

Questions about this course?

If you have specific questions about this course you can contact:

Janice Fuller Postgraduate Administrator Institute for Health and Society Telephone: +44 (0)191 208 8754 Email: [email protected]

For more general enquiries you could also complete our online enquiry form.

Fill in our enquiry form

Our Ncl chatbot might be able to give you an answer straight away. If not, it’ll direct you to someone who can help.

You'll find our Ncl chatbot in the bottom right of this page.

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We regularly send email updates and extra information about the University.

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• How You'll Learn
• Your Development
• Your Future
• Quality and Ranking
• Fees and Funding
• Entry Requirements
• Open days & events

• Staff intranet
• Student intranet

Visit to apply

Public Health and Health Promotion PhD

Key information, find a supervisor.

Mode of study

3 years full-time

6 years part-time

International £23,615

Entry requirements

Research profile

Public Health and Health Promotion is a dynamic and cutting edge area of study. Our academics are research active and internationally renowned in their own specialist fields of public health, health promotion, health and social care and the social context of health and wellbeing.  We explore the ethical, political, societal and cultural dilemmas that arise in public health and health promotion and into health and social care. 

Applicants are welcome to contact us about their own specialist topics and projects. We particularly welcome proposals on :

• Creative methods for researching health and everyday life
• Loneliness and well-being across the life-span
• Cost-effectiveness or return on investment (ROI) analysis of healthcare interventions
• Econometric analysis to examine the impact of health policies/strategies/interventions
• Physical activity and its association with health outcomes
• Health inequalities and social determinants of health
• Behaviour change interventions to improve population health and well-being

Find out about the exciting research we do in this area. Browse profiles of our experts, discover the research groups and their inspirational research activities you too could be part of. We’ve also made available extensive reading materials published by our academics and PhD students.  

Learn more about research in this area.

Browse the work of subject-relevant research groups

You can explore our campus and facilities for yourself by taking our virtual tour .

Our researchers create knowledge and advance understanding, and equip versatile doctoral researchers with the confidence to apply what they have learnt for the benefit of society. Find out more about working with the Supervisory Team .

You are welcome to approach your potential supervisor directly to discuss your research interests. Search for expert supervisors for your chosen field of research.

While we welcome applications from students with a clear direction for their research, we are providing you with some ideas for your chosen field of research:

• Testing the efficacy of virtual reality and action simulation training for improving balance in children/young adults with movement coordination difficulties, supervised by Adam Bruton, Carla Harkness-Armstrong, Aliah Shaheen and Rebecca Hings
• The impact of heat stress on human health, performance, and function across the lifecourse, supervised by Oliver Gibson
• Understanding the mechanisms behind age-related balance and movement change, and/or exploring strategies to improve balance, function, and wellbeing in the older adult population, supervised by Daniel Low

Research journey

This course can be studied undefined undefined, starting in undefined.

Find out about what progress might look like at each stage of study here:  Research degree progress structure.

Research support

A training programme will be provided by the College to assist students with achieving targets.  The programme will include the underpinning principles such as philosophy of science, research integrity, ethics and specialist methodology.  Sessions in core, specialist and advanced research methods will prepare students for an independent research career.  The College research methods programme includes sessions from specialists with research expertise in qualitative, quantitative, reflexive, practitioner and insider research, and is aligned with the ESRC research methods expectations. 

Careers and your future

You will receive tailored careers support during your PhD and for up to three years after you complete your research at Brunel. We encourage you to actively engage in career planning and managing your personal development right from the start of your research, even (or perhaps especially) if you don't yet have a career path in mind. Our careers provision includes online information and advice, one-to-one consultations and a range of events and workshops. The Professional Development Centre runs a varied programme of careers events throughout the academic year. These include industry insight sessions, recruitment fairs, employer pop-ups and skills workshops.

In addition, where available, you may be able to undertake some paid work as we recognise that teaching and learning support duties represent an important professional and career development opportunity.

Find out more.

Following the completion of the course students may follow several career paths:

• Career path within academia starting as a University Lecturer
• Career progression within research institutes commencing as a post-doc researcher and progressing to senior researcher
• Careers in consultancies for Public Health and Health Promotion; Health and Social Care; Ageing
• Careers in government departments (e.g. Department of Health) and agencies (e.g. National Health Service)

UK entry requirements

The general University entrance requirement for registration for a research degree is normally a First or Upper Second Class Honours degree (1st or 2:1). 

An interview will be required as part of the admissions process and will be conducted by at least two academic staff members remotely via MS Teams, Zoom, or face to face.

Applicants will be required to submit a personal statement  and a research statement. Please contact your proposed supervisor, where possible, to receive feedback and guidance on your research statement before submitting it. Learn how to prepare a research statement  here .   

EU and International entry requirements

If you require a Tier 4 visa to study in the UK, you must prove knowledge of the English language so that we can issue you a Certificate of Acceptance for Study (CAS). To do this, you will need an IELTS for UKVI or Trinity SELT test pass gained from a test centre approved by  UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) and on the Secure English Language Testing (SELT) list . This must have been taken and passed within two years from the date the CAS is made.

English language requirements

• IELTS: 7 (min 6 in all areas)
• Pearson: 64 (59 in all subscores)
• BrunELT : 68% (58% in all areas)
• TOEFL: 98 overall (min 20) 

You can find out more about the qualifications we accept on our  English Language Requirements  page.

Should you wish to take a pre-sessional English course to improve your English prior to starting your degree course, you must sit the test at an approved SELT provider for the same reason. We offer our own BrunELT English test and have pre-sessional English language courses for students who do not meet requirements or who wish to improve their English. You can find out more information on English courses and test options through our  Brunel Language Centre .

Please check our Admissions  pages for more information on other factors we use to assess applicants. This information is for guidance only and each application is assessed on a case-by-case basis. Entry requirements are subject to review, and may change.

Fees and funding

2024/5 entry, international.

£23,615 full-time

£11,805 part-time

£4,786 full-time

£2,393 part-time

Fees quoted are per year and are subject to an annual increase.

Some courses incur  additional course related costs . You can also check our  on-campus accommodation costs  for more information on living expenses.

Brunel offers a number of funding options to research students that help cover the cost of their tuition fees, contribute to living expenses or both. Recently the UK Government made available the Doctoral Student Loans of up to £25,000 for UK and EU students and there is some funding available through the Research Councils. Many of our international students benefit from funding provided by their governments or employers. Brunel alumni enjoy tuition fee discounts of 15%.

PhD studentships

• Sustainable management of community sport organisations

Scholarships and bursaries

• Brunel Graduate Discount
• Dean’s International PhD Scholarship for Doctoral Researchers in Health and Life Sciences Terms and Conditions 2024

Related courses

Sport, health and exercise sciences phd, occupational therapy phd.

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Epidemiology and Public Health PhD/MPhil

• Full-time: Up to 4 years
• Part-time: Up to 8 years
• Start date: Multiple available
• UK fees: To be confirmed
• International fees: To be confirmed

Research overview

Specific subject titles have included:

• Epidemiology and Public Health

Other areas of research you may be interested in:

• Tobacco control ( UK Centre for Tobacco and Alcohol Studies )
• Respiratory disease
• Gastrointestinal disease
• Infection, predominantly respiratory infections ( Health Protection and Influenza Research Group )
• Maternal and child health epidemiology

Growing research areas at the University of Nottingham:

• Mental health
• Type 2 diabetes and cardiovascular diseases
• Falls and other problems in the elderly population
• Migrant health
• Public Health in disasters
• Evaluation of health systems, programmes and facilities
• Traditional and complementary therapies

Course content

For your postgraduate research degree, you'll complete a research project in your specific field of study and complete a written thesis with expert support and advice from your academic supervisor(s).

The written thesis must be no more than:

• 60,000 words for an MPhil
• 100,000 words for a PhD

These word counts are inclusive of appendices, footnotes, tables, and bibliography.

You'll then take a verbal examination called a viva voce where you explain your project in-depth to an examination panel.

You'll gain your degree on passing your viva exam.

Entry requirements

All candidates are considered on an individual basis and we accept a broad range of qualifications. The entrance requirements below apply to 2025 entry.

Qualification	PhD	MPhil
Degree	2.1 (or equivalent) degree in a relevant subject and two references including at least one academic reference.	2.2 (or equivalent) degree in a relevant subject and two references including at least one academic reference.
Additional information	If you have contacted a supervisor and they have informally agreed to supervise you, please provide us with a personal statement as part of the online application form. This should cover your reasons for applying, why you are interested in the programme, your previous subject and work experience and your future aspirations. If you have not contacted a supervisor before completing the online application form, please submit a personal statement and a research proposal.	If you have contacted a supervisor and they have informally agreed to supervise you, please provide us with a personal statement as part of the online application form. This should cover your reasons for applying, why you are interested in the programme, your previous subject and work experience and your future aspirations. If you have not contacted a supervisor before completing the online application form, please submit a personal statement and a research proposal.

Qualification	PhD	MPhil
Degree	2.1 (or equivalent) degree in a relevant subject and two references including at least one academic reference.	2.2 (or equivalent) degree in a relevant subject and two references including at least one academic reference.
International and EU equivalents	We accept a wide range of qualifications from all over the world. For information on entry requirements from your country, see our .	We accept a wide range of qualifications from all over the world. For information on entry requirements from your country, see our .
IELTS	7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any element.	7.0 with no less than 6.0 in any element.
English language requirements	As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other . This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English.	As well as IELTS (listed above), we also accept other . This includes TOEFL iBT, Pearson PTE, GCSE, IB and O level English.
Additional information	If you have contacted a supervisor and they have informally agreed to supervise you, please provide us with a personal statement as part of the online application form. This should cover your reasons for applying, why you are interested in the programme, your previous subject and work experience and your future aspirations. If you have not contacted a supervisor before completing the online application form, please submit a personal statement and a research proposal.	If you have contacted a supervisor and they have informally agreed to supervise you, please provide us with a personal statement as part of the online application form. This should cover your reasons for applying, why you are interested in the programme, your previous subject and work experience and your future aspirations. If you have not contacted a supervisor before completing the online application form, please submit a personal statement and a research proposal.

Meeting our English language requirements

If you need support to meet the required level, you may be able to attend a presessional English course. Presessional courses teach you academic skills in addition to English language. Our  Centre for English Language Education is accredited by the British Council for the teaching of English in the UK.

If you successfully complete your presessional course to the required level, you can then progress to your degree course. This means that you won't need to retake IELTS or equivalent.

For on-campus presessional English courses, you must take IELTS for UKVI to meet visa regulations. For online presessional courses, see our CELE webpages for guidance.

Visa restrictions

International students must have valid UK immigration permissions for any courses or study period where teaching takes place in the UK. Student route visas can be issued for eligible students studying full-time courses. The University of Nottingham does not sponsor a student visa for students studying part-time courses. The Standard Visitor visa route is not appropriate in all cases. Please contact the university’s Visa and Immigration team if you need advice about your visa options.

We recognise that applicants have a variety of experiences and follow different pathways to postgraduate study.

We treat all applicants with alternative qualifications on an individual basis. We may also consider relevant work experience.

If you are unsure whether your qualifications or work experience are relevant, contact us .

If you need advice on which research course is right for you, please check out our guide to research courses .

Multiple start dates are available for this course. Make sure you specify when you would like to start at the university in your application:

Potential start dates include:

We strongly recommend identifying and getting in touch with a possible supervisor before making an application. They may be able to help you with your proposal and offer support to find funding opportunities in your area. Please send them a CV, research proposal and cover letter.

Our step-by-step guide contains everything you need to know about applying for postgraduate research.

Qualification	All qualifications
Home / UK	To be confirmed
International	To be confirmed

Additional information for international students

If you are a student from the EU, EEA or Switzerland, you may be asked to complete a fee status questionnaire and your answers will be assessed using guidance issued by the UK Council for International Student Affairs (UKCISA) .

These fees are for full-time study. If you are studying part-time, you will be charged a proportion of this fee each year (subject to inflation).

Additional costs

All students will need at least one device to approve security access requests via Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA). We also recommend students have a suitable laptop to work both on and off-campus. For more information, please check the equipment advice .

You should factor some additional costs into your budget such as living expenses, printing and travel.

You should be able to access most of the books you’ll need to complete your project through our libraries, though you may wish to purchase your own copies or access to more specific titles.

The School of Medicine may make a contribution to some of your costs relating to attending conferences or research expenses, however, this will be discussed with students as appropriate.

There are many ways to fund your research degree, from scholarships to government loans.

Check our guide to find out more about funding your postgraduate degree.

We are committed to providing support to postgraduate students across the course of their research studies in addition to their project supervision

Postgraduate research students will study as part of a division within the School of Medicine and each division has its own PGR representative who is there to address student concerns and feedback.

Peer support groups have been established to encourage students in all years of their studies to contribute to regular meetings covering issues such as tips for writing up and preparing for the viva. The topics are determined by the students in the group.

Further, students entering their second year of full-time study (or equivalent for part-time students) are encouraged to sign up to the formal Mentoring Scheme   within the School of Medicine which offers one to one mentoring by a trained member of staff.

Researcher training and development

The Researcher Academy is the network for researchers, and staff who support them. We work together to promote a healthy research culture, to cultivate researcher excellence, and develop creative partnerships that enable researchers to flourish.

Postgraduate researchers at Nottingham have access to our online Members’ area, which includes a wealth of resources, access to training courses and award-winning postgraduate placements.

Student support

You will have access to a range of support services , including:

• academic and disability support
• childcare services
• counselling service
• faith support
• financial support
• mental health and wellbeing support
• visa and immigration advice
• welfare support

Students' Union

Our Students' Union represents all students. You can join the Postgraduate Students’ Network or contact the dedicated Postgraduate Officer .

There are also a range of support networks, including groups for:

• international students
• black and minority ethnic students
• students who identify as women
• students with disabilities
• LGBT+ students

SU Advice provides free, independent and confidential advice on issues such as accommodation, financial and academic difficulties.

Where you will learn

Nottingham city hospital.

Set within the vibrant city of Nottingham, Nottingham City Hospital is four miles from University Park Campus .

Your surroundings are key to your success as a student and at this campus your learning will take place within the purpose-built Clinical Sciences Building. Here you are immersed in expert facilities tailored to highest standard of teaching and learning. There are computer rooms, study spaces and informal areas to relax and socialise.  Nottingham City Hospital has a free Medilink bus service to other University of Nottingham campuses.

Whether you are considering a career in academia, industry or haven't yet decided, we’re here to support you every step of the way.

Expert staff will work with you to explore PhD career options and apply for vacancies, develop your interview skills and meet employers. You can book a one-to-one appointment, take an online course or attend a workshop.

International students who complete an eligible degree programme in the UK on a student visa can apply to stay and work in the UK after their course under the Graduate immigration route . Eligible courses at the University of Nottingham include bachelors, masters and research degrees, and PGCE courses.

Our graduates have gone on to roles in clinical medicine, industries like pharmaceuticals, and academia and research.

14 members of our Epidemiology and Public Health teaching staff completed their postgraduate research degrees at the University of Nottingham. Other graduates went on to postdoctoral research posts and fellowships at the university and across the world.

Two of our most notable graduates include the Deputy Chief Medical Officer for England and the Director General of the World Health Organisation.

90% of postgraduates from the School of Medicine secured graduate level employment or further study within 15 months of graduation. The average annual salary for these graduates was £39,564.*

*HESA Graduate Outcomes 2019/20 data published in 2022 . The Graduate Outcomes % is derived using The Guardian University Guide methodology. The average annual salary is based on data from graduates who completed a full-time postgraduate degree with home fee status and are working full-time within the UK.

Related courses

Medical sciences phd/mphil/mres, medicine phd/dm/mphil/mres, research excellence framework.

The University of Nottingham is ranked 7th in the UK for research power, according to analysis by Times Higher Education. The Research Excellence Framework (REF) is a national assessment of the quality of research in UK higher education institutions.

• 90%* of our research is classed as 'world-leading' (4*) or 'internationally excellent' (3*)
• 100%* of our research is recognised internationally
• 51% of our research is assessed as 'world-leading' (4*) for its impact**

*According to analysis by Times Higher Education ** According to our own analysis.

This content was last updated on 01 July 2024 . Every effort has been made to ensure that this information is accurate, but changes are likely to occur between the date of publishing and course start date. It is therefore very important to check this website for any updates before you apply.

Doctorate in Public Health

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School of study	School of Health and Social Work

We usually expect a Master's degree from a recognised university:

• an Upper second/first class degree from a recognised university • a commitment to attend (either online or face to face) induction, guided learning and tutorial support three times per year of the   programme (a maximum of 6 days).

About the course

The Doctorate in Public Health (DrPH) is a programme of advanced study and research designed specifically to develop the research and leadership capacity of public health professionals and practitioners. It is also suitable for individuals who wish to enhance their work-related experience and move into public health from a related field. The purpose of the programme is to foster the development of research competent practitioners and policy professionals so they may apply sound research evidence with which to shape public health in their field and locality. 

The DrPH is a structured doctorate that is undertaken part-time using a combination of online and on-campus research resources and supervision. This allows candidates to study from their home or workplace and to attend the University three times per year. The programme combines guided learning with intensive doctoral supervision to produce a focused research programme leading to the submission of a dissertation.

The five-year part-time Doctorate in Public Health at the University of Hertfordshire offers an exceptional pathway for public health practitioners to undertake postgraduate research. The programme is suitable for even the most senior of public health colleagues, with flexible opportunities to focus on the science of public health. Students are expected to continue with their professional practice and to bring this to bear upon the research questions they wish to address in their doctorate. Enquiries are welcomed from across the professions involved in public health policy and practice, both within the UK and internationally.

The DrPH offers an intensive programme of research-informed methods training underpinned by current theory, ethical, legal, socio-political, economic and governance frameworks. Students on the DrPH will be guided in their learning to develop research expertise to enable them to plan a programme of doctoral studies with their academic supervisors. Two supervisors will usually be appointed to guide the student’s academic and professional development. Guided learning will include resources and training relating to:

• critical thinking, reading and writing in relation to public health evidence and practice

• reviewing research and policy literature

• philosophy of research methodology, research methods and analytical approaches

• research proposal development and research design

• research ethics

• data generation, management and analysis

• the implementation of research evidence.

How to apply

Please contact the Programme Leader, Dr Chaz Simpson ( [email protected] ) to discuss the application process and obtain guidance to inform the completion of the required Research Proposal that must accompany any application.

Teaching methods

• Part-time over five years

• Years 1-2 - guided learning, tutorials and supervision aimed at developing a research proposal and gaining ethics approval

• Years 3-5 - guided learning, tutorials and supervision to conduct research and write a doctoral level dissertation (maximum 80,000 words)

Guided learning resources are available online through the University’s intranet and students and tutors will engage in online discussion and tutorials to enhance understanding and to bring student experience from their profession or field to benefit the DPH cohort. Three times each academic year students are encouraged to attend the University campus for more intensive tutorials and research training and to meet with their supervisors. Students unable to attend in person will be able to join in online. Students’ research skills will also be developed via access to the University Doctoral College comprehensive Researcher Development Programme. More than 700 students are currently enrolled in postgraduate research programmes at the University and the Doctoral College provides guidance, support and opportunities to help students navigate their doctoral journey.

Research Ethics

Research ethics must be considered in order to protect participants who participate in research. Students will learn about ethical principles related to their own research as these must be upheld in the design and implementation of research directly involving children, young people or adults.

Supervision

Typically, two supervisors will be appointed when students begin a research programme to guide the academic direction of the research. These supervisors will have expertise in your specific research area and students should meet their supervision team regularly to discuss their programme of work. Supervisors will encourage students to work independently offering pastoral support and guidance where appropriate. Students are required to submit drafts of their work to their supervisors who will give clear guidance on whether the work is progressing towards doctoral level.

Course experts

Programme Leader Dr Chaz Simpson Find out more about Programme Leader Dr Chaz Simpson

What’s next for my career?

Why study for a drph at the university of hertfordshire .

The University of Hertfordshire DrPH is unique in terms of postgraduate research degrees for public health practitioners and academics. It is multi-disciplinary and multi-profession in focus. It draws on a wide range of expertise and academic experience from the social, behavioural and environmental sciences and from across the professions.

University of Hertfordshire academics are experts in research, education and practice spanning broad as well as niche areas of public health that includes, for example novel psychoactive substances, mental health recovery, ageing, dementia, tuberculosis and malnutrition.

The DrPH is delivered in a mode that is sympathetic to the busy professional and personal lives of its students. Students have access to guided learning resources online in a format that encourages group discussion with tutors and peers. You will need to commit to join your fellow students at three time points during the year – coming to the University of Hertfordshire campus is strongly encouraged to maximise what you will gain from the learning experience, but for those students who are unable to be in Hertfordshire, the guided learning and discussion will be available online. 

After completing this programme of advanced study and being awarded a Doctorate of Public Health you will be ideally placed to use the research and leadership knowledge and experience gained to progress your career in public health.

The University's largest unit, Allied Health was ranked in the top 25% of UK universities for research impact (Research Excellence Framework, 2021).

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
01/10/2024	31/07/2025	1	UH Hatfield Campus
01/02/2025	31/07/2025	1	UH Hatfield Campus

Start Date	End Date	Year	Location	Link
01/10/2025	31/07/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus
01/02/2026	31/07/2026	1	UH Hatfield Campus

#UHClearing

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• Student life

MPhil/PhD programme

Doctoral study of health policy and health economics.

Dr Mylene Lagarde

Doctoral programme director.

The PhD programme in Health Policy and Health Economics is an integral part of the academic environment at LSE, producing doctoral graduates of the highest quality. The programme draws upon multidisciplinary perspectives, notably from economics, social policy, and public policy.

As a student on this programme you will be equipped with the critical, conceptual, and analytical skills to understand the key theoretical frameworks and analytical methods to undertake high-quality research.

We are pleased to be able to offer studentships for those looking to join for 2024/25:

1. Office of Health Economics (OHE) Studentship 

The Office of Health Economics (OHE) and the LSE Department for Health Policy are currently recruiting for a full-time MPhil/Ph.D. studentship, with a start date of September 2024.  This full-time studentship is funded by OHE to develop evidence-based research on issues related to any aspect of pharmaceutical economics and policy.

This would include but is not be limited to competition in pharmaceutical markets; health technology assessment; reimbursement models; generic pharmaceutical policies, financing strategies for new medicines including risk mitigation strategies; sustainability, regulation, and incentives for innovation; and patient access and affordability of new medications through innovative payments. OHE's research is global, and there is no restriction on geographic focus.

For further details, please click here. 

2. Care Policy and Evaluation Centre (CPEC) Studentship 

The Care Policy and Evaluation Centre (CPEC) affiliated to the Department of Health Policy is currently recruiting for two full-time MPhil/PhD studentships, with a start date of October 2024.  

The Centre hosts the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Adult Social Care (ASCRU) and is a partner in the NIHR Policy Research Unit in Economics of Social and Health Care (ESHCRU). New 5-year programmes of work will start in both Units from January 2024.   

3. LSE PhD Studentships

For 2024 entry, LSE will be offering studentships to new PhD students. The awards are open to high calibre students of all nationalities studying across all research areas at the School.

4. ESRC Studentships 

LSE has an Economic and Social Research Council (ESRC) Doctoral Training Partnership (DTP) and has ESRC studentships available for a number of programmes across 19 departments. Students of all nationalities are eligible for ESRC funding.

Potential supervisors

When you begin your studies, you will be assigned a Supervisory Team, with a Primary and one or two Secondary Supervisors to consult and discuss your academic performance, research, and paths of progression. It is a requirement that at least one of the Supervisory Team is a member of the Department’s teaching faculty.

Our faculty are engaged in impactful health and social care research, addressing contemporary challenges across diverse areas of the health sector.

Prospective supervisors include:.

Emilie Courtin is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Social Determinants of Health
• Policy Evaluation

Rocco Friebel   is willing to supervise students interested in 

• Quality of care
• Impact evaluations
• Systems research

Bo Hu is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Long-term Care Financing, Unpaid Care for Old People
• Social Determinants of Health Ageing from a Life Course Perspective 

Mylene Lagarde   is willing to supervise students interested in:

• The economics of poor quality of care in LMICs (causes and consequences)
• The drivers of under-use and overuse of care in LMICs
• Mental health of healthcare providers
• Patient discrimination and inequalities

Juliette Malley is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Adult social care (long-term care) policy PhDs, within that innovations in the delivery and organisation of adult social care
• Evaluation of complex interventions, including issues relating to the measurement of user experience, quality and outcomes
• The governance, performance and reform of long-term care systems

Alistair McGuire  is willing to supervise students interested in:

• International comparisons of health care systems, delivery and expenditure
• Economics of the hospital
• Econometric analysis of interventions

Huseyin Naci  is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Pharmaceutical policy and economics, pharmaceutical regulation

Justin Parkhurst  is willing to supervise students interested in:

• The use of evidence to inform health policy from a political perspective- considering institutional, political, and/or governance arrangements
• Political and institutional factors shaping health policymaking processes in lower income settings

Andrew Street is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Evaluation of health care policy involving econometric analyses and quasi-experimental designs
• Payment design and performance assessment of health care organisations
•  Economic issues associated with aging, multi-morbidity, frailty and integrated care

Ranjeeta Thomas is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Field experiments and applied economics studies in low-and-middle income countries
• Understanding drivers of health and health behaviours
•  Demand for preventative health care

Clare Wenham  is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Global Health Policy

Olivier Wouters  is willing to supervise students interested in:

• Pharmaceutical policy and regulation (especially drug pricing) in middle- and high-income countries
• Lobbying in the drug industry

Joan Costa-Font will be on sabbatical during 2024/25 and will only take new students as a main supervisor from 2025/26.

Admission is conditional upon having appropriate supervisory expertise and support available in the Department. 

About the Department

With a world-class faculty, distinguished visitors, and a diverse postgraduate student body, the Department of Health Policy cultivates a stimulating environment for research and learning. As a PhD student here you will attend informal seminars, guest lectures by leaders of national and foreign health services, alumni roundtables, and overseas institutional visits.

The Department is committed to remain among the highest-ranking social policy units of assessment (2014 Research Excellence Framework) and is rated among the top Departments by our students as well. 

The long-established and highly regarded research centres affiliated with the Department are:  LSE Health ,  Care Policy and Evaluation Centre at LSE  (CPEC, formerly PSSRU), the National Institute for Health Research (NIHR) School of Social Care Research (SSCR) , the  European Observatory on Health Systems and Policies , and the  Global Health Initiative (GHI) , with a total of over 70 academic staff based across these centres.

Our PhD students

Meet our PhD students

Apply or contact us.

For more information and to apply, please  visit the LSE website .

You are welcome to submit an informal inquiry to the PhD Programme team, via  [email protected]

LSE's PhD Academy Where doctoral candidates and disciplines meet

PhD studentships Eligibility and requirements for the School's PhD studentships

Financial support Options for graduate students

Visit the Department Visiting Research Student in Health Policy

We have 76 public health PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for UK Students

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public health PhD Projects, Programmes & Scholarships for UK Students

Sensing wastewater for real-time public health phd, phd research project.

PhD Research Projects are advertised opportunities to examine a pre-defined topic or answer a stated research question. Some projects may also provide scope for you to propose your own ideas and approaches.

Funded PhD Project (UK Students Only)

This research project has funding attached. It is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

PhD studentship in health economics – cost effectiveness modelling of women’s cancer prevention strategies including BRCA testing for the Jewish population.

Funded phd project (students worldwide).

This project has funding attached, subject to eligibility criteria. Applications for the project are welcome from all suitably qualified candidates, but its funding may be restricted to a limited set of nationalities. You should check the project and department details for more information.

A systems approach to disaster management and response

Physical and psychological health perceptions and support needs of adults born very preterm, advancing water treatment using additive manufacturing technologies, take your research degree with the jeffrey cheah school of medicine and health sciences, monash university malaysia, funded phd programme (students worldwide).

Some or all of the PhD opportunities in this programme have funding attached. Applications for this programme are welcome from suitably qualified candidates worldwide. Funding may only be available to a limited set of nationalities and you should read the full programme details for further information.

International PhD Programme

International PhD programs are often designed for international students. Your PhD will usually be delivered in English, though some opportunities to gain and use additional language skills might also be available. Students may propose their own PhD topics or apply for advertised projects.

Model-based health economic evaluation of interventions for improving primary healthcare for patients with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) during severe flooding in India

Specialist opportunities available for funded and self-funded research at the university of suffolk, 4 year phd programme.

4 Year PhD Programmes are extended PhD opportunities that involve more training and preparation. You will usually complete taught courses in your first year (sometimes equivalent to a Masters in your subject) before choosing and proposing your research project. You will then research and submit your thesis in the normal way.

Environmental noise and cardiometabolic health in UK populations

Ai for clinical-grade mobile mental health management, competition funded phd project (uk students only).

This research project is one of a number of projects at this institution. It is in competition for funding with one or more of these projects. Usually the project which receives the best applicant will be awarded the funding. The funding is only available to UK citizens or those who have been resident in the UK for a period of 3 years or more. Some projects, which are funded by charities or by the universities themselves may have more stringent restrictions.

Football Cooperative, a community based physical activity social intervention for men: An assessment of effectiveness when replicated at scale using a social return on investment (SROI) framework(SETU_2024_236)

Funded phd project: how maternal behaviour and larval environment influence disease transmission in mosquitoes: a modelling and experimental approach, football cooperative, a community based physical activity social intervention for men: translational formative evaluation of a replication study to inform national and international dissemination(ref: setu_2024_213)., the health4her project, using system-wide integrated data to investigate inequities in patient safety.

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