MPH Public Health

Program Overview

The MPH in Public Health at the University of Birmingham is designed to provide a comprehensive understanding of the core principles of public health practice, preparing students to become effective public health leaders. This program combines academic theory with practical experience to develop professionals who can make a significant impact on public health issues globally and locally. Students will study a range of topics, including health promotion, public health ethics, and health economics, alongside specialized areas such as infectious diseases, environmental health, and health policy. The program culminates in a dissertation or project, allowing students to apply their learning to a specific public health issue and conduct original research. Whether students are seeking to work in public health agencies, NGOs, or research institutions, the MPH at Birmingham provides the skills necessary to lead and innovate in the field.

Curriculum: The MPH in Public Health curriculum is structured to ensure that students gain both broad knowledge and specialized expertise in the field. Core modules cover essential topics such as Epidemiology, Social Determinants of Health, Health Systems and Policy, and Public Health Research Methods. These modules provide students with a strong foundation in understanding the health issues that affect populations and the methods used to address them. In addition to the core subjects, students can select elective modules in areas such as Environmental Health, Health Economics, Global Health, and Infectious Disease Control, allowing them to tailor their studies according to their interests and career goals. The program also includes a dissertation, where students apply their learning to a specific research question, contributing to the field of public health.

Research Focus: The MPH in Public Health at the University of Birmingham emphasizes research that addresses both global and local public health challenges. The university is known for its research in areas such as epidemiology, global health policy, health inequalities, and public health interventions. Students will have the opportunity to engage with cutting-edge research, particularly in areas like infectious diseases, chronic disease prevention, health systems strengthening, and maternal and child health. The University of Birmingham’s strong research community allows students to collaborate with academics who are leading innovative research in public health and global health. Students can also pursue independent research on topics that align with their career aspirations, contributing to the academic understanding of public health issues.

Industry Engagement: The MPH in Public Health program at the University of Birmingham offers robust opportunities for industry engagement. The university maintains strong connections with a wide range of public health organizations, including national health authorities, NGOs, and international organizations such as the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). Students can engage in placements, internships, and collaborative research projects with these partners, gaining real-world experience in public health practice. The program also provides networking opportunities through events, guest lectures, and workshops with industry professionals, allowing students to build relationships with experts in the field. These connections help students gain practical insights into public health practice, as well as enhance their career prospects upon graduation.

Global Perspective: The MPH in Public Health at the University of Birmingham offers a strong global perspective, recognizing that many of today’s public health challenges are transnational in nature. The program explores health issues from a global viewpoint, examining topics such as global health governance, emerging infectious diseases, climate change, and health disparities across different countries. Students will engage with case studies from both high-income and low-income countries, understanding the complexities of addressing public health challenges in diverse contexts. The university’s global collaborations with international research partners provide students with opportunities to participate in cross-cultural research projects and internships. This global perspective equips graduates to work in international public health organizations, governmental agencies, or in regions facing unique public health challenges.