UK Public Health Degrees

Prepare for a public health career in diverse sectors such as health services, government and research 

The UK is one of the world’s most popular destinations for studying public health. A predominantly postgraduate course, the UK is home to several top-ranked universities, including the University of Cambridge, University College London, and the University of Oxford, all known for their world-class infrastructure and international stature. 

Public health degrees in the UK are designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to promote and protect the health of individuals and communities. These multidisciplinary programmes cover a range of topics, including epidemiology, health policy and management, environmental health, health promotion, and disease prevention. The UK has a long-standing tradition of public health education and research, and graduates of these programmes are highly sought after for employment in various settings, including government agencies, non-profit organisations, and healthcare systems.

Upon completion of a public health degree in the UK, you will possess the necessary skills and knowledge to address public health issues at local, national, and international levels.

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Types of Public Health Courses

Undergraduate Public Health

By enrolling in a public health degree, you will acquire essential knowledge and practical skills that are applicable across a wide range of public health fields. This includes community empowerment, statistical analysis and epidemiology, and policy development. UK universities strongly emphasise developing skills that employers seek so that the graduates are equipped to work as effective public health practitioners.

At the undergraduate level, students are generally assigned an experienced and research-active guide with whom they will explore strategies to improve the health of the UK population and worldwide. Additionally, students get an opportunity to undertake a structured work experience assignment in their final year.

Masters in Public Health

Several top universities offer master’s in public health in the UK. MSc public health courses are designed to enhance your public health management skills and research techniques, enabling you to advance your career as a healthcare professional. This course is suitable for individuals from a range of clinical backgrounds, including podiatrists, speech therapists, and nurses, who require further training to demonstrate health management competency.

A masters in public health will enhance your proficiency to fulfil the essential competencies in public health and equip you with the skills necessary to take on leadership roles and progress in your career. It covers hot topics within the healthcare industry and core modules such as epidemiology, health promotion, and global health. Students will also gain an awareness of health, disease, and healthcare systems within a broader global perspective.

Public Health Tuition Fees

Tuition fees for international students pursuing undergraduate public health degrees in the UK typically range from £13,000 to £22,000 per year, while postgraduate courses cost between £13,000 and £28,000 per year. Some UK universities offer public health scholarships and bursaries for international students, but these are often competitive and may only cover a portion of the tuition fees.

Public Health Course Duration 

Undergraduate degrees in public health typically take three to four years to complete, while postgraduate degrees can range from one to two years for a master's degree and three to five years for a PhD in public health. Students may also be able to extend their programme by taking a placement year or a research project. It is essential for students to carefully consider the time commitment required for their chosen programme before applying.

Public Health Careers

A degree in public health opens up a wide range of career opportunities in the UK. Public health professionals work to promote health and prevent disease in communities, focusing on improving the population's health as a whole.

Career options include roles in public health policy, health promotion, health education, research, and management. Public health professionals may work for the National Health Service (NHS), local authorities, public health agencies, or non-governmental organisations (NGOs). Specific job titles in public health include epidemiologist, health promotion specialist, health educator, health policy analyst, and public health consultant. 

Public Health Salary

Entry-level public health positions may start at around £20,000 to £30,000 per year, while more experienced professionals may earn salaries of £40,000 to £60,000 per year or more.

For example, a health promotion specialist may earn an average salary of around £30,000 to £35,000 per year, while an epidemiologist may earn an average salary of around £35,000 to £45,000 per year. Public health consultants with significant experience and expertise may earn salaries of £70,000 to £100,000 per year or more.

Public Health UK Entry Requirements

To study for a master's in public health, applicants need a relevant undergraduate degree in healthcare, social sciences, or biological sciences, with a minimum grade of 2:1 or equivalent. Some MSc public health courses require work experience in the healthcare or public health sector. International students may also need to provide proof of English language proficiency through IELTS or TOEFL.

• Typical International Baccalaureate requirements: 26 points
• Typical A-level requirements: A minimum of Upper Second Class (2:1) in a Health-related subject.
• Typical IELTS requirements: At least 6.5 overall with no subtest below 6.0.

Where can I study Public Health in the UK?

To learn more about the best Public Health universities in the UK, find details on the top ten ranking Health Professions universities in the Guardian University Guide 2024 below:

1. Liverpool John Moores University
2. Swansea University
3. University of Bolton
4. City, University of London
5. Coventry University
6. University of Strathclyde
7. University of Nottingham
8. Oxford Brookes University
9. University of Exeter
10. Aston University

Study Public Health in the UK

If you want to study public health in the UK, arrange your free consultation today. Remember, the Premium Service will guarantee you at least one offer from a UK university!

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Public Health Degree FAQ