The Best Universities in the UK for a Public Health Course

Discovering the perfect path to a promising career in public health necessitates an astute choice of educational institutions, and the UK offers a wealth of exceptional options.

Public health is an ever-evolving discipline addressing global health challenges, and a public health degree attracts students passionate about disease prevention, health promotion, and healthcare policy. With a focus on cutting-edge research and faculty expertise, the best universities for public health provide an enriching environment for aspiring scholars to thrive.

Learn more about the best universities for public health in the UK below (Guardian University Guide 2023) and begin your application by arranging a free consultation with SI-UK.

Top 10 UK Universities for a Public Health Degree

1. University of Strathclyde

The PhD in Public Health and Health Policy at the University of Strathclyde offers a diverse range of research areas, focusing on theoretical perspectives, public policy impact, social determinants of health, and health promotion strategies. With expertise in various fields, including mental health, health inequalities, and health communication, the Strathclyde Doctoral School ensures a student-centred research environment. Committed to enhancing the student experience and research outputs, the School provides extensive training opportunities and support to foster current and future research talent for postgraduate researchers.

• Course to consider: PhD Public Health & Health Policy
• Entry requirements: A Master's degree from a recognised academic institution and at least one year of full-time experience (or equivalent) in a professional field with an educational dimension.
• International fees: £16,050

2. Aston University

The Master of Public Health (MPH) at Aston offers a comprehensive introduction to various public health approaches, equipping students for successful careers. Ideal for both current public health professionals and aspiring entrants, the programme fosters the skills needed to manage healthcare teams effectively and navigate global health challenges. 

Students gain insights into local, national, and global public health concerns, sociological implications, and health policies through interdisciplinary collaboration. Core modules, such as Research Methods, Epidemiology, and Health Promotion, provide a strong foundation, culminating in a dissertation project. Supported by expert faculty and informed by impactful research, this MPH programme at Aston University promises to nurture future public health leaders.

• Course to consider: Public Health MPH
• Entry requirements: A UK Upper Second honours degree or equivalent (2.1). Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University.
• International fees: £22,750

3. University of Nottingham

The University of Nottingham's Master of Public Health (MPH) boasts over 25 years of experience in public health education, providing students with the theoretical knowledge and practical skills essential for success in the field. Renowned public health experts, including Professor Jonathan Van-Tam and Dr Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, lead the courses, covering a wide range of topics from health protection to lifestyle behaviours and epidemiology. 

• Course to consider: Master of Public Health MPH/PGDip/PGCert
• Entry requirements: Undergraduate degree: 2:1 or international equivalent.
• International fees: £24,000

4. Oxford Brookes University

Oxford Brookes University offers a comprehensive public health course catering to both clinical and non-clinical backgrounds, focusing on improving community well-being. The programme delves into individual biology, social and environmental factors influencing public health, and the gathering and analysing evidence for practical application. Students explore various research techniques and policy development, addressing health promotion, leadership in public health settings, and communicable diseases.

• Course to consider: Public Health (MPH or PGDip or PGCert)
• Entry requirements: A UK or overseas degree from a recognised institution and at least six months of work experience in a public health-related field.
• International fees: £16,950

5. University of Southampton

The MSc in Public Health at the University of Southampton offers a curriculum spanning a year, with the flexibility of part-time study over 2 to 5 years. The course provides a strong foundation in public health, empowering students to pursue careers as practitioners, researchers, or analysts. Core modules cover essential topics, including project development and evaluation, health behaviour change, epidemiological studies, and quantitative analytical techniques. 

Optional modules allow students to specialise in areas like advanced statistics, global health, or health economics. The dissertation enables students to delve into a subject of their choice, addressing real-world challenges in public health, such as offender management, tuberculosis treatment, or well-being interventions for junior doctors.

• Course to consider: Public Health (MSc)
• Entry requirements: A 2:2 degree in one of the following subjects: Biomedical Sciences, Biochemistry, Physiology, Psychology, Demography, Human/Health Geography, Pharmacy, Medicine and Dentistry.
• International fees: £24,244

6. Swansea University

The MSc Public Health and Health Promotion (PHHP) at Swansea University offers a comprehensive and well-established programme designed to address various aspects of public health practice. Integrating theory and practice, with a special focus on health promotion, the course prepares students to contribute significantly to public health services on regional, national, and international levels. 

By studying alongside students from diverse industries and professions, participants gain a holistic understanding of public health, considering both medical perspectives and broader socio-economic determinants of health. The curriculum aligns with regional, national, and global policies, ensuring relevance for students from all backgrounds and equipping them with the skills and knowledge to excel in the dynamic global health arena.

• Course to consider: Public Health and Health Promotion, MSc / PGDip
• Entry requirements: A relevant degree at 2.1 or above, an equivalent recognised qualification and/or two years of relevant employment with evidence of educational/professional achievement.
• International fees: £18,900

7. University of South Wales

The MSc Public Health at the University of South Wales equips professionals to advocate, enable, and mediate change in public health on a global scale. The course focuses on negotiating, planning, implementing, and evaluating policy and practice initiatives. Covering both theoretical and practical aspects, it encourages critical reflection on ethical questions and decision-making in public health. 

Core modules encompass sustainable public health, leading change, research methods, protecting health in diverse environments, epidemiology, biostatistics, and a public health project. Students can choose one optional route with two modules based on their interests. With on-campus health promotion activities and practical skills training, graduates emerge as responsive professionals adept at shaping public health policy and practice.

• Course to consider: MSc Public Health
• Entry requirements: A minimum entry criteria of a 2.2. In addition, applicants require a minimum of one-year relevant work experience.
• International fees: £16,000

8. Coventry University

The BSc (Hons) Public Health degree at Coventry University provides an exploration of disease prevention, health promotion, and health protection strategies to address emerging challenges in public health. With a focus on health disparities and inequalities at local, national, and international levels, the course equips students to plan, execute, and evaluate effective health interventions to improve outcomes. 

Through a progressive three-year curriculum, students develop foundational knowledge in the first year, followed by more advanced topics in epidemiology, health research, promotion, protection, and policy in the second year. The final year emphasises skill consolidation and offers the opportunity to work on a dissertation in an area of personal interest, preparing graduates for impactful roles in the field of public health.

• Course to consider: Public Health BSc (Hons)
• Entry requirements: UCAS points: 112. A level: BBC (excludes General Studies). IB Diploma: 29 points to include 14 points at Higher level.
• International fees: £16,800

9. University of Leeds

The Public Health (International) MPH programme at the University of Leeds offers public health professionals an advanced understanding of global health needs and interventions. Engaging with a diverse group of professionals from various countries and expertise areas, students learn to strengthen international health systems and tackle modern global health challenges. 

Delivered by the Nuffield Centre for International Health and Development, the course emphasises in-depth knowledge of relevant techniques, including epidemiological and statistical research skills. Participants also have the unique opportunity to attend workshops and meetings with health-related UN and international organisations during a study visit to Geneva. The programme equips graduates to analyse health trends, lead health systems, and develop effective health policies and services.

• Course to consider: Public Health (International) MPH
• Entry requirements: Medical degree or bachelor's degree with 2:2 (Hons) in a related subject + experience.
• International fees: £25,000

10. University of Cumbria

The MBA in Public Health Management at Cumbria offers managers the essential tools to analyse, direct, and enhance public health policies, promoting a comprehensive approach to healthcare. Drawing on an international student body and qualified tutors, the programme allows students to study at their own pace and in their preferred time zone, making it flexible for professionals to continue their careers without interruption.

• Course to consider: MBA Public Health Management
• Entry requirements: An honours degree at 2:2 or above. At least two years of relevant work experience.
• International fees: £10,700

Study Public Health in the UK

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Public Health Degree FAQ

What are the admission requirements?

Admission requirements for a public health course in the UK typically include a relevant undergraduate degree (e.g., Bachelor's in a health-related field) or equivalent professional experience. International applicants may need to meet English language proficiency standards.

What is the top salary for public health graduates?

On average, senior public health roles can offer salaries ranging from £70,000 to £100,000 or more per year. High-ranking positions in public health organisations, government agencies, or academic institutions tend to command the highest salaries.

What is the best career in public health?

Some of the best public health jobs include:

• Epidemiologist: Analyzing disease patterns and trends.
• Health Educator: Promoting healthy behaviours and awareness.
• Health Policy Analyst: Assessing and influencing health policies.
• Public Health Manager/Administrator: Overseeing public health programmes and initiatives.
• Global Health Specialist: Addressing health challenges on an international scale.
• Environmental Health Specialist: Evaluating and mitigating environmental health risks.
• Biostatistician: Applying statistical methods to public health research.
• Health Promotion Specialist: Developing and implementing health promotion strategies.
• Infectious Disease Specialist: Managing and preventing infectious diseases.
• Public Health Consultant: Providing expertise and guidance to organisations and governments.

What are the benefits of studying public health?

Studying public health offers the chance to make a meaningful impact on communities and global health. With diverse career options, it fosters personal fulfilment and job stability. The field's interdisciplinary nature enhances problem-solving skills and presents networking opportunities with experts. Public health professionals are in high demand, ensuring a positive job outlook and potential for career advancement. Ultimately, studying public health empowers individuals to shape health policies and practices, contributing to a healthier and more equitable future for all.

Why do I choose to study public health?

You choose to study public health because you are passionate about positively impacting people's lives and improving the health of communities. The field's diverse career opportunities, interdisciplinary nature, and global significance resonate with your desire to address health disparities and promote well-being. Studying public health allows you to contribute to meaningful change, solve complex health challenges, and work towards creating a healthier and more equitable world for everyone.