University of York

What you'll study

The MPH focuses on the core disciplines of public health and their application to population-level problems. Teaching combines epidemiology and biostatistics with modules on health policy, health promotion and health systems, and emphasises practical skills in evidence appraisal, study design and evaluation.

• Core subjects: principles of public health, epidemiology and biostatistics, research methods and public health ethics.
• Applied practice: health promotion and behaviour change, programme planning and evaluation, and intervention design.
• Systems and policy: health policy analysis, public health law and governance, and health economics for population health.
• Specialist options: global health, environmental and occupational health, health protection, leadership and management in public health, or health inequality and social determinants.
• Research project or dissertation: an independent piece of applied research or evaluation on a public-health question, often undertaken with a local NHS, local authority or voluntary-sector partner.

Teaching methods include lectures, seminars, practical workshops, data labs and group work, with assessment through essays, critical appraisals, research reports, presentations and the final project. Many students also have the opportunity to undertake an applied placement or collaborative project with public-health organisations.

Entry requirements

Typical entry is a UK honours degree at 2:1 level (or international equivalent) in a relevant discipline such as health sciences, medicine, nursing, allied health, social science or life sciences. Applicants with a 2:2 may be considered if they have substantial and relevant professional experience in a public-health or health-related role.

Applicants are expected to demonstrate relevant academic and professional motivation, evidence of quantitative skills or willingness to undertake pre-course study, and the ability to communicate effectively in English. International applicants will need to meet the university's standard English language requirements for postgraduate study.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of public-health roles across local authorities, the NHS, national and international agencies, charities and research organisations. Typical roles include public health practitioner, health protection officer, health promotion specialist, health intelligence analyst, programme manager, policy analyst and research associate.

The MPH also provides preparation for further academic study such as a PhD or professional public-health training schemes. The programme's emphasis on research methods and applied project work helps graduates demonstrate the practical and analytical skills employers seek in public-health posts.

Why study at University of York

The University of York offers a research-led public-health programme within a multidisciplinary environment, with teaching informed by staff active in public-health research and evaluation. Students benefit from links with local and regional health organisations, opportunities for applied placements, and access to specialist data and statistics support.

York's campus provides dedicated learning and study facilities, supportive academic supervision for the dissertation, and a collaborative cohort culture that encourages cross-disciplinary learning. The programme is designed to combine theoretical rigour with practical skills to prepare graduates for professional practice and leadership in public health.