University of Reading

What you'll study

The programme combines core modules in health systems, research methods and service improvement with option modules that allow you to tailor study to your interests. Typical core topics include health policy and organisation, epidemiology and statistics for health, quality and safety in healthcare, health economics, leadership and change management in health services, and applied research methods.

Optional modules commonly cover areas such as public health, health promotion, mental health service delivery, digital health and data for decision-making. The course culminates in an independent dissertation or applied project in which you develop and execute a substantial piece of research or a practice-focused improvement project, under academic supervision.

• Health policy and organisation
• Research design, quantitative and qualitative methods
• Epidemiology and statistics for health
• Health economics and resource allocation
• Quality improvement, patient safety and clinical governance
• Leadership, management and change in health services
• Dissertation or applied healthcare project

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a good honours degree (or an international equivalent) in a relevant subject such as health sciences, nursing, allied health, social sciences, or life sciences. Applicants with substantial professional experience in healthcare, public health or health-related policy roles may also be considered.

Entry to some pathway options may require evidence of prior study or experience in a related area. All applicants whose first language is not English will need to demonstrate proficiency in English to the level required by the University, typically by an approved test or recognised qualification.

Career prospects

Graduates move into a wide range of roles across the health sector. Typical destinations include clinical and operational management within the NHS and independent healthcare providers, public health practitioner roles in local and national agencies, commissioning and policy roles, health service consultancy, and positions with charities and international NGOs.

The research and project skills developed on the programme also prepare graduates for roles in health data analysis, service evaluation and for progression to doctoral study or research posts in academic and applied settings.

Why study at University of Reading

Reading offers an interdisciplinary environment with academic expertise across health, social sciences, psychology and data analytics, enabling a broad perspective on contemporary healthcare challenges. The University has active collaborations with regional health providers and public health organisations, providing routes for applied projects and practice-relevant learning.

Students benefit from dedicated research supervision, well-equipped learning facilities, and a careers service that supports sector-specific recruitment, placements and employer engagement. The programme’s balance of theory, practical skills and an applied dissertation equips graduates to influence policy and service delivery within diverse healthcare settings.