United Arab Emirates University

What you'll study

The PhD in Public Health is a research-intensive programme combining advanced coursework in core public health disciplines with an independent doctoral research project leading to a thesis. Students typically undertake taught modules to sharpen methodological and conceptual skills, pass qualifying assessments, propose and conduct original research under supervision, and defend their dissertation at the end of the programme.

Core study areas

• Epidemiology and advanced study design – causal inference, cohort and case–control studies, surveillance systems.
• Biostatistics and data science – multivariable modelling, longitudinal data analysis, advanced statistical methods and practical use of statistical software.
• Health systems and policy – health service evaluation, financing, governance, and policy analysis with regional case studies.
• Environmental and occupational health – exposure assessment, environmental epidemiology and interventions.
• Social determinants of health and global health – quantitative and qualitative approaches to inequalities, migration and population health.
• Research methods and ethics – advanced qualitative methods, mixed methods, research ethics and implementation science.

Programme structure

The programme normally begins with a period of taught modules and research training to build methodological competence, followed by development and approval of a research proposal. Students are supervised by a multidisciplinary committee and expected to produce a publishable-quality thesis based on original research. Progress is assessed through milestones such as a comprehensive/qualifying examination, proposal defence, annual progress reports and a final viva voce.

Entry requirements

Applicants should hold a recognised Master’s degree in public health, epidemiology, medicine, nursing, health sciences or a closely related field, with a demonstrable research component. Candidates with outstanding professional experience in a relevant health field plus a strong research record may also be considered.

• Academic transcripts showing strong prior performance at Master’s level.
• A research proposal or statement of research interests that aligns with available supervisory expertise.
• Curriculum vitae detailing research experience, professional roles and any publications.
• Letters of recommendation (usually two or three) from academic or professional referees who can speak to the applicant’s research potential.
• Evidence of English language proficiency where the applicant’s previous degree was not taught in English (standard tests or institutional proof as accepted by the university).
• Successful applicants will normally be interviewed by potential supervisors or an admissions panel; securing a willing supervisor with relevant expertise strengthens an application.

Applicants are advised to contact potential supervisors in advance to discuss fit between proposed research and faculty expertise. Additional conditions (such as prerequisites in statistics or research methods) may be stipulated on admission.

Career prospects

Graduates of the PhD in Public Health pursue a variety of senior roles across academia, government, international organisations and the private sector. Typical career paths include:

• Academic positions as lecturers, assistant/associate professors and principal investigators leading research programmes.
• Senior research roles in national public health institutes, research centres and think tanks.
• Policy and strategy roles within ministries of health, public health agencies and regional health authorities.
• Technical and leadership positions in multilateral organisations and international NGOs focusing on population health, health systems strengthening and emergency preparedness.
• Senior analyst or consultant roles in health policy, health economics, epidemiology and environmental health within private sector consultancies or healthcare providers.

Graduates are also well placed to lead multidisciplinary teams, contribute to evidence-based policy, and secure competitive research funding.

Why study at United Arab Emirates University

United Arab Emirates University provides a research-focused environment with access to regional public health data, established links with health authorities across the UAE and the Gulf, and multidisciplinary supervision from experienced faculty. The university’s facilities support quantitative and qualitative research, including access to laboratory resources, statistical consultation and research support services.

Studying at UAEU offers the opportunity to engage with public health challenges that are regionally significant — such as non-communicable disease prevention, occupational and environmental health, and health system reform — while benefiting from international collaborations and a multicultural academic community. Prospective candidates can expect structured doctoral training, mentorship for publication and grant development, and pathways into academic and policy leadership in the region and beyond.