City

What you'll study

The MPH combines core public health theory with quantitative and qualitative methods, optional specialist modules and a substantial research or practice-based project. Teaching balances lectures, seminars, practical sessions and supervised independent work.

Core topics

• Epidemiology – study design, measures of disease frequency and association, outbreak investigation principles.
• Biostatistics – descriptive and inferential statistics, regression modelling and interpretation of results for public health decisions.
• Research Methods – qualitative and quantitative approaches, critical appraisal, study ethics and data management.
• Health Promotion and Behaviour – theory and practice of interventions, behaviour change techniques, programme evaluation.
• Health Policy and Management – health systems, policy analysis, economics of health care and public health leadership.
• Environmental and Occupational Health – environmental risk assessment, exposure pathways and preventative strategies.

Optional/specialist modules and practical learning

• Typically available options include global health, health inequalities, advanced epidemiology, infectious disease control and health intelligence.
• Many students undertake a placement, applied project or an independent dissertation on a topic aligned with faculty expertise or partner organisations.
• Practical workshops and lab sessions build skills in statistical software, data visualisation and public health communication.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold an undergraduate degree in a health, life science, social science or related discipline at a good honours level. Candidates with a lower-class degree but with substantial relevant professional experience in health or social care may also be considered. International applicants whose first language is not English will need to meet recognised English language requirements set by the university.

Typical supporting materials include a personal statement outlining public health interests and goals, references that speak to academic or professional suitability, and a CV. Some applicants, particularly for practice-focused routes, may be asked to provide evidence of relevant work experience.

Career prospects

An MPH from City provides preparation for roles across public, private and third-sector settings. Graduates commonly move into positions such as:

• public health practitioner or specialist in local and national public health departments
• epidemiologist or health intelligence analyst in health protection, NHS organisations or research units
• policy advisor or consultant in health policy, commissioning and health services management
• programme manager with NGOs and international agencies working on health promotion, disease prevention and global health initiatives
• research assistant or further academic study including PhD in public health and related disciplines

The programme’s emphasis on applied methods and placement/project options supports employability by giving students practical experience and professional contacts in London and beyond.

Why study at City

City, University of London offers an MPH with strong links to London’s public health community, including NHS trusts, local authorities and health organisations. The university’s central London location provides ready access to public health employers, policy institutions and a diverse urban health landscape for study and placements.

Teaching is delivered by academics and practitioners with active research and professional experience, emphasising applied skills, data literacy and policy-relevant analysis. Students benefit from practical training in statistical software, opportunities for hands-on projects and a professional network that supports careers in public health practice, policy and research.