University of Bradford

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health disciplines with applied research and a substantial independent project. Teaching blends lectures, seminars, practical workshops and a practice-based placement or dissertation, reinforcing analytical and communication skills used in contemporary public health practice.

• Core modules: epidemiology and population health, applied biostatistics, research methods (quantitative and qualitative), and public health policy and practice.
• Health improvement and protection: health promotion theory and practice, behavioural and social determinants of health, infectious disease control and emergency preparedness.
• Specialist options: global public health, health economics and resource allocation, health inequalities, public health leadership and management, and environmental/public health protection.
• Applied learning: a work-based placement or practice-focused project giving experience of delivering public health activity in an organisational setting.
• Dissertation or major project: an independent piece of research or practice-based evaluation that develops critical appraisal, project management and report-writing skills.

The programme is typically available full-time and part-time, with flexible pathways to accommodate practising professionals. Assessment is by coursework, presentations, practical reports, and the dissertation/project.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a UK second-class honours degree (2:2) or above, or an equivalent qualification from an overseas institution. Relevant professional experience in health, social care, public sector or third-sector roles can be taken into account, and applicants without a traditional honours degree but with substantial experience may be considered.

International applicants must demonstrate English language proficiency through an accepted qualification. All candidates are required to provide academic transcripts and references; applicants may also be invited to an interview or asked to submit a short personal statement outlining their interest in public health and career goals.

Career prospects

Graduates are prepared for a wide range of roles across the public, private and voluntary sectors. Typical career paths include:

• Public health practitioner roles in local authorities and the NHS (health improvement, screening programmes, sexual health, etc.).
• Health intelligence and epidemiology roles focusing on data analysis, surveillance and evaluation.
• Policy development and commissioning posts within government departments and health agencies.
• Research assistant or associate posts in academic institutions and independent research organisations.
• Programme management and consultancy roles with charities, NGOs and international health organisations.

The programme emphasises transferable skills — critical appraisal, statistical literacy, project management and stakeholder engagement — which are valuable across health and allied sectors. Some graduates proceed to further professional training or PhD study.

Why study at University of Bradford

University of Bradford has a strong applied public health profile, with staff who carry out practice-focused research and work closely with local health services, public health teams and community organisations. The school emphasises interdisciplinary teaching, bringing together expertise in epidemiology, health promotion, health economics and policy.

Students benefit from opportunities for placements with NHS trusts, local authorities and third-sector partners, access to research-active supervisors for dissertation projects, and a supportive learning environment that encourages practical skill development. The University’s location and partnerships make it a useful base for those wishing to work in regional public health settings or pursue national and international careers.