University of Malta

What you'll study

The programme combines core public health theory with applied practical training and a substantive research project. Teaching covers epidemiology and biostatistics for population health, health promotion and behavioural change, environmental and occupational health, health systems and policy, and research methods (quantitative and qualitative).

• Epidemiology and Public Health Surveillance: study of disease patterns, outbreak investigation methods and surveillance systems.
• Biostatistics and Data Analysis: statistical concepts and software skills for analysing public health data and interpreting results.
• Health Promotion and Education: theories and practice of behaviour change, community engagement and programme planning and evaluation.
• Environmental and Occupational Health: assessment of environmental exposures, risk management and regulatory frameworks relevant to Malta and the region.
• Health Policy, Management and Economics: organisation of health systems, policy development, resource allocation and economic evaluation of interventions.
• Research Methods: design and conduct of applied research including qualitative methods, mixed-methods approaches and ethics in public health research.
• Practical Placement or Applied Project: supervised practical experience in a public health setting or an evidence-based applied project with local partner organisations.
• Dissertation: an independent research project under academic supervision, resulting in a substantial dissertation that demonstrates research competence.

Entry requirements

Applicants are normally expected to hold a recognised undergraduate degree in a relevant subject (for example medicine, nursing, pharmacy, biological sciences, psychology, social sciences or health sciences) at a good honours level or an equivalent professional qualification. Applicants with substantial relevant professional experience in public health, health promotion or a related field may also be considered.

All applicants should demonstrate proficiency in English; evidence of English language ability is required from candidates whose first language is not English. Selection may include consideration of references, a personal statement outlining motivation and relevant experience, and, for some applicants, an interview.

Career prospects

Graduates gain practical and analytical skills valued across the health sector. Typical career paths include roles as public health officers, health promotion specialists, epidemiology or surveillance officers, policy analysts or advisers in government departments, programme managers in NGOs and international organisations, environmental health practitioners, and research assistants or coordinators in academic and clinical research units. The qualification also provides a solid foundation for progression to doctoral study or specialised professional training.

Why study at University of Malta

The University of Malta combines island-scale public health challenges with close links to Malta's health services and regulatory bodies, offering students access to local placements and real-world public health work. The programme is delivered by academic staff with experience in public health practice and research, and benefits from interdisciplinary collaboration across health sciences, social sciences and environmental faculties. Students also gain exposure to Mediterranean and EU public health contexts, enabling transferable skills for work both locally and internationally.