Public Health, Master of MPH Level: Postgraduate taught Subject: Health Year of entry: 2027 Study options Mode of study On campus Full-time MPH | 1 year | Start date: September 2027 Key facts School Edinburgh Medical School College College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine Study location Edinburgh BioQuarter Apply now 17 to 19 November 2026: Postgraduate Virtual Open Days Join us live to explore postgraduate taught and research study at Edinburgh and gain key insights before you apply. Browse sessions and register Overview About the degree programme The Master of Public Health (MPH) programme at the University of Edinburgh is a comprehensive degree that draws on multiple fields of study, combining insights and methods from sociology, medicine, statistics, and policy to equip you with the knowledge, skills and expertise to innovate and lead in public health.This programme provides a thorough grounding in the principles and practice of public health, covering key areas such as:epidemiologystatisticsqualitative researchsystematic reviewsThrough core courses like Introduction to Public Health, Introduction to Epidemiology, and Health Promotion, you will gain a deep understanding of the complex factors that influence health outcomes and develop the skills to design and implement effective interventions.As you progress through the programme, you will explore advanced topics in epidemiology, research design, and evidence synthesis, preparing you to tackle pressing health issues and drive meaningful change in communities worldwide. The MPH programme is designed to foster a community of scholars and practitioners who are passionate about improving health outcomes and reducing health inequalities. Upon graduation, you will be well-equipped to pursue impactful careers in diverse sectors, including the public sector, non-profit organisations, academic and research institutions and the private sector. Your career path may include roles such as epidemiologist, project manager, policy analyst, research officer, or public health consultant, among others.By joining our MPH programme, you will become part of a vibrant community of public health professionals who are committed to making a difference in the lives of individuals and communities around the world. Study options This programme can be studied full-time over one year. Programme benefits Interact with some of the world's leading public health experts, who have helped to shape public health guidelines and government policy.Engage with a diverse and international community of students, sharing perspectives and ideas from different cultural backgrounds and gaining a richer understanding of global public health issues.A supportive learning environment with opportunities to engage in collaborative learning, group work, and social activities with your cohort, as well as access to excellent study facilities, including the university library and cafes, and a vibrant city with a wide range of amenities and activities to enjoy in your free time.Opportunities to connect with and contribute to cutting-edge research in public health, with access to renowned researchers and academics in the field, and opportunities for collaborative research projects, dissertation supervision, and networking with experts in your area of interest. Fees, costs and funding Tuition fees Tuition fees by award and duration Tuition fees for full-time and part-time options are listed for one academic year. Full-time MPH Master of Public Health (1 year) tuition fees Graduate discount If you are a University of Edinburgh graduate, you will be eligible for a 10% discount on your tuition fees for this programme. You may also be eligible if you were a visiting undergraduate student.Find out how to receive your graduate discount Deposit If you receive an offer of admission, this will be conditional as you will be asked to pay some of your tuition fees in advance as a deposit.How and when to pay the deposit The deposit for this programme is £1,500. Costs Accommodation and living costs You will need to pay for your accommodation and living costs (such as rent, food and utility bills) for the duration of your programme.For 2026-2027, we estimate that it will cost an average of £18,504 each year (£1,542 each month) to live in Edinburgh as a postgraduate.The exact amount you spend will depend on different factors, especially the accommodation you choose.Living costs: estimates explained Funding opportunities Funding for postgraduate study is different to undergraduate study, and many students need to combine funding sources to pay for their studies.Most students use a combination of the following funding to pay their tuition fees and living costs:borrowing moneytaking out a loanfamily supportpersonal savingsincome from workemployer sponsorshipscholarshipsExplore sources of funding for postgraduate study Darlington ScholarshipThe Darlington Scholarship supports University of Edinburgh graduates transitioning to postgraduate study, particularly those who previously benefited from an Access Edinburgh or Scotland Scholarship.Read more about the Darlington Scholarship UK government loans If you live in the UK, you may be eligible for a postgraduate loan for study from one of the UK’s governments.You should check that your chosen programme is eligible for the funding you want to apply for. View details: UK government loans Search for other funding opportunities Postgraduate funding opportunitiesInformation about sponsorships Entry requirements These entry requirements are for the 2027-28 academic year and requirements for future academic years may differ. Entry requirements for the 2028-29 academic year will be published in early Oct 2027. Qualifications A UK 2:1 honours degree, or its international equivalent, in a relevant subject area such as medicine, nursing, social science, biomedicine, or other related discipline.We may also consider your application if you have completed some independent study of public health, medicine or health-related subjects, and/or have work experience in a relevant field. Please contact us to check before you apply. International equivalent qualifications To find international equivalent qualifications, select where you studied from the country or region list. Where you studied - Select a country or region - Afghanistan Albania Algeria Angola Argentina Armenia Australia Austria Azerbaijan Bahamas Bahrain Bangladesh Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Brazil Brunei Darussalam Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burundi Cambodia Cameroon Canada Chile China Colombia Costa Rica Côte d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czechia Democratic Republic of Congo Denmark Dominican Republic Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Eritrea Estonia Eswatini Ethiopia Finland France Gabon The Gambia Georgia Germany Ghana Greece Guatemala Guinea Haiti Honduras Hong Kong-SAR China Hungary Iceland India Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy Jamaica Japan Jordan Kazakhstan Kenya Kosovo Kuwait Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Lithuania Luxembourg Macau-SAR China Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Mali Malta Mauritius Mexico Moldova Montenegro Morocco Mozambique Myanmar Namibia Nepal Netherlands, The New Zealand Nicaragua Nigeria North Macedonia Norway Oman Pacific Islands Pakistan Palestine Panama Paraguay Peru Philippines Poland Portugal Qatar Romania Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Somalia South Africa South Korea South Sudan Spain Sudan Sweden Switzerland Syria Taiwan Tanzania Thailand Togo Trinidad and Tobago Tunisia Turkey Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United States of America Uruguay Uzbekistan Venezuela Vietnam West Indies and Caribbean Yemen Zambia Zimbabwe My country or region is not listed English language requirements You must prove that your English language abilities are at a high enough level to study this degree programme.This is the case for all applicants, including UK nationals.You can meet our English language requirements with one of the following:an English language test (restrictions apply)a degree that was taught and assessed in English (restrictions apply)certain professional qualifications English language tests we accept We accept any of the following English language tests, at the specified grade or higher: IELTS Academic: total 7.0 with at least 6.5 in each component. We do not accept IELTS One Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements. TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition) before 21 January 2026: total 100 with at least 23 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements. TOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition) from 21 January 2026: total 5.0 with at least 4.5 in each component. We do not accept TOEFL MyBest Score to meet our English language requirements. C1 Advanced (CAE) / C2 Proficiency (CPE): total 185 with at least 176 in each component. Oxford ELLT: total 8 with at least 7 in each component. We do not accept Oxford ELLT Skill Retake to meet our English language requirements. Oxford Test of English Advanced: total 155 with at least 145 in each component. How old your English language tests can be Tests no more than two years oldThe following English language tests must be no more than two years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality:IELTS AcademicTOEFL-iBT (including Home Edition)Oxford ELLTOxford Test of English AdvancedTests no more than three and a half years oldAll other English language tests must be no more than three and a half years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts, regardless of your nationality. Degrees taught and assessed in English We accept an undergraduate or postgraduate degree that has been taught and assessed in English in a majority English-speaking country, as defined by UK Visas and Immigration.UKVI list of majority English speaking countriesWe also accept a degree that has been taught and assessed in English from a university on our list of approved universities in non-majority English-speaking countries (non-MESC).Approved universities in non-MESCHow old your degree can beIf you are not a national of a majority English-speaking country, then your degree must be no more than five years old on the 1st of the month in which your programme starts.This time limit does not apply to your degree if you are a national of a majority English-speaking country. Find out more about our English language requirements Find out about other English language qualifications we accept, including professional qualifications.English language requirements Programme details What you will study This Master of Public Health (MPH) explores the principles and practice of public health, from understanding patterns of disease to improving health at population level. You will develop core skills in epidemiology, statistics, qualitative research and systematic review, alongside exploring health promotion and the application of evidence in health services and government.The 180-credit programme is structured across two semesters, followed by a dissertation. You will study 80 credits of compulsory courses and choose 40 credits from a range of options. From May to August, you will complete a 60-credit dissertation, supervised by a member of staff with expertise in your area of interest. Compulsory courses Introduction to Public HealthBuild your understanding of public health and the key factors that influence health and wellbeing. You’ll explore core public health themes that provide a foundation for the rest of the programme.Introduction to Epidemiology: Learn how epidemiologists measure the occurrence and distribution of disease and other health-related outcomes. You’ll develop an understanding of the core concepts and methods used to investigate population health.Introduction to StatisticsDevelop the statistical skills you need to understand and work with public health data. You’ll learn how statistical approaches can help you interpret data and support public health research and practice.Introduction to Qualitative ResearchExplore how qualitative research can help you understand people’s experiences, perspectives and behaviours. You’ll develop skills in using qualitative approaches to investigate public health questions in a systematic and rigorous way.Introduction to Systematic ReviewsLearn how to bring together and evaluate evidence from multiple research studies. You’ll explore the principles and methods of systematic reviews and how evidence synthesis can inform understanding and decision-making in public health.Health PromotionExplore how health promotion can support healthier choices and improve health at community and population level. You’ll consider approaches to encouraging and supporting changes in health-related behaviours and practices.Epidemiology for Public HealthExplore how epidemiological methods can be applied to public health practice. You’ll consider how epidemiological evidence and approaches can be used in health services and government settings to understand and address population health issues.Research Design for Public HealthDevelop the skills to design a feasible public health research project. You’ll consider how to formulate a research question, select appropriate methods and plan a study, preparing you to undertake your dissertation. Option courses Our optional courses allow you to develop your knowledge and skills in core areas and explore new topics, such as health economics, developing complex interventions, health sociology and global health topics. Although we try to provide a wide range of option courses to choose from, these can be subject to change or cancellation at short notice. Places on option courses can be limited, due to course capacity and timetabling constraints. It may not be possible to guarantee every offer holder their top choice of option courses. Find courses for this programme Find out what courses you can study on this programme and how each of them are taught and assessed. The courses on offer may change from year to year, but the course information will give you an idea of what to expect on this programme. Full-time MPH Master of Public Health (1 year) (2026-2027) We link to the latest information available. This may be for a previous academic year and should be considered indicative. Teaching and assessment Teaching You will learn through a combination of:online and in-person course contentcurated reading listsengaging interactive discussions with lecturers, tutors and peersThis approach fosters a comprehensive understanding while benefiting from diverse perspectives and insights shared in group discussions. Time commitmentFull-time study requires about 35 hours per week, as it would for a full-time professional role.Over the two semesters with lecture courses, this would be made up of about 14 hours of in-class activity (concentrated over Monday to Thursday) with the remainder of the time being devoted to preparation, reading, personal study and assignment preparation.In the dissertation phase, almost all this time will be focused on students’ individual projects, with a smaller number of hours devoted to regular research clinics and support activities. Assessment The course assessments are based on assignments and group work. There are no examinations during the course of the programme.Assessment is a two-stage process. The taught component is assessed at the end of each teaching block in which the course is held. Progression to the dissertation is conditional on a good performance in course assessments at the first attempt.Instructions for each assessment and the assessment criteria will be available at the start of each course. The assessments are usually due 10 days after the end of the course, although this may vary from course to course.Most courses will have a formative feedback or feed-forward event, and each course will have one or more summative assignments.Formative assessmentsThese may include assessed blogs, journals, group presentations, and so on. You will receive formative feedback on these, which will help you prepare your summative assessment(s) at the end of the course.Summative assessmentsThese include longer assignments, such as essays, reports, or group work tasks to be submitted at the end of the course.Each course will have different methods of assessment and assessment criteria, and the weight of each assessment will vary from course to course. Information on the various methods of assessment will be provided at the start of each course. Learning outcomes The Master of Public Health will develop your knowledge, critical thinking and practical research skills so you can understand and respond to complex public health challenges using evidence from different disciplines.You will:Demonstrate a critical understanding of the theories, concepts and principles that underpin public health practice, policy and research.Apply knowledge and skills from qualitative and quantitative approaches, and critically engage with relevant public health research and literature.Critically analyse, evaluate and synthesise evidence to explore and develop responses to contemporary public health challenges.Communicate complex public health concepts, evidence and issues clearly to different audiences, including public and professional audiences, using appropriate media and methods.Work independently and collaboratively, taking responsibility for your own work while contributing constructively to addressing complex public health issues. Support for your studies You will have access to a range of support services if you need them throughout your degree.We will assign you to a student adviser, and this should be the first person to contact if you need help. They can guide you to other University service teams depending on what support you need. How we support you Our academic staff Our core team members run the Master of Public Health programme and are dedicated to ensuring a seamless learning experience.Read more about our team Where you will study Study location Most of the teaching for the Master of Public Health on campus programme will be at the new Usher Building at the Bioquarter.Usher Building at Edinburgh BioQuarterSome teaching will also take place at the University Central Campus. Careers and further study Career opportunities An MPH can help you develop knowledge and skills relevant to a wide range of careers in public health, research, policy and related fields. The programme's focus on critical thinking, research, data, communication and public health practice can support you in exploring career opportunities across different sectors.Depending on your interests and experience, potential career areas include:Public sectorYou could explore roles in government and public health organisations, including epidemiology, policy, programme management and public health research.Non-profit organisationsYou could apply your skills to areas such as health promotion, disease prevention, community health, research and programme delivery within charities and other non-governmental organisations.Academic and research institutionsYou could pursue opportunities in public health research, evidence synthesis, research management or further academic study.Private sectorYou could explore roles involving public health research, health impact assessment, consultancy, programme management or public health strategy within relevant organisations.The skills developed through the MPH – including research, critical analysis, communication and evidence-based decision-making – can be relevant across these settings. Further study After completing this programme, you may wish to consider applying for a PhD or other research programme.Applying for research degreesMoving on to a PhD (advice from the University's Careers Service) Careers Service Our Careers Service can help you to fully develop your potential and achieve your future goals. The Careers Service supports you not only while you are studying at the University, but also for up to two years after you finish your studies. With the Careers Service, you can: access digital resources to help you understand your skills and strengthstry different types of experiences and reflect on how and what you developget help finding work, including part-time jobs, vacation work, internships and graduate jobsattend careers events and practice interviewsget information and advice to help you make informed decisions Visit the Careers Service website Applying How to apply You apply online for this programme. After you read the application guidance, select your preferred programme, then choose 'Start your application' to begin. If you are considering applying to more than one programme, you should be aware that we cannot consider more than 5 applications from the same applicant. When to apply You can apply for this degree during a number of periods through the year. We limit the time we accept applications due to the high level of demand for places.When you are able to apply depends upon your fee status.Work out your fee statusIf you don’t hear from us by the award deadline, your application is carried forward to the next admissions round for further consideration.Deadlines for all fee statusesRoundApplication DeadlinePlaces awarded by111 December 202631 December 2026219 February 20275 March 2027316 April 202730 April 2027418 June 20272 July 2027Deadlines for UK/Scotland fee statusThis round is only open to applicants who are eligible for the UK/Scotland fee rate, including the EU/EEA Pre-settled Scotland fee status.If you apply with another fee status in this round, your application will be rejected.RoundApplication DeadlinePlaces awarded by520 August 202727 August 2027 We encourage you to apply as soon as possible so that we have enough time to process your application. This is particularly important if you are also applying for funding or will require a visa. Applications may close earlier than published deadlines if there is exceptionally high demand.For an application to be reviewed, it must be a complete application by the application deadline with all supporting documentation uploaded, including references and transcripts.If you already have evidence that you meet the English language entry requirements, such as via an approved English language test, please upload this evidence at the time of your application. If you have not already met your English language requirements, please upload that evidence as soon as you have it. Application fee There is no fee to apply to this programme. What you need to apply As part of your online application, you will need to provide: a personal statementdetails of relevant knowledge/training skillsYou will also need to submit some or all of the following supporting documents:copies of your degree certificates and academic transcripts that confirm your current or final marksreferencesevidence you meet the English language requirementscertified translations if your original documents are not in EnglishWhen you start your application, you will be able to see the full list of documents you need to provide. ReferencesYou must submit one reference with your application.Personal statementWe will be looking for evidence in your personal statement that you have thought carefully about what you can bring to the programme and what impact you feel it will have on your future career.Please ensure that you address the following issues in your statement, to help us select the students who will benefit most from the programme:What skills, qualities and experiences have prepared you to undertake this programme?What value do you think you can add to the learning community as part of an internationally diverse group?What impact do you hope to make in your future career, and how will this programme contribute to your aspirations?Your personal statement should be around 500 words in length. Apply Select the award, duration and delivery mode you want to study. Then select the start date you want to apply for. Select programme - Select a programme - MPH Master of Public Health (1 year) After you apply Once you have applied for this programme, you will be able to track the progress of your application and accept or decline any offers.Checking the status of your applicationWe will notify you by email once we have made a decision. Due to the large number of applications we receive, it might take a while until you hear from us.Receiving our decisionWhat to do if you receive an offer:Receiving an offerAccepting an offerSubmitting supporting documents Life at Edinburgh Accommodation We guarantee an offer of University accommodation for all new, single postgraduate taught students from outside the UK and new, single postgraduate research (typically PhD) students who:apply for accommodation by 31 July in the year when you start your programmeaccept an unconditional firm offer to study at the University by 31 Julystudy at the University for the whole of the academic year starting in SeptemberUniversity accommodation websiteAccommodation guarantee criteriaWe also offer accommodation options for couples and families.Accommodation for couples and familiesIf you prefer to live elsewhere, we can offer you advice on finding accommodation in Edinburgh.Accommodation information from the Edinburgh University Students' Association Advice Place Societies and clubs Our societies and sports clubs will help you develop your interests, meet like-minded people, find a new hobby or simply socialise.SocietiesSport Clubs The city of Edinburgh Scotland's inspiring capital will form the background to your studies — a city with an irresistible blend of history, natural beauty and modern city life. Find out more about living in Edinburgh Exercise, leisure and support facilities Outside of your studies, we offer a range of facilities that you might find useful day-to-day, including:sport and active wellbeing facilitiesUniversity cafes and cateringEdinburgh University Students' Association (EUSA) venues and shopsa multi-faith chaplaincy for all faiths and nonea University nursery (based at King’s Buildings campus) Health and wellbeing support You will have access to free health and wellbeing services throughout your time at university if you need them.The support services we offer include: a student counselling service a health centre (doctor's surgery) support if you're living in University accommodation dedicated help and support if you have a disability or need adjustmentsHealth and wellbeing support services Disability and Learning Support Contact General enquiries Programme AdministratorUsher Building5-7 Little France RoadLittle FranceEdinburghEH16 4UX futurestudents@ed.ac.uk Phone:+44 (0)131 651 7990 Academic contact Professor Devi Sridhar Programme Director College of Medicine and Veterinary Medicine University of Edinburgh Contact details Email: futurestudents@ed.ac.uk Chat to our students on Unibuddy
