Program Overview

Applied Health Research PhD / MSc (Res)

The Applied Health Research PhD / MSc (Res) program at the University of Birmingham is designed to develop the skills needed to contribute to research that tackles global health challenges by preventing illnesses and improving healthcare through community and hospital-based research and methodological innovations.

Course Overview

Develop the skills needed to contribute to research that tackles global health challenges by preventing illnesses and improving healthcare through community and hospital-based research and methodological innovations. Work alongside renowned researchers to produce groundbreaking world-leading research, with the ultimate goal of improving human health and wellbeing.

Course Structure

Our PhD programmes can be undertaken full-time (minimum 36 months) or part-time (minimum 72 months). Applications are accepted all year round and there is flexibility on the start date with the largest intakes normally in October and April. Following completion of your minimum period of study, you'll normally transfer to a thesis-awaited status (maximum 12 months). To successfully progress into each year you'll need to pass an Annual Progress Review (APR).

Year One

You’ll be required to submit a progress review form plus a project report based on the first year of research. You’ll also be asked to review your Development Needs Analysis form. The APR meeting will take place with two academics one of whom is an internal expert.

Course Highlights

This programme will give you the quality research training you need to enable you to conduct independent investigative research in a range of research areas in Applied Health including:

• Biostatistics, Evidence Synthesis and Test Evaluation
• Child, Maternal and Lifestyle
• Chronic Disease Epidemiology and Management
• Health Economics
• Health Informatics and Patient Reported Outcomes
• Social Studies in Medicine

By studying this programme you’ll become part of the Graduate School within the College of Medicine and Health giving you access to:

• Supervision from leading academics to support you through your research programme including research techniques and training.
• Training and development courses to enable you to gain research and transferable training skills.
• Opportunities to attend and take part in Research Poster festivals and other postgraduate activities to boost your academic and networking skills.
• An allocated academic mentor so you can access pastoral support.
• State-of-the art facilities to support a range of teaching, learning and research activity with access to dedicated write up rooms, libraries, and computer facilities.

Entry Requirements

To gain a place at Birmingham you will need to meet our general entry requirements, as well as those specific to your course. Your application will be reviewed by the course’s Admissions Tutor, who will decide whether your application should receive an offer.

• 2:1 Honours degree in a relevant subject area
• English language requirements: IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:
  • TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
  • Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
  • Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
  • LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

Fees and Scholarships

The University tuition fee covers the cost of your tuition, supervision, assessment and includes membership to the Guild of Students.

• £5,181 (full-time)
• £2,591 (part-time)

We charge an annual tuition fee. Fees for 2026 entry are above.

Application Process

To apply for a postgraduate research programme, you will need to submit your application and supporting documents online. If you are applying to an ‘advertised PhD’, please check the details of the specific research project for application deadlines. If you are submitting your own research proposal, applications are accepted all year round.

Career Opportunities

A PhD is the highest level of academic achievement available and vital for the continued professional development of scientists. Completing a PhD at Birmingham will extend your knowledge base in your chosen subject, as well as enhancing your problem solving and analytical, communication and teaching, and leadership and management skills – all of which are valued across the academic and private sectors.

Many of our postgraduate research students go onto roles such as Research fellow/postdoctoral researcher, medical writer, scientist/research scientist in the pharmaceutical industry, and clinical trial coordinator. Employers include the NHS Trusts, Cancer Research UK, pharma and biotech companies, Medical Communications agencies, the Armed Forces and the University of Birmingham.

Student Experience

At Birmingham, your university experience isn’t just about studying. You will have the opportunity to discover new experiences, develop different skills and make friends for life. Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.