Program Overview

Public Health MPH

The Master of Public Health (MPH) programme at Aston University is designed to equip students with the specialist knowledge and practical skills to address complex public health challenges at local, national, and global levels.

Course Overview

The programme is ideal for both experienced public health professionals and those aspiring to enter the field. It is equally suited to practising clinicians and health service managers seeking to progress into senior roles. Through the programme, students will gain an in-depth understanding of local, national, and global public health issues, including health policy, epidemiology, and the social determinants of health.

Course Objectives

The programme aims to:

1. Develop students' knowledge and skills to address public health challenges through both research and practice.
2. Develop the training necessary for leadership roles in public health.
3. Build students' expertise in the public health needs of low-, middle-, and high-income countries.

Modules

The programme consists of the following modules:

Taught Stage Modules

• The Social Determinants of Health: This module examines the social determinants of health and illness and their relationship with the health of a population.
• Epidemiology: This module introduces students to the basic concepts and methods of epidemiology.
• Health Promotion: This module examines the role that health promotion plays in population-level and individual-level health and healthcare.
• Public Health Ethics: This module introduces students to healthcare ethics approaches used in public health.
• Global Health: This module covers key concepts, theories, methods, and topics on major issues in global health.
• Digital Health: This module introduces students to the major issues in digital health.
• Advanced Research Methods: This module develops students' understanding of research methodologies.

Dissertation Stage Modules

• Dissertation (MPH): Students will demonstrate their ability to design, conduct, and report the results of a research project in public health.

Entry Requirements

To be eligible for the programme, students must have:

• A 2:2 (lower second-class honours) degree or equivalent
• Equivalent overseas degree recognised by Aston University
• Medical students from Aston Medical School may also be eligible

Additional Requirements

Students must also provide:

• A professional reference
• An official academic transcript of their university grades to date
• A completed application form

Fees and Scholarships

Course Fees

• UK students (2026/27): Ł12,500
• International students (2026/27): Ł24,800

Scholarships

Aston University offers a range of scholarships to help lower tuition and living costs. Students can explore scholarships for UK and international students.

Career Prospects

As an MPH student at Aston University, students will have the chance to engage directly with local health projects and initiatives. These experiences will enhance their learning and provide valuable evidence for their CV and professional portfolio. MPH graduates can seek employment in local council and government, healthcare services, and third-sector organisations across the world.

Assessment

Students will be assessed using a variety of methods that reflect real-world public health practice, including:

• Written and oral examinations
• Class tests and practical assessments
• Individual and group coursework
• Research projects and presentations
• A dissertation of 10,000 words

The programme's assessments are aligned with the competencies required for professional accreditation and membership with bodies such as the Faculty of Public Health (DFPH and MFPH), supporting students' pathway to becoming recognised public health professionals.