MPH in Public Health Research at University of Oxford

Programme overview

A one-year full-time taught master's giving a thorough understanding of the theoretical underpinning of public health research, with training in the skills needed to undertake public health research and implement its findings. Teaching combines quantitative, qualitative and mixed-methods training with an 18-week research placement.

What you will study

Eight core modules (Epidemiology and demography, Foundations of public health, Qualitative and mixed methods, Statistics, Evidence review and synthesis, Health economic evaluation, Research methods and design, Trials for public health) over the first two terms, followed by an 18-week research placement that forms the basis of a dissertation submitted in the Long Vacation, with masterclasses from public health experts.

Career pathways

Graduates can establish careers in public health research, service-based public health or a combination of both across academia, research organisations and the governmental, healthcare, not-for-profit and private sectors.

Official programme page

Application information

Entry requirements

A first-class or strong upper second-class UK undergraduate degree with honours in a subject related to public health or relevant research areas (for example medicine, health or biological sciences, economics, social or political science or biostatistics), or equivalent. US bachelor's applicants normally need a minimum GPA of 3.5/4.0. No GRE/GMAT. Preference is given to applicants with professional or research experience in a field related to public health. Application includes three referees (academic preferred; one professional acceptable), transcripts and a statement of purpose (maximum 1,000 words: motivation up to 400, past training up to 400, future plans up to 200). Interviews are normally held (panel of at least two senior academics, up to 30 minutes). English (higher level, international applicants whose first language is not English): IELTS Academic 7.5 overall with at least 7.0 in each component; TOEFL iBT 110 overall (Listening 22, Reading 24, Speaking 25, Writing 24); C1 Advanced or C2 Proficiency 191 overall with 185 per component; Oxford Test of English Advanced 165 overall with 155 per component. Final application deadline for 2027-28 entry: 12:00 midday UK time on 1 December 2026; the course may remain open or reopen if places are available.

Domestic applicants: GBP 16,480 a year (2027/28). Home fee Source

International applicants: GBP 36,900 a year (2027/28). Overseas fee Source

Intake: 1 October 2027

Duration: 1 year full-time

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