Global Health

The Master's Degree Programme in Global Health at the University of Copenhagen offers an interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for tackling complex health challenges that transcend national borders. This program emphasizes the interconnectedness of health issues worldwide, covering a broad range of topics including infectious diseases, non-communicable diseases, health systems, social determinants of health, and environmental factors affecting health outcomes. Students will explore how global political, economic, and cultural contexts influence health policies and practices, equipping them with the analytical skills necessary to develop innovative solutions to improve health equity and sustainability across diverse populations. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical experience, featuring case studies, projects, and collaboration with international organizations. The program aims to foster critical thinking, research competencies, and cross-cultural understanding, enabling graduates to work effectively in international health agencies, NGOs, governmental bodies, and research institutions. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and fieldwork, students will gain comprehensive insights into the multifaceted nature of global health issues. The program encourages a collaborative learning environment where students from different backgrounds share perspectives and develop a global outlook. Graduates of this program will be well-equipped to impact health policies, design interventions, and contribute to the sustainable improvement of health worldwide, making a significant difference in communities across the globe.

The Master's programme in Global Health at the University of Copenhagen offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary education designed to prepare students for addressing complex health challenges worldwide. This programme emphasizes the social, economic, political, and environmental determinants of health and aims to equip students with the analytical skills and practical knowledge necessary to developinnovative solutions to improve health outcomes globally. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including infectious and non-communicable diseases, health policy and governance, health systems strengthening, and sustainable development. The curriculum integrates theoretical perspectives with practical applications, enabling students to critically analyze health issues in diverse cultural and socio-economic contexts. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and fieldwork, students will gain hands-on experience in research methodologies, data analysis, and policy assessment. The programme encourages collaborative learning and international perspectives, fostering a global outlook essential for careers in international organizations, NGOs, government agencies, and research institutions. Students will also have opportunities to engage in supervised thesis work, where they can contribute to current debates and research in global health. Interdisciplinary approaches are central to the programme, bringing together insights from public health, medicine, social sciences, economics, and environmental sciences. Graduates from this programme will possess a nuanced understanding of global health issues and be prepared to make meaningful contributions to public health interventions and policy development. The programme aims to develop future leaders who are committed to health equity, sustainability, and innovation in the pursuit of healthier populations worldwide.

Admission to the Global Health Master's program at the University of Copenhagen requires applicants to hold a Bachelor's degree or an equivalent higher education qualification in a relevant field such as health sciences, social sciences, humanities, or related disciplines. Applicants must demonstrate a strong academic background, typically with a minimum Grade Point Average (GPA) equivalent to a Danish 7, which is approximately 80-89% depending on the grading scale. Proficiency in English is mandatory, and applicants must provide proof of English language skills through recognized tests such as IELTS (minimum overall score of 6.5 with no section below 5.5), TOEFL iBT (minimum total score of 88 with minimum scores in individual sections), or equivalent certificates accepted by the university. Additionally, applicants are encouraged to submit a motivational letter outlining their interest in global health, relevant experiences, and career aspirations, which is considered during the selection process. Prior experience in health work, research, or related fields can strengthen an applicant’s profile but is not strictly mandatory. In some cases, applicants with relevant work or practical experiences in health or social sectors may receive consideration even if their academic qualifications slightly differ from the standard requirements. The program may also require specific documentation, including official transcripts, curriculum vitae (CV), degree certificates, and identification documents. In cases where applicants do not meet the formal academic or language requirements, they might have the opportunity to undertake additional coursework or assessments. The University of Copenhagen aims to select candidates who demonstrate academic aptitude, motivation, and a commitment to addressing global health challenges. Admission decisions are made based on a holistic review of all submitted documentation, experience, and motivation letters. International applicants should check the specific requirements and deadlines on the university’s official website, as these may vary yearly and depending on the applicant’s country of residence.

The University of Copenhagen offers various financing options for students pursuing the Master's degree in Global Health. Danish and international students can apply for government-funded student grants and loans through the Danish State Education Grant and Loan Scheme (SU). This scheme provides financial support to eligible students, covering tuition fees and living expenses during their studies. To qualify for SU, students must meet specific residency and academic criteria, including being enrolled full-time and pursuing a recognized higher education program in Denmark. Additionally, non-European Union students may be required to pay tuition fees unless they qualify for specific scholarships or grants. The university itself offers a limited number of scholarships based on academic excellence, financial need, or specific criteria set for particular programs or student categories. These scholarships can significantly aid students in covering tuition costs or living expenses. Students are encouraged to seek external funding opportunities such as Erasmus+ exchanges, which may include grants to support mobility, or scholarships from home country governments, foundations, or international organizations. Part-time work during studies is also a common way for students to supplement their income, with the university and local authorities providing information on employment rights and available job opportunities in Copenhagen. Overall, students should carefully review the eligibility requirements, application procedures, and deadlines associated with these various funding options. Early planning and consultation with university advisors, financial aid offices, and national scholarship bodies can improve the chances of securing adequate funding for the duration of the program. The combination of governmental grants, scholarships, external funding, and part-time employment offers a comprehensive approach to financing studies at the University of Copenhagen.

The Master’s degree in Global Health at the University of Copenhagen is designed to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of health issues that transcend national boundaries and require global solutions. The programme focuses on the social, economic, environmental, and political determinants of health, aiming to prepare students for interdisciplinary work in international health organizations, research institutions, governments, and non-governmental organizations. Throughout the course of study, students explore topics such as infectious and non-communicable diseases, health systems, health policies, and the challenges of health equity, sustainability, and access to healthcare across different populations and regions. The curriculum emphasizes critical analysis, research skills, and the application of theoretical knowledge to real-world scenarios, often encouraging students to engage in fieldwork, internships, and collaborative projects focused on pressing global health issues.

Students learn from faculty who are experts in epidemiology, public health, health policy, and social medicine. The programme fosters an international perspective, with a diverse student body and a curriculum that integrates international case studies and comparative analysis. Graduates are equipped to work in multidisciplinary teams tackling complex health challenges such as pandemics, climate change impacts on health, and health disparities. The programme aims to develop not only academic competence but also practical skills necessary for innovative problem-solving and policy development.

The University of Copenhagen's Global Health programme also emphasizes research competence, preparing students for careers in academia or advanced research settings. Graduates often pursue roles in international organizations such as WHO, UN agencies, NGOs, or governmental health departments, contributing to policy formulation, program implementation, and health advocacy on a global scale. The programme is typically offered as a two-year Master's degree, combining lectures, seminars, practical assignments, and research projects. It provides both a broad overview of global health issues and specialized knowledge in key thematic areas, supported by the university's extensive international network and research facilities.