African Studies with Health

The MSc in African Studies with Health at University College London offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the complex relationship between African societies, health systems, and health challenges. This innovative programme combines core academic disciplines such as anthropology, history, politics, and health sciences to provide students with a comprehensive understanding of health issues facing African populations, both historically and in contemporary contexts. Designed for students interested in health policy, public health, development, and social sciences, the programme equips learners with critical analytical skills and practical knowledge necessary to address health disparities and improve health outcomes across Africa.

Throughout the course, students will explore key topics including infectious and chronic diseases endemic to the continent, the impact of colonialism and globalization on health systems, traditional healing practices, the role of international agencies, and the political economy of health. The curriculum emphasizes a multidisciplinary perspective, encouraging students to critically assess health interventions, policies, and practices through cultural, social, and political lenses.

The programme also offers opportunities for hands-on research, fieldwork, and internships, allowing students to gain valuable practical experience and to develop networks with health practitioners, policy-makers, and academic researchers. Students will analyze case studies from diverse African countries to understand the complexities and unique features of health challenges and systemic responses.

Graduates of this programme will be well-prepared for careers in international development, health policy, NGOs, research institutions, and government agencies. They will possess a nuanced understanding of how historical, cultural, and political factors influence health outcomes in Africa, and how to design effective, culturally sensitive health interventions. The MSc in African Studies with Health at UCL is ideal for individuals seeking to make meaningful contributions to improving public health and addressing health inequalities across the African continent through interdisciplinary research, policy analysis, and practical engagement.

The programme provides a long-term historical perspective on social, environmental and political issues in Africa, as well as introductory training in key humanities and social sciences research methods. Students then choose from a range of options in Global Health to learn about the specialist issues which concern them most.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of three core modules (45 credits), three optional modules (45 credits) and a dissertation/report (90 credits).

Core modules

• Africa: Dialogues of Past and Present
• Debating Africa's Future
• Research Methods in African Studies

Optional modules

• Students choose three from a range of options including the following:
• Concepts and Controversies in Global Health
• Conflict, Humanitarianism and Health
• Corruption and Global Health
• Global Health Promotion
• Global Justice and Health
• Health Systems in Global Context
• Medical Anthropology
• Power and Politics in Global Health
• Reproduction, Sex and Sexuality
• Research Methods and Evidence for Global Health

Dissertation/report

All students undertake an independent research project which culminates in a dissertation of 15,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is delivered through a combination of lectures and seminars and guided independent research. Assessment is through essays, portfolio, research proposal and examination.

A minimum of an upper second-class Bachelor's degree in a relevant discipline from a UK university or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard.

The University College London (UCL) offers a comprehensive funding and financing scheme for students enrolled in the African Studies with Health program. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a variety of funding options to support their studies, including scholarships, grants, loans, and bursaries. UCL provides several merit-based scholarships specifically aimed at international students and those pursuing interdisciplinary programs, which can significantly offset tuition fees. Additionally, the university offers the UCL Graduate Research Scholarships and departmental funding options that cover tuition fees partially or in full, based on academic performance and financial need. Students are also advised to seek external sponsorships and funding sources from government agencies, non-governmental organizations, and international bodies focused on African development and health issues.

The university’s financial aid office provides detailed guidance on applying for funding, including deadlines, eligibility criteria, and application procedures. Tuition fee payment plans are available to spread costs over multiple installments to ease financial burden. Moreover, students may apply for student loans from government schemes or private lenders where applicable, especially for international students who qualify under specific criteria. For those enrolled in research components of the program, research grants may be accessible through university partnerships or external funding bodies focused on health research in Africa. UCL also encourages students to participate in work-study programs and part-time employment opportunities on campus to supplement their income during studies. International students should also consider visa-related financial requirements, including proof of funds for study visas. Overall, UCL is committed to supporting its students financially through diverse and accessible funding options, ensuring that talented aspirants from around the world can pursue their academic and research interests in African Studies with Health without undue financial hardship.

The degree programme in African Studies with Health at University College London offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding the diverse social, political, cultural, and health-related issues affecting African nations and communities. This programme provides students with a comprehensive curriculum that combines core modules in African history, politics, anthropology, and literature with specialized courses focusing on health systems, public health challenges, epidemiology, and healthcare policies prevalent across the continent. Students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of the intersection between health and societal development, examining topics such as infectious diseases, healthcare delivery, health inequalities, and the impact of globalization on health outcomes in African countries. The programme emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical skills, including research methodologies, data analysis, and policy evaluation, enabling graduates to critically assess health interventions and contribute to policy formulation. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, fieldwork opportunities, and independent research projects, students gain valuable insights into the complexities of health issues unique to Africa while also engaging with broader global health debates. The programme prepares students for careers in international development, health policy, research, and advocacy, equipping them with the knowledge and skills necessary to make meaningful contributions to improving health and well-being across African populations. Additionally, students benefit from the university's strong links with African research institutes, NGOs, and health organizations, providing pathways for internships and collaborative projects. The programme encourages a multidisciplinary perspective, fostering critical thinking about how historical, cultural, economic, and political contexts influence health outcomes. Graduates are well-positioned to pursue further academic research or entry into professional fields focused on health and development issues in Africa and beyond.