Global Health and Development

The MSc in Global Health and Development at University College London offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary exploration of the key issues surrounding health and development in a global context. Designed for students aiming to understand the complex factors that influence health outcomes worldwide, this program combines insights from medicine, public health, social sciences, economics, and political sciences. Participants will examine the social determinants of health, health disparities, infectious and non-communicable diseases, and the impacts of globalization on health systems. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical frameworks and practical applications, preparing students to address current and emerging global health challenges effectively.

Students will engage with a diverse range of topics including health policy, epidemiology, health systems strengthening, environmental influences on health, and human rights. The program encourages critical thinking and equips students with analytical skills necessary to evaluate health initiatives, research projects, and policies aimed at improving health equity worldwide. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, case studies, and research projects, students will gain a thorough understanding of how development processes impact health outcomes in different regions, especially low- and middle-income countries.

The program also emphasizes international collaboration and cross-disciplinary approaches, fostering a global perspective on health issues. Students have the opportunity to participate in fieldwork and internships, providing valuable practical experience and networking opportunities within the global health sector. The MSc prepares graduates for careers in international organizations, governmental agencies, NGOs, research institutions, and policy development roles. With a commitment to social justice and equitable health access, this program aims to develop future leaders who are equipped to create sustainable and impactful health improvements around the world.

The programme challenges students to understand the complex forces that shape health worldwide, by developing their understanding of the principles underlying research, policy and practice in global health, fostering critical thinking, and building transferable skills.

Students undertake modules to the value of 180 credits.

The programme consists of four core modules (60 credits), four optional modules (60 credits) and a research dissertation (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Diploma (120 credits, nine months full-time, two to five years flexible study) is offered. Students take four core modules (60 credits) and four optional modules (60 credits).

A Postgraduate Certificate (60 credits, three months full-time, two years' flexible study) is offered. Students take four core modules (60 credits)

Core modules

• Concepts and Controversies in Global Health
• Research Methods and Evidence for Global Health
• Power and Politics in Global Health
• Health Systems in a Global Context

Optional modules

IGH reserves the right not to run modules with less than 10 students registered. 

• Options may include the following:
• Anthropological Perspectives on Global Health
• Conflict, Humanitarianism and Health
• Climate Change and Health
• Disability and Development
• Economic Evaluation in Health Care
• Essentials of International Child Health
• Evaluating Interventions
• Global Health Promotion
• Health Management: Planning and Programme Design
• Infectious Diseases Epidemiology and Global Health Policy
• Key Principles of Health Economics
• Law and Governance of Global Health
• Nutrition and Public Health
• Perinatal Epidemiology and Maternal Health
• Research in Action: the Qualitative Approach
• Collecting and Using Data: Essentials of Quantitative Survey Research
• Social Determinants of Health
• Urban Health

Dissertation/report

All MSc students undertake an individual research project on a topic relevant to future work in global health and development which includes a presentation and culminates in a dissertation of 7,000 words.

Teaching and learning

The programme is taught with an emphasis on collaborative and co-operative learning to ensure that students enter the workforce capable of joining projects and programmes where working in teams is important. Assessment is through written assignments, unseen written examinations, projects, oral presentations, group work, and the written dissertation.

Normally a minimum of an upper second-class UK Bachelor's degree or an overseas qualification of an equivalent standard. Professional experience in the fields of health and development is desirable. An applicant whose qualifications vary from UCL standards may be admitted if evidence of an adequate academic background and work experience in an appropriate field can be shown.

The MSc in Global Health and Development at University College London (UCL) offers a variety of financing options to support students' educational pursuits. International and domestic students are encouraged to explore scholarships, studentships, and bursaries available through UCL and external sources. UCL provides a range of scholarships specifically for international students, which cover partial or full tuition fees; applicants are advised to check the university's Scholarships and Funding webpage for updated opportunities. Additionally, UCL offers departmental funding opportunities, including awards dedicated to students enrolling in global health-related programs. Students may also consider external funding sources such as governmental scholarships, private foundations, and international organizations that support health and development studies.

Students are encouraged to submit applications early, as many scholarships have deadlines several months before the start of the academic year. For international students, there are specific scholarships aimed at supporting students from low- and middle-income countries, recognizing the global importance of addressing health disparities. Financial aid may also be available in the form of loans or research grants, particularly for students engaged in research components of the program. The program's tuition fees vary depending on the student's fee status (home or international) and are subject to annual increases; detailed fee information can be found on the UCL website.

In addition to scholarships, students are advised to explore part-time work opportunities both within UCL and in the surrounding London area, subject to visa restrictions for international students. Some students may also qualify for income support or hardship funds if they face unforeseen financial difficulties. It is recommended that prospective students contact UCL's Student Funding Office for personalized guidance and advice on available financial support mechanisms. Overall, UCL endeavors to make global health and development studies attainable by providing diverse financing options, but securing funding often requires proactive application and timely submission of supporting documents.

The MSc Global Health and Development at University College London offers an interdisciplinary approach to understanding and addressing the complex health challenges faced by populations around the world. This programme is designed for students interested in exploring the social, economic, political, and environmental factors that influence health and well-being in different contexts. The curriculum covers a range of topics including global health policy, health systems strengthening, infectious and non-communicable diseases, health inequality, and sustainable development goals. Students will develop critical skills in research, policy analysis, and program implementation, preparing them for careers in healthcare organizations, governments, NGOs, and international agencies. The programme combines theoretical foundations with practical experiences, often including case studies, guest lectures from industry experts, and potential research projects. Students also have access to a wide network of alumni and partnerships with health organizations worldwide, enhancing opportunities for internships and collaborative work. The MSc is suitable for recent graduates from health sciences, social sciences, or related fields, as well as professionals seeking to deepen their understanding of global health issues. Graduates of this programme are equipped to contribute effectively to efforts aimed at reducing health disparities and promoting equitable health outcomes globally.