Health and Human Sciences

The MSc in Health and Human Sciences at the University of Sheffield offers a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach to understanding the complex factors that influence health, wellbeing, and human development. Designed for students aspiring to make a positive impact in healthcare, social services, research, or policy-making, this programme provides a solid foundation in both theoretical concepts and practical applications. Throughout the course, students explore a wide range of topics including health promotion, disease prevention, health policy, social determinants of health, psychology, sociology, and public health. The curriculum emphasizes critical thinking, research skills, and evidence-based practice, enabling graduates to address contemporary challenges in healthcare systems and communities. The programme encourages an interdisciplinary perspective, integrating insights from social sciences and health sciences to develop a holistic understanding of health issues. Students benefit from diverse teaching methods, including lectures, seminars, case studies, and hands-on research projects, often collaborating with local health organizations and community groups. The course is suitable for graduates from various backgrounds such as biomedical sciences, social sciences, or health-related disciplines, seeking to enhance their knowledge and career prospects in health and human sciences. Graduates of the MSc in Health and Human Sciences are well-equipped to work in a variety of settings including public health agencies, non-governmental organizations, healthcare providers, research institutes, or pursue further academic research. The programme features expert instruction from faculty members who are active researchers and practitioners in their fields, offering contemporary insights and real-world relevance. With a strong focus on employability and professional development, the course prepares students to influence health policies, develop innovative health interventions, and contribute to improving health outcomes on local, national, and global scales. By fostering a collaborative learning environment, the University of Sheffield ensures that graduates leave with the skills, knowledge, and ethical awareness necessary to thrive in a dynamic and evolving sector dedicated to advancing human health and wellbeing.

First year

Core modules:

• Introduction to Epidemiology
• Health Inequalities
• Making use of Information
• Organisation of Modern Health Care
• Sociological Approaches to Health and Illness
• Studying in Higher Education
• The Body in Health 1
• The Body in Health 2
• Health Challenge - Local Engagement Global Citizenship

Optional modules:

• Health Promotion
• User expectations of health and social care

Second year

Core modules:

• Communication in Health Care
• Research Methods and Paradigms
• Health Care Management
• Health Psychology
• Making Sense of Health Policy
• The Body in Illness

Optional modules:

• Perspectives on Pain
• Understanding `Family' in Health and Social Care
• Ageing, Health and Wellbeing
• Biography and narrative in palliative, supportive and end of life care

Third year

Core modules:

• Dissertation

Optional modules:

• Current and Future Challenges in Health and Social Care
• Ethics in Practice
• Health and Human Sciences Placement
• Maastricht University Study Placement
• The Biomedical Basis of Disease Management

Requirements

• International students need overall IELTS grade of 6.5 with a minimum of 6.0 in each component, or an equivalent English language qualification
• All applications for undergraduate programmes should be made through UCAS.
• Successful completion of a first year of Bachelor degree/Bakalvr from a recognised institution or a Diploma of Completed Specialised Secondary Education (basic level) will be considered.

Tuition fees for the Health and Human Sciences programs at the University of Sheffield vary depending on the level of study and the student’s residency status. For UK students, the annual tuition fees typically range from approximately £9,250 for undergraduate degrees to about £18,000 for postgraduate taught programs. International students can expect to pay fees that are generally higher, often in the range of £18,000 to £25,000 annually, depending on the specific course and level of study. In addition to tuition fees, students should budget for living expenses, which include accommodation, food, transportation, books, and personal expenses. The estimated cost of living in Sheffield is around £9,000 to £12,000 per year for students living out of home.

The University of Sheffield offers various funding options to support students financially. For UK students, these include government-backed loans, grants, and bursaries. Undergraduate students can apply for student loans through the Student Loans Company, which typically cover tuition fees and maintenance costs. Postgraduate students may be eligible for Research Council funding, scholarships, or university-specific bursaries. International students are encouraged to explore scholarships such as the University of Sheffield International Undergraduate Scholarships and Postgraduate Scholarships, which provide merit-based awards to outstanding applicants.

The university also provides information on external funding sources, including national research councils, charitable organizations, and international scholarship programs. Many students choose to supplement their funding with part-time work during their studies; Sheffield’s student job shop and career services facilitate employment opportunities on and off-campus.

Financial aid application deadlines vary depending on the chosen funding source and level of study; therefore, students are advised to consult the university’s scholarship and finance pages early in their application process. Additionally, the university’s financial aid office offers guidance on budgeting, managing tuition payments, and accessing emergency financial support if needed. Overall, the university is committed to making higher education accessible and supports students through a comprehensive range of financial assistance options, ensuring that students can focus on their academic and professional development without undue financial hardship.

The University of Sheffield offers a comprehensive degree program in Health and Human Sciences designed to provide students with a strong foundation in understanding the complex factors that influence health and well-being. This program combines various disciplines such as psychology, sociology, public health, and human biology to equip graduates with the knowledge and skills necessary to address contemporary health challenges. Throughout the course, students engage in a mix of theoretical learning and practical application, including research projects, case studies, and fieldwork, which enhance their analytical and problem-solving abilities. The curriculum is structured to ensure students develop a critical understanding of health issues from individual, community, and policy perspectives.

The program emphasizes interdisciplinary approaches and encourages students to consider social determinants of health, health promotion, disease prevention, and health policy development. It prepares graduates for careers in diverse fields such as public health, healthcare management, health education, policy analysis, research, and community development. Students benefit from the university’s strong links with healthcare providers, community organizations, and government agencies, providing numerous opportunities for internships and collaborative projects. The teaching staff comprises experts in areas including epidemiology, social sciences, and clinical research, ensuring that students receive up-to-date knowledge and insights.

Facilities include access to specialized labs, research centers, and libraries with extensive health and social sciences collections. The university fosters an inclusive and innovative learning environment, supporting student development through seminars, workshops, and online resources. Graduates of the program are well-prepared for further study or direct entry into health-related professions, contributing effectively to improving health outcomes and promoting health equity in various settings locally, nationally, and internationally. Overall, this degree aims to produce informed, reflective, and socially responsible health professionals capable of making a positive impact on individual and public health.