Health Economics, Policy and Management

The Master’s Programme in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with the knowledge, skills, and competencies necessary to analyze and address complex issues within the healthcare sector. This programme combines rigorous training in economic analysis with insights into health policy, organizational management, and the ethical considerations surrounding healthcare delivery. It aims to prepare graduates for careers in health policy analysis, healthcare management, consulting, research, and leadership roles within the health sector at national and international levels.

Throughout the programme, students will explore the principles of health economics, including resource allocation, cost-effectiveness analysis, and health technology assessment. They will examine the structure and functioning of health systems, strategies for improving healthcare quality, and methods to promote equitable access to health services. The curriculum emphasizes evidence-based decision making, policy development, and the economic evaluation of health interventions. In addition to theoretical understanding, students will develop practical skills through case studies, project work, and internships, enabling them to apply their knowledge to real-world challenges.

The programme fosters an analytical mindset, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate complex ideas effectively. It also encourages collaboration across disciplines, preparing students to work in diverse teams and multicultural environments. Students have opportunities to specialize in areas such as healthcare management, health policy, or health economics, tailoring their education to their career aspirations. The degree provides a solid foundation for further academic research at the PhD level or for entering professional roles influencing health policy and management in governments, NGOs, international organizations, and private sector entities.

With access to expert faculty members and cutting-edge research facilities, students at the University of Oslo will be positioned at the forefront of developments in health economics and policy. Engagement with current issues such as aging populations, technological innovations in healthcare, and sustainable healthcare financing ensures that graduates are well prepared to contribute meaningfully to ongoing reforms and improvements within the health sector. The programme’s international orientation, combined with a solid grounding in Norwegian and European health systems, makes it especially relevant for those seeking careers with a global perspective on health economics and policy challenges.

Overall, the Master’s in Health Economics, Policy and Management offers a rigorous, interdisciplinary education designed to develop highly qualified professionals capable of making vital contributions to the development of equitable, efficient, and sustainable health systems worldwide.

The Master’s in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo is a comprehensive program designed to prepare students for leadership roles in the healthcare sector. The program offers an interdisciplinary curriculum that combines economic analysis, policy formulation, health system management, and ethical considerations to equip students with the skills needed to address complex challenges in health and healthcare. Throughout the program, students will explore key topics such as health economic evaluation, healthcare financing, health policy analysis, and the organization and management of health services. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, enabling students to develop analytical and strategic skills applicable to policy development, health system reform, and resource allocation.

Students will have opportunities to examine current issues such as rising healthcare costs, equitable access to healthcare services, and the impact of technological advancements on health systems. The program includes case studies, empirical research, and policy analysis exercises, fostering a critical and evidence-based approach to decision-making in health management. In addition, students can engage with ongoing research projects and internships, gaining valuable real-world experience and professional networks.

The coursework is delivered by expert faculty members with backgrounds in health economics, public health, health policy, and management. Collaborations with national and international health organizations provide practical insights and facilitate networking opportunities. The program aims to produce graduates who are capable of designing, implementing, and evaluating health policies and management strategies that improve health outcomes and ensure sustainable health systems. Upon completion, students will be well-equipped for careers in government agencies, international health organizations, consultancy firms, research institutions, and the private healthcare sector. The Master’s program in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo is dedicated to fostering innovative, analytical, and ethical practitioners committed to advancing global health.

Program requirements for the Master's programme in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo include a Bachelor’s degree or equivalent with a specialization related to health sciences, economics, or social sciences. Applicants must demonstrate proficiency in English through standardized tests such as TOEFL or IELTS, with minimum scores set by the university. Prior coursework in health economics, management, policy analysis, or related fields is advantageous but not mandatory. The program seeks candidates with strong analytical skills, interest in health systems, and motivation to contribute to health policy development. The application process requires submission of academic transcripts, a CV, a motivational letter explaining the applicant's interest and relevant experience, and references. The selected students are expected to participate in core modules covering health economics, healthcare management, health policy analysis, and research methods. Active participation in seminars, group discussions, and project work is mandatory. The program emphasizes research skills, critical thinking, and practical application through case studies and internships. Candidates should also meet any specific prerequisites listed during the application period. Admission is competitive and based on academic performance, motivation, and relevant experience. The program prepares students for careers in health policy analysis, healthcare management, consultancy, and research institutions, fostering skills needed to improve health systems and policy frameworks globally.

The financing of the Master’s programme in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo is primarily composed of tuition fees and potential funding opportunities. As a Norwegian public university, the University of Oslo generally offers tuition-free education for students from Norway and the European Union/European Economic Area (EU/EEA). Therefore, residents of these regions do not typically pay tuition fees for this programme, which significantly reduces the financial burden for eligible students. However, non-EU/EEA international students are subject to tuition fees, which vary depending on the specific programme and year of study, generally ranging from approximately 80,000 to 130,000 Norwegian kroner per year. These fees contribute to the university's revenue and are used to sustain high-quality education, research activities, and student services.

In addition to tuition fees, prospective students may explore various funding sources to finance their studies. Norwegian government scholarships and grants are available for eligible students, especially those from developing countries or underrepresented regions. International students can also apply for external funding through bilateral agreements, scholarships from their home countries, and organizations that support international education. The University of Oslo itself offers some scholarships aimed at international students, which can cover partial or full tuition fees, as well as living expenses.

Students may also seek financial support through student loans, which are available through the Norwegian State Educational Loan Fund (Lånekassen). These loans can cover both tuition fees (for non-EU/EEA students) and living expenses and are repayable after graduation. Applicants must meet specific criteria to be eligible for these loans, including academic progress and residence requirements.

Apart from direct financial aid, students are encouraged to seek part-time employment opportunities during their studies, although international students should be aware of visa regulations limiting work hours. On campus, students can access services and facilities that may help reduce costs, such as student discounts, affordable accommodation options, and various student support services.

Lastly, funding considerations for research activities associated with the programme may include grants from research councils, health agencies, and academic institutions. These are typically aimed at students involved in research projects or thesis work, and successful applicants may receive stipends or project funding to support their research endeavors during their studies. Overall, financing for the Master’s programme in Health Economics, Policy and Management involves a combination of potential tuition fees (for non-EU/EEA students), public and private scholarships, government loans, and personal or family support, with numerous pathways available for eligible students to secure adequate funding for successful completion of their studies.

The Master’s Programme in Health Economics, Policy and Management at the University of Oslo offers a comprehensive education designed to equip students with the necessary skills and knowledge to analyze and address complex issues in the healthcare sector. The program combines interdisciplinary perspectives from economics, health policy, and management to prepare graduates for careers in healthcare administration, policy analysis, research, and consultancy. It aims to develop students' abilities to evaluate health policies, manage healthcare organizations effectively, and understand the economic principles underlying healthcare systems worldwide.

Students enrolled in the programme engage with a variety of courses covering key topics such as health economics, health policy analysis, healthcare management, quantitative and qualitative research methods, and ethical considerations in healthcare. The curriculum emphasizes practical skills, including health economic evaluation, policy formulation, and strategic planning, which are essential for effective decision-making in healthcare environments. The programme also encourages critical thinking and an understanding of the socio-economic determinants of health, enabling future professionals to contribute to the development of sustainable and equitable health systems.

The programme is designed to provide both theoretical frameworks and practical experiences, often including case studies, projects, and internships. Students have access to the university’s extensive academic resources, including research centers specializing in health policy and economics. Moreover, the university collaborates with national and international health organizations, providing opportunities for networking and real-world engagement.

Graduates of the programme are well-prepared for roles within government agencies, international organizations, the private healthcare sector, and research institutions. They are equipped to analyze health data, develop policy recommendations, and lead healthcare initiatives that improve healthcare delivery and efficiency. The University of Oslo’s focus on research and innovation ensures that students are exposed to the latest developments in health economics and policy, fostering a deeper understanding of current challenges and future trends in global health systems.

The programme typically lasts two years for full-time students, culminating in a master’s thesis that allows students to investigate a specific issue in health economics or policy in depth. The multicultural environment at the university encourages collaborative learning among students from diverse backgrounds, enhancing their global perspective on health issues. Overall, this Master’s Programme aims to produce highly skilled professionals capable of making impactful contributions to health policy and management both within Norway and internationally.