Health Research

This progamme is designed to be taken by Academic Clinical Fellows alongside work commitments, the Health Research programme exists in order to enable students to:

• develop skills of research, design and data analysis in both qualitative and quantitative research
• critically evaluate health research
• identify, critically appraise and incorporate the results of medical and social science research into the day-to-day decision-making of clinical, scientific and administrative practice
• apply the principles of evidence-based practice in health care settings
• plan how to implement the findings of research to improve health care
• use theories and principles underpinning clinical research to inform their own research practice.

The programme is delivered through the Department for Continuing Education, with the expertise in curriculum design and teaching drawn from the Nuffield Department of Primary Care Health Sciences, the Centre for Evidence-Based Medicine, and the Oxford University Clinical Academic Graduate School.

The Postgraduate Certificate is normally completed between 1-2 years. It consists of three assessed taught modules and includes thorough introductions to the principles of evidence-based practice in health, and to study design and research methods.

The two compulsory modules are:

• The Practice of Evidence-Based Health Care
• Introduction to Study Design and Research Methods

The third module may be chosen from the following list:

• Clinical Trial Management
• Ethics for Biosciences
• Mixed Methods in Health Research
• Knowledge into Action
• Evidence-based Diagnosis and Screening
• Introduction to Statistics for Health Care Research
• Systematic Reviews
• Randomized Controlled Trials
• Qualitative Research Methods
• The Structure of Clinical Trials and Experimental Therapeutics
• How to do Research on Therapeutic Interventions: Protocol preparation
• Biological Therapeutics
• Pharmacodynamics, Biomarkers and Personalised Therapy
• Adverse drug reactions, drug interactions and Pharmacovigilance
• Drug development, Pharmacokinetics and Imaging

Assessment methods

To complete the Postgraduate Certificate students must:

• Attend and complete the 2 compulsory modules and 1 option module.

Students will also be expected to complete three written assignments, usually of no more than 4000 words, one on each of the chosen modules above.

With the exception of the online modules, the EBHC modules are based on an eight week study cycle. Week One is a preparatory week where you may be required to undertake some pre-reading and to familiarise yourself with the Virtual Learning Environment. During Week Two you are required to attend the face to face teaching week in Oxford. This is followed by an additional six weeks where you are expected to participate in online activities and submit your assignment

Applicants are normally expected to be predicted or have achieved a first-class or strong upper second-class undergraduate degree with honours (or equivalent international qualifications), as a minimum, in an appropriate discipline, or have an equivalent professional qualification in a profession allied to medicine with  post-qualification experience, or have successfully completed the final year of the Bachelor of Medicine and Bachelor of Surgery or Bachelor of Dental Surgery or equivalent.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA we seek is 3.6 out of 4.0.

If you hold non-UK qualifications and wish to check how your qualifications match these requirements, you can contact the National Recognition Information Centre for the United Kingdom (UK NARIC).

No Graduate Record Examination (GRE) or GMAT scores are sought.

• Official transcript(s)
• CV/résumé
• Personal statement:One page
• Written work:Two essays of 2,000 words each
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive range of financing options for students enrolled in its Health Research programmes, including scholarships, grants, and financial aid. Prospective students are encouraged to explore the various funding sources available through the university's dedicated financial aid office and the specific departmental pages. Oxford provides numerous scholarships based on academic merit, need, and country of residence, which can significantly offset tuition fees and living expenses. For international students, there are specialized scholarships such as the Oxford-Microsoft Scholarship, Rhodes Trust Scholarships, and others tailored to different regions. Additionally, the university collaborates with external organizations and research councils to fund research projects and stipends for postgraduate students in health research fields. Many students also opt for external loans and sponsorships from government agencies or health organizations in their home countries. The university offers financial guidance and application support to help students identify appropriate funding routes early in the application process. Tuition fees vary depending on the specific programme and student's residency status but are generally competitive compared to other leading institutions. Oxford's funding options aim to ensure that qualified students from diverse backgrounds can pursue advanced studies in health research without financial barriers. Moreover, certain programmes may include funding for research activities, conference attendance, and professional development, further supporting students' academic and career growth. It is recommended that applicants review the detailed Funding and Scholarships section on the university's official website for the most current information and deadlines. Overall, Oxford University strives to make health research education accessible through a robust suite of financial support mechanisms, helping to foster the next generation of health scientists and researchers.

The MSc in Health Research at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate programme designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge to conduct high-quality health research. The programme spans typically one year full-time and is tailored for individuals interested in the scientific, ethical, and practical aspects of health research. Students will gain a solid grounding in research methodology, statistical analysis, and the ethical considerations vital to health research. The curriculum often includes modules in epidemiology, clinical trials, health data analysis, and systematic reviews, preparing graduates to design, implement, and evaluate health research projects effectively.

Oxford’s programme emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, often involving opportunities for students to undertake supervised research projects, contribute to ongoing research within the university, and develop critical appraisal skills. Students benefit from access to Oxford’s extensive resources, including world-renowned research centers, libraries, and collaborations with leading health organizations. The programme is suitable for medical professionals, researchers, public health practitioners, and policymakers aiming to advance their careers by gaining a deeper understanding of research techniques and evidence-based practice.

The university fosters a collaborative learning environment with a diverse student cohort from around the world, facilitating international perspectives on health challenges. Graduates of the MSc in Health Research often proceed to careers in academic research, healthcare policy, clinical practice, or continue their studies at doctoral level. The programme's structure ensures a balance of lectures, seminars, practical workshops, and independent study, culminating in a dissertation that requires students to demonstrate their ability to plan and execute a research project comprehensively. Overall, the MSc in Health Research at Oxford is designed to develop future leaders in health sciences, equipping them with the skills necessary to improve health outcomes through rigorous research.