Health Research

Introduction to the MSc in Health Research at the University of Oxford

The MSc in Health Research at the University of Oxford offers an exceptional opportunity for students to develop advanced skills and comprehensive knowledge in the field of health research. This rigorous program is designed for individuals seeking to deepen their understanding of research methodologies, epidemiology, biostatistics, and health data analysis, with a focus on improving health outcomes worldwide. Throughout the course, students will engage with a multidisciplinary curriculum that combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, preparing them to contribute effectively to research projects in academic, clinical, and policy settings.

The program covers a broad spectrum of topics including complex study design, statistical analysis, health systems, clinical trials, qualitative research methods, and health policy. Students will benefit from the university’s distinguished faculty, who are leading experts in translational medicine, public health, and epidemiology. The curriculum is structured to promote critical thinking, analytical skills, and ethical considerations in health research, thereby equipping graduates to design, implement, and evaluate research initiatives that can influence health practice and policy.

In addition to coursework, students have the opportunity to participate in research projects, internships, and collaborative work with healthcare professionals and institutions. The program also emphasizes the importance of effective communication of research findings through presentations, reports, and publications. Graduates of the MSc in Health Research will be well-positioned for careers in academia, government, NGOs, and the private sector, contributing to evidence-based health interventions and innovative solutions to global health challenges.

The MSc program typically lasts for one year full-time and is suitable for recent graduates in health sciences, medicine, social sciences, or related disciplines, as well as professionals aiming to enhance their research capabilities. The flexible structure allows for optional modules tailored to individual interests and career goals, ensuring a personalized educational experience aligned with current trends and future developments in health research.

Join the MSc in Health Research at Oxford and become part of a vibrant academic community dedicated to advancing health sciences through rigorous research and interdisciplinary collaboration. With world-class facilities, access to leading experts, and a global network of alumni, this program provides an ideal platform for aspiring health researchers to make meaningful contributions to improving health outcomes around the world.

The programmes are 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, the Clinical Academic Graduate School and the Department of Statistics.

The two compulsory modules are:

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

Three further modules may be chosen from List B
One further module either from List B or List C

List B

• 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
• Essential Medical Statistics
• 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

List C

• Quality Improvement Science and Systems Analysis
• Human Factors, Teamwork and Communication
• Becoming a Medical Educator
• Teaching Evidence-Based Practice
• History and Philosophy of Evidence-Based Health Care

A module is run over an eight week cycle where the first week is spent working on introductory activities using a Virtual Learning Environment, the second week is spent in Oxford for the face to face teaching week (this takes place on the dates advertised), there are then four Post-Oxford activities (delivered through the VLE) which are designed to help you write your assignment. You then have a week of personal study and you will be required to submit your assignment electronically the following week (usually on a Tuesday at 14:00 UK Local Time).

Online modules are delivered entirely through a Virtual Learning Environment with the first week allocated to introductory activities. There are ten units to work through which are released week by week (starting on the dates advertised), you then have five weeks of personal study with use of a revision forum and then you will be required to submit your assignment electronically the following week (usually on a Tuesday at 14:00 UK Local Time).

Assessment methods

To complete the Postgraduate Diploma students must:

• attend six modules, as detailed above
• successfully complete six written assignments, usually of no more than 4000 words, one on each of the chosen modules

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 normally 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

Want to improve your English level for admission?

Prepare for the program requirements with English Online by the British Council.

• ✔️ Flexible study schedule
• ✔️ Experienced teachers
• ✔️ Certificate upon completion

📘 Recommended for students with an IELTS level of 6.0 or below.

Enroll in the course

The University of Oxford offers various funding options and financial support for students enrolled in its Health Research programmes. Prospective students are encouraged to explore a range of scholarships, bursaries, and grants designed to assist with tuition fees and living expenses. For international students, Oxford provides specific funding opportunities which are often highly competitive, requiring a strong academic record and compelling research proposals. Domestic students can access government loans and支援 schemes, as well as university-based funding sources. The university's Graduate Funding Database is a comprehensive resource that lists available studentships, fellowships, and research grants applicable to health research disciplines. Many programmes also offer departmental scholarships, which are awarded based on merit or need. Additionally, students are advised to seek external funding from charitable foundations, professional organizations, and research councils, which sometimes offer targeted awards for health research investigations. The Erasmus+ programme and other international mobility funds may be applicable for students interested in collaborative or exchange components. Tuition fees vary depending on the specific programme and residency status, with detailed figures provided on the university’s official website. Applicants are recommended to apply early for financial support and to contact the university's Student Funding Office for personalized advice and guidance on available options. Furthermore, research students benefiting from funding may receive stipends or allowances to support their research activities. The university also facilitates access to part-time work opportunities on and around campus, which can help students manage their financial needs during their studies. All students are encouraged to review the eligibility criteria carefully and to prepare comprehensive application materials to maximize their chances of obtaining funding. Overall, Oxford’s financial support systems are designed to promote access to world-class health research education and ensure that deserving students can pursue their academic and research ambitions without undue financial hardship.

The MSc in Health Research at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive program designed to equip students with the essential skills and knowledge required to conduct high-quality health research. The program emphasizes both theoretical understanding and practical application, preparing graduates for careers in academia, healthcare, policy-making, and other sectors where health research is vital. Students will engage with a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, biostatistics, clinical trial design, health services research, and ethics in health research. The curriculum combines taught modules, research methods training, and a final research project, enabling students to develop independent research capabilities. The program benefits from Oxford's world-class faculty, extensive research resources, and connections with healthcare institutions, offering students a rich learning environment. Throughout the course, students are encouraged to foster critical thinking, analytical skills, and a strategic approach to addressing complex health issues. The program typically attracts a diverse cohort of students from various backgrounds, including medicine, public health, social sciences, and other related fields. Graduates of the MSc in Health Research often pursue careers in academic research, healthcare policy, industry, or continue their studies in doctoral programs. The program duration usually spans one year for full-time students, with part-time options possibly available. Admission requirements include a relevant academic background, proficiency in English, and interest in health research. The University of Oxford ensures that the curriculum remains up-to-date with current trends and advances, incorporating case studies, industry collaborations, and opportunities for practical research experiences. This robust academic offering aims to produce skilled researchers capable of making meaningful contributions to global health improvements.