Health Services Research

Health Services Research at City University is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the skills and knowledge necessary to analyze and improve healthcare systems. This interdisciplinary program combines expertise from health economics, management, policy analysis, and public health to prepare graduates for careers in research, policy development, and health service management. Students will explore the complexities of healthcare delivery, quality improvement, patient safety, and health policy, gaining practical experience in data analysis, research methodologies, and evidence-based decision-making. The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical foundations and real-world applications, enabling students to assess healthcare interventions, evaluate service effectiveness, and contribute to the development of efficient, equitable, and sustainable health services. Delivered by experienced faculty with strong links to industry and policy organizations, the program ensures that graduates are well-equipped to tackle current challenges in healthcare systems both locally and globally. Through a combination of lectures, workshops, case studies, and research projects, students will develop critical thinking and analytical skills vital for leadership roles in health services research. The program also provides opportunities for networking with professionals and researchers in the healthcare sector, fostering collaborations that can enhance career prospects. Upon completion, graduates will be prepared for roles such as health services researcher, policy analyst, healthcare manager, or consultant, working to improve health outcomes and optimize resource allocation in diverse settings. Whether students aspire to contribute to academic research, inform health policies, or manage healthcare organizations, this program offers a rigorous and rewarding pathway to making a positive impact on health systems worldwide.

The MSc in Health Services Research at City University offers a comprehensive and in-depth exploration of the principles, methodologies, and applications vital to improving healthcare delivery and policy. This program is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to analyze complex health systems, evaluate healthcare interventions, and inform evidence-based decision-making within diverse healthcare settings. Throughout the course, students will engage with a wide range of topics, including health economics, health policy analysis, epidemiology, data management, and qualitative and quantitative research methods.

The curriculum emphasizes both theoretical knowledge and practical skills. Students will learn how to design and conduct research studies, analyze healthcare data, and interpret findings to support healthcare improvements. The program also covers critical areas such as health inequalities, service delivery, quality assurance, and patient safety. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, workshops, and project work, students gain hands-on experience with real-world healthcare research challenges.

A key feature of the MSc in Health Services Research is the opportunity for students to undertake research projects, often in collaboration with NHS organizations and other healthcare providers. This practical approach allows students to apply their learning to real healthcare issues, enhancing their employability and readiness for a career in academia, policy-making, or healthcare management. The program is suitable for recent graduates from health sciences, social sciences, and related disciplines, as well as healthcare professionals seeking to expand their research expertise.

Graduates of this program will be equipped to contribute to the evidence base that informs effective health policies and practices. They will have the analytical tools to evaluate healthcare programs, improve service delivery, and influence health policy decisions locally, nationally, and internationally. With a strong emphasis on interdisciplinary learning and practical application, the MSc in Health Services Research prepares students to become leaders in the pursuit of high-quality, equitable healthcare systems worldwide.

The MSc in Health Services Research at City University requires applicants to possess a good honours degree (2:1 or above) in a health-related or social science discipline. Prior research experience or relevant work experience in health or social care sectors is desirable but not mandatory. Applicants must submit a completed application form along with a personal statement outlining their motivation for studying the programme and relevant experience. Two academic references should be provided, ideally including one from a academic or professional supervisor familiar with the applicant’s work. Proficiency in English language is mandatory for non-native speakers, with acceptable tests including IELTS (minimum score of 7.0 overall, with no component below 6.5) or equivalent tests such as TOEFL. Prior to registration, applicants may be asked to attend an interview or provide additional documentation to demonstrate their suitability for the programme. The programme standards emphasize the importance of a strong academic background combined with interest and motivation in health services research. Candidates should demonstrate an understanding of health issues, research methods, and policy analysis. Specific technical requirements include familiarity with quantitative and qualitative research methodologies, data analysis software, and a basic understanding of health policy frameworks. The programme also encourages applicants to articulate their career plans and how the MSc will support their professional development. In some cases, relevant professional experience may compensate for a lower academic qualification, assessed on a case-by-case basis. Successful applicants will be notified via formal offer, with further instructions provided on registration procedures, orientation, and induction activities. The programme aims to assemble a diverse student body, so applications from international students are welcomed, provided they meet the English language and academic criteria.

The financing of the Health Services Research program at City University is structured to provide students with accessible and flexible options to support their educational pursuits. Tuition fees are set annually and are published on the university's official website, offering transparency and up-to-date information for prospective students. The program may benefit from a range of funding sources, including government-funded scholarships, bursaries, and financial aid programs aimed at supporting students pursuing health-related research degrees. City University actively encourages applicants to explore external funding opportunities, such as research grants and industry sponsorships, which can help offset tuition costs and provide additional financial support during their studies.

Students may also have the opportunity to work part-time within university-affiliated research projects or administrative roles, which serve as both income sources and practical experience enhancers. The university offers guidance and counseling services to assist students in navigating the financial aspects of their education, including applying for various funding schemes and understanding loan options available through national financial institutions. In addition, some students may qualify for targeted government grants aimed at promoting health research and public health initiatives, thereby reducing their financial burden.

City University is committed to making higher education accessible and strives to keep the cost of the program manageable through a variety of financial support mechanisms. The university regularly reviews its fee structure in conjunction with inflation and market conditions to ensure affordability. International students are advised to consult the dedicated section for information on international fee rates and specific funding opportunities available to them. Overall, the financing system for the Health Services Research program is designed to facilitate student access to high-quality education while minimizing financial hardship, thereby enabling students to focus on their academic and professional development in the field of health services research.

The MSc in Health Services Research at City University provides students with a comprehensive understanding of the fundamental principles and methodologies used to evaluate and improve health services. This programme is designed to equip students with the skills necessary to conduct high-quality health research, analyze health data, and contribute to policy development and decision-making within the healthcare sector. The course curriculum covers key topics such as health economics, epidemiology, statistical methods, health policy, and management, offering a multidisciplinary approach to health services analysis. Students will engage in practical research projects, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world health issues and develop critical analytical skills. The programme also emphasizes the importance of evidence-based practice, encouraging learners to interpret complex health data effectively and communicate their findings clearly to stakeholders, including policymakers, healthcare professionals, and the public. With close collaboration with industry partners and access to extensive health data sources, students gain valuable insights into current challenges faced by health systems and innovative solutions to address them. The programme prepares graduates for careers in health research, policy analysis, healthcare management, and consultancy, both within the UK and internationally. Graduates may work in national health agencies, healthcare providers, research institutions, or as independent consultants. Through a combination of lectures, seminars, research projects, and networking opportunities, the MSc in Health Services Research ensures students are well-equipped with the knowledge and skills required for the dynamic landscape of health services and policy development. The programme is suited for healthcare professionals, researchers, and graduates in related disciplines seeking to deepen their understanding of health systems and improve health outcomes through rigorous research.