Healthcare: Management, Policy and Research

The MSc in Healthcare: Management, Policy and Research at the University of Southampton is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with the essential knowledge and skills needed to excel in the complex world of healthcare systems. This course offers an in-depth understanding of healthcare management, policy formulation, and research methodologies, preparing graduates for leadership roles within various healthcare organizations, government agencies, and research institutions. Throughout the programme, students explore the fundamental principles of healthcare management, including strategic planning, finance, human resources, and quality improvement. They also examine contemporary health policies at local, national, and international levels, gaining insights into policy development, implementation, and evaluation processes that influence healthcare delivery. An emphasis is placed on research skills, critical analysis, and evidence-based decision-making, enabling students to contribute to innovative solutions and policy reforms. The programme combines theoretical frameworks with practical applications, often involving case studies, real-world projects, and opportunities for engagement with healthcare professionals and policymakers. Students can tailor their studies through optional modules to suit specific interests, such as public health, health economics, or leadership in healthcare settings. The MSc programme typically spans one year full-time or part-time options, fostering an environment where students can develop both academically and professionally. Graduates of this programme are well-prepared to pursue careers in healthcare management, policy analysis, consultancy, or further academic research, making a meaningful impact on health systems and patient outcomes worldwide. With its robust curriculum and strong emphasis on practical skills, the MSc in Healthcare: Management, Policy and Research offers an excellent foundation for those dedicated to improving health and healthcare services through informed leadership and strategic innovation.

Detailed Course Facts

• English

Course Content

Each year of study on this degree is composed of three central components.

Firstly, the ‘core concepts' component gives you an understanding of the issues central to healthcare systems, management and policy.

Secondly, the ‘methods' component develops your understanding of quantitative and qualitative methods, as well as the crucial social scientific disciplines, which underpin that knowledge.

Thirdly, the ‘mentored independent study' component is where you will undertake research with the support and guidance of senior researchers and professors.

The yearlong placement begins at the end of year two.

More information can be found of the course webpage.

Requirements

GCSEs:

All applicants under 21 years of age are required to have a minimum of 7 GCSE including English and Maths at a minimum of grade B.

A Levels:

AAB

Two or more of the following subjects would facilitate a successful application: Mathematics, English Literature, English Language, Physics, Biology, Chemistry, History, Geography, Economics, Psychology, Sociology, Philosophy, Languages, Statistics, Further Mathematics or Politics. We will consider other A Level subjects. Please feel free to contact our admissions team for advice.

IB:

34 points, 17 at higher level

English Language Requirements

For those whose first language is not English, the programme will follow the University policy that applicants will be required to provide evidence of competency in English by reaching an appropriate standard. For example, an approved test such as IELTS, TOEFL or the Cambridge Certification of Proficiency in English. International students are required to have the equivalent overall minimum IELTS score of 7.0 and no less than 6.5 in any section in English Language prior to starting the course.

Other qualification

Science or social science based access course (40 distinctions at level 3)

Other qualifications may also be considered. Please contact healthsciences@southampton.ac.uk or 023 8059 5500 to find out more.

Work Experience

No work experience is required.

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

Related Scholarships*

• Academic Excellence Scholarship

  "The Academic Excellence Scholarship can provide up to a 50 % reduction in tuition per semester. These scholarships will be renewed if the student maintains superior academic performance during each semester of their 3-year Bachelor programme. The scholarship will be directly applied to the student’s tuition fees."

• Access Bursary

  Bursary for UK students all subjects where the variable tuition fee rate is payable.

• Alumni Bursary

  Alumni Bursary for UK Undergraduate students

* The scholarships shown on this page are suggestions first and foremost. They could be offered by other organisations than University of Southampton.

Funding

UK and EU applicants for this degree programme may be able to benefit from the Southampton Merit Scheme.

The scheme pays £1,000 towards the study costs of the highest achieving and most ambitious students.

This initiative helps justify our international reputation for attracting and developing the best new talent.

To be eligible for a Southampton Merit Scholarship you must also select the University of Southampton as your firm acceptance through UCAS.

Full details of our scholarships can be found on our website

The Healthcare: Management, Policy and Research program at the University of Southampton is a comprehensive postgraduate course designed to equip students with critical skills and in-depth knowledge in the fields of healthcare management, policy development, and research methodologies. This multidisciplinary program aims to prepare graduates for roles in healthcare organizations, government agencies, policy think tanks, and research institutions. The curriculum typically combines theoretical foundations with practical applications, emphasizing current issues in health policy, healthcare systems management, and evidence-based research. Students are encouraged to develop a nuanced understanding of healthcare delivery, organizational leadership, and the socio-economic factors influencing health outcomes. The course structure often includes core modules on health policy analysis, healthcare leadership, and research methods, complemented by optional modules allowing specialization in areas such as health economics, global health, or healthcare innovation. Through a balance of taught sessions, seminars, and independent research, students are expected to enhance their analytical and critical thinking skills necessary for effective policy formulation and management in complex healthcare environments. Many programs also incorporate opportunities for real-world engagement through case studies, guest lectures from industry professionals, and internships, providing valuable exposure to current challenges in healthcare management. The University of Southampton is known for its strong emphasis on research-led teaching, ensuring that students access the latest developments and evidence in healthcare practices. Graduates of this program often pursue careers in healthcare management, policy advisory roles, health research, or further academic study, equipped with the skills needed to influence and improve health systems locally and globally. The program’s structure, assessment methods, and learning outcomes are aligned with professional standards and often accredited by relevant healthcare and health policy organizations, ensuring graduates meet the necessary competencies for professional success in the sector.