International Health and Tropical Medicine

The MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive and interdisciplinary approach to understanding global health challenges, particularly those affecting tropical regions. This programme is designed for students who are passionate about improving health outcomes in developing countries and want to develop a deep understanding of the social, economic, environmental, and biological factors that influence health and disease. Through rigorous academic training, students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to identify, analyze, and address complex health issues in diverse populations across the globe. The course covers a broad range of topics including infectious diseases, health systems, epidemiology, health policy, and tropical medicine. It also emphasizes practical skills such as research methodology, data analysis, and project management, preparing students for careers in research, policy, public health practice, or international organizations. Students benefit from an intellectually stimulating environment with world-renowned faculty who are experts in tropical medicine, infectious diseases, global health, and related fields. The programme encourages critical thinking, research-based learning, and active engagement with current issues in international health. Participants have the opportunity to undertake fieldwork and research projects in collaboration with partners around the world, gaining valuable hands-on experience. Graduates of this programme are equipped to contribute effectively to health initiatives, research endeavors, and policy development aimed at controlling and preventing diseases in tropical regions. The MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine is ideal for those seeking to make a tangible impact on global health and to develop a nuanced understanding of the complexities involved in health care in low-resource settings. Overall, the programme fosters a global perspective and a multidisciplinary approach, empowering students to become effective leaders and innovators in the field of international health.

The first term will consist of core topics on research methods, an overview of some major global health challenges, and topics related to the research and practice of global health. Core modules include:

• Paradigms and Tools for Global Health (including epidemiology, statistics, health economics and social sciences for health)
• Challenges and Change in International Health
• Global Health Research and Practice

Core material will be assessed by two unseen papers in Week 0 of Trinity term.

During the second term, in addition to some continued core content, you can select two of the following six module options for further study:

• Advanced Topics in Tropical Medicine
• Vaccinology
• Reproductive, Maternal, Newborn and Child Health
• Field Epidemiology
• International Development and Health
• Health, Environment and Development

You will submit two 3,000- to 4,000-word essays in 0th Week of Trinity term in relation to your chosen optional modules.

The third term will involve a funded eight week placement with a global health project in a resource limited setting. Projects represent the range of subjects covered in the course. The department has established a series of projects to choose from, hosted by the Oxford Tropical Network in various geographic regions. The research project will form the basis of a 10,000-word dissertation to be submitted eight weeks after return from placement.

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 a relevant field. Relevant fields include all allied health professions degrees, any basic science, international development, international relations, human geography, anthropology.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 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:Up to one page
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

The Master’s in International Health and Tropical Medicine at the University of Oxford offers a range of financing options to support students throughout their studies. Tuition fees for this program vary depending on the student’s residency status. For UK and EU students, the annual tuition fee is approximately £12,000, while international students pay around £28,000 per year. These fees cover access to world-class teaching, research facilities, and a comprehensive academic curriculum focused on global health challenges, tropical medicine, and health policy.

In addition to tuition, students should consider living costs, which at Oxford are estimated to be around £11,000 to £15,000 per year, depending on accommodation and lifestyle. The university provides several scholarships, bursaries, and grants to help offset these costs. The Oxford Vaccinology Fund and the Rhodes Trust offer competitive scholarships for international students, while the Clarendon Fund provides open scholarships based on academic merit. There are also specific course-based funding opportunities; for instance, the MTh in International Health and Tropical Medicine may have tailored scholarships funded by charitable organizations, governmental agencies, and health foundations.

Students are encouraged to explore external funding sources such as the Wellcome Trust, the British Council, and various health-focused organizations. Some students fund their studies through personal savings, family support, or loans. The university’s Student Financial Support Office provides advice on applying for loans and other financial aid schemes. Moreover, part-time work opportunities are available on campus, which can help supplement students’ finances during their studies.

The university promotes early application for scholarships and funding, as many awards are competitive and have limited places. International students should plan their finances well in advance to ensure they meet all costs associated with their studies. Overall, the combination of internal scholarships, external funding, and personal financial planning can make pursuing the Master’s in International Health and Tropical Medicine at Oxford more accessible.

The MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive postgraduate program designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health issues faced by developing countries and regions affected by tropical diseases. The program combines rigorous academic coursework with practical research opportunities, emphasizing interdisciplinary approaches to health challenges such as infectious diseases, health systems, epidemiology, and public health policy.

Students engaging in this program benefit from Oxford’s renowned faculty, who are experts in global health, tropical medicine, epidemiology, and related fields. The curriculum covers a wide array of topics including parasitology, microbiology, immunology, applied health research, and health development strategies. The program often includes modules on disease control, health policy and management, health economics, and environment and health, ensuring students develop a well-rounded understanding of the multi-faceted nature of global health issues.

The program is suitable for clinicians, scientists, public health professionals, and policy-makers seeking to deepen their understanding of tropical diseases and health systems in low-resource settings. It aims to prepare graduates for careers in research, global health organizations, non-governmental organizations, government agencies, and academic institutions, where they can contribute to the development of sustainable health solutions.

Students typically undertake a research project or dissertation, allowing them to apply theoretical knowledge to real-world health problems, often involving fieldwork or collaborations with health agencies. The program duration is usually one year for full-time students, although part-time options may be available.

Oxford’s Department of Tropical Medicine and Global Health provides excellent facilities, including access to specialist laboratories and resources, enabling students to gain practical skills in diagnostics, laboratory techniques, and epidemiological methods. The university’s strong network with international health organizations often provides opportunities for internships, collaborations, and exchanges, enhancing students’ practical experience and professional networks.

Overall, the MSc in International Health and Tropical Medicine at Oxford is designed to foster advanced understanding, research competency, and practical skills, preparing graduates to make significant contributions to global health efforts in tropical medicine and beyond.