Population Health

Population Health at the University of Oxford offers a comprehensive interdisciplinary programme designed to equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to address complex health challenges faced by populations worldwide. This programme emphasizes the importance of understanding social, economic, environmental, and behavioral determinants of health, as well as the application of rigorous research methods to inform policies and practices that improve health outcomes. Students will explore a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, health inequalities, health policy, and global health systems, gaining insights into how health is shaped by a multitude of factors at local, national, and international levels. The programme combines core theoretical frameworks with practical skills in data analysis, critical evaluation, and policy development, preparing graduates for careers in public health research, policy-making, healthcare management, and advocacy. Taught by leading experts in the field, the course offers a dynamic learning environment through lectures, seminars, workshops, and real-world case studies. Students will benefit from access to extensive academic resources, cutting-edge research, and potential collaborations with health organizations and policymakers. The programme supports those aiming to work on health improvement initiatives, smaller-scale community health projects, or broader global health challenges, fostering a nuanced understanding of how to develop effective interventions and strategies. Graduates from the Population Health programme at Oxford will be well-equipped to contribute meaningfully to efforts aimed at reducing health disparities, enhancing health systems, and promoting sustainable health policies across diverse populations. The programme’s flexible structure allows students from various academic backgrounds to tailor their learning experience to their career goals, integrating foundational knowledge with advanced specialty topics. With a strong emphasis on ethical considerations, cultural competence, and innovative approaches to health, the course prepares students to become influential leaders in the field of population health, committed to making a tangible difference in improving health standards worldwide.

You are admitted to the status of Probationer Research Student (PRS) in the first instance and you will then seek transfer to DPhil status by the end of your fourth term after admission. Confirmation of status will usually be carried out in the eighth term after admission as a research student, and no later than the ninth term. Both transfer and confirmation of status will require an oral assessment. Having successfully confirmed your status you will then be able to apply for the appointment of examiners, submit your thesis and complete the viva voce examination.

Part-time study

A small number of part-time students may be admitted to the DPhil in Population Health. Candidates applying for admission to this part-time course are required to show that their DPhil research topic is suited to part-time study and the supervisor agrees with the part-time schedule. 

The attendance requirement will be a minimum of 30 days University-based work per year. This will be spread across the academic year to be a minimum of ten days based in the department each term.

However, attendance is likely to be higher and will be determined by the demands of the individual DPhil research project and will be agreed with the candidate at interview.

Pattern of teaching, learning and supervision

Research training will primarily be through day-to-day involvement in a research project and working with a research team. Your supervisors will be the main source of your research training; you will also be encouraged to strengthen your research skills by taking relevant taught courses. Research training will be within a multidisciplinary research environment which includes epidemiology, statistics, ethics, health economics, health promotion, health services research, law and big data.

You will be encouraged to make use of the range of skills training offered by the Medical Sciences Division through your study at Nuffield Department of Population Health (NDPH). These include statistics, data management, research ethics, writing academic papers and presentation skills. You are also expected to identify additional relevant courses that will support your research training.

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 subject relevant to population health.

For applicants with a degree from the USA, the minimum GPA sought is 3.5 out of 4.0.

However, entrance is very competitive and most successful applicants have a first-class degree or the equivalent.

Applicants who hold a master's degree in a relevant subject will be at an advantage as this will prepare them for DPhil research.

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
• Research proposal: Two pages
• Written work:One essay of 2,000 words 
• References/letters of recommendation:Three overall, generally academic

ENGLISH LANGUAGE REQUIREMENTS

Higher level

Financing of the Population Health MSc program at the University of Oxford is primarily structured through a combination of university scholarships, government funding, and external bursaries. Students are encouraged to explore various sources of financial support to fund their studies effectively. The University of Oxford offers a comprehensive range of scholarships specific to the Faculty of Medicine, which can partially or fully cover tuition fees and living expenses. Prospective students are advised to review the Oxford Graduate Scholarships, which are highly competitive and require applicants to demonstrate academic excellence and financial need. Additionally, the UK government provides support through student loans for eligible domestic students, which can be used to cover tuition fees and living costs over the duration of the program. International students may have access to certain scholarship programs offered directly by the university or through external organizations aligned with the university's policies. Students are also encouraged to seek external funding opportunities, including academic grants, private sponsorships, and health sector-specific bursaries. The University of Oxford's financial aid office provides detailed guidance on available funding options and application processes. It's important for prospective students to prepare a clear financial plan before commencing their studies, considering tuition fees, accommodation, insurance, and daily expenses. The university also offers financial advice and support services to help students manage their finances throughout their academic journey. In summary, financing the Population Health MSc involves leveraging internal scholarships, government-backed loans, and external funding sources, with careful planning recommended to ensure a successful financial experience during the program.

The MSc in Population Health at the University of Oxford is a comprehensive and interdisciplinary postgraduate programme designed to equip students with a deep understanding of the complex factors influencing health outcomes at the population level. This programme explores a wide range of topics, including epidemiology, public health policy, social determinants of health, health systems management, and health inequalities. Students will gain the skills necessary to analyze health data, interpret research findings, and develop effective health interventions. The curriculum combines theoretical knowledge with practical applications, often involving statistical analysis, research projects, and case studies. The programme attracts students from diverse backgrounds such as medicine, social sciences, economics, and public health, fostering a rich learning environment through collaborative projects and discussions. Taught by leading experts in the field of population health, the course benefits from Oxford’s extensive resources, including access to world-class libraries and research facilities. The duration of the MSc programme is typically one year for full-time students, with part-time options available. Graduates of the programme are well-equipped to pursue careers in academia, government agencies, international organizations, healthcare management, and policy development. The programme emphasizes critical thinking, independent research, and professional skills, preparing students to contribute effectively to health improvement initiatives globally. Admission requirements usually include a strong academic background, relevant work experience, and a demonstrable interest in population health issues. The admissions process involves a detailed application, supporting documents, and sometimes an interview. Overall, the Oxford MSc in Population Health offers an excellent opportunity to develop expertise in a field that is crucial for improving health worldwide and addressing health disparities among different populations.