Global Health MSc / PGDip / PGCert

Prepare to be equipped with the essential knowledge and skills to engage in global health issues. The course will support you to develop the skills required to tackle health challenges and reduce inequalities across diverse cultural and geographic contexts, through engagement with world leading research and global health experts.

Course Structure

What makes this course different?

At the University of Birmingham, you’ll join a vibrant community tackling real-world health challenges across diverse cultures and countries. From alleviating the burden of maternal sepsis in childbirth to accelerating bacterial vaccine development, our researchers are at the forefront of global health innovation. Learn from leading experts driving research funded by global organisations like WHO and gain insights that shape global health policy and practice.

With flexible study options, strong international partnerships, and a reputation as one of the world’s top universities, Birmingham gives you the knowledge, skills, and connections to create meaningful change. Start your journey towards a career that improves health equity worldwide.

• You will be taught by experts who shape global health policy and practice, and who advance the understanding of, and solutions to, major global health issues.
• Develop a combination of global health theory, practice, and research methods skills to position you as an emerging global health leader.
• Choose from a range of optional modules to create your personalised Global Health programme.

This contemporary MSc empowers you to lead resilient health systems, tackle global crises, and drive policy innovation. Learn from world-class experts, collaborate with a diverse international cohort, and gain the skills to make a real impact, whether in humanitarian response, health leadership, or global policy. Designed for ambitious changemakers, this programme blends academic excellence with practical insight, preparing you to transform health outcomes worldwide.

• Teaching takes place in one-week blocks, allowing you to participate in a range of teaching styles such as lectures, small group tutorials, presentations, peer group learning, and self-study.
• You will be assigned at least one dedicated dissertation supervisor to support you with your project.
• There are a variety of assessments to support all learning styles, and a dedicated academic skills centre to guide students with exam preparation and coursework.

The modules listed below are an indication only and may be subject to change. Occasionally, it may be necessary to make changes to modules, for example, to ensure they remain current and relevant.

As a research-intensive University, our teaching is informed by the latest academic thinking and expertise of our staff. For more information on the circumstances in which the University may need to make changes to modules, please refer to the Terms and Conditions for applicants.

Core Modules

2026/27 Session

The following must be taken:

Compulsory module(s) in research methods (MSc/DIP must do at least one)

Optional Modules

2026/27 Session

From 2027/28 entry, applications are also welcome from UK medical students wishing to intercalate.

Relevant work experience or compelling rationale for enrolling are considered for lower degrees and where degrees are less relevant than examples above.

If you're unsure about your suitability for the course, please get in touch with us.

English language requirements

If you are an international student, you will need to demonstrate you have a suitable level of English proficiency, usually through the form of an IELTS or equivalent qualification or a Presessional English course.

For this course we require IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any band, which is equivalent to:

• TOEFL: 88 overall with no less than 21 in Reading, 20 Listening, 22 Speaking and 21 in Writing
• Pearson Test of English (PTE): Academic 67 with no less than 64 in all four skills
• Cambridge English: C1 Advanced - minimum overall score of 176, with no less than 169 in any component
• LanguageCert ESOL SELT (UKVI): B2 'Communicator' with no less than 33 in each skill

English presessional programmes

If you have a conditional offer for Birmingham where English is a requirement, you can take a Presessional English course as an alternative to retaking IELTS or a similar qualification. We offer on-campus courses all year round starting from September including additional online courses in the summer term.  Teaching takes place in small classes with no more than 18 students to maximise class participation.

You'll be prepared to lead global health initiatives, shape policy, and manage health programmes in diverse global contexts. The programme will also equip you for further study such as a PhD.

Careers Network

Get ready for tomorrow, with advice, guidance and opportunities at every step of your studies. From developing new skills to preparing for a PhD, our Careers Network can help you gain an advantage in the job market or advance in your field.

Whatever you plan to do after your degree, the Careers Network offers a range of events and support services including networking opportunities, career coaching, one-to-one guidance, careers fairs and links with leading graduate recruiters. We also offer subject-specific careers consultants and a dedicated careers website for international students.

Our bustling campus with its beautiful grounds, friendly community and excellent facilities will quickly make you feel at home. We offer you a huge variety of accommodation options in the UK’s second city, exciting activities to get involved in outside your studies, as well as all the support and advice you need.