Global Public Health MRes

Tailored for individuals with a background in Public Health, Global Health Management/Science, Demography, Social Sciences, or related disciplines. This course is particularly suited for international prospective students or established professionals seeking to enhance their knowledge of global public health research methods, while continuing to work in health-related sectors or starting a new career after the course.

The course includes 2 taught modules, which provide an in-depth understanding of research methodologies and the theoretical frameworks underpinning high-quality global public health research. These modules will help you to critically evaluate  how to address complex global health challenges. 

Key topics include:

• Research theories and philosophies
• Ethical research practices
• Practical tools for navigating the research process

You will also undertake a research project that aligns with pressing global public health challenges, which will also enable you to work collaboratively with the university’s research community.

You will have the opportunity to engage with our prestigious research institutes such as the Institute for Health and Care Improvement (IHCI), the Institute for Social Justice (ISJ), or other research groups addressing critical issues like health inequalities, social determinants of health, and policy development, both within the United Kingdom and globally. This project allows you to apply your knowledge in a real-world context, fostering skills in independent inquiry and practical problem-solving.

How you will study

The course will take 1 year to complete if studied full time and 2 years part time.

You will study 2 modules worth 30 credits each, as well as 1 module worth 120 credits.

You can find out which modules are available in each term in the course specifications.

Modules

Teaching and learning

This course employs a blended learning approach, combining online activities, on-campus study days, and personalised supervisory meetings. This format is designed to provide a dynamic research environment informed by cutting-edge global public health practice and scholarship from academic staff at the London campus and associated research institutes at York St John University.

We adopt a learner-centred philosophy, emphasising inclusivity, equity, and the development of advanced research capabilities tailored to the global public health context. Fostering an interactive and collaborative learning environment where you will engage with peers, share knowledge, and build professional networks, creating a strong sense of research community.

Teaching methods are centred on active, experiential learning that connects theory to real-world public health challenges. You will be supported in progressively taking ownership of your learning journey, moving towards greater autonomy and responsibility in your research activities. Personalised supervisory meetings offer tailored guidance, ensuring your individual research goals are met while building your confidence and independence.

Your learning will be informed by the most current thinking in the subject area. Our academic teams are constantly investigating, interrogating and contributing to their respective fields. You can find out more about our research and backgrounds by visiting our staff pages.

Assessment

Assessments are structured to evaluate both theoretical understanding and practical application, ensuring you are well-prepared for the complexities of global public health research. Critiques of published research and systematic reviews provide opportunities to develop analytical skills, while the production of a thesis allows you to apply your knowledge to original research. The thesis is assessed via a 20,000 word thesis.

Feedback is integral to the course and is provided through multiple modes to enhance your development. The emphasis on formative feedback throughout ensures that you refine your skills and knowledge, aligning your work with the highest academic and professional standards.

This comprehensive approach ensures that when you graduate the course you will be equipped with the advanced research expertise, critical thinking skills, and practical experience needed to address pressing global public health challenges and make significant contributions to the field.

Qualifications

Applicants whose first degree is not in Global Health, Public Health and Social Research Methods will be accepted on a case-by-case basis to ensure that they have covered sufficient levels of Global Health, Public Health and Social Research Methods during their first degree.

If we have further questions about your application, you may be invited to a short interview.

International students

If you are an international student you will need to show that your qualifications match our entry requirements.

Information about international qualifications and entry requirements can be found on our International pages.

If English is not your first language you will need to show that you have English Language competence at IELTS level 6.5 (with no skill below 6.0) or equivalent.

International entry requirements

Terms and conditions

Our terms and conditions, policies and procedures contain important information about studying at York St John University. You can read them on our Admissions page.

UK 2025-2026 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to the Science and Health MRes is:

• £7,000 for full time study
• £3,500 per year for part time study

These costs apply to all UK, Jersey, Guernsey and Isle of Man students.

Postgraduate loans are available to help you pay for your master's course. Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies.

Funding opportunities

International 2025 - 2026 entry

The tuition fee for 2025 entry to the Science and Health MRes is:

• £11,800 for full time study

These costs apply to all students living outside the UK.

Due to immigration laws, if you are an international student on a student visa, you must study full time. For more information about visa requirements and short-term study visas, please visit the International Visa and Immigration pages.

Find out more about funding your postgraduate studies.

International Fees and Funding

Tuition fees

Alumni Scholarships

If you are alumni of York St John University we have scholarships available to help you continue your studies.

Scholarships for alumni

Additional costs and financial support

Course-related costs

While studying for your degree, there may be additional costs related to your course. This may include purchasing personal equipment and stationery, books and optional field trips.

Accommodation and living costs

View our accommodation pages for detailed information on accommodation and living costs.

Where could Global Public Health MRes take you?

A research degree is your opportunity to develop incredibly transferrable and desirable skills in investigation and data analysis.

You are also preparing yourself for a potential career within the academic sector. These roles include a lecturer of higher education or a university researcher.

Stand out from the crowd with postgraduate study.

Far fewer people have postgraduate degrees than undergraduate qualifications. This gives you something extra to set yourself apart in a competitive graduate job market. Those with a postgraduate qualification will earn an average of £5,000 a year more than those with only an undergraduate degree. (Department For Education Graduate Labour Market Report 2024)

Our careers service, LaunchPad, provides career support tailored to your ambitions. Through this service you can access:

• Employer events
• LinkedIn, CV and cover letter sessions
• Workshops on application writing and interview skills
• Work experience and volunteering opportunities
• Personalised career advice

This support does not end when you graduate. You can access our expert career advice for the rest of your life. We will help you gain the experience and confidence you need to succeed.