Program Details

Start Date Flexible (typically September, January, or April)
Duration Full-time: 3-4 years (PhD), 2 years (MPhil); Part-time: 5-7 years (PhD), 3 years (MPhil)
Tuition Approx. £6,780 (UK/Home), £30,000 (International) per year (2024/25 full-time fees, subject to change)
Format On-campus
Credits Not applicable (research degree)

Program Statistics

Acceptance Rate Not publicly available for specific PhD programs.%
Employment Rate Not publicly available for specific PhD programs. Graduates typically pursue careers in academia, research institutions, public health organizations, NGOs, government, policy roles, and industry (e.g., pharmaceuticals, health technology, data science).%

The MPhil/PhD in Population Health Sciences at University College London offers a world-class opportunity for advanced research training in a leading global institution. This program is designed for ambitious individuals passionate about addressing complex health challenges and making significant contributions to public health through rigorous scientific inquiry. Students will undertake original research under the guidance of expert supervisors within UCL’s renowned Faculty of Population Health Sciences, which is home to multiple institutes conducting cutting-edge work across various disciplines, including epidemiology, health informatics, global health, and health policy.

This research-intensive degree emphasizes the development of critical research skills, methodological expertise, and the ability to conceptualize, design, and execute a substantial research project. Graduates are equipped with the advanced knowledge and analytical capabilities necessary to become independent researchers and leaders in the field. The program fosters a vibrant intellectual environment, providing access to state-of-the-art facilities, extensive training opportunities, and a diverse community of academics and fellow doctoral researchers dedicated to improving health outcomes worldwide.

Advertisement

Curriculum

The MPhil/PhD in Population Health Sciences is primarily a research degree, culminating in the submission and successful defence of a doctoral thesis. The curriculum is largely self-directed under the expert guidance of a supervisory team.

  • **Independent Research:** Students undertake original research, contributing new knowledge to their chosen field within population health.
  • **Supervision:** Regular meetings with a primary and secondary supervisor provide guidance, feedback, and support throughout the research process.
  • **Training and Development:** Access to a comprehensive suite of transferable skills training, specialist methods courses (e.g., advanced statistics, qualitative research, research ethics, data science), and workshops offered by UCL Doctoral School and the Faculty.
  • **Progress Monitoring:** Formal progress reviews, including an MPhil to PhD upgrade viva (assessment) usually within 9-18 months of registration, ensure students are on track.
  • **Dissemination:** Opportunities to present research at departmental seminars, national and international conferences, and publish findings in peer-reviewed journals.
  • **Thesis Submission:** The program culminates in the submission of a substantial thesis (typically 80,000-100,000 words for PhD) and an oral examination (viva voce).

Admission Requirements

  • A Master's degree (or equivalent) in a relevant subject (e.g., public health, epidemiology, statistics, social sciences, medicine), or an equivalent professional qualification and/or experience.
  • A UK Bachelor's degree with a minimum of an upper second-class (2:1) or an overseas equivalent.
  • A detailed research proposal outlining your proposed research questions, methodology, and significance.
  • Identification of a potential supervisor within UCL's Faculty of Population Health Sciences prior to application is highly recommended.
  • Two academic references.
  • Curriculum Vitae (CV)/Resume.
  • Personal statement.
  • English language proficiency: e.g., IELTS Academic overall score of 7.0 with a minimum of 6.5 in each sub-skill, or TOEFL iBT overall score of 100 with 24/24/20/24 in reading/writing/listening/speaking.

Application Process

The application process for the MPhil/PhD Population Health Sciences program involves several key steps:

  1. **Identify a Research Area and Potential Supervisor:** Before applying, prospective students are strongly advised to identify a research area of interest and contact potential supervisors within the Faculty of Population Health Sciences whose expertise aligns with their research interests. This preliminary contact can significantly strengthen an application.
  2. **Develop a Research Proposal:** Work with a potential supervisor (if identified) to refine a detailed research proposal that outlines your research questions, objectives, methodology, timeline, and the expected contribution to knowledge.
  3. **Prepare Supporting Documents:** Gather all required documents, including academic transcripts, CV, personal statement, research proposal, and contact details for two academic referees. Ensure English language proficiency requirements are met.
  4. **Submit Online Application:** Complete and submit your application through UCL's online admissions portal. Upload all supporting documents.
  5. **Application Fee:** Pay the non-refundable application fee.
  6. **Interview:** Shortlisted candidates will typically be invited for an interview, either in person or via video conference, to discuss their research proposal and suitability for the program.
  7. **Decision:** Successful applicants will receive an offer of admission, often conditional on meeting specific academic or English language requirements.

Application Fee: £90 (for online applications for research degrees)

Apply Now

Interested in this program? Use the form below to request more information or start your application.

Application form integration pending.