Taught course

Public Health (by Distance Learning)

Institution
London School of Hygiene and Tropical Medicine · Public Health and Policy
Qualifications
MScPGDipPGCert

Entry requirements

Academic Requirements

All applicants are required to have:

  • a minimum of one year's relevant work experience; and
  • a first or second class honours degree or the equivalent, in a subject appropriate to the course, from a university or other institution acceptable to the University of London.

Qualifications from around the world are accepted; for further guidance please see the School's qualifications for entrance. Students who do not satisfy the entrance requirements may still be admitted at the discretion of the School on the basis of their academic qualifications, work experience and references.

English language requirements

You need a high standard of English to study this programme. You will meet our language requirements if you have achieved one of the following within the past three years:

  • IELTS: 7.0 overall, with 6.5 in the written test and 5.5 in listening, reading and speaking.
  • TOEFL iBT: 100 overall, with 24+ in writing, 23+ in speaking, 22+ in reading and 21+ in listening.
  • Pearson Test (Academic): 68 overall, with 62+ in writing and 59+ in listening, reading and speaking.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English: 185 overall, with 176+ in writing and 169+ in listening.
  • Duolingo: must achieve an overall score of at least 130.

Alternatively, you may satisfy the language requirements if you have at least 18 months of education or work experience conducted in English.

If you do not meet these requirements but believe you can meet the standard, the University of London may also consider your application.

Computer requirements

You must have regular access to a computer (or mobile device*) with an internet connection to use the University of London website and the Student Portal. These are where your programme’s study resources are located. Through the Student Portal you can register as a student, enter exams and use your programme’s Virtual Learning Environment (VLE). The VLE provides you with electronic learning materials, access to the University of London Online Library, networking opportunities and other resources.

To get the most from your studies, your computer should have at least the following minimum specification:

  • a web browser (the latest version of Firefox, Chrome or Internet Explorer). This must accept cookies and have JavaScript enabled
  • screen resolution of 1024 x 768 or greater
  • sufficient bandwidth to download documents/files of at least 50 MB

and the following applications installed:

  • word processor that reads Microsoft Word format (.doc)
  • Adobe, or other pdf reader

Some of the CD-ROMs and software provided for use with Epidemiology modules may not be fully compatible with Apple Mac computers.

*Full mobile access is not available for all programmes

Months of entry

October

Course content

In these rapidly changing times, preventing disease, improving our health, and reducing health inequality will depend on a broad range of people and expertise. The Public Health distance learning programme reflects this, offering an unparalleled number of specialised modules, designed to help you become a catalyst for change in your area of interest.
As this is a flexible online degree, you can study when and where it suits you. Learning at your own pace, you’ll be able to balance your studies with existing work or personal commitments. If you’re a PGDip or MSc student, you’ll have the opportunity to apply to study one or two modules at the LSHTM.
Each module is supported by materials designed to enable you to meet the intended learning outcomes for the module. Our study forums and webinars provide a space for you to ask questions and engage in discussion with teaching staff and other students.
What you will learn
  • Gain a comprehensive understanding of the wider determinants of health and the breadth of factors that contribute to global health.
  • Develop critical thinking skills to confidently analyse evidence, question assumptions, and shape innovative approaches.
  • Learn how to systematically approach problems and navigate through possible solutions and theories with confidence.
  • If taking the MSc, you will have the option to follow the General Stream or to focus on the area that matters most to you and your career plan and follow the Environment & Health, Health Economics, Health Promotion, or Health Services Management stream.

Find out more about the Public Health by Distance Learning programme on the LSHTM website.

The final closing date for all applications to study Public Health by distance learning (MSc, PG Dip, PG Cert and individual modules) is 20 September 2024.

Information for international students

English Language Requirements

You need a high standard of English to study this programme. You will meet our language requirements if you have achieved one of the following within the past three years:

  • IELTS: 7.0 overall, with 6.5 in the written test and 5.5 in listening, reading and speaking.
  • TOEFL iBT: 100 overall, with 24+ in writing, 23+ in speaking, 22+ in reading and 21+ in listening.
  • Pearson Test (Academic): 68 overall, with 62+ in writing and 59+ in listening, reading and speaking.
  • Cambridge Certificate of Advanced English: 185 overall, with 176+ in writing and 169+ in listening.
  • Duolingo: must achieve an overall score of at least 130.

Alternatively, you may satisfy the language requirements if you have at least 18 months of education or work experience conducted in English.

If you do not meet these requirements but believe you can meet the standard, the University of London may also consider your application.

Fees and funding

UK students
Please see the LSHTM website.
International students
Please see the LSHTM website.

For up to date information on funding available for postgraduate programmes at LSHTM, please visit our website.

Early payment fee reduction

An early payment fee reduction of 5% is available on any of our distance learning programmes if paid in full before 31 May 2024 for the academic year 2024/25.

You will be considered for the fee reduction if you receive an offer for the following programmes: Master’s, PG Diploma, PG Certificate or individual module in Clinical Trials, Epidemiology, Infectious Diseases, Public Health, Global Health Policy and Health in Humanitarian Crises. Please see the Eligibility and Terms & Conditions (this link will direct you to the University of London website).

First Generation Scholarships

LSHTM is offering two scholarships to support students in the completion of an MSc degree by distance learning. These initiatives are designed to enable excellent students from groups who have been historically underrepresented in Higher Education at the postgraduate level to study, feel a sense of belonging and succeed at LSHTM. Find out more and apply by 6 April 2024.

Qualification, course duration and attendance options

  • MSc
    part time
    24-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
    full time
    24-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
  • PGDip
    full time
    24-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    24-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
  • PGCert
    full time
    12-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification
    part time
    12-60 months
    • Distance learningis available for this qualification

Course contact details

Name
Course Enquiries
Email
study@lshtm.ac.uk