BSc Public Health (on campus)

Year of entry: 2024

Overview

Degree awarded
Bachelor of Science (Honours)
Duration
3 years FT
Typical A-level offer
BBB (including specific subjects).
Typical International Baccalaureate offer

We require 33 points overall with grades 5,5,5 in higher level subjects (one of which must include Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics [Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation], Physics, Geography, Geology, Computer Science or Psychology).

We will consider a number of other comparable qualifications, studied in the UK and internationally. If you have any queries about your particular qualification, please email ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk  

Full entry requirements

How to apply

Course overview

  • Develop the skills you need to explore a career in public health with global opportunities.
  • Make a difference by learning how to improve health and wellbeing.
  • Discover how to protect against health threats and reduce ill health.
  • Learn about health inequalities and how to reduce these.
  • Discover how to improve the physical, mental and social wellbeing of different age ranges and ethnic groups. 
  • Explore methods to ensure health services are effective, efficient and accessible. 
  • Access additional activities through our Public Health Professional Development programme, including the Geneva Winter School, epidemiology summer school, CPD courses and seminars. 

Open days

Attending an open day is a great way to find out what studying at Manchester is like. Find out about our upcoming open days .

Fees

Tuition fees for home students commencing their studies in September 2024 will be £9,250 per annum. Tuition fees for international students will be £22,000 per annum. For general information please see the undergraduate finance pages.

Policy on additional costs

All students should normally be able to complete their programme of study without incurring additional study costs over and above the tuition fee for that programme. Any unavoidable additional compulsory costs totalling more than 1% of the annual home undergraduate fee per annum, regardless of whether the programme in question is undergraduate or postgraduate taught, will be made clear to you at the point of application. Further information can be found in the University's Policy on additional costs incurred by students on undergraduate and postgraduate taught programmes (PDF document, 91KB).

Scholarships/sponsorships

The University of Manchester is committed to attracting and supporting the very best students. We have a focus on nurturing talent and ability, and we want to make sure that you have the opportunity to study here, regardless of your financial circumstances. For information about scholarships and bursaries, please visit our undergraduate finance page: Student finance for undergraduates at Manchester.

Contact details

School/Faculty
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health
Contact name
Admissions team
Telephone
+44 (0)161 529 4563
Email
Website
https://www.bmh.manchester.ac.uk/study/public-health-data/
School/Faculty overview
Faculty of Biology, Medicine and Health

Courses in related subject areas

Use the links below to view lists of courses in related subject areas.

Compare this course

Entry requirements

A-level

We require grades BBB including one or more of: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Further Maths, Psychology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Applied Science, Computer Science.

You are required to obtain a pass in the practical element of any science A-level taken.

AS-level

AS-level results are not considered as part of the standard admissions process at The University of Manchester.

GCSE

We normally require at least five GCSEs at minimum grade C/4. English Language and Mathematics must be included.

International Baccalaureate

We require 33 points overall with grades 5,5,5 in higher level subjects (one of which must include Chemistry, Biology, Mathematics [Analysis and Approaches or Applications and Interpretation], Physics, Geography, Geology, Computer Science or Psychology).

We will consider a number of other comparable qualifications, studied in the UK and internationally. If you have any queries about your particular qualification, please email ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk  

Other international entry requirements

We welcome applications from overseas students. Country-specific information can be found on the University website. However, this is for general information only, as specific entry requirements may be different for the BSc Public Health. Please contact us at ug.publichealth@manchester.ac.uk  to check specific requirements for your country before you apply for the course.

For applicants taking Advanced Placement exams, we require a minimum of three AP exams with grades 4 4 4. This must be accompanied by a GCSE equivalent qualification such as a high school diploma.

Scottish requirements

We require grades ABBBB to include one of: Biology, Human Biology, Chemistry, Physics, Statistics, Mathematics, Further Maths, Psychology, Geography, Geology, Environmental Science, Applied Science, Computer Science.

Welsh Baccalaureate

The University welcomes and recognises the value of the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate and usually requires two A-levels or equivalent to be included within this. The minimum grade required for the Welsh Baccalaureate Advanced Diploma/Advanced Skills Challenge Certificate is Grade B alongside two A-levels at grade BB, normally including at least one science from the following subjects: Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, Applied Science.

GCSEs must include English Language and Maths at a minimum of Grade C or 4 or above.

European Baccalaureate

The University of Manchester welcomes applicants with the European Baccalaureate. Acceptable on its own or in combination with other qualifications, applications from students studying for this qualification are welcome and all applicants will be considered on an individual basis.

AQA Baccalaureate

The University recognises the benefits of the AQA Baccalaureate and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. In making offers, the University will focus on the three A-levels taken within the AQA Baccalaureate. Students need to check the standard A-level requirements for their chosen course. The units of broader study, enrichment activities and the Extended Project are considered to be valuable elements of the AQA Baccalaureate, and we would therefore strongly encourage students to draw upon these experiences within their personal statement.

Foundation year

We consider your full educational background. A decision about your suitability for this course will not be taken based solely on the foundation year completed, and will include all prior qualifications.

Applicants completing the INTO Manchester in partnership with The University of Manchester international foundation programme are required to achieve BBB in any subjects, with EAP B (6.5) and C (6.0) in each component.

Pearson BTEC qualifications

Pearson BTEC National Extended Diploma

We consider the National Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (BTEC Health and Social Care or Applied Science). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Diploma with grades DDD. One-third of the units undertaken must be in a science or science-related subject.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Diploma

We consider the National Diploma for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Diploma with grades DD plus an additional A-level at grade B. Either the National Diploma or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science.

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Foundation Diploma

We consider the National Foundation Diploma. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Foundation Diploma with grades DD plus two additional A-levels at grade BB at least one science or science-related subject (Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science).

Pearson BTEC Level 3 National Extended Certificate

We consider the National Extended Certificate for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full National Extended Certificate with grade D plus two additional A-levels at grades BB. Either the National Extended Certificate or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science.

OCR Cambridge Technical qualifications

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Extended Diploma for entry provided it is in a subject relevant to the chosen course (CTEC Health and Social Care or Applied Science). Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Diploma with grades DDD with one-third of the units undertaken in science or science related subjects.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Diploma for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Diploma with grades DD plus an additional A-level at grade B. Either the Technical Diploma or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Foundation Diploma (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Foundation Diploma for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Foundation Diploma with grades DD plus two A-levels at Grades BB. Either the Technical Foundation Diploma or the A-levels must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care or Applied Science.

Cambridge Level 3 Technical Extended Certificate (CTEC)

We consider the Technical Extended Certificate for entry. Entry requirements are based on achievement of the full Technical Extended Certificate with grade D plus two A-levels at grades BB. Either the Technical Extended Certificate or the A-level must be in a science or health-related subject such as Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care or Applied Science.

Access to HE Diploma

We require a QAA-recognised Access to HE diploma (a minimum of 60 credits overall with at least 45 at Level 3). The specific course requirements are: of the 45 credits at level 3, 30 must be at Distinction grade and the remaining 15 credits at merit grade. Also, 30 of the 45 level 3 credits must be in science or health-science related subjects. You must also have GCSE English Language and Mathematics at grade C or above. We no longer accept equivalents to GCSE for English and Maths. We also consider other factors on an individual basis, such as additional educational achievements, life experience and work related skills.

Cambridge Pre-U

We consider applicants offering Pre-U Principal Subjects, or a mix of Pre-U and A-level subjects, provided a minimum of three distinct subjects overall is taken. Candidates taking Pre-U principal subjects in conjunction with A-levels are expected to achieve a combination of M1, M1, M2 in the Pre-U and BBB at A-level in three distinct subjects to include at least one science or science related subject (Biology, Chemistry, Psychology, Sociology, Health and Social Care, or Applied Science). If you require further clarification about the acceptability of this qualification, please contact the Academic School(s) you plan to apply to.

T Level

We will accept the Science and Healthcare Science pathways only and require an overall grade of Distinction.

Extended Project Qualification (EPQ)

The University recognises the benefits of the Extended Project Qualification (EPQ) and the opportunities it provides for applicants to develop independent study and research skills. Although the Extended Project will not be included in the conditions of your offer, we strongly encourage you to provide information about the EPQ in your personal statement. A number of our academic Schools may also choose to take your performance in the EPQ into account should places be available in August for applicants who narrowly miss the entry grades for their chosen course.

Core Maths

The University welcomes and recognises the value of Level 3 core mathematics qualifications (eg AQA Certificate in Mathematical Studies).

Core Mathematics is not a compulsory element of post-16 study and as a result we will not normally include it in the conditions of any offer made to the student. However, if a student chooses to undertake a core mathematics qualification this may be taken into account when we consider their application, particularly for certain non-science courses with a distinct mathematical or statistical element.

Please note, this course accepts grade C in Core Mathematics in lieu of the correct grade in GCSE Mathematics.

Home-schooled applicants

If you have followed a non-standard educational route and have been, for example, educated at home, your application will be considered against the standard entry criteria of the course to which you applied. You will be required to demonstrate that you meet the academic entry requirements as specified for the course. We will also require a reference which should be written by somebody who knows you well enough, in an official capacity, to write about you and your suitability for higher education. Please refer to UCAS for further information: UCAS reference guidelines

Non-standard educational routes

Mature students are some of our most well-equipped learners, bringing skills and attributes gained from work, family and other life experiences. Students come from a whole array of backgrounds, study every kind of course and are motivated by career intentions as well as personal interest. There is no such thing as a typical mature student at Manchester. The application process is the same as for other prospective undergraduates. If you require further clarification about the acceptability of the qualifications you hold please contact the academic School(s) you plan to apply to. Further information for mature students can be found on the mature students page.

English language

If you have international qualifications, you may be asked to provide evidence of your English language ability.

Minimum requirements are typically:

  • Grade C/4 GCSE English;
  • TOEFL (iBT) - 90 overall with a minimum of 22 in all subscores;
  • IELTS 6.5 overall with a minimum of 6.0 in each component;
  • CIE OR UCLES 1119 English at Grade C;
  • INTO Manchester EAP B (6.5) and C (6.0) in each componen.

English language test validity

Some English Language test results are only valid for two years. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Application and selection

How to apply

Advice to applicants

We would normally only consider applicants who have obtained the relevant qualifications. Applicants should contact the Admissions Office to discuss their particular circumstances.

Please note we are only able to provide a Confirmation of Acceptance for Studies (CAS) for a student visa to applicants on this full-time face-to-face course, and not the distance learning option. Please contact the admissions team for further information.

How your application is considered

Applications are considered on the basis of the UCAS form.

Deferrals

Applications for deferred entry are considered equally to other applications up to the point of confirmation. Requests for deferred entry are granted at the discretion of admissions staff and are normally granted for one year only. Some English Language test results, such as IELTS or TOEFL, are only valid for two years from the test date. Your English Language test report must be valid on the start date of the course.

Policy for applicants who resit their qualifications

The University will consider applicants who have re-sat individual modules. If you have re-sat your final examinations we may consider your application in exceptional circumstances. Please contact us to discuss this before you apply.

Re-applications

If you applied in the previous year and your application was not successful, you may apply again. Your application will be considered against the standard course entry criteria for that year of entry. In your new application, you should demonstrate how your application has improved. We may draw upon all information from your previous applications or any previous registrations at the University as a student when assessing your suitability for your chosen course. If you are applying for a place for the same year of entry through UCAS Extra, you should provide additional evidence of your suitability for the course. If you are applying through clearing, you are required to meet the clearing requirements. In both UCAS Extra and clearing the places will be subject to availability.

Course details

Course description

The lecturers and other students are so supportive.

Everyone has knowledge and experiences to bring.

Ayeesha Roberts / Master of Public Health

Why study public health?

The area of public health is a growing and important area and a career in this sector provides you with the chance to really make a difference to people's lives and wellbeing.

Our course

In choosing Manchester you can be confident you are receiving the most up-to-date knowledge in public health. You will be taught by experts in the field that bring the latest developments in the sector to your course, and you will use of the world-class learning facilities on campus.

You will be prepared for a career in public health that offers a range of local and global opportunities. You will also develop a range of transferable skills and knowledge that employers are looking for.

This course will equip you with: 

  • the skills and knowledge to apply to public health concerns at local, national and international level; 
  • the ability to apply relevant theory and scientific principles to practical situations; 
  • the capability of meeting core competencies in public health.

Our BSc Public Health students will have access to our paid PPD (personal professional development) courses for free. These include summer schools and CPD courses. This access enables you to further develop your skills and knowledge above and beyond the scope of your degree.

Special features

Support  

You will receive an individual student support package, which includes regular meetings with your personal academic advisor throughout the course.

Become an employable graduate

Our graduates are highly employable. We are the most targeted university by the UK s top 100 graduate recruiters (The Graduate Market 2022).

There is also plenty of opportunity to ensure you graduate with a unique set of skills and experience by taking part in our Public Health Professional Development programme. Through this you could attend a range of events including the Geneva Winter School, international festivals and summer schools, and undertake CPD courses and seminars.  

Manchester Experience

You will be welcomed to our Russell Group university, and all the city of Manchester has to offer.

On-campus interactions are important to support the building of academic communities for staff and students, creating a sense of belonging with the University, and the forming of lifelong friendships.

In addition to our expert teaching staff, you'll have access to a huge range of print and digital resources to guide you as you learn. We have one of the best-resourced academic libraries in the country.

Our campus is not just a place of life-changing study and revolutionary academic discoveries, it's one of inspirational spaces, hidden gems and world-famous culture. It's friendly, self-contained and brings together a multicultural community of more than 40,000 students from 177 countries to study, relax and get involved in university life.

Additional course information

Try a public health course for free

If you'd like to see what public health is all about, you can try one of our free open access courses, which cover topics from antibiotic resistance to women's health. Take a look at our free courses to get a flavour of what you might learn on the BSc Public Health course: Open access public health courses.

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Teaching and learning

Expert teaching

You will be taught by professionals working in the field of local, national and international public health. There is an emphasis on applying your learning to real life public health issues to prepare you for an exciting career.  

Teaching and learning methods

You will learn through a range of interactive, student-centred lectures, seminars and discussion groups. You will be encouraged to develop your independent learning skills, this will be supported through active learning methods such as collaborative enquiry, critical analysis and problem-based learning.

Exercises will use real-world examples from appropriate settings, for example from public health practice, globally and nationally. You will also be encouraged to improve existing and develop new communication skills and digital capabilities.

You will be able to put into practice what you learn, with opportunities to interact with other students and tutors through dedicated discussion groups. Some units offer exercises based on group work through discussions. These exercises develop the skills required by professional public health roles, such as planning and managing a project, and working as part of a team to deliver a project.

Each course unit will require 15 to 20 hours of study per week. You will be supported to work through these units independently and guided by peer and tutor support. A unit-specific calendar will be made available in the first week of all units.

Learn with students from around the world

You will be able to mix with students from a range of disciplines from all over the world. This will provide you with an insight into global experiences of public health. Through the sharing of experiences, you will be able to broaden your understanding of different cultures, perspectives and local policies that affect how public health is seen and used.

Induction

Your induction is a great way to meet staff and students, these will be your friends and support group while you are studying. You will also be given an overview of all aspects of the course, preparing you for your study.

Study skills

A study skills course will introduce you to a range of skills and resources required for successful academic progress. It includes topics on information searching, referencing and academic writing. The Academic Malpractice Driving Test will ensure you are well prepared for degree level study and able to avoid any malpractice and plagiarism in your work.

Public Health Professional Development Programme

In addition to your credit-bearing course units, you will be offered a programme of development activities.

These activities include subjects such as orientation, reflection, how to complete assessments, wellbeing, careers advice, mentoring, altruism and preparing for the year ahead.

Lectures include subjects such as urban health, place-based approaches, global and local inequalities, prevention and 'clean minds, dirty hands', and additional skills for a career in public health.

Stellify

Stellify is a university initiative to develop your leadership skills and encourage community volunteering. To achieve the Stellify award, you have to demonstrate all three of the Ethical Grand Challenges, volunteering and leadership activities.

Coursework and assessment

You will be assessed by a variety of methods that will allow you to demonstrate your abilities and knowledge.

Each unit assessment will provide you with the opportunity to show you have met the learning outcomes. There are no formal examinations. We use a variety of assessment methods which include assignments, presentations, literature reviews and project reports.

Self-assessments

Throughout the course there will be the chance for you to test your factual knowledge through self-assessment and assignments and quizzes.

Feedback

You will receive regular quality feedback allowing you to track your progress throughout the course and identify any areas that might need improvement.

Feedback will vary from unit to unit but may include:

  • feedback by tutors and fellow students in discussion groups; 
  • automated feedback from self-tests or quizzes; 
  • peer review exercises; 
  • reflective exercises that provide sample answers.

These are not assessed and are therefore optional. However, you will be encouraged to take part and reflect on the feedback that you receive.

Course unit details

You will take six mandatory 20-credit units each year (120 credits in total per year).

We have based the course on the pillars of public health practice, health promotion, health protection, healthcare public health and included global health examples.

You can tailor your learning through optional elements within the unit assessment.

You will have access to a wide range of experts and postgraduate students. We offer additional optional non-credit bearing public health learning opportunities via our open access courses, seminars, the Geneva Winter School, and an annual international conference.

Course content includes:

  • An introduction to public health
  • Evidence based practice
  • Health promotion
  • Health protection
  • Healthcare public health
  • Global health

You will learn and present your work through a range of methods including video presentations, research posters, literature reviews, and a final public health project.

You can also choose to extend your study into a fourth year and gain an MPH. Please visit the postgraduate Public Health page for full details.

Course content for year 1

Course units for year 1

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Evidence Based Practice Y1 POPH10011 20 Mandatory
Global Health Y1 POPH10022 20 Mandatory
Health Promotion Y1 POPH10031 20 Mandatory
Health Protection Y1 POPH10042 20 Mandatory
Healthcare Public Health Year 1 POPH10052 20 Mandatory
Introduction to Public Health POPH10061 10 Mandatory
Poster presentation POPH10071 10 Mandatory

Course content for year 2

Course units for year 2

The course unit details given below are subject to change, and are the latest example of the curriculum available on this course of study.

TitleCodeCredit ratingMandatory/optional
Evidence Based Practice Y2 POPH20011 20 Mandatory
Global Health Y2 POPH20022 20 Mandatory
Health Promotion Y2 POPH20031 20 Mandatory
Health Protection Y2 POPH20042 20 Mandatory
Healthcare Public Health Y2 POPH20052 20 Mandatory
Literature Review Project POPH20061 20 Mandatory

What our students say

My course offered international collaboration with students from around the world, which was second to none.

The entire Public Health department is made up of genuinely world-class, approachable and constantly forward-thinking researchers and lecturers.

Mikhail Foster / Master of Public Health (2019 graduate)
Find out more about what it's like to study at Manchester on the Biology, Medicine and Health Student Blog.

Facilities

Library and online services

The University of Manchester offers extensive library and online services to help you get the most out of your studies.

The library offers academic and wellbeing sessions across a broad range of topics to support your learning.

Additional resources

We offer innovative, research-led, learning tools to enhance your understanding and enable learning anytime on any device.

You will benefit from close supervision and pastoral care by an academic staff member during the whole degree course.

Disability support

Practical support and advice for current students and applicants is available from the Disability Advisory and Support Service. Email: dass@manchester.ac.uk

Careers

Career opportunities

A career in public health offers diverse opportunities in a variety of settings, from local public health departments to global NGOs (non-government organisations).

This course is a great step towards a career in one of the following areas:

  • Public health practitioner
  • Consultant in public health
  • Public health manager
  • Public health officer
  • Epidemiologist
  • Biostatistician
  • Health educator
  • Public health statistician /assistant
  • Public health intelligence analyst/ assistant
  • Public health researcher/research assistant
  • Health visitor
  • Community development worker
  • Environmental health worker
  • Transport development worker
  • Housing officer
  • Health promotion officer
  • Health improvement practitioner
  • Lecturer in public health
  • Communicable disease consultant
  • Health protection specialist
  • Health-related communication or marketing officer
  • Fundraising and charity work to help improve the lives of vulnerable people
  • Improving healthy lifestyles
  • Occupational health

You could also explore a range of related areas such as town planning and urban development, mentoring and counselling, food sustainability and climate change or teaching.

There are a range of careers resources offered by the University and the Faculty of Public Health, which is a membership organisation for public health professionals in the UK and around the world.

You may wish to take our Master of Public Health. We offer bursaries to BSc Public Health graduates.

To aid your career path, you can find additional advice and resources here:

Our BSc Public Health students will have access to our paid PPD (personal professional development) courses for free. This access enables students to further develop their skills and knowledge above and beyond the scope of their degree.