Overview

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.
  • Choose to extend your study into a fourth year and gain a Master of Public Health (MPH).
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5 things you didn't know about public health

A study experience that makes a difference

We place social responsibility at the heart of your learning which means you can take advantage of unique ways to make a difference while studying with us, through your course or through extra-curricular activities.

  • Complete our Ethical Grand Challenges to learn how you can create a better world and become more socially responsible.
  • Work with an external organisation to tackle real-world sustainability problems through our University Living Lab.
  • Discover subjects that broaden your horizon with our interdisciplinary learning opportunities.

Explore how you'll make your mark

Every course at Manchester contributes towards the UN's Sustainable Development Goals, so no matter what you're studying you'll be playing an active role in the protection of people and planet.

You will explore the following goals in your course:

  • Goal 3: Good health and well-being

Open days

Join our academic and admissions team on Tuesday 26 November 12pm-1pm to find out about the undergraduate course in public health at Manchester. The programme leads will explain the courses' structure, entry requirements as well as the possible career routes after completing the course. Book your place here .

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.

Entry requirements

A-level

BBB in three subjects.

Practical skills are a crucial part of science education and therefore will be a requirement to pass the practical element of any science A Level taken. Where applicants are applying for science and related degrees, this is likely to be made explicit in the offer you will receive.

Applicants taking A Levels are normally expected to offer three full A Levels. If you’re taking more than three A Levels, these won’t be included in your offer. We will only make offers consisting of three A Levels.

Please check for specific GCSE/IGCSE subject entry requirements below

A-level contextual offer

This course is not eligible for a contextual offer. Contextual offers are only available for courses that have a standard entry requirements of ABB or higher. For further information on our contextual admissions please view our contextual admissions page .

Please check for specific GCSE/IGCSE subject entry requirements below

Contextual offers are available for applicants who:

  • live in the UK and will be under the age of 21 on 1 September of the year they will start their course; and
  • live in an area of disadvantage or with low progression into higher education; and
  • have attended a UK school or college for their GCSEs or A-levels (or equivalent qualifications) that has performed below the national average over multiple years.

See our contextual admissions page for full details and to check your eligibility.

UK refugee/care-experienced offer

This course is not eligible for a refugee/care experienced offer. Refugee/care experienced offers are only available for courses that have a standard entry requirements of ABB or higher. For further information on our contextual admissions please view our contextual admissions page .

Please check for specific GCSE/IGCSE subject entry requirements below

UK refugee/care-experienced offers are available for applicants who:

  • have been looked after in care for more than three months; or
  • have been granted refugee status by the UK government or have been issued a UK visa under one of the Ukrainian schemes (Homes for Ukraine, Ukraine Family Scheme or Ukraine Extension Scheme).

See our contextual admissions page for full details and to check your eligibility.

International Baccalaureate

We require 32 points overall with grades 5,5,5 in higher level subjects.

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

GCSE/IGCSE

Applicants must demonstrate a broad general education including at least five GCSEs at minimum grade C/4, including at least a Grade 4 or C in GCSE/IGCSE English Language and Mathematics. GCSE/IGCSE English Literature will not be accepted in lieu of GCSE/IGCSE English Language.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of  our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications  or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the admissions team in your academic School/Department for clarification.

Other entry requirements

Other entry requirements exist for this course. You may view these by selecting from the list below.

Country-specific 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.

English language requirements

All applicants to the University (from the UK and Overseas) are required to show evidence of English Language proficiency. The minimum English Language requirement for this course is either:

GCSE/IGCSE English Language grade 4/C, or;

IELTS 6.5 with no less than 6.0 in any component or;

An acceptable equivalent qualification.

Please note that if you hold English as a second language IGCSE qualification, we may also require you to offer one of  our acceptable equivalent English Language qualifications  or achieve a higher grade in your IGCSE than the one stated above. Please contact the academic School for clarification.

If you need to improve your English language skills to meet the entry requirements for your academic course, the University Centre for Academic English (UCAE) summer pre-sessional courses can help. Check if your academic course offers the option of taking a pre-sessional course on the UCAE page .

The UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) requires that every student requiring a visa to study in the UK must show evidence of a minimum level of English Language (common European Framework (CEFR B2 level) to be granted a Student Route visa (previously known as a Tier 4 visa) to study at undergraduate or postgraduate level.

In addition, our academic Schools/Departments may require applicants to demonstrate English proficiency above the B2 level. Further information about our English Language policy, including a list of some of the English Language qualifications we accept, can be found  here .

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.

Fees and funding

Fees

Fees for entry in 2027 have not yet been set. For entry in 2026 the tuition fees were £9,790 per annum for home students, and are expected to increase slightly for 2027 entry.

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.

Application and selection

How to apply

Apply through UCAS.

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.

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.

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

Zixi Lau

"I was drawn to public health because it is a subject that sits at the intersection of science, policy and real-world impact.

"I wanted a degree that would equip me with the skills to understand population-level challenges from chronic disease prevention to global health inequalities, while also allowing me to engage with communities and make a difference on the ground."

Zixi Lau / BSc Public Health

Why study public health?

The field of public health is diverse, offering a variety of career paths depending on what you are most interested in. From working in local public health departments to international organisations, there are many opportunities available to you as a public health professional. This is your chance to join a field which really makes a difference to people's 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.

Special features

A Manchester, the BSc Public Health is enhanced to support you in settling into your studies.

Individual support

You will be assigned a personal academic advisor for the length of the course. Academic advisors are tasked with supporting your personal wellbeing, academic progress and your future career plans. Through regular meetings and contact from week 1, your advisor can be your guide to finding your way around and settling into the University. Your advisor is a valuable part of your academic career.

Peer Assisted Study Sessions

In Year 1 you will be timetabled to attend peer assisted study sessions (PASS). These sessions are led by trained Year 2 students who have been where you are. The sessions are relaxed and centred around your needs. They aim to develop confidence and support you through moving into university.

Career support

We work closely with our careers advisors to ensure that employment features within the curriculum because we know it is important to you.

Manchester

Manchester is a diverse and inclusive city, where there is much to see and do alongside studying.

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 teaching and learning sessions. 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 is a combination of interactive face-to-face sessions and independent study. 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 backgrounds. Through the sharing of experiences, you will be able to broaden your understanding of different perspectives and 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.

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

We want you to get the most out of the course, and to do that we use a variety of trusted learning methods:

  • Whole group activities and discussions in seminars that may include smaller group working.
  • Learning from your peers, sharing work and providing feedback.
  • Prior to seminars, slides and materials will be available in the central learning environment.
  • Online recordings or podcasts will be available to refer to following seminars.
  • Online tasks.
  • Independent learning activities including academic reading and preparation for seminars.

Your learning will be supported by ongoing guidance and support from the course unit lead. You will also receive developmental feedback from teachers and academic advisors.

Assessment

The assessments are varied to develop your skills, and often allow an element of choice of topic so you can focus on your interests in public health.

The range of assessment methods help prepare you for your next step after this course, either further study or employment:

  • Written reflections
  • Presentations
  • Report writing
  • Quizzes
  • Peer review activities
  • Final year dissertation

Course unit details

You will take mandatory 10 or 20-credit units each year and a final larger dissertation project in your final 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.

Course content includes:

  • Principles of 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, professional public health reports, and a final public health project.

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
POPH10011 20 Mandatory
POPH10022 20 Mandatory
POPH10031 20 Mandatory
POPH10042 20 Mandatory
POPH10052 20 Mandatory
POPH10091 10 Mandatory
POPH10800 0 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
POPH20011 20 Mandatory
POPH20022 20 Mandatory
POPH20031 20 Mandatory
POPH20042 10 Mandatory
POPH20052 20 Mandatory
POPH20060 20 Mandatory
POPH20800 0 Mandatory

Course content for year 3

Course units for year 3

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
POPH30011 20 Mandatory
POPH30031 20 Mandatory
POPH30042 20 Mandatory
POPH30052 10 Mandatory
POPH30060 40 Mandatory
POPH30800 0 Mandatory

What our students say

Gallant Bagishire

"The public health team at Manchester is incredibly supportive. Lecturers are approachable and passionate about what they teach.

"There’s also a real emphasis on inclusion and student voice. I’ve had opportunities to contribute feedback on modules, assessment methods, and even explore research opportunities outside the core curriculum."

Gallant Bagishire / BSc Public Health

Read about our student's experiences on the BSc Public Health on the 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 provides access to learning materials for the course as well as student spaces on campus to study. Furthermore you will have access to My Learning Essentials, the Library’s academic skills support programme.

Additional resources

In addition to the Library you will also find The Whitworth and Manchester Museum on campus. Both John Rylands Research Institute and Library and Jodrell Bank are close by.

If you are planning to live at home and commute to campus then there is a dedicated commuter space with a lounge, kitchen, showers and multifaith prayer space.

The University of Manchester Students Union is positioned at the centre of campus and represents all students in student matters. You can get involved in societies, for example The Public Health Society or others.

UoM Sport provides access to all of the sporting spaces and a wide range of activities.

There is a dedicated University GP Practice on campus.

Disability support

Disabled students make up over 19% of The University of Manchester student population, and we're proud to offer an accessible and inclusive service. The Disability Advisory and Support Service (DASS) provides equity services to everyone regardless of people's age, disability, gender, gender identity, race, religion or belief, or sexual orientation.

DASS supports a variety of different groups, whether students, staff or supporters. We provide practical support by working with you to identify the practical adjustments you need to enable you to succeed - in your studies, work, and the rest of your university experience.

Careers

Career opportunities

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Where can you go with a public health degree?

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
  • Community development worker
  • Environmental health worker
  • Transport development worker
  • Housing officer
  • Health improvement practitioner
  • Lecturer in public health
  • Public health trainer
  • Health protection specialist
  • Health-related communication or marketing officer
  • Fundraising and charity work to help improve the lives of vulnerable people
  • 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.

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

Once you have graduated and you are an alumni of The University of Manchester you have access to the University careers service for two years after graduation.

Check out Ellie's blog about her plans now she has graduated.

Regulated by the Office for Students

The University of Manchester is regulated by the Office for Students (OfS). The OfS aims to help students succeed in Higher Education by ensuring they receive excellent information and guidance, get high quality education that prepares them for the future and by protecting their interests. More information can be found at the OfS website.

You can find regulations and policies relating to student life at The University of Manchester, including our Degree Regulations and Complaints Procedure, on our regulations website.